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Bakeshop Mystery #9
Live and Let Pie
Life is sweet once you step into Torte, everybody’s favorite small-town bakeshop. But what happens when it becomes the scene of a crime?
The heat is on for pastry chef, family business operator, and unlikely sleuth Jules Capshaw. Just when she thought she could enjoy some time away from the kitchen, Jules manages to discover a skull during a picnic by the lake. As if unearthing remains that may be connected to a missing-persons case from the 1960s isn’t enough on her plate, Jules must contend with the unsolved matter of her own marriage while her estranged husband Carlos sails the open seas, awaiting a verdict. Then there’s Jules’s bitter landlord Edgar, who is intent on making a sweet deal on a vacant lot down the block from Torte—until he turns up dead. If only Jules could find a recipe that would let her bake her cake and eat it, too…
The heat is on for pastry chef, family business operator, and unlikely sleuth Jules Capshaw. Just when she thought she could enjoy some time away from the kitchen, Jules manages to discover a skull during a picnic by the lake. As if unearthing remains that may be connected to a missing-persons case from the 1960s isn’t enough on her plate, Jules must contend with the unsolved matter of her own marriage while her estranged husband Carlos sails the open seas, awaiting a verdict. Then there’s Jules’s bitter landlord Edgar, who is intent on making a sweet deal on a vacant lot down the block from Torte—until he turns up dead. If only Jules could find a recipe that would let her bake her cake and eat it, too…
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 31, 2018
331 people are currently reading
1501 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Alexander
85 books3,072 followersEllie is a voracious storyteller and a lover of words and all things bookish. She believes that stories have the ability to transport and transform us. With over forty published novels and counting, her goal is to tell stories that provide points of connection, escape, and understanding.
She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
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She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_alexa...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elliealexande...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elliealexande...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliealexand...
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
June 17, 2021
Finally, we get to see Torte grow with more staff joining in. The regular characters get along so well with each other, that I was glad to see that there was tension between Andy and Sequoia. And it was resolved nicely. I didn't care much for the mystery in this book. All I wanted to see was what would happen with Jules and Carlos but I was so sad that Carlos didn't make an appearance in this book. Hopefully, he's back to Ashland in the next book. And there's a new romance brewing as well in this book. And with Lance increasing his level in the sleuthing game, Jules had more reason to worry and fret in this book.
February 8, 2019
A great addition to the series!
December 3, 2018
This is the 9th book in the Bakeshop Mystery and I have enjoyed each one of the stories. The setting of Ashland is quaint and because it is a tourist town it allows for the author to craft mysteries with a lot of options. What this author does particularly well is create characters. I have fallen in love with all of the characters and enjoy that we as readers have gotten the chance to peek into their lives and watch they triumph, fail, fall in love and grow into their own. One of my favorite things about this series is the mother/daughter relationship between Jules and her mom. It is heartwarming and relatable. We've watched it grow and change over 9 books and now we see it change a bit as they let the professor into their tight knit family. The mystery was well done and involved two murders, one that occurred in the present and one in the past, but tied to the town. The author provided us, the readers, with a number of plausible suspects and then laid out clues to make a case for each one of them as the killer. I, as usual, missed some clues, so I did not guess the killer's identity.
This is a terrific series, set in a quaint town and is really a character driven series filled with fun, terrific, and a few quirky characters that will engage the reader and keep them coming back. I know this reader will return.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC of this book which was provided to me by the publisher, St. Martin's Press, through Netgalley.
This is a terrific series, set in a quaint town and is really a character driven series filled with fun, terrific, and a few quirky characters that will engage the reader and keep them coming back. I know this reader will return.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC of this book which was provided to me by the publisher, St. Martin's Press, through Netgalley.
December 18, 2018
This is the ninth installment of the Bakeshop mystery series set in the trendy small town of Ashland, Oregon. There are many exciting changes at Torte bakeshop, run by Jules Capshaw and her mother. Business is booming, necessitating hiring three new employees, a major renovation project which is almost complete and Jules' mother has just returned from her Greek honeymoon, having remarried after being a widow for some time. Her mother's new husband is referred to as "The Professor" and they have decided to gift Jules' childhood home to her and embark on a search for a home to make their own new marital residence. Jules is still struggling with her long-distance marriage. She met her husband Carlos while they were both working on the cruise ship and he is still sailing, though he says he wants to come to Ashland and start a new life on land with Jules. While looking at a potential home on the lake, Jules is present when some children find a human skull dredged up in the water. She then finds herself entwined in a decades-old mystery of one of the areas founding fathers. When a man who owns some prime real estate is also found dead soon thereafter, Jules can't help but think there is some connections between the two events.
Looking back at all of the books I have read this year, Live and Let Pie ranks amongst my favorites. I haven't read any of the prior books in the series but I sure plan to now. I love baking, especially during the holiday season, and the author provides a lot of detail into the ingredients used for each recipe and how the recipe comes together in a way that is very relatable and not too complicated for the home baker. The author includes four recipes at the end of the book which are served at Torte. As for the book itself, I felt like I was right there alongside the characters and had known them forever. There was a great balance of story regarding the bakery, other businesses, the issue of affordable housing--particularly on the West Coast for reasons I'll leave you to read about, and the mystery plot itself. There was a very natural flow to the book; it was nicely paced and I would have happily read it in one sitting if I had the time. There were just the right number of characters so I didn't get overwhelmed. The red-herrings were well placed and the suspects each had plausible motives. I am hoping that future books will focus on the future of the business and marital relationship of Jules and Carlos because the ending left me wanting to know more. Bring on more deliciousness and Book 10! Highly recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a complimentary advance digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
Looking back at all of the books I have read this year, Live and Let Pie ranks amongst my favorites. I haven't read any of the prior books in the series but I sure plan to now. I love baking, especially during the holiday season, and the author provides a lot of detail into the ingredients used for each recipe and how the recipe comes together in a way that is very relatable and not too complicated for the home baker. The author includes four recipes at the end of the book which are served at Torte. As for the book itself, I felt like I was right there alongside the characters and had known them forever. There was a great balance of story regarding the bakery, other businesses, the issue of affordable housing--particularly on the West Coast for reasons I'll leave you to read about, and the mystery plot itself. There was a very natural flow to the book; it was nicely paced and I would have happily read it in one sitting if I had the time. There were just the right number of characters so I didn't get overwhelmed. The red-herrings were well placed and the suspects each had plausible motives. I am hoping that future books will focus on the future of the business and marital relationship of Jules and Carlos because the ending left me wanting to know more. Bring on more deliciousness and Book 10! Highly recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a complimentary advance digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
January 5, 2019
As I have said before, I love supporting local authors or at the very least, books set in my home state. Oregon isn’t exactly the most exciting state in the union so when I find books set here, I am always interested to read them and see how they measure up.
That’s how I found Ellie Alexander. When one of Alexander’s book came up for review, I was eager to read it and I loved it! It was the first in a new series and was set in Leavenworth Washington. Ok so not exactly Oregon but close enough. Then I started reading her other more established series, Bakeshop Mysteries which are set in Ashland Oregon.
Now granted I have only read one book in the Bakeshop Mystery series, I thought it was a fun cozy read with great setting, plus I felt like I gained a million pounds reading about all the delicious foods!
When this one came up for review, I thought it would be a fun, quick book to read on the airplane as I traveled to Arizona for the holidays. It turns out it was the perfect book to wrapped my year up with!
I saw that one reviewer called Ashland Oregon a ‘trendy’ little town. And I actually laughed out loud at my desk when I read that, because I wouldn’t exactly call Ashland ‘trendy’ but at the same time, Alexander makes it sound so cool and yes if I am being honest, very trendy!
I love how Alexander portrays Ashland, I haven’t been to Ashland in years but all I remember it being is a thespian town with random little cute shops, and her fictional bakery, Torte, would fit right in. And because the town brings in a lot of tourists with the Shakespearean Festival and other attractions, Alexander has a lot of options when it comes to keeping her series a live and fresh!
I know a lot of people have read this series from the beginning, I came into it late and jumped around in the series. While I have not felt lost in the series, it’s evident that the characters are established and have evolved from the early books. While I didn’t think it was necessary to read the books in order, as each book stands alone in it’s mystery, I think if you want the full experience and to understand some of the little nuances, then you should probably start at the beginning.
I enjoyed this mystery so much. I loved how it wasn’t a ‘fresh’ murder that kicked off the plot but rather a decades old skull that ropes readers in and makes them wonder who did it and why. I had a great time trying to solve everything and figure out motives and suspects.
Jules is a fun likeable character who is very real and relatable. As with the previous book that I read in this series, I feel like I need a sugar detox after reading all the delicious pastry items I’m thankful that I am just reading about them but at the same time I am desperately needing the recipes to all the food because they sound so good!
If you love a well crafted mystery with an established author, then look no further. I have been impressed with Alexander’s books across the board and this series i a particular favorite!
See my full review here
That’s how I found Ellie Alexander. When one of Alexander’s book came up for review, I was eager to read it and I loved it! It was the first in a new series and was set in Leavenworth Washington. Ok so not exactly Oregon but close enough. Then I started reading her other more established series, Bakeshop Mysteries which are set in Ashland Oregon.
Now granted I have only read one book in the Bakeshop Mystery series, I thought it was a fun cozy read with great setting, plus I felt like I gained a million pounds reading about all the delicious foods!
When this one came up for review, I thought it would be a fun, quick book to read on the airplane as I traveled to Arizona for the holidays. It turns out it was the perfect book to wrapped my year up with!
I saw that one reviewer called Ashland Oregon a ‘trendy’ little town. And I actually laughed out loud at my desk when I read that, because I wouldn’t exactly call Ashland ‘trendy’ but at the same time, Alexander makes it sound so cool and yes if I am being honest, very trendy!
I love how Alexander portrays Ashland, I haven’t been to Ashland in years but all I remember it being is a thespian town with random little cute shops, and her fictional bakery, Torte, would fit right in. And because the town brings in a lot of tourists with the Shakespearean Festival and other attractions, Alexander has a lot of options when it comes to keeping her series a live and fresh!
I know a lot of people have read this series from the beginning, I came into it late and jumped around in the series. While I have not felt lost in the series, it’s evident that the characters are established and have evolved from the early books. While I didn’t think it was necessary to read the books in order, as each book stands alone in it’s mystery, I think if you want the full experience and to understand some of the little nuances, then you should probably start at the beginning.
I enjoyed this mystery so much. I loved how it wasn’t a ‘fresh’ murder that kicked off the plot but rather a decades old skull that ropes readers in and makes them wonder who did it and why. I had a great time trying to solve everything and figure out motives and suspects.
Jules is a fun likeable character who is very real and relatable. As with the previous book that I read in this series, I feel like I need a sugar detox after reading all the delicious pastry items I’m thankful that I am just reading about them but at the same time I am desperately needing the recipes to all the food because they sound so good!
If you love a well crafted mystery with an established author, then look no further. I have been impressed with Alexander’s books across the board and this series i a particular favorite!
See my full review here
November 14, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
There is so much going on in this 9th installment of the Bakeshop Mysteries. Carlos has returned to his cruise ship and Jules still doesn’t know what she wants as far as their relationship. Helen and Doug have returned from their honeymoon and are househunting to find the perfect place. She is putting in fewer hours at Torte but both she and Jules are very excited about their grand reopening with their new expanded space.
Jules takes a little time away from baking when she goes to look at a house with her mom. When she takes a little walk around the lake she arrives just as 2 young girls diving for treasure find a human skull. A skull that may belong to a man that disappeared back in the ’60s. There is also a piece of property for sale that has several parties very interested so when the owner is killed there are plenty of suspects. Jules is in the middle of it all but she may find herself spread too thin.
All my favorite characters are back and are joined by some new employees at Torte. This causes some tension in the ranks. Again, the new characters evolve quickly throughout the story and the continuing characters continue to grow. Jules has a chance to take a huge step thanks to her mom, but the stress of a life with Carlos or without needs to be rectified soon.
I was very captivated by both mysteries and the way they intertwined. They were so well-written, I was totally surprised when the killer was revealed. The person wasn’t even on my radar. Nicely played Ms. Alexander.
As I have come to expect there is a lot of baking and brewing and eating and drinking going on. Torte is my kind of place and the food descriptions had my stomach growling.
The characters in this series always keep me coming back for more. From the drama of the murders to the daily happenings at Torte I am all in. The author has found the perfect cozy recipe to keep readers engaged and entertained.
There is so much going on in this 9th installment of the Bakeshop Mysteries. Carlos has returned to his cruise ship and Jules still doesn’t know what she wants as far as their relationship. Helen and Doug have returned from their honeymoon and are househunting to find the perfect place. She is putting in fewer hours at Torte but both she and Jules are very excited about their grand reopening with their new expanded space.
Jules takes a little time away from baking when she goes to look at a house with her mom. When she takes a little walk around the lake she arrives just as 2 young girls diving for treasure find a human skull. A skull that may belong to a man that disappeared back in the ’60s. There is also a piece of property for sale that has several parties very interested so when the owner is killed there are plenty of suspects. Jules is in the middle of it all but she may find herself spread too thin.
All my favorite characters are back and are joined by some new employees at Torte. This causes some tension in the ranks. Again, the new characters evolve quickly throughout the story and the continuing characters continue to grow. Jules has a chance to take a huge step thanks to her mom, but the stress of a life with Carlos or without needs to be rectified soon.
I was very captivated by both mysteries and the way they intertwined. They were so well-written, I was totally surprised when the killer was revealed. The person wasn’t even on my radar. Nicely played Ms. Alexander.
As I have come to expect there is a lot of baking and brewing and eating and drinking going on. Torte is my kind of place and the food descriptions had my stomach growling.
The characters in this series always keep me coming back for more. From the drama of the murders to the daily happenings at Torte I am all in. The author has found the perfect cozy recipe to keep readers engaged and entertained.
November 3, 2018
This is a great cozy mystery series! Live and Let Pie is #9 in A Bakeshop Mystery series and I have enjoyed them all. This edition gives a nod to both the future and the past. Renovations and changes have come to Torte, the bakeshop owned and operated by Jules, new homes are being bought and questions are arising about the future fate of Jules’ marriage. But a mystery has Jules digging back to a cold case from the 1960s. I don’t want to give away too much and spoil the plot. What I will say is that picking up A bakeshop Mystery book is like putting on comfortable pajamas…these books are cozy and provide a welcoming relaxing reprieve from busy and hectic days.
December 14, 2022
3.5 stars. This started out interesting with a cold case when a skull is found relating to a decades old missing-persons case. When another murder occurs, Jules and Lance decide to investigate to see if the two cases are connected somehow. I admit Lance was a bit too over the top for me in this one, and I wondered why Jules would go along with him. Still no idea if Jules and Carlos are going to be able to patch up their marriage. At this point, it's a little frustrating. But, I still enjoy this series and will be checking out the next one.
November 15, 2018
Another fun entry in the Bakeshop Mystery series (#9) and it was just as enjoyable as the first 8. Alexander has gathered her engaging group of characters (and has even added three new staff members with the expansion of Torte) in the appealing Oregon town of Ashland for a little mystery, lots of food, and even a little culture in the way of Shakespeare. In my review for the previous book I worried this series would be ending but after reading this my fears have been alleviated as Jules appears to have more adventures in her future. Hopefully, these will include her delectable husband, Carlos.
This is the perfect series for anyone who wants a cozy mystery with no objectionable content (except perhaps some very appealing and fattening food description and recipes--and OMG! I have to try that fluffernutter sandwich!) and likable characters--well, except for Richard Lord and there has to be a villain somewhere.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance digital reading copy.
This is the perfect series for anyone who wants a cozy mystery with no objectionable content (except perhaps some very appealing and fattening food description and recipes--and OMG! I have to try that fluffernutter sandwich!) and likable characters--well, except for Richard Lord and there has to be a villain somewhere.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance digital reading copy.
January 1, 2019
Live and Let Pie by Ellie Alexander is the 9th book in the Bakeshop Mystery series, and another great addition. I love this series, and have read them all. When a new book comes out it's like visiting old friends. In this book several things are going on. Jules Capshaw finds a skull that turns out to be from a person who went missing in the 1960's. The plot and characters are well written, and this book will keep you guessing and wondering about all the suspects. I am growing tired of the Jules and Carlos saga, hope it concludes soon. I suggest you read the books in order, to get the full effect. I recommend this book for all cozy mystery lovers.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 1, 2019
4 stelle e mezza
Ogni volta è come tornare a visitare dei vecchi amici... Stavolta il gruppo si allarga con tre nuovi membri dello staff di Torte. E manca Carlos, che non è proprio il mio carattere preferito.
Non male la storia gialla, sebbene abbia colto subito l'indizio giusto. Sto diventando troppo brava....
Ogni volta è come tornare a visitare dei vecchi amici... Stavolta il gruppo si allarga con tre nuovi membri dello staff di Torte. E manca Carlos, che non è proprio il mio carattere preferito.
Non male la storia gialla, sebbene abbia colto subito l'indizio giusto. Sto diventando troppo brava....
June 21, 2021
I am enjoying this series more with each book
June 3, 2020
Im not sure if this type of book is for me. Characters' dialogue is almost unbearable to read. It is so fake and I can't believe anyone speaks like that. The main character is annoying. Talking about how idyllic her life is, made me upset and she was so nosey. The only correct line in the book was something along the lines of "I should leave the detective work to the detectives." She was doing the stupidest things. If I was the police, I would hate her. The worst part was the book's mystery wasn't even a real page turner. The culmination of the whole mystery was short and simple. Characters would act out. They would commit acts that weren't in their "cookie cutter" personality types. If the characters are as 1 dimensional as these, at least keep them that way. The only saving grace in the book were the recipes at the end. Those were cute.
So overall the worst part was definitely the dialogue. I cringed so hard anytime the main character would interact with a minor character. Juliet seemed so cocky, i was not rooting for her at all. I just wanted her to keep her nose out of the actual police work.
Again, I might just not be the ideal demographic for this book.
So overall the worst part was definitely the dialogue. I cringed so hard anytime the main character would interact with a minor character. Juliet seemed so cocky, i was not rooting for her at all. I just wanted her to keep her nose out of the actual police work.
Again, I might just not be the ideal demographic for this book.
December 28, 2018
LIVE AND LET PIE, the ninth book in the Bakeshop Mystery series by Ellie Alexander, is another charming addition to a sweet series! Protagonist Jules Capshaw, owner of the newly expanded and remodeled Torte Bakeshop in Ashland, Oregon, is an easy to love character. She is the type of person you’d want to hang out with and get to know… and if you’re lucky, sample all the yummy goodies she creates in her bakery kitchen! I love the friendships she has developed with her employees and how she freely mentors them to enhance their talents. She also has a very close relationship with her mother which is endearing. The story starts out after the marriage of Jules’ mother to the town’s detective, The Professor. Jules wasn’t sure about her mother moving forward but has learned to love and respect her new stepfather. I enjoy how the author continually gives the characters new learning experiences to expand their personal growth and I find it touching how emotional interaction is brought to some of the scenes.
While the delightful characters bring readers back to the series again and again, Ms. Alexander also provides a compelling murder mystery to intrigue us. She does provide a lot of setup before the cold case murder is brought to light but once Jules’ investigation starts, the plot moves forward with many twists and turns. She creates an interesting scenario with the connection between the decades-old victim and the murder victim that happens right after the first gruesome discovery. Jules’ investigation uncovers surprising conflicts surrounding the lack of housing and land available in the town. Ms. Alexander also touches on the plight of homelessness, especially homelessness affecting families. This hidden social issue is heart wrenching but the author treats the subject with sensitivity.
The reader will savor the descriptions of yummy foods coming from the kitchen of Torte and thankfully Ms. Alexander provides several recipes at the back of the book.
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley with the hopes I would review.
While the delightful characters bring readers back to the series again and again, Ms. Alexander also provides a compelling murder mystery to intrigue us. She does provide a lot of setup before the cold case murder is brought to light but once Jules’ investigation starts, the plot moves forward with many twists and turns. She creates an interesting scenario with the connection between the decades-old victim and the murder victim that happens right after the first gruesome discovery. Jules’ investigation uncovers surprising conflicts surrounding the lack of housing and land available in the town. Ms. Alexander also touches on the plight of homelessness, especially homelessness affecting families. This hidden social issue is heart wrenching but the author treats the subject with sensitivity.
The reader will savor the descriptions of yummy foods coming from the kitchen of Torte and thankfully Ms. Alexander provides several recipes at the back of the book.
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley with the hopes I would review.
January 11, 2019
Live and Let Pie by Ellie Alexander is the ninth A Bakeshop Mystery. Jules Capshaw is busy running Torte and supervising the renovations. With the shop expansion, it is time to hire some new employees. Jules’ mother, Helen and her new husband have been house hunting. Helen requests that Jules accompany her to look at a house on Emigrant Lake and they can then enjoy a picnic afterword. Unfortunately, the picnic takes a backseat when two teenage girls discover a skeleton while diving. George Mill went missing in the 1960s when the town of Klamath Junction was flooded for Emigrant Lake expansion, and now his body has finally been found. Edgar Hannagan is selling his lot, and he has numerous interested parties including the owner of the Nightingale B&B and the director of the homeless council. When Edgar is found murdered, Jules sets out to track down the killer. She must work in her sleuthing in between the grand re-opening of Torte, two bickering employees, the 58 year old crime and her indecision regarding Carlos. Jules dives into baking to avoid thinking about her marriage, and her delectable treats provide a handy excuse when visiting the people on her suspect list. Come along to Ashland, Oregon for Shakespeare, friendly faces, tasty desserts and a touch of murder.
Live and Let Pie takes us back to Ashland, Oregon and Jules Capshaw. She cannot wait for the renovations on Torte to be finished. Jules is hiring three new employees who she hopes will fit in with the rest of her staff, but change can be difficult for people. I like Ellie Alexander’s conversational writing style. It makes for an easy, breezy book with steady pacing. Baking is prominently featured in the story. Creating and baking of pastry is described in detail (one example is a fluffernutter). I find that it interrupts the flow of the story with so many baking breaks. I wish the author would take the time to further develop the mystery instead. While Live and Let Pie is the ninth book in the series, it can be read alone. The author summarizes what has happened to Jules so far for new readers. Jules is still contemplating what to do about her marriage. This has been going on for nine books and it is time for a decision to be made. Personally, I am not a fan of the suave Carlos who is handsome and seems to charm everyone with his personality and cooking (too perfect). I kept hoping Jules would ditch the chef for Thomas. Jules also has a major decision to make regarding her living arrangements courtesy of a wonderful offer from the Professor and her mother (I do not know why she hesitated). I like the staff of Torte along with Helen, the Professor, Thomas and Lance. Lance provides many humorous moments in Live and Let Pie. One cannot help but laugh at Lance’s antics, and he does make the sleuthing more entertaining. I enjoyed the descriptions of the finished Torte (though, I would not like going up and down those stairs). The two mysteries are not at the forefront of the book. I do like how they tie together, but the solution was not surprising. I would have prefered full closure on the mysteries instead of supposition. I am giving Live and Let Pie 3.5 out of 5 stars. There are recipes at the end of the book for those who wish to recreate some of Torte’s creations.
Live and Let Pie takes us back to Ashland, Oregon and Jules Capshaw. She cannot wait for the renovations on Torte to be finished. Jules is hiring three new employees who she hopes will fit in with the rest of her staff, but change can be difficult for people. I like Ellie Alexander’s conversational writing style. It makes for an easy, breezy book with steady pacing. Baking is prominently featured in the story. Creating and baking of pastry is described in detail (one example is a fluffernutter). I find that it interrupts the flow of the story with so many baking breaks. I wish the author would take the time to further develop the mystery instead. While Live and Let Pie is the ninth book in the series, it can be read alone. The author summarizes what has happened to Jules so far for new readers. Jules is still contemplating what to do about her marriage. This has been going on for nine books and it is time for a decision to be made. Personally, I am not a fan of the suave Carlos who is handsome and seems to charm everyone with his personality and cooking (too perfect). I kept hoping Jules would ditch the chef for Thomas. Jules also has a major decision to make regarding her living arrangements courtesy of a wonderful offer from the Professor and her mother (I do not know why she hesitated). I like the staff of Torte along with Helen, the Professor, Thomas and Lance. Lance provides many humorous moments in Live and Let Pie. One cannot help but laugh at Lance’s antics, and he does make the sleuthing more entertaining. I enjoyed the descriptions of the finished Torte (though, I would not like going up and down those stairs). The two mysteries are not at the forefront of the book. I do like how they tie together, but the solution was not surprising. I would have prefered full closure on the mysteries instead of supposition. I am giving Live and Let Pie 3.5 out of 5 stars. There are recipes at the end of the book for those who wish to recreate some of Torte’s creations.
January 30, 2019
As you all know Ellie Alexander aka Kate Dyer-Seeley is one of my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE authors as well as a friend of mine. Anytime her new books come out I can’t help but snatch them up and devour them!
This is the 9th book in the Bakeshop Mystery series. Torte’s construction is finally ending and Jules’ dream is finally coming to fruition. Business is booming and she couldn’t be happier.
Business is booming so much that she is having to hire more people to help run the shop. Jules is a little hesitant to mess up the wonderful family that her and her mom have created at Torte but in order to keep up with the supply and demand she is going to have to find others to help.
This book immediately follows Helen and The Professor’s marriage! They are trying to find their forever home. Jules goes with her mom to check out a house by the lake and finds two children playing in the lake. However their screams following aren’t screams of joy. They have found a skull in the depths of the water where a town was flooded.
This installment of A Bakeshop Mystery has the reader diving into the past of Ashland, a sunken town, and something weird with a parcel of land that is going up for sale. The owner is also found killed and Jules thinks it’s connected to the skeleton found in the lake.
This was another wonderful addition to the series. I loved learning more about Ashland’s past, the people in the town, and one of my favorite characters Andy has more of a role. I don’t want to give away too much though! So you’ll have to check it out!
This is the 9th book in the Bakeshop Mystery series. Torte’s construction is finally ending and Jules’ dream is finally coming to fruition. Business is booming and she couldn’t be happier.
Business is booming so much that she is having to hire more people to help run the shop. Jules is a little hesitant to mess up the wonderful family that her and her mom have created at Torte but in order to keep up with the supply and demand she is going to have to find others to help.
This book immediately follows Helen and The Professor’s marriage! They are trying to find their forever home. Jules goes with her mom to check out a house by the lake and finds two children playing in the lake. However their screams following aren’t screams of joy. They have found a skull in the depths of the water where a town was flooded.
This installment of A Bakeshop Mystery has the reader diving into the past of Ashland, a sunken town, and something weird with a parcel of land that is going up for sale. The owner is also found killed and Jules thinks it’s connected to the skeleton found in the lake.
This was another wonderful addition to the series. I loved learning more about Ashland’s past, the people in the town, and one of my favorite characters Andy has more of a role. I don’t want to give away too much though! So you’ll have to check it out!
February 4, 2019
I gave this book 5 stars but they aren’t showing up. This is part of Jules’s bakery business. The expansion is finally done, she hires 3 new helpers which causes some strife. Her mother is buying a house with the professor and trying to get Jules to take the family house. The peaceful town is being torn part by the lack of affordable housing. One lot is for sale and 3 people want it for very different things. Two ten year old girls find a skull while diving in a lake that covers an old town Then the man who owns the lot is murdered and they find to figure out if the two murders are related. Jules is also talking to her husband about coming to town and taking a break from life on a ship.
April 1, 2025
The mystery in this one was a bit eerie. A long time missing person's case and two young girls finding a skull at the bottom of a lake that's been there for decades. Jules and friends are back on the case. I absolutely love Jules' friendship with Lance. He's so sassy and fun. I really like the new employees at the bakeshop. Especially Marty. This one has a good mystery, fun new characters, same small town feel. The recipes for the adaptations of the fluffernutter sandwiches sound so good, I may just have to try some. I loved it. I am really enjoying the series. I don't want it to end! Luckily, I still have multiple books to go. Happy reading! 🫓
March 15, 2025
Live and Let Pie is book nine in Ellie Alexander's Bakeshop Mystery series. Jules Capshaw returns home to Ashland, Oregon, to work in her family's bakeshop, Torte. At the same time, her husband Carlos still follows his dreams on a boutique cruise ship. Jules decided to get away from the kitchen and the noise of the renovations of Torte and have a picnic by the lake. However, that did not happen because Jules discovered a skull connected to a missing persons case in the 1960s. Jules also became involved in the investigation of the murder of her landlord, Edgar. Will Jules find the answers? The readers will continue to follow Jules to discover what happens.
Live and Let Pie is the first book I have read by Ellie Alexander. It is an enjoyable, cozy mystery and a pleasure to read, and I engage with the story and the plot from the first page. Ellie Alexander brought up the problems and issues of running a small bakery business for me. I love how Ellie Alexander portrayed her characters and their interaction, ensuring that her readers engage with the story. Live and Let Pie is well-written and researched by Ellie Alexander. I like Ellie Alexander's description of the settings of Live and Let Pie, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
I recommend this book.
Live and Let Pie is the first book I have read by Ellie Alexander. It is an enjoyable, cozy mystery and a pleasure to read, and I engage with the story and the plot from the first page. Ellie Alexander brought up the problems and issues of running a small bakery business for me. I love how Ellie Alexander portrayed her characters and their interaction, ensuring that her readers engage with the story. Live and Let Pie is well-written and researched by Ellie Alexander. I like Ellie Alexander's description of the settings of Live and Let Pie, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
I recommend this book.
November 12, 2018
I always enjoy a visit to Ashland and to Torte, with its mouthwatering desserts and lovely mother/daughter team. For a charming, historic town, Ashland sure is the site of many murders, and this time is no exception. The story spans from a gruesome discovery of a murder several decades old to a current murder, and it includes subplots about staff secrets and disagreements, Torte's expansion, a home for Juliet's mom and the Professor, and, of course, Juliet's relationship with Carlos.
Juliet and theater director Lance make entertaining sleuths, but for some reason, this installment didn't engage me quite as much as this series usually does. Extended mid-story breaks to describe in detail how to make a fluffernutter or some other treat stop the flow. And, I'll confess, I'm a bit tired of Jules mooning about what to do with Carlos. Make a decision already!
Still, it was an enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Juliet and theater director Lance make entertaining sleuths, but for some reason, this installment didn't engage me quite as much as this series usually does. Extended mid-story breaks to describe in detail how to make a fluffernutter or some other treat stop the flow. And, I'll confess, I'm a bit tired of Jules mooning about what to do with Carlos. Make a decision already!
Still, it was an enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2020
My favorite of the series, so far!
An old mystery to solve, a new murderer to catch, wonderful descriptions of baking and the town of Ashland. Those are a few of my favorite elements from this installment of the Bakeshop Mystery series. I’m excited to see what Jules gets into next and which direction she will choose in her love life. I highly recommend this whole series!
An old mystery to solve, a new murderer to catch, wonderful descriptions of baking and the town of Ashland. Those are a few of my favorite elements from this installment of the Bakeshop Mystery series. I’m excited to see what Jules gets into next and which direction she will choose in her love life. I highly recommend this whole series!
January 4, 2019
Three and a half stars: Another entertaining installment in a great cozy series, but the mystery needed more development.
Jules is more than eager for the remodel of Torte to be completed. In anticipation of more business, Jules is planning to hire more help. Jules begins the hunt for three new employees as the final preparations for Torte’s grand reopening begin. Jules is lucky to find three people who seem to be a good fit, she just hopes they will get along with her current staff. Meanwhile in Ashland, Jules’ mom and the Professor are hunting for a new house, and one piece of land they consider is an old house on a prime lot. Unfortunately, there are three other parties fighting over the same piece of property. Then things take a dramatic turn when an old skull unearthed from the bottom of the lake, and then a murder in town that is connected to the lot people are fighting over. Are the two murders connected and if so how?
What I Liked:
*This is the ninth installment in The Meet Your Baker Series which I continue to enjoy. I love the setting, the cozy bakeshop, all the decadent food, the characters and the story line. This book was all about the remodel of Torte. I enjoyed seeing the bakeshop grow and expand.
*I continue to enjoy the characters in this series. It has been a joy to watch them evolve and change. In this book, Andy is dealing with some big decisions. I was pleased by the way Jules helped Andy with his choices. It was refreshing to see them come to an agreeable accord instead of trying to force him to do something his heart wasn’t in. I liked the way Andy’s issues were handled.
*It has been a joy to also watch Torte transform. When the series started, Jules returned home to find Torte barely holding on. Over the past couple of years, Jules has breathed new life into the bakery. She has pulled in new customers, restored and remodeled the store, and now she is expanding and hiring new employees. Big positive changes happened for the little shop.
This book provided some interesting historical information regarding the valley and the nearby lake. *I liked that the mystery in this once dated back to the past.
The book ended with a dramatic ending. The murder mystery was solved and there weren’t any major unanswered questions.
*As usual, there were some wonderful recipes to try at the end of the book, from soup, to hand pies and more. I love the recipes.
And The Not So Much:
*After the conclusion of the last book, I was expecting some movement in Jules’ relationship with Carlos. I was so disappointed that absolutely nothing happened on that front. Carlos is not a part of the book at all, other than a few thoughts here and there. I want the romance to be resolved, I am so tired of nothing happening.
*I had a few issues with the murder mystery. First, I didn’t think it was fleshed out enough. It begins with the recovery of a skull in the lake, and I was thinking it was going to be about a long ago murder, which I thought was exciting, then someone in town is unexpectedly murdered. I had a problem with the murder because it was immediately called a murder when there were no signs of foul play. How could they know it was a murder the night it happened until the tests came back? That was a big problem. Then when all the pieces were put into place, there were still not enough explanations. I was left wondering what the deal was with Annie.
*The whole situation with Annie was puzzling. I wanted a better understanding of her character. What happened all those years ago, who did she really have romantic feelings for? Why did she live in that house was she mentally ill or was there something more? This part of the story was completely lacking.
Live and Let Pie was an enjoyable addition to a favorite cozy series. I loved the remodel of Torte, the new characters and the food. I was frustrated though by the lack of movement in the romance, and I felt like the murder mystery was lacking. Still, I can’t resist this series and I am eagerly awaiting the next book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Jules is more than eager for the remodel of Torte to be completed. In anticipation of more business, Jules is planning to hire more help. Jules begins the hunt for three new employees as the final preparations for Torte’s grand reopening begin. Jules is lucky to find three people who seem to be a good fit, she just hopes they will get along with her current staff. Meanwhile in Ashland, Jules’ mom and the Professor are hunting for a new house, and one piece of land they consider is an old house on a prime lot. Unfortunately, there are three other parties fighting over the same piece of property. Then things take a dramatic turn when an old skull unearthed from the bottom of the lake, and then a murder in town that is connected to the lot people are fighting over. Are the two murders connected and if so how?
What I Liked:
*This is the ninth installment in The Meet Your Baker Series which I continue to enjoy. I love the setting, the cozy bakeshop, all the decadent food, the characters and the story line. This book was all about the remodel of Torte. I enjoyed seeing the bakeshop grow and expand.
*I continue to enjoy the characters in this series. It has been a joy to watch them evolve and change. In this book, Andy is dealing with some big decisions. I was pleased by the way Jules helped Andy with his choices. It was refreshing to see them come to an agreeable accord instead of trying to force him to do something his heart wasn’t in. I liked the way Andy’s issues were handled.
*It has been a joy to also watch Torte transform. When the series started, Jules returned home to find Torte barely holding on. Over the past couple of years, Jules has breathed new life into the bakery. She has pulled in new customers, restored and remodeled the store, and now she is expanding and hiring new employees. Big positive changes happened for the little shop.
This book provided some interesting historical information regarding the valley and the nearby lake. *I liked that the mystery in this once dated back to the past.
The book ended with a dramatic ending. The murder mystery was solved and there weren’t any major unanswered questions.
*As usual, there were some wonderful recipes to try at the end of the book, from soup, to hand pies and more. I love the recipes.
And The Not So Much:
*After the conclusion of the last book, I was expecting some movement in Jules’ relationship with Carlos. I was so disappointed that absolutely nothing happened on that front. Carlos is not a part of the book at all, other than a few thoughts here and there. I want the romance to be resolved, I am so tired of nothing happening.
*I had a few issues with the murder mystery. First, I didn’t think it was fleshed out enough. It begins with the recovery of a skull in the lake, and I was thinking it was going to be about a long ago murder, which I thought was exciting, then someone in town is unexpectedly murdered. I had a problem with the murder because it was immediately called a murder when there were no signs of foul play. How could they know it was a murder the night it happened until the tests came back? That was a big problem. Then when all the pieces were put into place, there were still not enough explanations. I was left wondering what the deal was with Annie.
*The whole situation with Annie was puzzling. I wanted a better understanding of her character. What happened all those years ago, who did she really have romantic feelings for? Why did she live in that house was she mentally ill or was there something more? This part of the story was completely lacking.
Live and Let Pie was an enjoyable addition to a favorite cozy series. I loved the remodel of Torte, the new characters and the food. I was frustrated though by the lack of movement in the romance, and I felt like the murder mystery was lacking. Still, I can’t resist this series and I am eagerly awaiting the next book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
February 24, 2019
Jules Capshaw and the bakeshop she owns with her mother are going through major changes: a renovation expansion, hiring new employees, decisions about her marriage and her mother's remarriage. So change is in the air and change is always a little scary. The discovery of a decades old skeleton followed by a murder only adds to the turmoil.
This ninth volume in the series touched me as no other had. In fact, the mystery plays second fiddle to all the changes the characters are dealing with and the finding of realizing of happiness and joy in your choices and daily life. I rarely tear up while reading, especially not reading a mystery, but this one got to me. Highly recommended!
This ninth volume in the series touched me as no other had. In fact, the mystery plays second fiddle to all the changes the characters are dealing with and the finding of realizing of happiness and joy in your choices and daily life. I rarely tear up while reading, especially not reading a mystery, but this one got to me. Highly recommended!
March 17, 2019
Not one of my favorite in the series. The story was more about character growth. The mystery was pretty slow and very easy to predict. I will continue to read this series, because I do enjoy the characters and want to see what happens next.
December 21, 2018
This 9th book in A Bakeshop Mystery series is more about the bakeshop than the mystery. We hear about the remodeling of the family bakeshop, Torte, and its grand reopening after the remodel was complete. There are a lot of delicious sounding food ideas and even recipes included at the end of the book. The mystery does not come into play until about a third of the way into the story. It was an interesting concept that could of been more developed but had a good twist at the end. I would have enjoyed it more with less remodeling talk and more mystery development.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
January 23, 2022
The bakeshop expansion is nearly complete and Jules is tasked with hiring new staff as her mom cuts back on work and enjoys newly married life with her beloved Professor. Jules's staff is on board with her three new hires, all except Andy, who seems to have a problem with the laid back hippie barista Sequoia. Can Jules get to the bottom of his issue without having to fire Sequoia who is otherwise perfect? Helen and Douglas are hunting for the perfect house. Helen enlists Juliet's aid and when they find a beautiful home near the lake, it seems perfect, but while Helen waits for Doug, Jules walks by the lake and discovers a startling secret. A little girl diving for treasure at the bottom of the lake unearthed a human skull which may be that of a man who went missing in the 1960s. Rumor has it, George Mill refused to leave his property when the manmade lake was expanded and the original town of Klamath Junction was flooded. Another property Helen and Doug are looking at is a semi-abandonned lot near Torte owned by a cantakerous, eccentric old man named Edgar. Several parties are interested in the lot for various reasons. When Edgar turns up dead, Juliet's curisoity is piqued. Could Edgar's death be connected to the lot? Is it connected to the disappearance of George Mill? Lance is determined they shall find the answers and solve the mystery for Thomas and Detective Kerry.
UGH. This story reminded me why I stopped reading this series. Jules has absolutely no reason to investigate the mystery at all. She confronts a murder suspect with the news Edgar has been killed and blabs that news to everyone even though Thomas and Detective Kerry did not say it was common knowledge yet. They would have to seek out next of kin, etc. etc. Nothing about this investigation makes logical sense. Lance is a bad influence on Juliet and his penchant for drama crosses the line this time. They interfere with an old woman and nearly get themselves killed. At least Jules has a conscience and has reservations. Lance has no moral compass and no qualms about sticking his nose in other people's business. He acts like life is one great play and he's the star. I never could stand him. I would have thought after his family drama and his ordeal with the police that he would have sobered up and started acting more human but nope. He needs a boyfriend to keep him busy since his work and adoring fans aren't doing the trick.
I want to smack Jules because in addition to mucking up the investigation, which was well in hand by the authorities, she can't make up her mind about Carlos. He apparently went back to the ship and is making plans to return to Ashland on a more permanent basis if she gives the say-so. She fears he's meant for a vagabond lifestyle while she's happy returning to her roots in Ashland but she doesn't give HIM a chance to figure it out on his own. His boss said he would hold Carlos's job for a year and that seems like long enough to figure things out for a grown man who has already purchased a share of a business in Ashland! I would think Carlos would want to have a more permanent home where Ramiro can come and stay with him. I never liked Carlos before but he has my sympathy now. He should cut his losses and go back to Spain and spend time with Ramiro there.
Another character I wanted to smack was Andy but he's too young to have a fully developed, logical brain. What bug crawled up his butt? He's so nasty and mean to Sequoia. He won't even give her a chance and is constantly judging her and bickering with her. Jules specifically stated the original staff are to help train and guide the new staff who will learn and grow just as the original four did. Sequoia is a part of a transiet population that travels around the west coast. Like Juliet, she is now giving that up and interested in putting down roots. She doesn't say why but she apparently has a reason. Sequoia has a very laid back, hippie vibe and Andy has a laid back surfer dude vibe. I would think they would get along. When Andy reveals his secret, it isn't what I expected. I agree with Steph but I also agree with Jules that he has to make his own decisions. He's making a mistake if he's truly interested in owning a coffee shop of his own some day or coffee business.
The other staff are starting to stick in my mind. Steph is the goth girl and pastry whiz college student. She's very serious and seems to be a pessimist. I like her because she's the voice of reason. Bethany is the social media maven and annoys the heck out of me because she's glued to her phone too much. Sterling is the outstanding chef just gaining confidence in his skills. Jules is mentoring him and he sounds like he will go far. He's a nice kid, in spite of appearances and seems genuinely happy to have the opportunity to practice his craft and learn from Jules. (Maybe Carlos too in the future?) Now we have Marty, a cheerful older man who recently lost his wife. Marty has a new appreciation for life and seems to be enjoying every moment. He has "mad" bread making skills and seems pleased to have a role in mentoring Sterling, giving the younger man confidence and wisdom. Finally, there's Rosa, a young woman with hospitality experience. She's great with customers, very observant and a great baker. Her pan de coco sounds amazing! She's quiet and has enough sense to be scared of Lance. Ha ha!
Helen and Doug are just so cute! Helen seems happier and more relaxed now. I'm sure losing her husband so young was such a shock and she sounds like she was barely treading water for awhile there. Now she's older, wiser and much happier and relaxed in a state of newly wedded bliss. The Professor is a wonderful, wonderful man! Jules is super lucky to have stepfather like him. Not only does he adore Helen but he also loves Juliet like she's his own daughter. He's very sweet with her. Plus I love how he quotes "The Bard" and other great writers.
The newcomers connected to the mystery plot are Edgar, a cranky old man content to let his house fall down around him. He's a relic of the past, the old town and the pioneer roots that made the area what it is today. Edgar is also a slimy triple-timing businessman who deliberately strings along no less than three people interested in his property. He's a very shady character. The first person interested in the property is Stella, a ruthless developer, a nasty witch who wants to build upscale tiny houses on the lot. She also wants to raize the property Helen and Doug are interested in. UGH no. Upscale? Just what the world needs. There's a serious lack of affordable housng in this country! I bet she's the murderer. She's the type who would stop at nothing to get what she wants.
The issue of affordable housing brings me to my next two suspects, Malcolm and Gretchen. Malcolm is an uptight theater manager. He's low on the totem pole but feels passionately about the actors' welfare. He wants to buy the lot for the OSF to build affordable housing for their minimum wage workers and actors. That's an AWESOME idea- except- does it have to be on an empty lot where deer forage? (Not one of these people consider the environmental impact of building on an empty lot!) He seems fussy and is a troublemaker. He comes across as young and selfish and doesn't want to wait for an older person to make poor decisions that affect the welfare of younger people so takes matters into his own hands, unauthorized. I don't get a friendly vibe from him. Another person passionate about affordable housing is Gretchen, the head of the homeless comission. Wow she is amazing! She is compassionate and a tireless devotee to her cause. She wants to build affordable housing and boutique "shops" where the unhoused can "shop" for things they need, try on clothes and boost their confidence by feeling good. Clearly the homeless population of Ashland is far different from the homeless population in my city I saw destroy private property and a public park daily. Ashland's homeless deserve this new network and the staff deserve a building with air conditioning! Jules's friend Pam who owns a B&B next to the empty lot is also interested in the lot. Pam is concerned about the view, the lack of parking and loss of business if homes are built there or if the homeless move in. She wants a new parking lot for her guests and to keep the view of the mountain.
Two more new characters round out the cast. There's Henry, a friend of Edgar's, the only other relic from way back when who stuck around in the new Ashland. Henry is a painter and while he doesn't always see eye to eye with Edgar, he looks out for the other man and they share a drink together. I'm not sure they're friends but they're in the same age bracket and seem to be the only two left. Maybe they reminisce about bygone days. Maybe Henry can convince Edgar to tear down his eyesore of a house and sell the land. Edgar seems reluctant to make a move. Anna Mill is the sister of George, the man whose skull was discovered in the lake. In her youth Anna loved Edgar but her brother didn't approve because of an eight year age difference. That makes NO sense whatsoever because in the last men were supposed to be older than the women because men worked outside the home and needed to establish themselves enough to earn enough money to support a family. I would think this still would have been true in the 60s. I HIGHLY doubt a brother would object to a mere 8 year age difference unless it was Edgar's prom he brought Anna to and then she would have been only 10 years old. THEN there would be a problem. If it was Anna's prom, she would be about 17-18 years old and Edgar 25-26. They would get married shortly after and buy a house with a white picket fence and have 2.5 kids. I don't think the age difference is what George objected to. I'm sure there was something else. Anna was never the same once George disappeared. Now she's elderly. Does she know something about her brother's disappearance? Does she know who killed Edgar? Thomas and Kerry need to see her ASAP and Lance needs to take his silly self far far away.
Not even the recipes can save this one. (The title is misleading, there's no pie anywhere in the book). I didn't see anything I want to make. She didn't even provide recipes for "concretes" (frozen custard). I'll give this series one more book and that's it. I'm tired of Jules not being able to make a decision and tired of Lance's theatrics.
UGH. This story reminded me why I stopped reading this series. Jules has absolutely no reason to investigate the mystery at all. She confronts a murder suspect with the news Edgar has been killed and blabs that news to everyone even though Thomas and Detective Kerry did not say it was common knowledge yet. They would have to seek out next of kin, etc. etc. Nothing about this investigation makes logical sense. Lance is a bad influence on Juliet and his penchant for drama crosses the line this time. They interfere with an old woman and nearly get themselves killed. At least Jules has a conscience and has reservations. Lance has no moral compass and no qualms about sticking his nose in other people's business. He acts like life is one great play and he's the star. I never could stand him. I would have thought after his family drama and his ordeal with the police that he would have sobered up and started acting more human but nope. He needs a boyfriend to keep him busy since his work and adoring fans aren't doing the trick.
I want to smack Jules because in addition to mucking up the investigation, which was well in hand by the authorities, she can't make up her mind about Carlos. He apparently went back to the ship and is making plans to return to Ashland on a more permanent basis if she gives the say-so. She fears he's meant for a vagabond lifestyle while she's happy returning to her roots in Ashland but she doesn't give HIM a chance to figure it out on his own. His boss said he would hold Carlos's job for a year and that seems like long enough to figure things out for a grown man who has already purchased a share of a business in Ashland! I would think Carlos would want to have a more permanent home where Ramiro can come and stay with him. I never liked Carlos before but he has my sympathy now. He should cut his losses and go back to Spain and spend time with Ramiro there.
Another character I wanted to smack was Andy but he's too young to have a fully developed, logical brain. What bug crawled up his butt? He's so nasty and mean to Sequoia. He won't even give her a chance and is constantly judging her and bickering with her. Jules specifically stated the original staff are to help train and guide the new staff who will learn and grow just as the original four did. Sequoia is a part of a transiet population that travels around the west coast. Like Juliet, she is now giving that up and interested in putting down roots. She doesn't say why but she apparently has a reason. Sequoia has a very laid back, hippie vibe and Andy has a laid back surfer dude vibe. I would think they would get along. When Andy reveals his secret, it isn't what I expected. I agree with Steph but I also agree with Jules that he has to make his own decisions. He's making a mistake if he's truly interested in owning a coffee shop of his own some day or coffee business.
The other staff are starting to stick in my mind. Steph is the goth girl and pastry whiz college student. She's very serious and seems to be a pessimist. I like her because she's the voice of reason. Bethany is the social media maven and annoys the heck out of me because she's glued to her phone too much. Sterling is the outstanding chef just gaining confidence in his skills. Jules is mentoring him and he sounds like he will go far. He's a nice kid, in spite of appearances and seems genuinely happy to have the opportunity to practice his craft and learn from Jules. (Maybe Carlos too in the future?) Now we have Marty, a cheerful older man who recently lost his wife. Marty has a new appreciation for life and seems to be enjoying every moment. He has "mad" bread making skills and seems pleased to have a role in mentoring Sterling, giving the younger man confidence and wisdom. Finally, there's Rosa, a young woman with hospitality experience. She's great with customers, very observant and a great baker. Her pan de coco sounds amazing! She's quiet and has enough sense to be scared of Lance. Ha ha!
Helen and Doug are just so cute! Helen seems happier and more relaxed now. I'm sure losing her husband so young was such a shock and she sounds like she was barely treading water for awhile there. Now she's older, wiser and much happier and relaxed in a state of newly wedded bliss. The Professor is a wonderful, wonderful man! Jules is super lucky to have stepfather like him. Not only does he adore Helen but he also loves Juliet like she's his own daughter. He's very sweet with her. Plus I love how he quotes "The Bard" and other great writers.
The newcomers connected to the mystery plot are Edgar, a cranky old man content to let his house fall down around him. He's a relic of the past, the old town and the pioneer roots that made the area what it is today. Edgar is also a slimy triple-timing businessman who deliberately strings along no less than three people interested in his property. He's a very shady character. The first person interested in the property is Stella, a ruthless developer, a nasty witch who wants to build upscale tiny houses on the lot. She also wants to raize the property Helen and Doug are interested in. UGH no. Upscale? Just what the world needs. There's a serious lack of affordable housng in this country! I bet she's the murderer. She's the type who would stop at nothing to get what she wants.
The issue of affordable housing brings me to my next two suspects, Malcolm and Gretchen. Malcolm is an uptight theater manager. He's low on the totem pole but feels passionately about the actors' welfare. He wants to buy the lot for the OSF to build affordable housing for their minimum wage workers and actors. That's an AWESOME idea- except- does it have to be on an empty lot where deer forage? (Not one of these people consider the environmental impact of building on an empty lot!) He seems fussy and is a troublemaker. He comes across as young and selfish and doesn't want to wait for an older person to make poor decisions that affect the welfare of younger people so takes matters into his own hands, unauthorized. I don't get a friendly vibe from him. Another person passionate about affordable housing is Gretchen, the head of the homeless comission. Wow she is amazing! She is compassionate and a tireless devotee to her cause. She wants to build affordable housing and boutique "shops" where the unhoused can "shop" for things they need, try on clothes and boost their confidence by feeling good. Clearly the homeless population of Ashland is far different from the homeless population in my city I saw destroy private property and a public park daily. Ashland's homeless deserve this new network and the staff deserve a building with air conditioning! Jules's friend Pam who owns a B&B next to the empty lot is also interested in the lot. Pam is concerned about the view, the lack of parking and loss of business if homes are built there or if the homeless move in. She wants a new parking lot for her guests and to keep the view of the mountain.
Two more new characters round out the cast. There's Henry, a friend of Edgar's, the only other relic from way back when who stuck around in the new Ashland. Henry is a painter and while he doesn't always see eye to eye with Edgar, he looks out for the other man and they share a drink together. I'm not sure they're friends but they're in the same age bracket and seem to be the only two left. Maybe they reminisce about bygone days. Maybe Henry can convince Edgar to tear down his eyesore of a house and sell the land. Edgar seems reluctant to make a move. Anna Mill is the sister of George, the man whose skull was discovered in the lake. In her youth Anna loved Edgar but her brother didn't approve because of an eight year age difference. That makes NO sense whatsoever because in the last men were supposed to be older than the women because men worked outside the home and needed to establish themselves enough to earn enough money to support a family. I would think this still would have been true in the 60s. I HIGHLY doubt a brother would object to a mere 8 year age difference unless it was Edgar's prom he brought Anna to and then she would have been only 10 years old. THEN there would be a problem. If it was Anna's prom, she would be about 17-18 years old and Edgar 25-26. They would get married shortly after and buy a house with a white picket fence and have 2.5 kids. I don't think the age difference is what George objected to. I'm sure there was something else. Anna was never the same once George disappeared. Now she's elderly. Does she know something about her brother's disappearance? Does she know who killed Edgar? Thomas and Kerry need to see her ASAP and Lance needs to take his silly self far far away.
Not even the recipes can save this one. (The title is misleading, there's no pie anywhere in the book). I didn't see anything I want to make. She didn't even provide recipes for "concretes" (frozen custard). I'll give this series one more book and that's it. I'm tired of Jules not being able to make a decision and tired of Lance's theatrics.
November 6, 2022
I could not get into this book. Even put it down and picked it back up a few times. Decided to listen to it to get it finished. I wish Jules would decide what she wants to do with Carlos. This is going on way tooooo long.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2019
Book #9 was a nice surprise. I loved the first eight books in series but wondered how the author would continue to keep the Bakeshop Mysteries fresh. This installment felt like the beginning of a second chapter for the series. The Torte has expanded, there are new delightful employees and lots of room to develop the established characters. I look forward to book #10!
April 10, 2019
3.5 Star. Reading this book is like spending time with old friends, but not too much happens.
Jules' mother is now happily married to the professor and looking to buy their dream home. The Torte has finished their renovations and has hired three new staff members, who all seem to fit in beautifully (after a rough start between Andy and the new barista).
While Jules' mother is checking out a house, Jules goes for a walk and hears a little girl in the lake scream. Looking for treasure in the lake, the child discovers a human skull. The police think it may be from a man who said he would never leave his home when the dam was built to flood the village back in the 60's.
To confuse the issue, multiple parties are interested in a prime lot, but the owner seems to have promised it to all of them! The elderly owner is also linked to the body in the lake because he was in love with the victim's sister. Then he is murdered.
In this book, Jules is still dithering over what to do about her husband Carlos, now back on the ship. She loves him and misses him, but she thinks that if he has to give up cooking on the ship and living an exotic lifestyle travelling all over the world, he would be unhappy. He has begged her to give him the chance to come live with her in smalltown Ashland, Oregon. He loves her and above all wants to be with her. It would also be a great opportunity for his son. A pretty silly problem. She has nothing to lose by giving him a chance. Aside from being with his wife, he would also get to live full time with his young son. As much as I love being on a ship, eventually you would get tired of living in a tiny room for years and having so many people walk in and out of your life.
Enough already! Give the guy a chance, Jules!!!
Jules' mother is now happily married to the professor and looking to buy their dream home. The Torte has finished their renovations and has hired three new staff members, who all seem to fit in beautifully (after a rough start between Andy and the new barista).
While Jules' mother is checking out a house, Jules goes for a walk and hears a little girl in the lake scream. Looking for treasure in the lake, the child discovers a human skull. The police think it may be from a man who said he would never leave his home when the dam was built to flood the village back in the 60's.
To confuse the issue, multiple parties are interested in a prime lot, but the owner seems to have promised it to all of them! The elderly owner is also linked to the body in the lake because he was in love with the victim's sister. Then he is murdered.
In this book, Jules is still dithering over what to do about her husband Carlos, now back on the ship. She loves him and misses him, but she thinks that if he has to give up cooking on the ship and living an exotic lifestyle travelling all over the world, he would be unhappy. He has begged her to give him the chance to come live with her in smalltown Ashland, Oregon. He loves her and above all wants to be with her. It would also be a great opportunity for his son. A pretty silly problem. She has nothing to lose by giving him a chance. Aside from being with his wife, he would also get to live full time with his young son. As much as I love being on a ship, eventually you would get tired of living in a tiny room for years and having so many people walk in and out of your life.
Enough already! Give the guy a chance, Jules!!!
October 4, 2024
Live and Let Pie, the ninth book in Ellie Alexander’s Bakeshop Mystery series is yet another winner! With each book, I love the series more. This one is particularly fulfilling as, not only do we have a multi-layered mystery, but we have a good dose of character growth and hometown charm.
Change is coming to Torte as, thanks to the expansion, Jules Capshaw is hiring new employees and promoting others. Despite the apparent tension between Andy and the new barista, things are going well enough that she has time to accompany her mom on a house hunting trip with a picnic afterward. But an unexpected discovery at a lake launches a cold case investigation. This discovery is followed by a current murder. The suspects all seem to be people vying to purchase the decedent’s land. But could there be a more personal reason for the murder? And what, if any, is the connection with the cold case? Jules and Lance are determined to find out.
I am so pleased to see that this installment focusses on the relationship between Jules and her mom. With a few well-timed revelations, they deepen their understanding of each other along with our connection to the characters. The expansion of Torte, too, is a positive change. The new employees bring a fresh outlook to the series. And I am glad to see that, yet again, Lance takes a prominent role in the sleuthing. His theatrics add a touch of madcap adventure to the investigation. And as for the mystery, really, there are two mysteries which must be solved. The complex relationships between the parties involved and the long-ago relationships involved in the cold case add to the tension and suspense and provide red herrings for the current murder. The only thing missing is the resolution of the situation between Jules and her husband, Carlos. Given his urgency for a decision in the prior book, I was surprised to find this was not addressed in this book.
Live and Let Pie is a terrific example of what a cozy mystery should be. It, and the entire series, is a delight. While Live and Let Pie could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with the first book in the series, Meet Your Baker as the character growth is an important part of this series. Bring on book 10!
Change is coming to Torte as, thanks to the expansion, Jules Capshaw is hiring new employees and promoting others. Despite the apparent tension between Andy and the new barista, things are going well enough that she has time to accompany her mom on a house hunting trip with a picnic afterward. But an unexpected discovery at a lake launches a cold case investigation. This discovery is followed by a current murder. The suspects all seem to be people vying to purchase the decedent’s land. But could there be a more personal reason for the murder? And what, if any, is the connection with the cold case? Jules and Lance are determined to find out.
I am so pleased to see that this installment focusses on the relationship between Jules and her mom. With a few well-timed revelations, they deepen their understanding of each other along with our connection to the characters. The expansion of Torte, too, is a positive change. The new employees bring a fresh outlook to the series. And I am glad to see that, yet again, Lance takes a prominent role in the sleuthing. His theatrics add a touch of madcap adventure to the investigation. And as for the mystery, really, there are two mysteries which must be solved. The complex relationships between the parties involved and the long-ago relationships involved in the cold case add to the tension and suspense and provide red herrings for the current murder. The only thing missing is the resolution of the situation between Jules and her husband, Carlos. Given his urgency for a decision in the prior book, I was surprised to find this was not addressed in this book.
Live and Let Pie is a terrific example of what a cozy mystery should be. It, and the entire series, is a delight. While Live and Let Pie could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with the first book in the series, Meet Your Baker as the character growth is an important part of this series. Bring on book 10!
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