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Pelican Cove #3
Berries and Birthdays
July 4th Parade Ends in Murder Why would anyone kill a 100 year old man on his birthday?The Pelican Cove police are clueless. Jenny steps in to find most of the victim's large family hated him. She will pursue the most unlikely string of clues to uncover a mystery that spans generations. Her startling discovery will shock the entire community.
Can she apprehend the murderer in time?
Meanwhile, the busy tourist season spurs Jenny to dish out treats like iced coffees and crab cakes. She's happy being wooed by two hot and eligible men while her friend Heather tries her hand at online dating.
If you like beach settings, mouth watering food and mysteries that keep you guessing till the end, you will like Berries and Birthdays.
Buy now and start reading this one of a kind whodunnit, a mystery you never saw coming.
Can she apprehend the murderer in time?
Meanwhile, the busy tourist season spurs Jenny to dish out treats like iced coffees and crab cakes. She's happy being wooed by two hot and eligible men while her friend Heather tries her hand at online dating.
If you like beach settings, mouth watering food and mysteries that keep you guessing till the end, you will like Berries and Birthdays.
Buy now and start reading this one of a kind whodunnit, a mystery you never saw coming.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2018
533 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
About the author
Leena Clover
72 books368 followersLeena Clover is a popular, bestselling author of cozy mysteries with heart.
You can expect fearless heroines, small town drama, quirky characters and friendships that last a lifetime in her books. Yummy food and a murder or two are guaranteed!
Visit her website at leenaclover.com to learn more.
You can expect fearless heroines, small town drama, quirky characters and friendships that last a lifetime in her books. Yummy food and a murder or two are guaranteed!
Visit her website at leenaclover.com to learn more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 1, 2018
Jenny moved to the small town of Pelican Cove after her divorce. She has settled in the community, making friends and working at a local cafe. In her short time in Pelican Cove, she has helped solve two murders - Strawberries and Strangers and Cupcakes and Celebrities. With Berries and Birthdays, a local man is killed on his 100th birthday, and Jenny is once again ready to help solve the mystery.
The third book in the Pelican Cove cozy mystery series. This book can be read as a standalone, though I do suggest reading the previous books to be more familiar with the characters.
I enjoyed the mystery in this one more than the previous book. This mystery hits all the high points for an enjoyable cozy read - amateur sleuth, charming setting, a little romance, and interesting characters.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The third book in the Pelican Cove cozy mystery series. This book can be read as a standalone, though I do suggest reading the previous books to be more familiar with the characters.
I enjoyed the mystery in this one more than the previous book. This mystery hits all the high points for an enjoyable cozy read - amateur sleuth, charming setting, a little romance, and interesting characters.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2022
Book 3. Jenny was working with her aunt Star friend Petunia in a cafe. She baked all kinds of wonderful pastries. She was making a cake for a 100 year old man Asher for his birthday. He wanted it to be special. They all went the a centennial and Archer was on a float for his construction site. His kids came to see him. And his grandson Hans. He worked for him but Linda ( Acher wife) brother Luke that worked there to told A her that Hans was always drunk and almost cut his arm off with a saw. But anyways Archer wound up dead. So his whole family was suspects. I don't know this book 3 just kept repeating itself. It was not that great. But it does give you some stories about the Holocaust.
February 9, 2026
cute series
June 5, 2020
Berries and Birthdays: Book 3
In addition to an intriguing murder mystery, I enjoy the developing friendships and romances of the recurring characters in this series. The island setting is beautiful, and I can see myself sitting on the beach relaxing to the sounds of the surf in my mind’s eye. I can also imagine myself strolling down main street into the neighborhood businesses ran by neighbors who care about their neighbors. Quite a close-knit community. It seems almost criminal to mar such a beautiful place with inappropriate conduct; might less murder. Who would stoop so low as to murder a man at his centennial birthday celebration? He was a wealthy, self-made man with a mysterious past. What could have been the motive? Envy, money, revenge, or something even more sinister?
In addition to the murder, there is much more to this story. Romance is in the air on the island and not restricted to the younger generation. There is not one, but two, romantic triangles that are in play on the island. It will be interesting to see how the romances develop in future stories.
My favorite genre is cozy mysteries; especially when there is a bit of added romance. This is a well-written, lighthearted, clean, fun, and easy read. Leena Clover is a gifted storyteller. I am binge reading through the series and so far it has been a fun ride. Woohoo. On to book four.
In addition to an intriguing murder mystery, I enjoy the developing friendships and romances of the recurring characters in this series. The island setting is beautiful, and I can see myself sitting on the beach relaxing to the sounds of the surf in my mind’s eye. I can also imagine myself strolling down main street into the neighborhood businesses ran by neighbors who care about their neighbors. Quite a close-knit community. It seems almost criminal to mar such a beautiful place with inappropriate conduct; might less murder. Who would stoop so low as to murder a man at his centennial birthday celebration? He was a wealthy, self-made man with a mysterious past. What could have been the motive? Envy, money, revenge, or something even more sinister?
In addition to the murder, there is much more to this story. Romance is in the air on the island and not restricted to the younger generation. There is not one, but two, romantic triangles that are in play on the island. It will be interesting to see how the romances develop in future stories.
My favorite genre is cozy mysteries; especially when there is a bit of added romance. This is a well-written, lighthearted, clean, fun, and easy read. Leena Clover is a gifted storyteller. I am binge reading through the series and so far it has been a fun ride. Woohoo. On to book four.
June 24, 2018
Pelican Bay is celebrating the Fourth of July in a big way, and so is it's oldest resident Asher Cohen, he turns 100. Everything is going well during the celebration. The floats are wonderful, everyone is happy and a good time had by all.....until later at the award ceremony, the sheriff cancels the fireworks show. They just found Asher Cohen's body. Mrs.Cohen asks Jenny to find out who did this to her husband. Jenny thinks it has something to do with his past. Is she right? If so, what is it and why would anyone kill him on his birthday? You will have to read the book to find out. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
May 25, 2018
It's the 4th of July and the Boardwalk Cafe provides breakfast for the town's residents and tourists. It is also Asher Cohen's 100th birthday. He owns Cohen Construction which is one of the biggest employers in the area. There is a parade and hot dog eating contest among other activities.
Asher won first prize for his float. Asher doesn't come up and get his reward. His family can't find him and no one has seen him since the parade ended. The sheriff comes on stage and announces the fireworks have been cancelled. They have just found Asher dead. He has been murdered. Who would want to kill Asher? And Why? The sheriff thinks it is a family member. He tells Jenny to not get involved in this case. She doesn't agree that the killer is a family member. And decides to look into it.
Jenny still has not made a decision about Adam and Jason. Heather tells Chris they should see other people. She goes on an online dating site.
Molly decides this is her chance to get Chris to notice her.
Get a copy of this book and come along on this roller coaster with it's twists an turns. Will you figure out who the killer is? Will you do it before Jenny or the sheriff does?
This story is well thought out and well written. It flows nicely. I loved it.
Asher won first prize for his float. Asher doesn't come up and get his reward. His family can't find him and no one has seen him since the parade ended. The sheriff comes on stage and announces the fireworks have been cancelled. They have just found Asher dead. He has been murdered. Who would want to kill Asher? And Why? The sheriff thinks it is a family member. He tells Jenny to not get involved in this case. She doesn't agree that the killer is a family member. And decides to look into it.
Jenny still has not made a decision about Adam and Jason. Heather tells Chris they should see other people. She goes on an online dating site.
Molly decides this is her chance to get Chris to notice her.
Get a copy of this book and come along on this roller coaster with it's twists an turns. Will you figure out who the killer is? Will you do it before Jenny or the sheriff does?
This story is well thought out and well written. It flows nicely. I loved it.
July 1, 2018
By the title of this novel, you would be safe in thinking that it is a gentle going cozy murder. I did. A local man is going to celebrate his centennial birthday on July 4th. The entire community of Pelican Cove is going to help him celebrate...but one person has murder on their mind.
This book turns into a search, not just for the killer, but also for the true identity of the victim? Was he a true victim or had he brought his demise upon himself? Was it suicide or true murder?
History has a way of repeating itself, and this book warns us that it can also be misconstrued.
This book was fascinating and made me truly think. Do we truly know the person standing next to you, or a family member? Secrets are personal but also, in this case, deadly.
I was highly impressed by Ms. Clover's story plot and characters. Pull up a crab sandwich and read what I mean.
This book turns into a search, not just for the killer, but also for the true identity of the victim? Was he a true victim or had he brought his demise upon himself? Was it suicide or true murder?
History has a way of repeating itself, and this book warns us that it can also be misconstrued.
This book was fascinating and made me truly think. Do we truly know the person standing next to you, or a family member? Secrets are personal but also, in this case, deadly.
I was highly impressed by Ms. Clover's story plot and characters. Pull up a crab sandwich and read what I mean.
May 23, 2018
Old sins or just misunderstandings?
Awesome. A really great plot that incorporates the Holocaust and the way that those feelings are still with us today. A birthday party for a 100 year old resident of the Island turns into tragedy when he is found dead in the cab of his truck. Suspicions fall onto his family but our heroine has her doubts. The more she delves into his past, the more she is sure that she is right. Will she be able to prove it? Meanwhile the two men in her life are both vying for her attention whilst her younger friends start playing Russian roulette with their own love lives. The characters are getting stronger with each subsequent book and now the question is who will end up with who.
Awesome. A really great plot that incorporates the Holocaust and the way that those feelings are still with us today. A birthday party for a 100 year old resident of the Island turns into tragedy when he is found dead in the cab of his truck. Suspicions fall onto his family but our heroine has her doubts. The more she delves into his past, the more she is sure that she is right. Will she be able to prove it? Meanwhile the two men in her life are both vying for her attention whilst her younger friends start playing Russian roulette with their own love lives. The characters are getting stronger with each subsequent book and now the question is who will end up with who.
May 27, 2018
Outstanding read. This series just keeps getting better.
The Boardwalk Cafe is hoping. Tourist season is in full swing and the July 4th celebration is being eagerly anticipated. There’s a special part of the celebration this time, Asher Cohen is celebrating his 100th birthday. Unfortunately sometime during the celebration someone kills Asher. The police are investigating but Asher Cohens wife, Linda, asks Jenny to investigate and find out what happened. Now Jenny has to juggle the Cafe, her investigation, and her two suitors.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
The Boardwalk Cafe is hoping. Tourist season is in full swing and the July 4th celebration is being eagerly anticipated. There’s a special part of the celebration this time, Asher Cohen is celebrating his 100th birthday. Unfortunately sometime during the celebration someone kills Asher. The police are investigating but Asher Cohens wife, Linda, asks Jenny to investigate and find out what happened. Now Jenny has to juggle the Cafe, her investigation, and her two suitors.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
May 24, 2018
This series just keeps getting better and better! The storyline was amazing. The beautiful Pelican Cove, Virginia, was alive with summer tourists. And, as usual, our heroine, Jenny, couldn’t seem to keep away from a murder mystery. This third book in the series is definitely a page turner. I read it in two days! Ms. Clover makes you feel like you are there. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes “clean” mysteries, people who care about their friends and neighbors and a great story! I was provided an advance copy of this book and voluntarily wrote an unbiased review.
September 18, 2018
Another delightful seaside mystery
A centenary birthday celebration in Pelican Cove ends in murder before the "birthday boy" gets a chance to cut his special cake. Who would want to murder a 100 year old man? Once again, Jenny gets involved sleuthing to find answers, despite telling Sherrif Adam and her friends she won't get involved. The Pelican Cove community and characters are delightful and with each book we get to see them develop even more. If you are a fan of cozy mysteries & clean language then this is for you.
A centenary birthday celebration in Pelican Cove ends in murder before the "birthday boy" gets a chance to cut his special cake. Who would want to murder a 100 year old man? Once again, Jenny gets involved sleuthing to find answers, despite telling Sherrif Adam and her friends she won't get involved. The Pelican Cove community and characters are delightful and with each book we get to see them develop even more. If you are a fan of cozy mysteries & clean language then this is for you.
November 27, 2018
Another good cozy!
I really like how it appears so seamless in between books. Lena is good at making that transition. The mystery itself was different, I don't think I've seen a Holocaust cozy yet! But it was well written. I don't know any real people like our sleuths, but they sure are smart . Yet the real question is this: How does Jenny handle 2 men, without them hurting each other? And how the heck is she going to choose between them?
I really like how it appears so seamless in between books. Lena is good at making that transition. The mystery itself was different, I don't think I've seen a Holocaust cozy yet! But it was well written. I don't know any real people like our sleuths, but they sure are smart . Yet the real question is this: How does Jenny handle 2 men, without them hurting each other? And how the heck is she going to choose between them?
November 10, 2018
Excellent
Every book is better than the previous one. I am enjoying learning more about Jenny and her family and friends. Jason and Adam both seem good candidates for Jeremy for different reasons. She is a good and loyal friend. The background of the town was very interesting.
Every book is better than the previous one. I am enjoying learning more about Jenny and her family and friends. Jason and Adam both seem good candidates for Jeremy for different reasons. She is a good and loyal friend. The background of the town was very interesting.
November 2, 2018
Great read
Oh I can't wait to see what happens next with Jenny ,Adam and Jason what a great series if you love a great cozy with characters you will love and a story that keeps you turning the page then this one by Leena Clover is a must read
Oh I can't wait to see what happens next with Jenny ,Adam and Jason what a great series if you love a great cozy with characters you will love and a story that keeps you turning the page then this one by Leena Clover is a must read
July 30, 2019
Never would've guessed this subject!!
I could not read this book quick enough. Great storyline! Jenny better get her PI license. She makes miracles from just her great questions. 👍 GREAT characters!!!!
I could not read this book quick enough. Great storyline! Jenny better get her PI license. She makes miracles from just her great questions. 👍 GREAT characters!!!!
August 2, 2019
e
I am now vested in the characters as I have read the books in order. Each book discusses a different murder but the investigations are interesting and not cut and dry. I am looking forward to more books. They are quick reads.
I am now vested in the characters as I have read the books in order. Each book discusses a different murder but the investigations are interesting and not cut and dry. I am looking forward to more books. They are quick reads.
January 16, 2020
This is the third book in the Pelican Cove mystery series and definitely best book so far. The characters have more depth and are more engaging. Lot of romances but the main plot was intriguing and had me guessing throughout. Very entertaining and enjoyable
June 10, 2018
I need milk 4
I read all three books in order I love them please write book for soon you are a wonderful cozy mystery writer
I read all three books in order I love them please write book for soon you are a wonderful cozy mystery writer
August 10, 2018
Very good
That was some murder mystery. Could not put my kindle down. Main characters are great. Nice to see new friendships. Thank you.
That was some murder mystery. Could not put my kindle down. Main characters are great. Nice to see new friendships. Thank you.
August 20, 2018
Great story
Wow, lots of twists and turns to catch the murderer. Love how the characters are moving forward in this book, but really wish Jenny and Adam would get together.
Wow, lots of twists and turns to catch the murderer. Love how the characters are moving forward in this book, but really wish Jenny and Adam would get together.
October 31, 2018
Historical and timely and intriguing
Historical and very timely.the story is intriguing. Carries a message of needing to understand and ask questions before jumping to conclusions.
Historical and very timely.the story is intriguing. Carries a message of needing to understand and ask questions before jumping to conclusions.
March 27, 2019
Wow
This installment sure was packed full of twists and turns. I thought I knew some of it,but boy was I surprised. Probably my favorite so far in this delightful series.
This installment sure was packed full of twists and turns. I thought I knew some of it,but boy was I surprised. Probably my favorite so far in this delightful series.
May 29, 2018
Jenny has baked a decadent chocolate birthday cake for Asher Cohen's 100th birthday. Coinciding with the July 4th celebration held by the town of Pelican Cove, Asher's birthday celebration is a huge event. But somehow the birthday man is misplaced and then found-dead in his truck. He was happy and healthy, and not suicidal. Sounds like another murder has happened in Pelican Cove. Jenny vows she will not get in the middle of another murder case, yet when Asher's widow begs her to help figure out what happened to him, how can Jenny refuse?
The usual cast of characters are around, with son Nicky in and out as well. Heather, Jenny's friend has decided to try online dating, and has a new beau, Duster. Meanwhile, librarian Molly has decided she is going to go after the man she is interested in as well. Meanwhile Jenny still has both Adam and Jason interested in her.
Fun read and it evokes a summer at the ocean's shore that most of us would enjoy!
The usual cast of characters are around, with son Nicky in and out as well. Heather, Jenny's friend has decided to try online dating, and has a new beau, Duster. Meanwhile, librarian Molly has decided she is going to go after the man she is interested in as well. Meanwhile Jenny still has both Adam and Jason interested in her.
Fun read and it evokes a summer at the ocean's shore that most of us would enjoy!
January 14, 2021
I am a fan of Leena Clover's Pelican Cove series. In the third book, Berries and Birthdays, there is another mystery to solve in Pelican Cove. The seaside town is getting ready for the big combination 4th of July celebration and Asher Cohen's 1ooth birthday. They have lots of activities planned including a canoe race, fish fry, bonfire, a cafe breakfast, watermelon eating contest, and beach bbq, followed by the parade, awards ceremony, fireworks, and birthday party. Unfortunately the events after the parade come to a screeching halt when Asher is found dead in his car! Local lawyer Jason Stone becomes involved in the mystery since he is related to Linda Cohen, Asher's wife. Sheriff Adam Hopkins is once again on the case. Amateur sleuth, Jenny King agrees to look into things for Linda and makes some startling discoveries! This book had twists and turns that I did not see coming. I am ready to read other books in this cozy series.
May 12, 2020
5 for depth, 1 for execution
I am sincerely confused about my feelings for this book. After decades of hearing about WW2 atrocities I gained a perspective I had never considered from a cozy mystery, of all places! There's also a surprisingly penetrating comment concerning whether life is always a gift. The mystery thoroughly engaged my interest. However, the characters are either bland/spineless (Petunia, Star, Heather, Chris, Adam), possibly schizo (Jenny, Adam), or just unlikable (Betty Sue, Molly). The writing frequently has a complete disconnect between one sentence and the next, and the only in-depth descriptions have been cut and pasted from the first two books. Perhaps this isn't the author's genre; the depth alluded to earlier in this review may indicate that non-fiction or straight up mystery is a better fit for Ms. Clover.
I am sincerely confused about my feelings for this book. After decades of hearing about WW2 atrocities I gained a perspective I had never considered from a cozy mystery, of all places! There's also a surprisingly penetrating comment concerning whether life is always a gift. The mystery thoroughly engaged my interest. However, the characters are either bland/spineless (Petunia, Star, Heather, Chris, Adam), possibly schizo (Jenny, Adam), or just unlikable (Betty Sue, Molly). The writing frequently has a complete disconnect between one sentence and the next, and the only in-depth descriptions have been cut and pasted from the first two books. Perhaps this isn't the author's genre; the depth alluded to earlier in this review may indicate that non-fiction or straight up mystery is a better fit for Ms. Clover.
July 19, 2022
This is my third book in 3 days in this series. If one is in the market for a great easy and cozy read, this is the series.
I love getting to know the town's people of Pelican Cove. Jason asks Jenny to find out who murdered the town's 100 year old man Asher Cohen as Jason's aunt is the widow. Once again Jenny calls upon her new friends for assistance.
Jenny's aunt Star now has a love interest. Jenny's friend Heather wants to venture out and date others and Molly has a secret crush of her own. And then there is still the love triangle with Jenny, Adam and Jason.
The only negative I have to say is that I wish recipes were included in each book.
I love getting to know the town's people of Pelican Cove. Jason asks Jenny to find out who murdered the town's 100 year old man Asher Cohen as Jason's aunt is the widow. Once again Jenny calls upon her new friends for assistance.
Jenny's aunt Star now has a love interest. Jenny's friend Heather wants to venture out and date others and Molly has a secret crush of her own. And then there is still the love triangle with Jenny, Adam and Jason.
The only negative I have to say is that I wish recipes were included in each book.
November 13, 2024
Jenny is working at the cafe enjoying cooking and experimenting with recipe. She is hired to make a chpcalte cake to celebrate the 100th birthday of town bigwig Asher Cohen. When Asher turns up dead after the celebratory parade for his birthday, his widow Linda wants Jenny to investigate. Despite the reluctant wishes of police chief Adam, Jenny dives in. Lawyer Jason assists Jenny. Both Jason and Adam want to pursue a relationship with Jenny.
A bit of muster and a bit of romance all rolled into one makes a fun read
A bit of muster and a bit of romance all rolled into one makes a fun read
January 10, 2025
4th of July and a celebration for the oldest Citizen who turns 100, but of course darkness once again comes to Pelican Cove. Who wanted this 100-year-old man dead and why? Once again, another murder to solve and Jenny swears she's not getting involved in another murder investigation. That is until his widow reaches out to her to help find out who killed her husband. The twists and turns will have your head spinning. Most of the family hated him, his workers hated him, but who could hate him enough to kill him?
Be sure to read this and find out. Jenny is becoming quite the sleuth.
Be sure to read this and find out. Jenny is becoming quite the sleuth.
June 11, 2018
100th-year Celebration?
(Disclaimer: I received a Copy of the book. Read it. Decided to provide my honest review).
After reading the first two books in the Pelican Cove Cozy Mystery series, Berries & Birthdays was somewhat of a disappointment. The book did not have the focus or the crispness that has made the series a pleasure to read. I thought the storyline had too many competing interests which made reading a bit confusing and more difficult than necessary.
MY RECOMMENDATION: Neutral. –Tex
(Disclaimer: I received a Copy of the book. Read it. Decided to provide my honest review).
After reading the first two books in the Pelican Cove Cozy Mystery series, Berries & Birthdays was somewhat of a disappointment. The book did not have the focus or the crispness that has made the series a pleasure to read. I thought the storyline had too many competing interests which made reading a bit confusing and more difficult than necessary.
MY RECOMMENDATION: Neutral. –Tex
August 31, 2020
Interesting cozy murder mystery
I’ve read several of the books in this series and love how the author makes them so different. Many of the main characters carry over, with new people introduced in the next story. Jenny has become the super sleuth and knows when things don’t feel right. The most obvious suspect isn’t always the murderer. I definitely recommend this book and plan on reading the rest of this series.
I’ve read several of the books in this series and love how the author makes them so different. Many of the main characters carry over, with new people introduced in the next story. Jenny has become the super sleuth and knows when things don’t feel right. The most obvious suspect isn’t always the murderer. I definitely recommend this book and plan on reading the rest of this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews