What do you think?
Rate this book
It's autumn in the Hudson Valley, and Kate McKay has some tricks up her sleeve for a deliciously spooky season at her Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe. But with a cold-blooded murderer thrown into the mix, the scares are about to become a little too real . . .
Kate receives the shock of a lifetime when she's blindsided by an offer she can't refuse. An assistant movie director desperately wants to shoot a key scene at Lickety Splits and she's willing to pay big bucks to sweeten the last-minute deal. All Kate has to do is tolerate a bustling film crew for a few hours and provide one important prop--a scoop of handmade ice cream . . .
But when up-and-coming actress Savannah Crane drops dead after spooning down some chocolate almond fudge, Kate's first taste of Hollywood might be her last. Someone poisoned the leading lady, and with Lickety Splits draped in yellow crime scene tape, detectives are ready to cast Kate as the leading suspect . . .
Determined to clear her name, Kate finds herself churning through a long list of unsavory characters to catch the real killer lurking around town. As she uncovers the truth about the jealous rivals and obsessive stalkers who haunted Savannah's life, Kate soon realizes that tangling with the late starlet's "fans" could make this her most terrifying fall yet . . .
Includes mouthwatering ice cream recipes from the Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe!
Kate receives the shock of a lifetime when she's blindsided by an offer she can't refuse. An assistant movie director desperately wants to shoot a key scene at Lickety Splits and she's willing to pay big bucks to sweeten the last-minute deal. All Kate has to do is tolerate a bustling film crew for a few hours and provide one important prop--a scoop of handmade ice cream . . .
But when up-and-coming actress Savannah Crane drops dead after spooning down some chocolate almond fudge, Kate's first taste of Hollywood might be her last. Someone poisoned the leading lady, and with Lickety Splits draped in yellow crime scene tape, detectives are ready to cast Kate as the leading suspect . . .
Determined to clear her name, Kate finds herself churning through a long list of unsavory characters to catch the real killer lurking around town. As she uncovers the truth about the jealous rivals and obsessive stalkers who haunted Savannah's life, Kate soon realizes that tangling with the late starlet's "fans" could make this her most terrifying fall yet . . .
Includes mouthwatering ice cream recipes from the Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe!
250 pages, Hardcover
Published December 31, 2019
23 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Baxter
22 books216 followers(from author's website)
Dear Reader,
Thanks for taking the time to check out my web site! I love the fact that the Internet makes it so easy to "talk" to readers (and to hear from them, too - my email address is below).
My favorite thing to do is read - and my second favorite is to write. Since 2003, I've been writing The Reigning Cats & Dogs Mystery Series, which features veterinarian Jessica Popper. The books also include the antics of Jessie's menagerie: her rambunctious Westie, Max; his shy sidekick, Lou the Dalmatian; aging pussycat Catherine the Great; newcomer Tinkerbell, a tiger kitten with the personality of a diva; mouthy Prometheus, a Blue and Gold Macaw with attitude; and last but not least, the silent yet seemingly wise chameleon Leilani. The newest book in the series is CROSSING THE LION.
I also launched a second mystery series, The Murder Packs a Suitcase Mystery Series, which will run concurrently with Reigning Cats & Dogs. The first book, also titled MURDER PACKS A SUITCASE, introduces Mallory Marlowe. Recently widowed at the age of 45, Mallory is still struggling to find her old self when she falls into a new job as a travel writer. In addition to researching exciting destinations, she happens upon the occasional murder - and she can't help getting involved in finding out whodunnit. The first book is set in Orlando, where she goes to discover whether or not the "old Florida," with alligator farms and pink plastic flamingoes and seashell jewelry, still exists despite the proliferation of glitzy theme parks. The second book in the series, TOO RICH AND TOO DEAD, is set in glamorous Aspen, where Mallory is trying to find out if even a non-skier can have a fun vacation.
Working on two different mystery series has been an interesting challenge. I've tried to make the two series different - but at the same time to include the same elements in the new series that readers of the original series seemed to enjoy. That means a likeable heroine, a compelling mystery with some quirky suspects and a few surprises, a touch of romance, and lots of humor. I'm really looking forward to seeing how readers respond to my new character and her adventures!
I always enjoy hearing from readers, so please don't hesitate to write and say hello. In the meantime, I hope you continue to enjoy my books!
Best wishes, Cynthia Baxter
Contact Cynthia: Cynthiab1@optonline.net
Dear Reader,
Thanks for taking the time to check out my web site! I love the fact that the Internet makes it so easy to "talk" to readers (and to hear from them, too - my email address is below).
My favorite thing to do is read - and my second favorite is to write. Since 2003, I've been writing The Reigning Cats & Dogs Mystery Series, which features veterinarian Jessica Popper. The books also include the antics of Jessie's menagerie: her rambunctious Westie, Max; his shy sidekick, Lou the Dalmatian; aging pussycat Catherine the Great; newcomer Tinkerbell, a tiger kitten with the personality of a diva; mouthy Prometheus, a Blue and Gold Macaw with attitude; and last but not least, the silent yet seemingly wise chameleon Leilani. The newest book in the series is CROSSING THE LION.
I also launched a second mystery series, The Murder Packs a Suitcase Mystery Series, which will run concurrently with Reigning Cats & Dogs. The first book, also titled MURDER PACKS A SUITCASE, introduces Mallory Marlowe. Recently widowed at the age of 45, Mallory is still struggling to find her old self when she falls into a new job as a travel writer. In addition to researching exciting destinations, she happens upon the occasional murder - and she can't help getting involved in finding out whodunnit. The first book is set in Orlando, where she goes to discover whether or not the "old Florida," with alligator farms and pink plastic flamingoes and seashell jewelry, still exists despite the proliferation of glitzy theme parks. The second book in the series, TOO RICH AND TOO DEAD, is set in glamorous Aspen, where Mallory is trying to find out if even a non-skier can have a fun vacation.
Working on two different mystery series has been an interesting challenge. I've tried to make the two series different - but at the same time to include the same elements in the new series that readers of the original series seemed to enjoy. That means a likeable heroine, a compelling mystery with some quirky suspects and a few surprises, a touch of romance, and lots of humor. I'm really looking forward to seeing how readers respond to my new character and her adventures!
I always enjoy hearing from readers, so please don't hesitate to write and say hello. In the meantime, I hope you continue to enjoy my books!
Best wishes, Cynthia Baxter
Contact Cynthia: Cynthiab1@optonline.net
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
January 3, 2020
Last Licks by Cynthia Baxter is the third book in the cozy A Lickety Splits Mystery series. Each book in the series does contain it’s own mystery that will be solved so they can be read as a standalone or in any order if choosing to do so. However, for those that follow the series from the beginning there will be some character development that carries over from book to book.
In this series Kate McKay had left her hometown after high school and gone onto college and then a career in Manhattan. However when Kate received news that her grandmother needed someone to come care for her Kate quickly returned to Wolfert’s Roost giving up her career. Once back in her hometown Kate decided she would follow her dream of opening her own ice cream shop to begin a new career path.
Now with Kate’s business in full swing she has an offer from a movie director that is desperate for a shop to use as a setting in a movie. All Kate would have to do is close for a few hours of filming in Lickety Splits and the offer is one she couldn’t refuse. However, while the crew is in the shop the actress, Savannah Crane, drops dead after eating one of Kate’s creations.
A Lickety Splits Mystery series is another I’ve been following since the beginning and have come to enjoy the characters and humor in each. One standout in these cozies are the ice cream facts that come with the beginning of each chapter, such a nice touch to spotlight the cozy concept of the series. And as nice as it was to return to the characters and setting there was also another solid mystery to be solved in this edition.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
In this series Kate McKay had left her hometown after high school and gone onto college and then a career in Manhattan. However when Kate received news that her grandmother needed someone to come care for her Kate quickly returned to Wolfert’s Roost giving up her career. Once back in her hometown Kate decided she would follow her dream of opening her own ice cream shop to begin a new career path.
Now with Kate’s business in full swing she has an offer from a movie director that is desperate for a shop to use as a setting in a movie. All Kate would have to do is close for a few hours of filming in Lickety Splits and the offer is one she couldn’t refuse. However, while the crew is in the shop the actress, Savannah Crane, drops dead after eating one of Kate’s creations.
A Lickety Splits Mystery series is another I’ve been following since the beginning and have come to enjoy the characters and humor in each. One standout in these cozies are the ice cream facts that come with the beginning of each chapter, such a nice touch to spotlight the cozy concept of the series. And as nice as it was to return to the characters and setting there was also another solid mystery to be solved in this edition.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
November 19, 2019
Cynthia Baxter’s Last Licks is a great and fast-paced cosy. I really liked this mystery filled with delicious ice-cream, good sleuthing, and some Halloween fun. However, I would have liked Kate’s romance to be more developed. I haven’t read the earlier books in this series but I had no problem understanding everything. The book works well as a standalone.
Kate McKay, owner of Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe, is preparing for Halloween. But, she gets an offer from Hollywood that she can’t refuse! An assistant movie director offers Kate a substantial sum to film an important scene in the shop. However, beautiful and well-loved upcoming actress Savannah Crane drops dead during filming…after eating Kate’s ice-cream. Savannah has been poisoned and detectives cast Kate as the main suspect! Kate must clear her name and delve into Savannah’s life to find the real killer.
The fast-paced mystery has surprising twists and viable suspects. I couldn’t guess the killer’s identity and motives until almost the very end. The plot has a great blend of action and character development. I particularly like how well the subplots came together. I loved reading about all the yummy ice cream! I also like the glimpse into Hollywood lives. But, I was a little confused about certain aspects of Savannah’s relationships although this didn’t really ruin my reading experience.
The characters are memorable, entertaining, and well-written. Kate is a great, smart, and relatable protagonist. Her niece, artsy Emma and sweet Grams are also lovely.
The romance subplot is well-done. At first, I didn’t like the possible love triangle that was developing because love triangles always derail a perfectly good book. However, I really like how Baxter deals with it and how Kate’s relationship with outdoorsy Brody meaningfully contributes to the plot. The relationship between Kate and old high-school love Jake is cute. But, I would have liked more development of their romance and I also struggled to connect with Jake.
I like the included recipes although I really would have liked some more. I also like the fun little ice cream facts included at the beginning of each chapter.
Last Licks is a quick and entertaining cosy with a well-written mystery, great characters, and a lovely setting. This is the first book in the series that I’ve read and I cannot wait to check out the others!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this book in exchange for an honest review.
🍨🍨🍨🍨 ½ ice creams out of 5!
Kate McKay, owner of Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe, is preparing for Halloween. But, she gets an offer from Hollywood that she can’t refuse! An assistant movie director offers Kate a substantial sum to film an important scene in the shop. However, beautiful and well-loved upcoming actress Savannah Crane drops dead during filming…after eating Kate’s ice-cream. Savannah has been poisoned and detectives cast Kate as the main suspect! Kate must clear her name and delve into Savannah’s life to find the real killer.
The fast-paced mystery has surprising twists and viable suspects. I couldn’t guess the killer’s identity and motives until almost the very end. The plot has a great blend of action and character development. I particularly like how well the subplots came together. I loved reading about all the yummy ice cream! I also like the glimpse into Hollywood lives. But, I was a little confused about certain aspects of Savannah’s relationships although this didn’t really ruin my reading experience.
The characters are memorable, entertaining, and well-written. Kate is a great, smart, and relatable protagonist. Her niece, artsy Emma and sweet Grams are also lovely.
The romance subplot is well-done. At first, I didn’t like the possible love triangle that was developing because love triangles always derail a perfectly good book. However, I really like how Baxter deals with it and how Kate’s relationship with outdoorsy Brody meaningfully contributes to the plot. The relationship between Kate and old high-school love Jake is cute. But, I would have liked more development of their romance and I also struggled to connect with Jake.
I like the included recipes although I really would have liked some more. I also like the fun little ice cream facts included at the beginning of each chapter.
Last Licks is a quick and entertaining cosy with a well-written mystery, great characters, and a lovely setting. This is the first book in the series that I’ve read and I cannot wait to check out the others!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this book in exchange for an honest review.
🍨🍨🍨🍨 ½ ice creams out of 5!
June 8, 2021
This is the 3 rd book of series. I read the first one but did not read 2nd one yet. This one is Halloween coming up. In in Lickety Splits ice cream shop Emma Kate's 18 year old niece has decorated and made stuffed Dracula a witch and ghost and spider webs and cute smiley spiders. Kate and Emma are also making different ice cream 🍦flavors for Halloween Monster Mash green ice cream with pistachio mixed with chocolate chips, nuts ,Christine chocolate cookies and eyes balls made with sugar and Smashed Pumkins pumpkin ice cream with pecans and pralines smashed in little piecies. Kate was thinking of more within the 3 weeks until Halloween.a women came into the ice cream shop. Her name was Chealsea a producer she wanted Kate to have Lickety Splits as a scene in a movie that was happening. No movies has ever been there. With a new actress Savanna becoming popular. Kate hesitated and asked if her friend Jake that was a lawyer (and a boyfriend in school) could look over it. Jake did and he said it looked legit.Kate's Grams had a interesting older gentleman George vying for her. And both both of them were going to make a Halloween 🎃 like Event at their senior center. When the shoot started something went terribly wrong. Savanna hunched over after eating ice cream. Who has it in for the sweet actress Amanda her so called best friend, Timothy her boyfriend. Or Renald the womanizer or Chelsea herself the producer.or was it someone entirely different.. I Absolutely love all the flavors that Kate makes in these stories. All of them sound yummy.on every chapter there is facts about ice creams who made the chocolate ice cream for example. And different facts about ice cream like George Washinton had a ice cream tooth lol.
December 13, 2019
Series: A Lickety Split Mystery – Book 3
Author: Cynthia Baxter
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Culinary/Holiday
Publisher: Kensington Books
Page Count: 256
Publishing Date: December 31, 2019
A new addition to the “A Lickety Split Mystery” series by Cynthia Baxter published by Kensington Books comes the delicious (Halloween) holiday cozy, Last Licks.
Kate’s ice cream shop is a beautiful place to spend a few hours. Visiting with the characters from this series is time well spent. Kate and Emma, as well as Grams, are fun, exciting characters that will tickle readers funny bone, and make them worry as well as they get involved in a murder. This holiday cozy has a yummy setting, who wouldn’t enjoy spending time at an ice cream shop that specializes in exotic flavors. Chapter headings with informative ice cream history and tidbits make each one a joy to start.
The murder itself is well-plotted, with believable suspects, clues, and a conclusion that will leave readers reeling. The ending will have readers gasping, filled with the need to jump in and help the characters catch the bad guy. A holiday cozy should incorporate the holiday as the central theme, and this one hits the mark. There are plenty of ghouls, ghosts, and zombies, as well as suspense and intrigue throughout the pages. Even though we are coming up to the Christmas holiday, a Halloween theme is still a great read for the festive season. I am happy to recommend Last Licks and the entire series.
Author: Cynthia Baxter
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Culinary/Holiday
Publisher: Kensington Books
Page Count: 256
Publishing Date: December 31, 2019
A new addition to the “A Lickety Split Mystery” series by Cynthia Baxter published by Kensington Books comes the delicious (Halloween) holiday cozy, Last Licks.
Kate’s ice cream shop is a beautiful place to spend a few hours. Visiting with the characters from this series is time well spent. Kate and Emma, as well as Grams, are fun, exciting characters that will tickle readers funny bone, and make them worry as well as they get involved in a murder. This holiday cozy has a yummy setting, who wouldn’t enjoy spending time at an ice cream shop that specializes in exotic flavors. Chapter headings with informative ice cream history and tidbits make each one a joy to start.
The murder itself is well-plotted, with believable suspects, clues, and a conclusion that will leave readers reeling. The ending will have readers gasping, filled with the need to jump in and help the characters catch the bad guy. A holiday cozy should incorporate the holiday as the central theme, and this one hits the mark. There are plenty of ghouls, ghosts, and zombies, as well as suspense and intrigue throughout the pages. Even though we are coming up to the Christmas holiday, a Halloween theme is still a great read for the festive season. I am happy to recommend Last Licks and the entire series.
January 1, 2020
As we go into this third book of the series we find Kate excited over an offer that will pay out some big bucks. There is an assistant movie director that would like to use Kate's shop to shoot a pivotal scene. The money would be great so Kate doesn't want to refuse, she can put up with a crew for a short time. Things start of well that is until new actress, Savannah Crane, dies while eating ice cream. Kate's first shot into making some Hollywood connections might just be her last. She can't believe what has happened and worries that people will think something is wrong with her ice cream. Knowing that she is among the main suspects Kate jumps right into the investigation hoping to clear her name. With so many stalkers and rivals among the suspects she knows that she must find a way to put all the puzzle pieces together. Will she be able to find the killer among all the pieces she has come away with it will This puzzle remain a mystery. This is a fun series that not only brings an interesting mystery throughout its pages but will have you craving ice cream by the end.
December 16, 2019
*got this book for free from netgalley for honest review* Too cute!!!! First off, we had tons of extra Halloween candy this year bc the weather was crappy and i suggested cutting up the extra candy to make ice cream or cookies and eveyone acted like i was werid, but i must have been on to something bc they make it in this book! 😂
I haven't read the second book yet but i love this series, its so cute, i like the characters, it has little ice cream facts every chapter AND it has recipes! Its the perfect cozy read book for me!
I haven't read the second book yet but i love this series, its so cute, i like the characters, it has little ice cream facts every chapter AND it has recipes! Its the perfect cozy read book for me!
January 14, 2020
Last Licks
A Lickety Splits Mystery, Book #3
Cynthia Baxter
5 Stars
Synopsis:
It's autumn in the Hudson Valley, and Kate McKay has some tricks up her sleeve for a deliciously spooky season at her Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe. But with a cold-blooded murderer thrown into the mix, the scares are about to become a little too real . . .
Kate receives the shock of a lifetime when she's blindsided by an offer she can't refuse. An assistant movie director desperately wants to shoot a key scene at Lickety Splits and she's willing to pay big bucks to sweeten the last-minute deal. All Kate has to do is tolerate a bustling film crew for a few hours and provide one important prop--a scoop of handmade ice cream . . .
But when up-and-coming actress Savannah Crane drops dead after spooning down some chocolate almond fudge, Kate's first taste of Hollywood might be her last. Someone poisoned the leading lady, and with Lickety Splits draped in yellow crime scene tape, detectives are ready to cast Kate as the leading suspect . . .
Determined to clear her name, Kate finds herself churning through a long list of unsavory characters to catch the real killer lurking around town. As she uncovers the truth about the jealous rivals and obsessive stalkers who haunted Savannah's life, Kate soon realizes that tangling with the late starlet's "fans" could make this her most terrifying fall yet . . .
Includes mouthwatering ice cream recipes from the Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe! (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I really enjoy getting to spend time with Kate and her family, friends and coworkers. They all get along great and care about each other. The relationship between Kate and her Grams is heartfelt, you can feel the love between them.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. I enjoyed the Halloween setting and all of the decorations that were described as part of Lickety Split’s Halloween theme. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read.
The mystery was well plotted and moved along at a steady pace. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. Throw in some red herrings and it was not easily solved. I was surprised at who the killer was,which is great.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. This book is a sweet treat, just like all of the ice cream that Kate serves.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
A Lickety Splits Mystery, Book #3
Cynthia Baxter
5 Stars
Synopsis:
It's autumn in the Hudson Valley, and Kate McKay has some tricks up her sleeve for a deliciously spooky season at her Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe. But with a cold-blooded murderer thrown into the mix, the scares are about to become a little too real . . .
Kate receives the shock of a lifetime when she's blindsided by an offer she can't refuse. An assistant movie director desperately wants to shoot a key scene at Lickety Splits and she's willing to pay big bucks to sweeten the last-minute deal. All Kate has to do is tolerate a bustling film crew for a few hours and provide one important prop--a scoop of handmade ice cream . . .
But when up-and-coming actress Savannah Crane drops dead after spooning down some chocolate almond fudge, Kate's first taste of Hollywood might be her last. Someone poisoned the leading lady, and with Lickety Splits draped in yellow crime scene tape, detectives are ready to cast Kate as the leading suspect . . .
Determined to clear her name, Kate finds herself churning through a long list of unsavory characters to catch the real killer lurking around town. As she uncovers the truth about the jealous rivals and obsessive stalkers who haunted Savannah's life, Kate soon realizes that tangling with the late starlet's "fans" could make this her most terrifying fall yet . . .
Includes mouthwatering ice cream recipes from the Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe! (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I really enjoy getting to spend time with Kate and her family, friends and coworkers. They all get along great and care about each other. The relationship between Kate and her Grams is heartfelt, you can feel the love between them.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. I enjoyed the Halloween setting and all of the decorations that were described as part of Lickety Split’s Halloween theme. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read.
The mystery was well plotted and moved along at a steady pace. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. Throw in some red herrings and it was not easily solved. I was surprised at who the killer was,which is great.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. This book is a sweet treat, just like all of the ice cream that Kate serves.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
December 30, 2019
Last Licks by Cynthia Baxter is the 3rd book in A Lickety Splits Mystery series, and another fun addition. Kate McKay left her high powered job in New York to return home to care for her grandmother and open up her dream ice cream shop. Kate and her niece Emma are busy coming up with Halloween flavored ice cream flavors when a women walks in and inquired if they could rent Lickety Splits for a few hours for a scene in a movie. Kate is not sure it's a good idea, until she sees how much it will pay. When the female star dies after eating her ice cream, Kate must find out the truth. I really love this book, and can't wait to continue Kate's adventures in the next book. Not only is this book fun, it has a great mystery also.. I found this book to be a quick read, with twists and turns around every corner. If you love fun cozy mysteries, I recommend this book.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
December 18, 2023
This is my first book from this author and from this series, but I had no trouble understanding it because it could be read as a standalone. I thought this would be the perfect spooky book to pick up for Halloween, so I picked it up in October... and oh man, it took me a LONG time to finish it.
I do enjoy the occasional cozy mystery, but I'm beginning to think I'm not the biggest fan of them. And that is at no fault to the author -- maybe I'm just not big on them in general?
I did really enjoy some of the characters, and that plot twist was unexpected and had me REELING. But other than that, this book appeared a little average to me, and not a lot happened throughout it. It made it hard for me to want to pick up... but I'm excited to try the other books in this series eventually!
I do enjoy the occasional cozy mystery, but I'm beginning to think I'm not the biggest fan of them. And that is at no fault to the author -- maybe I'm just not big on them in general?
I did really enjoy some of the characters, and that plot twist was unexpected and had me REELING. But other than that, this book appeared a little average to me, and not a lot happened throughout it. It made it hard for me to want to pick up... but I'm excited to try the other books in this series eventually!
December 28, 2019
Last Licks is the third book in Cynthia Baxter’s A Lickety Splits Mystery series. This is a fun and easy read, with well-developed and likable characters, an interesting mystery with multiple suspects, twists and turns, and red herrings. The reveal surprised me.
Kate McKay lives in her childhood home in Wolfert’s Roost, New York, a quaint Hudson Valley village, with her grandmother, Caroline “Grams” Whitman, and her eighteen-year-old niece, Emma Pritchard. Kate loves everything related to ice cream and opened Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe. Her best friend and yoga instructor, Willow Baines, Emma, and Emma’s boyfriend, Ethan Love, help in the ice cream parlor. Jake Pratt, a high school flame who runs his family’s organic dairy and is a semi-retired lawyer, and Brody Lundgren, who recently opened Hudson Valley Adventure Tours, are vying for Kate’s affection. Emma has outdone herself decorating Lickety Splits for Halloween, and Grams is on the Halloween Hollow committee, whose goal is to create a safe Halloween experience for the kids in the community. Chelsea Atkins, the assistant director of a movie being filmed in the Hudson Valley, makes Kate an offer of a substantial sum to film one scene in Lickity Splits. Unfortunately, the well-loved actress, Savannah Crane, is poisoned during the filming while eating Kate’s ice cream. Kate becomes Detective Stoltz’s prime suspect in Savannah’s death, and she’s determined to clear her name and save Lickety Splits.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Kate McKay lives in her childhood home in Wolfert’s Roost, New York, a quaint Hudson Valley village, with her grandmother, Caroline “Grams” Whitman, and her eighteen-year-old niece, Emma Pritchard. Kate loves everything related to ice cream and opened Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe. Her best friend and yoga instructor, Willow Baines, Emma, and Emma’s boyfriend, Ethan Love, help in the ice cream parlor. Jake Pratt, a high school flame who runs his family’s organic dairy and is a semi-retired lawyer, and Brody Lundgren, who recently opened Hudson Valley Adventure Tours, are vying for Kate’s affection. Emma has outdone herself decorating Lickety Splits for Halloween, and Grams is on the Halloween Hollow committee, whose goal is to create a safe Halloween experience for the kids in the community. Chelsea Atkins, the assistant director of a movie being filmed in the Hudson Valley, makes Kate an offer of a substantial sum to film one scene in Lickity Splits. Unfortunately, the well-loved actress, Savannah Crane, is poisoned during the filming while eating Kate’s ice cream. Kate becomes Detective Stoltz’s prime suspect in Savannah’s death, and she’s determined to clear her name and save Lickety Splits.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
December 11, 2019
4.5 Stars
This is the third book in the Lickety Splits mystery series by Cynthia Baxter. I am not certain why the publication dates is December 31st for this particular title since it would have been a perfect late September release. There are all things fall and cozy in this story and the ice cream shoppe is all decked out for Halloween too.
This mystery was fascinating and they paired the problems Kate has in her love life alongside the mystery making it so hard to look away or put the book down. Also, a movie company comes to the shoppe and wants to film an important scene.It was cool reading about all the tv stuff and that led quickly to the murdered Hollywood starlet who was just catching her rising stardom. Kate becomes suspect number once since the police believe the victim was poisoned using the bowl Kate had personally chosen.
Kate’s niece Emma and her mother are quite stellar in this too. Loved how they were crafted into the story. That big twist at the end was surely nice and shocking too! Always love when an author can surprise us with the wow factor. Never saw that one coming!
Definitely loving this ice cream shoppe series. You should check it out if you love bakery mysteries, this would be right up your alley. Take a big bite out of this one. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the third book in the Lickety Splits mystery series by Cynthia Baxter. I am not certain why the publication dates is December 31st for this particular title since it would have been a perfect late September release. There are all things fall and cozy in this story and the ice cream shoppe is all decked out for Halloween too.
This mystery was fascinating and they paired the problems Kate has in her love life alongside the mystery making it so hard to look away or put the book down. Also, a movie company comes to the shoppe and wants to film an important scene.It was cool reading about all the tv stuff and that led quickly to the murdered Hollywood starlet who was just catching her rising stardom. Kate becomes suspect number once since the police believe the victim was poisoned using the bowl Kate had personally chosen.
Kate’s niece Emma and her mother are quite stellar in this too. Loved how they were crafted into the story. That big twist at the end was surely nice and shocking too! Always love when an author can surprise us with the wow factor. Never saw that one coming!
Definitely loving this ice cream shoppe series. You should check it out if you love bakery mysteries, this would be right up your alley. Take a big bite out of this one. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
December 30, 2019
This was quite a nice cozy mystery, fun to read and engrossing.
I liked the well thought cast of characters, the setting, and the solid mystery that kept me guessing.
It's the first book i read in this series and won't surely be the last.
Recommended.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I liked the well thought cast of characters, the setting, and the solid mystery that kept me guessing.
It's the first book i read in this series and won't surely be the last.
Recommended.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
December 10, 2019
What better compliment them having the Hollywood film people wanting to use your shop for a new film.
Unfortunately, when a taste of ice cream ends the life of the leading actress, it might be lights out for everyone involved.
Unfortunately, when a taste of ice cream ends the life of the leading actress, it might be lights out for everyone involved.
January 22, 2020
Description
It’s autumn in the Hudson Valley, and Kate McKay has some tricks up her sleeve for a deliciously spooky season at her Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe. But with a cold-blooded murderer thrown into the mix, the scares are about to become a little too real . . .
Kate receives the shock of a lifetime when she’s blindsided by an offer she can’t refuse. An assistant movie director desperately wants to shoot a key scene at Lickety Splits and she’s willing to pay big bucks to sweeten the last-minute deal. All Kate has to do is tolerate a bustling film crew for a few hours and provide one important prop—a scoop of handmade ice cream . . .
But when up-and-coming actress Savannah Crane drops dead after spooning down some chocolate almond fudge, Kate’s first taste of Hollywood might be her last. Someone poisoned the leading lady, and with Lickety Splits draped in yellow crime scene tape, detectives are ready to cast Kate as the leading suspect . . .
Determined to clear her name, Kate finds herself churning through a long list of unsavory characters to catch the real killer lurking around town. As she uncovers the truth about the jealous rivals and obsessive stalkers who haunted Savannah’s life, Kate soon realizes that tangling with the late starlet’s “fans” could make this her most terrifying fall yet . . .
Includes mouthwatering ice cream recipes from the Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe!
My Review
This ARC book "Last Licks" was provided to me free in exchange for my honest opinion. The third book in the Lickety Splits Mystery series can be read as a standalone. But, you should definitely start at the beginning. The characters are well described and written to be believable and loved. The main character Kate has gone back home to run her business, an ice cream shop. Everything is going great when a movie director asks her for the use of her shop for filming. Of course things get sticky when the lead actress is found dead after tasting some of the ice cream from the shop.
Can Kate save her shop and can she figure out who is the culprit? Pick up your copy today and find out what happens in this great cozy mystery. And, as a bonus there's a recipe you might like to try in the book. I tried it and boy was it good!!
It’s autumn in the Hudson Valley, and Kate McKay has some tricks up her sleeve for a deliciously spooky season at her Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe. But with a cold-blooded murderer thrown into the mix, the scares are about to become a little too real . . .
Kate receives the shock of a lifetime when she’s blindsided by an offer she can’t refuse. An assistant movie director desperately wants to shoot a key scene at Lickety Splits and she’s willing to pay big bucks to sweeten the last-minute deal. All Kate has to do is tolerate a bustling film crew for a few hours and provide one important prop—a scoop of handmade ice cream . . .
But when up-and-coming actress Savannah Crane drops dead after spooning down some chocolate almond fudge, Kate’s first taste of Hollywood might be her last. Someone poisoned the leading lady, and with Lickety Splits draped in yellow crime scene tape, detectives are ready to cast Kate as the leading suspect . . .
Determined to clear her name, Kate finds herself churning through a long list of unsavory characters to catch the real killer lurking around town. As she uncovers the truth about the jealous rivals and obsessive stalkers who haunted Savannah’s life, Kate soon realizes that tangling with the late starlet’s “fans” could make this her most terrifying fall yet . . .
Includes mouthwatering ice cream recipes from the Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe!
My Review
This ARC book "Last Licks" was provided to me free in exchange for my honest opinion. The third book in the Lickety Splits Mystery series can be read as a standalone. But, you should definitely start at the beginning. The characters are well described and written to be believable and loved. The main character Kate has gone back home to run her business, an ice cream shop. Everything is going great when a movie director asks her for the use of her shop for filming. Of course things get sticky when the lead actress is found dead after tasting some of the ice cream from the shop.
Can Kate save her shop and can she figure out who is the culprit? Pick up your copy today and find out what happens in this great cozy mystery. And, as a bonus there's a recipe you might like to try in the book. I tried it and boy was it good!!
July 3, 2020
This is the third book in the Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe Mystery series, and it's Halloween!
Our cozy mystery protagonist, Kate, the proprietor of the Lickety Splits shop, is contracted to provide her shop as a location for one scene in a movie starring Savannah Crane, a soon-to-be famous actress. During the shoot, Savannah is poisoned and dies, and Kate becomes one of the suspects despite not knowing the victim until that day. With her business' reputation as well as her own on the line, she embarks on an investigation where she uncovers not only who murdered the actress, but a nefarious deal that someone would actually kill for.
This is kind of a difficult read, because we have our murder mystery, but a very important secret regarding a huge sum of money that is connected to the crime. It didn't help that every time Kate uncovers information, there's 10 more buried underneath. I got a little lost with how interwoven everything is, so I sometimes had to reread chapters to understand what's going on. Because Kate's business and personal reputations are both on the line, she's so proactive in investigating the mysteries surrounding Savannah's death. I don't know if it's because her town is small, but she has a lot of time in her hands. There's something in the last part where I cringed, though, and I sure hope it disappears later. I still haven't found peace with Kate's romantic relationship, because it's only the third book and there are some deeper feelings involved that I'm not fond of.
I like how the mystery was crafted. At first I thought it was a murder of an up-and-coming actress, and you would naturally suspect the people involved in her life, which is her family, her friends and associates in the entertainment world, but it was much more than that. The murderer has a logical motive that you can understand; it's not exaggerated or off base from reality. I also like how the murderer was portrayed as a character, and that was the ultimate red herring that honestly misled me. Despite some things in the story I'm having trouble with, this is a mystery story everyone can enjoy.
I hope there's an uber chocolate-themed mystery in future books so we'll have different variations of chocolate ice cream.
Our cozy mystery protagonist, Kate, the proprietor of the Lickety Splits shop, is contracted to provide her shop as a location for one scene in a movie starring Savannah Crane, a soon-to-be famous actress. During the shoot, Savannah is poisoned and dies, and Kate becomes one of the suspects despite not knowing the victim until that day. With her business' reputation as well as her own on the line, she embarks on an investigation where she uncovers not only who murdered the actress, but a nefarious deal that someone would actually kill for.
This is kind of a difficult read, because we have our murder mystery, but a very important secret regarding a huge sum of money that is connected to the crime. It didn't help that every time Kate uncovers information, there's 10 more buried underneath. I got a little lost with how interwoven everything is, so I sometimes had to reread chapters to understand what's going on. Because Kate's business and personal reputations are both on the line, she's so proactive in investigating the mysteries surrounding Savannah's death. I don't know if it's because her town is small, but she has a lot of time in her hands. There's something in the last part where I cringed, though, and I sure hope it disappears later. I still haven't found peace with Kate's romantic relationship, because it's only the third book and there are some deeper feelings involved that I'm not fond of.
I like how the mystery was crafted. At first I thought it was a murder of an up-and-coming actress, and you would naturally suspect the people involved in her life, which is her family, her friends and associates in the entertainment world, but it was much more than that. The murderer has a logical motive that you can understand; it's not exaggerated or off base from reality. I also like how the murderer was portrayed as a character, and that was the ultimate red herring that honestly misled me. Despite some things in the story I'm having trouble with, this is a mystery story everyone can enjoy.
I hope there's an uber chocolate-themed mystery in future books so we'll have different variations of chocolate ice cream.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2019
Reading this series makes me head for the freezer and pull out a pint of really good ice cream. With that in mind, I planned which flavor I wanted beforehand. (mint chocolate chip) Once that was settled I dove into this, the third in the series after Murder with a Cherry on Top and Hot Fudge Murder. I wasn't disappointed.
It's almost Halloween and Kate and her niece are trying to come up with some themed flavors to serve at Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe which she owns. Located in the Hudson Valley of Wolfert's Roost, it fits in with the small town appeal. That is until a murder intrudes on their Halloween plans. For a small business owner, money is always a concern. When Gram and Emma put their talents to work they created awesome decorations including a full size Frankenstein seated out front at one of the tables enjoying a triple scoop cone. A real attention getter. Too bad the other attention getter involved a homicide with Kate as the prime suspect. With money always an issue, Kate says yes, a bit reluctantly, when Chelsea Atkins shows up and wants to rent the whole shop for a movie scene. The eatery that was supposed to be available was shut down due to a fire in the kitchen and the filming is set for the next day. Her hesitation goes out the front door when she sees how much they will pay her for a couple of hours filming. Too bad Kate couldn't see what was lurking around the corner. The next day the filming starts, the young female star, Savannah Crane eats some ice cream and CUT! She's been murdered, the ice cream shoppe is a crime scene complete with yellow tape and Kate is top of the list of suspects.
This was a very satisfying mystery complete with a charming setting, great characters, a touch of romance and enough twists, turns and red herrings to keep me from spotting the killer - just the way I like my mysteries.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
It's almost Halloween and Kate and her niece are trying to come up with some themed flavors to serve at Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe which she owns. Located in the Hudson Valley of Wolfert's Roost, it fits in with the small town appeal. That is until a murder intrudes on their Halloween plans. For a small business owner, money is always a concern. When Gram and Emma put their talents to work they created awesome decorations including a full size Frankenstein seated out front at one of the tables enjoying a triple scoop cone. A real attention getter. Too bad the other attention getter involved a homicide with Kate as the prime suspect. With money always an issue, Kate says yes, a bit reluctantly, when Chelsea Atkins shows up and wants to rent the whole shop for a movie scene. The eatery that was supposed to be available was shut down due to a fire in the kitchen and the filming is set for the next day. Her hesitation goes out the front door when she sees how much they will pay her for a couple of hours filming. Too bad Kate couldn't see what was lurking around the corner. The next day the filming starts, the young female star, Savannah Crane eats some ice cream and CUT! She's been murdered, the ice cream shoppe is a crime scene complete with yellow tape and Kate is top of the list of suspects.
This was a very satisfying mystery complete with a charming setting, great characters, a touch of romance and enough twists, turns and red herrings to keep me from spotting the killer - just the way I like my mysteries.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 7, 2020
LAST LICKS, the third book in the Lickety Splits Mystery series by Cynthia Baxter, is a fun Halloween treat of a read filled with all sorts of sweets to tempt the reader. I love how each chapter begins with an ice cream factoid which adds to the appeal. Protagonist Kate McKay is owner of Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe and lives to dream up yummy and unique ice cream flavors. The reader will be drooling over the descriptions and Ms. Baxter’s writing makes you feel like you’re right there in the shoppe, tasting the confections. I also liked that she includes recipes at the back of the book for ice cream treats.
Kate McKay is a well-developed character and I’ve enjoyed seeing her grow throughout the series. Her relationship with her 18-year-old niece, Emma, and her Grams brings heartwarming scenes to the book while giving greater insight into her character. The murder victim is basically a walk-on character so I never felt like I could really care about her despite the info Kate digs up as she tries to find the killer. Still, the author provides plenty of suspects and a suspenseful reveal to keep the pace moving. If you like a delicious setting, lots of Halloween chills, and an entertaining cozy mystery, LAST LICKS fits the bill.
I was provided an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Kate McKay is a well-developed character and I’ve enjoyed seeing her grow throughout the series. Her relationship with her 18-year-old niece, Emma, and her Grams brings heartwarming scenes to the book while giving greater insight into her character. The murder victim is basically a walk-on character so I never felt like I could really care about her despite the info Kate digs up as she tries to find the killer. Still, the author provides plenty of suspects and a suspenseful reveal to keep the pace moving. If you like a delicious setting, lots of Halloween chills, and an entertaining cozy mystery, LAST LICKS fits the bill.
I was provided an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 13, 2020
"Last Licks" is the 3rd in this series by Cynthia Baxter. Kate McKay agrees to allow a movie shoot in her ice cream shoppe with murderous results. She decides she must clear her name (and her shoppe) by finding the killer. Some nice twists and interesting developments leading to the revelation of "who done it".
Tasty food and vivid descriptions of the autumn beauty add lovely layers to the story. I will say though, that I did have an early hunch of who the guilty party was but the reasoning behind it was a nice reveal!
I did enjoy this book but I really wish that authors and editors would be more thorough in their proofreading.
- The day of the murder, Kate and Emma walked from home to the shoppe yet later that same day it is stated that Kate is driving home. There was no mention of her being home inbetween or anyone dropping her vehicle off somewhere else for her to drive.
- Late in the book Kate is discussing the murder with another character and mentions being at the shoppe Wednesday night. Yet a couple of paragraphs later, she says it was Thursday night.
Minor details in the grand scheme of things but these errors in timing/situations are annoying - especially in a mystery!
Tasty food and vivid descriptions of the autumn beauty add lovely layers to the story. I will say though, that I did have an early hunch of who the guilty party was but the reasoning behind it was a nice reveal!
I did enjoy this book but I really wish that authors and editors would be more thorough in their proofreading.
- The day of the murder, Kate and Emma walked from home to the shoppe yet later that same day it is stated that Kate is driving home. There was no mention of her being home inbetween or anyone dropping her vehicle off somewhere else for her to drive.
- Late in the book Kate is discussing the murder with another character and mentions being at the shoppe Wednesday night. Yet a couple of paragraphs later, she says it was Thursday night.
Minor details in the grand scheme of things but these errors in timing/situations are annoying - especially in a mystery!
February 18, 2020
Princess Fuzzypants here: Do not read this book on an empty stomach if you love ice cream. You will be drooling all over your Kindle. Lickety Splits becomes the set for a big Hollywood movie with an up and coming starlet playing the lead role. Everything is magical for Kate until she serves the star a bowl of her ice cream and the actress is poisoned. While there is plenty of negative publicity, Kate is not really considered a viable suspect but she still wants to clear her shop of any residual stain.
She decides to prod into the life of Savannah Crane both professionally and personally to figure out who wanted her dead. It takes her to NYC and into the Hudson Valley as she talks to the people closest to the actress. She comes away with the feeling that Savannah was well liked but may have stumbled upon something that was nasty enough to get her killed.
As Kate searches far and wide for clues, when all is revealed, she discovers, almost too late, that the murderer was closer than she ever imagined. This is an exciting tale with lots of twists and turns and suspense. But beware. The ice cream dishes sound way too yummy.
Five purrs and two paws up.
She decides to prod into the life of Savannah Crane both professionally and personally to figure out who wanted her dead. It takes her to NYC and into the Hudson Valley as she talks to the people closest to the actress. She comes away with the feeling that Savannah was well liked but may have stumbled upon something that was nasty enough to get her killed.
As Kate searches far and wide for clues, when all is revealed, she discovers, almost too late, that the murderer was closer than she ever imagined. This is an exciting tale with lots of twists and turns and suspense. But beware. The ice cream dishes sound way too yummy.
Five purrs and two paws up.
January 9, 2020
Last Licks by Cynthia Baxter is the third book in the cozy A Lickety Splits Mystery series. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone however i highly recommend the entire series from book one for your reading enjoyment.
Kate McKay is happily living back in her hometown running her new business, a ice cream shop called ' lickety Splits.' i love how the author incorporates information on ice cream in every chapter. She has a good relationship with her Grandmother and is enjoying her new life. Her shop is successful and well liked by the town. When she is approached by a movie director to use her shop for a movie she agrees
When the crew is in the shop the actress drops dead after eating Kate's ice cream. Kate has to step up to save her business and find out what happened before she has to shut down her business.
The sleuth was well crafted, the charcters as always in this series are enjoyable. i look forward to the next in series and Kate's next adventure. Thank you to Net Galley and to the publisher for the ARC,. My review opinion is my own.
Kate McKay is happily living back in her hometown running her new business, a ice cream shop called ' lickety Splits.' i love how the author incorporates information on ice cream in every chapter. She has a good relationship with her Grandmother and is enjoying her new life. Her shop is successful and well liked by the town. When she is approached by a movie director to use her shop for a movie she agrees
When the crew is in the shop the actress drops dead after eating Kate's ice cream. Kate has to step up to save her business and find out what happened before she has to shut down her business.
The sleuth was well crafted, the charcters as always in this series are enjoyable. i look forward to the next in series and Kate's next adventure. Thank you to Net Galley and to the publisher for the ARC,. My review opinion is my own.
August 5, 2020
Ice cream and Halloween make a fun combination! I love Kate's Lickety Splits ice cream shop with original flavors and more creative flavors. The Halloween Bag of Tricks and Treats was a great-sounding ice cream flavor in this book. I also enjoy Kate's close relationship with her grandmother and niece. A movie crew is shooting a scene in Kate's shop and the day of the shoot, the lead actress is poisoned when she eats the ice cream. The police suspect Kate, except she really had no motive since she hadn't even met the actress until that day. Now Kate sets out to clear her name and her shop's reputation. So many of the suspects seem to have secrets or different stories. Grams also has a new gentleman friend, who I felt was suspicious from the beginning, though for no particular reason. An intriguing story and I loved the Halloween party Grams created. I hope there will be more books because I love ice cream and I'd love to see more of Kate and Jake's relationship!!
December 21, 2019
Regular cozy readers know that Kate is not the one who poisoned the ice cream which killed Savannah Crane. Nope. Kate owns the ice cream shop and she stood to benefit greatly from filing there. Savannah, a hot young actress, had stalkers and haters and all sorts of things going on her life that weren't obvious immediately. Well, unfortunately, suspicion falls on Kate (it is her shop after all) and she's got to exonerate herself. Luckily, she's got good friends, a nascent love triangle, and a history of solving crimes. This has good characters and some nice info about ice cream (made me head for the freezer!). The mystery isn't too convoluted and while you might think you know who the killer is, think again! Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is the third in a series but it would be fine as a stand alone.
April 13, 2020
This is book 3 in the Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe cozy series. It can be read as a stand alone but I have enjoyed the previous books. Kate is decorated for the Halloween season and is coming up with some creative menu ideas to get the public inside for ice cream in cold Hudson Valley. Kate is given a large amount of money to let a film crew use her store for an afternoon's shooting. Sounds good until the star drops dead after eating a spoon of her ice cream. A good cozy to solve with some great characters to fall in love with. I enjoyed the story a little more because I scooped ice cream many years ago in my teens. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 22, 2020
Last Licks is the third entry in the Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe Mystery series, and it's my favorite so far! Each book in the series is better than the last.
Kate's ice cream shop, Lickety Splits, sounds like the perfect place to stop for dessert (or a midday treat!) Cynthia Baxter strikes a great balance between gushing about delicious flavors of ice cream and having Kate work to solve the most recent murder in town.
This murder mystery caught me completely off guard! I thought I had it figured out, but Baxter threw in a really great twist. If you're seeking a good, cozy Halloween murder mystery, make sure you add Last Licks to your list!
Thank you Kensington Books for the ARC.
Kate's ice cream shop, Lickety Splits, sounds like the perfect place to stop for dessert (or a midday treat!) Cynthia Baxter strikes a great balance between gushing about delicious flavors of ice cream and having Kate work to solve the most recent murder in town.
This murder mystery caught me completely off guard! I thought I had it figured out, but Baxter threw in a really great twist. If you're seeking a good, cozy Halloween murder mystery, make sure you add Last Licks to your list!
Thank you Kensington Books for the ARC.
July 28, 2023
This third book in Cynthia Baxter's Lickety Splits Ice Cream Shoppe series did not disappoint! I absolutely loved the mystery. When a movie being shot in the Wolfert's Roost finds Kate McKay's ice cream shoppe and wants to use it as one of the locations for a scene Kate is at first hesitant then agrees. When the star of the movie is killed after eating Kate's ice cream in the scene now Kate has to put on her sleuthing hat and find the killer and save her beloved ice cream shop from scandal.
I could not put this book down! I was fully invested the mystery, the suspects, and the red herrings totally led me down the wrong path so I did not guess the killer before the reveal which is always a bonus to be stumped.
I really hope this series has a long life.
I could not put this book down! I was fully invested the mystery, the suspects, and the red herrings totally led me down the wrong path so I did not guess the killer before the reveal which is always a bonus to be stumped.
I really hope this series has a long life.
December 5, 2019
This is the 3rd installment of the Lickety Splits Mystery series. Kate McKay runs the Lickety Splits Ice Cream shop and she is decorating her shop for Halloween when a director from a Hollywood movie that is shooting in the area wants to use her shop for a scene. All Kate has to do is prepare some homemade ice cream and put up the with film crew. It is only one scene so what could possibly go wrong. Well the actress Savannah Crane drops dead after eating the ice cream the shop is under suspicion as is Kate. Kate has to clear her name and find the real killer. This was a fun fast paced mystery and a good addition to this series. Really enjoyed.
February 7, 2020
This book was very fun to read. What was great about this book is that everything was still a complete misery until the last 1/5th of the book. I was sure that there was no way that the writer could put in the resolutions to the mystery in the last few chapters, but sure enough she did, and I DID NOT SEE IT COMING. This is what is so great with these books, they are so juvenile and upbeat, until the end of the book, when everything gets very serious (I still cannot believe the twist in the first book). I was going to rate this book at a 3, but i'm giving it a 4 because of the twist. I heard that this was the last book but hope there will be more to come.
September 26, 2020
As a fan of mystery books, I was on the lookout for a cozy read for the autumn season, especially with Halloween right around the corner! I came across this book by chance the other day and decided to give it a try. This book definitely puts you in the Halloween spirit! I absolutely loved the talk of Halloween festivities throughout the book.
The plot itself is intriguing and keeps you on your toes at all times. It jumps right into the mystery almost immediately and takes you on the journey of solving the murder of Savanah Crane with main character Kate. The characters are humorous and fun to read about. Would recommend if looking for a quick, cute read!
The plot itself is intriguing and keeps you on your toes at all times. It jumps right into the mystery almost immediately and takes you on the journey of solving the murder of Savanah Crane with main character Kate. The characters are humorous and fun to read about. Would recommend if looking for a quick, cute read!
December 29, 2022
I don’t know how many TSTL moments Kate had in this book.
- going off alone in the middle of the night to sleuth and not telling anyone while thinking “oh, maybe I should have told someone where I’m going”
- going into the park at the end of the day, as it closes, watching “in dismay” as the last car leaves, but does she leave, does she call someone, nope, she goes into the park alone to sleuth even suspecting she’s being followed by a possible killer
- having a ton of clues about the suspects, not calling the police
- Google???? Is that not your friend???
Ughhh while the mystery was fine, Kate’s dumb dumb dumb actions sort of ruin it
- going off alone in the middle of the night to sleuth and not telling anyone while thinking “oh, maybe I should have told someone where I’m going”
- going into the park at the end of the day, as it closes, watching “in dismay” as the last car leaves, but does she leave, does she call someone, nope, she goes into the park alone to sleuth even suspecting she’s being followed by a possible killer
- having a ton of clues about the suspects, not calling the police
- Google???? Is that not your friend???
Ughhh while the mystery was fine, Kate’s dumb dumb dumb actions sort of ruin it
March 29, 2023
As expected this book definitely redeemed itself after the disappointment of the last book. Thus that's a win in my book; it was prob due to Kate actually being involved in the murder.
First off, I felt like I was riding a fricking rollercoaster of emotions. I mean again even though I didn't guess the murderer again... However, the reveal of sweet ol George being the murder and the Hot Shot guy for Alpha, I mean WHAT? maybe I'm just terrible at solving mysteries but that really took me for a loop, i mean I was rooting for him and Grams but um I guess not. It literally almost caused a seizure ,kind of genius (ok I'm kidding, but you get it). From the whole Jake/Brody thing giving me anxiety, to trying to solve the murder I mean I was actively forming so many theories- ill be it wrong theories but I tried. That being said, I did get three theories partially correct. One of them being that Jennifer was not the murderer- I think this was pretty obvious as the author kept pushing it and we all know that it just doesn't work like that. Two, being the fact that Amanda played a role in all this- in reference to the whole murderers always return to the scene of the crime quote, although I applied this quote on the wrong suspect, and that Amanda played admittedly a small role but it still counts. Three, being that Chelsea was a red herring. Of course, how could I miss the fact that Kate finally opened her eyes and chose Jake, I mean I could cry tears of joy rn, did I mention that I did an entire dance internally, when they kissed on their 'picnic date', and the "I don't want to be your business partner" line almost killed my soul, I mean I could have sworn that my heart stopped right then and there. I was fully expecting Kate to carry on with her whole Jake or Brody love triangle thing in the next book. Thank you, Cynthia for allowing Kate to be with Jake. Oh and not doing the whole trapping main character in a room plotline again. Finally, I really appreciated the plot of this book more than the last, it had a lot more depth, with pretty well flushed out side characters that actually made me care about them enough to get invested in trying to solve the murder as compared to the side characters in the previous book. Admittedly, I found the staying at a friend's house scene kind of unnecessary, but hey it was short so... Additionally, I found the pacing of the first half kind of clunky but the book picked up quite a bit in the last half.
P.s I was literally internally/ subconsciously thinking of 'Dear Reader' by Taylor Swift as i read this book and it makes so make sense. It actually kind of ties with the friend scene, huh.
First off, I felt like I was riding a fricking rollercoaster of emotions. I mean again even though I didn't guess the murderer again... However, the reveal of sweet ol George being the murder and the Hot Shot guy for Alpha, I mean WHAT? maybe I'm just terrible at solving mysteries but that really took me for a loop, i mean I was rooting for him and Grams but um I guess not. It literally almost caused a seizure ,kind of genius (ok I'm kidding, but you get it). From the whole Jake/Brody thing giving me anxiety, to trying to solve the murder I mean I was actively forming so many theories- ill be it wrong theories but I tried. That being said, I did get three theories partially correct. One of them being that Jennifer was not the murderer- I think this was pretty obvious as the author kept pushing it and we all know that it just doesn't work like that. Two, being the fact that Amanda played a role in all this- in reference to the whole murderers always return to the scene of the crime quote, although I applied this quote on the wrong suspect, and that Amanda played admittedly a small role but it still counts. Three, being that Chelsea was a red herring. Of course, how could I miss the fact that Kate finally opened her eyes and chose Jake, I mean I could cry tears of joy rn, did I mention that I did an entire dance internally, when they kissed on their 'picnic date', and the "I don't want to be your business partner" line almost killed my soul, I mean I could have sworn that my heart stopped right then and there. I was fully expecting Kate to carry on with her whole Jake or Brody love triangle thing in the next book. Thank you, Cynthia for allowing Kate to be with Jake. Oh and not doing the whole trapping main character in a room plotline again. Finally, I really appreciated the plot of this book more than the last, it had a lot more depth, with pretty well flushed out side characters that actually made me care about them enough to get invested in trying to solve the murder as compared to the side characters in the previous book. Admittedly, I found the staying at a friend's house scene kind of unnecessary, but hey it was short so... Additionally, I found the pacing of the first half kind of clunky but the book picked up quite a bit in the last half.
P.s I was literally internally/ subconsciously thinking of 'Dear Reader' by Taylor Swift as i read this book and it makes so make sense. It actually kind of ties with the friend scene, huh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews