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Berry Basket Mystery #5
Hollyberry Homicide
A cold wind is blowing off Lake Michigan, and murder is scaring the dickens out of everyone . . .
Considering her name, Marlee Jacob is an obvious choice for the role of Jacob Marley in Oriole Point’s production of A Christmas Carol . It’s just sad that the role has opened up because of the death of the elderly actor who’d originally been cast.
But Marlee, the proprietor of The Berry Basket, will do her best to keep spirits high—that is, until clues start mounting that there’s danger behind the scenes. There are accidents on set, the tree in the village square topples over, and worst of all, a body is found with a sprig of holly draped over it. If Marlee can’t wrap up the case, she may not have a berry merry Christmas . . .
Includes Berry Recipes!
Considering her name, Marlee Jacob is an obvious choice for the role of Jacob Marley in Oriole Point’s production of A Christmas Carol . It’s just sad that the role has opened up because of the death of the elderly actor who’d originally been cast.
But Marlee, the proprietor of The Berry Basket, will do her best to keep spirits high—that is, until clues start mounting that there’s danger behind the scenes. There are accidents on set, the tree in the village square topples over, and worst of all, a body is found with a sprig of holly draped over it. If Marlee can’t wrap up the case, she may not have a berry merry Christmas . . .
Includes Berry Recipes!
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 29, 2020
22 people are currently reading
326 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
September 21, 2020
Hollyberry Homicide is the fifth installment in Sharon Farrow's Berry Basket Mystery series. Our protagonist, Marlee Jacob, owns a berry themed store in the quaint lakeside town of Oriole Point, Michigan. It's the holiday season and Marlee is taking over the role of Jacob Marley in the town's production of A Christmas Carol after the original actor, Everett Hostetter, passed away. Everyone assumes that he died of old age, but Marlee isn't so sure and is determined to uncover the truth.
This fun Christmas themed cozy mystery is filled with humor, colorful characters, suspense, and action. The mystery kept me guessing and the setting is so well-described that it will instantly get you in the mood for the holiday season. The author has done a wonderful job of developing the characters. When a new installment comes out, it feels like catching up with old friends. Marlee is someone you can definitely root for. She's funny, down to earth, and feisty. I love spending time with her and the gang. This fifth installment is my favorite of the series so far, and I can't wait for my next visit to Oriole Point.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This fun Christmas themed cozy mystery is filled with humor, colorful characters, suspense, and action. The mystery kept me guessing and the setting is so well-described that it will instantly get you in the mood for the holiday season. The author has done a wonderful job of developing the characters. When a new installment comes out, it feels like catching up with old friends. Marlee is someone you can definitely root for. She's funny, down to earth, and feisty. I love spending time with her and the gang. This fifth installment is my favorite of the series so far, and I can't wait for my next visit to Oriole Point.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 25, 2020
Marlee Jacobs is looking forward to celebrating Christmas, but before she can get there, she has a few things on her plate. In addition to the usual decorating and present buying, there’s the town hollyberry festival. Plus, she’s taking over the role of Jacob Marley in the town’s annual adaptation of A Christmas Carol at the last minute. The actor who normally plays the part died unexpectedly. Well, maybe not quite so unexpectedly since he was ninety-five. While everyone is certain it was natural causes, something feels off to Marlee. Couple that with the rumors that the play is cursed, and Marlee will have to find time to add sleuthing to her December schedule. What will she uncover?
As you might have guessed, this book’s plot unfolds a little differently from the typical cozy mystery, and I loved it all the more for that fact. Don’t worry, there is always something happening to keep your attention, and I loved how Marlee unraveled everything in the end. The characters in this series are charming, and that’s the case here once again. We get plenty of Christmas spirit in the pages of this book, which is a must for a Christmas entry in a series. Rounding out the book, we get three berry inspired recipes at the end. When you are making a list of Christmas cozies to read this December, make sure this book is on it. No need to check it twice, you’ll definitely enjoy it.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
As you might have guessed, this book’s plot unfolds a little differently from the typical cozy mystery, and I loved it all the more for that fact. Don’t worry, there is always something happening to keep your attention, and I loved how Marlee unraveled everything in the end. The characters in this series are charming, and that’s the case here once again. We get plenty of Christmas spirit in the pages of this book, which is a must for a Christmas entry in a series. Rounding out the book, we get three berry inspired recipes at the end. When you are making a list of Christmas cozies to read this December, make sure this book is on it. No need to check it twice, you’ll definitely enjoy it.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
September 29, 2020
Hollyberry Homicide by Sharon Farrow has Marlee Jacob taking over the role of Jacob Marley when Everett Hostetter is found dead at the Historical Museum’s toy train exhibit. The Green Willow Players is putting on A Christmas Carol at the Calico Barn in one week, and they need Marlee to step right into the role. Gillian Kaminski would prefer that Marlee not take the role because she is sure the production is cursed. Gillian may be on to something when actors begin dropping out which is causing the director to panic. The Berry Basket is hopping with customers looking for holiday gifts and treats. Marlee whips up cookies, waits on customers, and works on memorizing her lines. Her home as well as the shop are festive with decorations and various tress. When a leftover sweet kills an innocent party, Marlee begins to wonder if Everett really died of natural causes. Then Everett’s lawyer is found dead with a sprig of holly over his heart, Marlee sets out to sniff out the killer. Hollyberry Homicide is the 5th A Berry Basket Mystery. It can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series. The author provides the relevant background information on Marlee Jacob. I thought Hollyberry Homicide was well-written with steady pacing. There is plenty going on in this book. Marlee is enjoying decorating for Christmas, The Berry Basket is doing a brisk business, she gets roped into playing Jacob Marley, and she has a variety of houseguests. Natasha is staying with Marlee while she waits for her new place to be finished. It sounds like it will be a long visit. Natasha is a show stealer with her over-the-top personality. The mystery was interesting. It becomes more of the focus in the second half of the book as the clues begin to mount along with the action and suspense. You begin to wonder if Everett’s death was suspicious (or did a ninety-five year old man just pass away on a bench). It all begins to come together and there is a great reveal scene. I enjoyed solving this whodunit. The ending will leave you smiling. Hollyberry Homicide is a jolly cozy mystery with holiday hot chocolate, learning lines, overload of ornamentation, a swaying spruce, and an amateur sleuth bent on sniffing out the suspects.
September 14, 2020
Loved this book, I was really engrossed from the first chapter. Marlee is an awesome heroine, she’s sassy, sweet and funny. I loved her interactions with all the characters and her pets. Tess was such a good friend, standing up for Marlee when the occasion came. Natasha was a fun and funny character, her reactions and dialogues had me laughing. But then again, this book was funny as well (one chapter in particular where I laughed my head off). In this book, the mystery is tied in with Charles Dickens ‘A Christmas Carol’. I couldn’t guess the who-dun-it but that’s okay 😊 And the action towards the end!!! For a second there, I almost forgot that I was reading a cozy, just loved it. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read this book.
August 29, 2020
The Summer of 2019 saw me reading a lot of cozy mysteries and they were all starting to feel the same. Still enjoyable, but no real wow factor. I was getting burnt out on the genre.
And then Mulberry Mischief, the fourth book in A Berry Basket Mysteries, found its way into my life and my enjoyment for cozies was reignited. Sharon Farrow introduced me to very well developed characters and a town I knew I would want to visit again. But what really stood out to me was that she actually had some nasty characters, and not just someone who died right away and we find out they weren’t very nice. These evil characters were present throughout the story and added even more depth to the book.
So when I saw Hollyberry Homicide was coming out I knew I would be reading it. And I was not disappointed. Farrow continues developing her characters, and even better, something is always happening. In some cozies most of the story is just the sleuth running around tracking down clues and talking to suspects. But in A Berry Basket Mysteries, we are not only engaged in Marlee’s life, but those of her friends and co-workers… even with the people that Marlee can’t stand!
Farrow also incorporates the Christmas theme really well. In some cozies it’s more so for the cover art and mentioned a couple of times in the book, but not so in Hollyberry Homicide. You get Christmas from Marlee’s obsession with decorating her house and store, to the various times she is preparing food for her shop and parties, to the town’s huge Christmas tree falling over numerous times because of the lake effect winds. It seems like every chapter mentions the holidays, but it’s done well.
As for the murder, there are lots of suspects whose secrets slowly come out over the course of the book. I thought for sure I knew who the killer was, but I was wrong. And I am so happy with who the killer turned out to be.
You don’t need to start A Berry Basket Mystery series from the beginning because Farrow knows how to fold the reader into the story without them becoming lost. But if you do decide you want to (and you should because it’s a great series!), then the first book is Dying for Strawberries. And while you’re at it, you may as well buy all the rest of the books in the series too!
And then Mulberry Mischief, the fourth book in A Berry Basket Mysteries, found its way into my life and my enjoyment for cozies was reignited. Sharon Farrow introduced me to very well developed characters and a town I knew I would want to visit again. But what really stood out to me was that she actually had some nasty characters, and not just someone who died right away and we find out they weren’t very nice. These evil characters were present throughout the story and added even more depth to the book.
So when I saw Hollyberry Homicide was coming out I knew I would be reading it. And I was not disappointed. Farrow continues developing her characters, and even better, something is always happening. In some cozies most of the story is just the sleuth running around tracking down clues and talking to suspects. But in A Berry Basket Mysteries, we are not only engaged in Marlee’s life, but those of her friends and co-workers… even with the people that Marlee can’t stand!
Farrow also incorporates the Christmas theme really well. In some cozies it’s more so for the cover art and mentioned a couple of times in the book, but not so in Hollyberry Homicide. You get Christmas from Marlee’s obsession with decorating her house and store, to the various times she is preparing food for her shop and parties, to the town’s huge Christmas tree falling over numerous times because of the lake effect winds. It seems like every chapter mentions the holidays, but it’s done well.
As for the murder, there are lots of suspects whose secrets slowly come out over the course of the book. I thought for sure I knew who the killer was, but I was wrong. And I am so happy with who the killer turned out to be.
You don’t need to start A Berry Basket Mystery series from the beginning because Farrow knows how to fold the reader into the story without them becoming lost. But if you do decide you want to (and you should because it’s a great series!), then the first book is Dying for Strawberries. And while you’re at it, you may as well buy all the rest of the books in the series too!
December 26, 2024
The guy who insists as acting as Marley's Ghost in the town's Christmas Carol Show is found dead. The town sleuth, Marlee Jacob is picked to take over, despite not knowing any lines, just because of her name.
Of course, it's murder, and other murders follow.
A fun mystery without too many TSTL moments.
Of course, it's murder, and other murders follow.
A fun mystery without too many TSTL moments.
October 7, 2020
The Berry Basket Mystery series has become a favorite of mine, especially when each mystery includes festival events in the setting of Oriole Point, Michigan. Oriole Point is in the heart of the berry belt in this Lake Michigan community. While the only berries to be seen in the week before Christmas are holly, which are poisonous to people and animals, there are still many berry products for sale at Marlee Jacobs’s Berry Basket shop. The folks are an interesting collection of people one would find in many small towns. Well, except for 95-year-old Everett, who has many millions of dollars but few real friends.
When one of Marlee’s employees finds Everett dead at the historical museum, it is not considered necessary to do an autopsy because of his age. The police might have thought twice about that, however, if they knew there were three possible family members who thought they might be “the” inheritor of Everett’s millions. Not to mention the local concerns that he was the primary underwriter for. His long-time friend, Diane, is head curator at the museum, and it is thought one of the reasons he retired to this side of the state is because she works here. Even so, nobody considers that he died while eating a gingerbread cookie until Marlee found the cookie crumbs she had tossed in her jacket pocket, gave them to a squirrel, and the squirrel died within minutes.
Everett played Jacob Marley in A Christmas Carol for several years in the local theater group that he was primary supporter of. At the last minute, Marlee is asked to play the part. Despite the high traffic in her shop and other activities, Marlee finally accepted, and began to learn her lines. In the meantime, she learns from Everett’s attorney about the three people who each think they might have inherited Everett’s millions. There is much that the town doesn’t know about them, including the shady or criminal actions in their past! Then the attorney is murdered, and nobody knows where the will is…
I love the variety of characters in Oriole Point, how well the townspeople get together for Christmas, and how their activities even include birding. They are three dimensional, defined through their actions and conversations. Except for the “unholy trio” who each want to inherit.
I was so surprised to learn whodunit! While I wasn’t sure yet who the killer was, and one seemed more motivated than others, I was still as surprised as Marlee was. The ending was very satisfactory, with all loose ends tied up. I highly recommend this to people who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries with a Christmas theme, a challenging mystery, and a variety of interesting pets.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel; a review was not required.
When one of Marlee’s employees finds Everett dead at the historical museum, it is not considered necessary to do an autopsy because of his age. The police might have thought twice about that, however, if they knew there were three possible family members who thought they might be “the” inheritor of Everett’s millions. Not to mention the local concerns that he was the primary underwriter for. His long-time friend, Diane, is head curator at the museum, and it is thought one of the reasons he retired to this side of the state is because she works here. Even so, nobody considers that he died while eating a gingerbread cookie until Marlee found the cookie crumbs she had tossed in her jacket pocket, gave them to a squirrel, and the squirrel died within minutes.
Everett played Jacob Marley in A Christmas Carol for several years in the local theater group that he was primary supporter of. At the last minute, Marlee is asked to play the part. Despite the high traffic in her shop and other activities, Marlee finally accepted, and began to learn her lines. In the meantime, she learns from Everett’s attorney about the three people who each think they might have inherited Everett’s millions. There is much that the town doesn’t know about them, including the shady or criminal actions in their past! Then the attorney is murdered, and nobody knows where the will is…
I love the variety of characters in Oriole Point, how well the townspeople get together for Christmas, and how their activities even include birding. They are three dimensional, defined through their actions and conversations. Except for the “unholy trio” who each want to inherit.
I was so surprised to learn whodunit! While I wasn’t sure yet who the killer was, and one seemed more motivated than others, I was still as surprised as Marlee was. The ending was very satisfactory, with all loose ends tied up. I highly recommend this to people who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries with a Christmas theme, a challenging mystery, and a variety of interesting pets.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel; a review was not required.
September 30, 2020
I have really enjoyed this series but this one? Wowsa! Let's just say the killer reveal was a total shocker and nothing I ever expected to happen.
It's Christmastime in Oriole Point and Marlee takes decorating to a whole new level. It's like Christmas exploded at her home and store. She is lovingly ribbed by her friends for going overboard with the decorations. She even blows fuses with everything she has plugged into the sockets. It might also have something to do with her birthday at that time. But this holiday may not go the way she planned when she finds 95 year old Everett dead at the museum. Now everyone else thinks it is natural causes, but Marlee suspects otherwise. The story just takes off from there and Marlee ends up playing Jacob Marley in the theater's performance of A Christmas Carol, she stumbles across several unknown facts (which I won't disclose) about Everett and a few other characters. All culminate into a point where Marlee is nearly killed, but who is the killer? You'll have to read the book to discover the killer and his/her motive for yourself.
I have enjoyed this series and I always feel like I gain weight just reading the book and dreaming about the pastries, cookies, ice cream, jams and jellies, and many other berry flavored items. We don't see as much of Kit in this book who is Marlee's love interest since he is working out of town on a case. I really do like Theo and his baking skills. He is a very sweet character and I like that Marlee has taken him under her wing to help him continue to grow and mature. And then there is Natasha, Marlee's Russian friend. She is a hoot and a half.
This is a great series so if you haven't read any of the first 5, I suggest you do so before diving into this book. It will help you understand the characters a little better.
We give this book 5 paws up.
It's Christmastime in Oriole Point and Marlee takes decorating to a whole new level. It's like Christmas exploded at her home and store. She is lovingly ribbed by her friends for going overboard with the decorations. She even blows fuses with everything she has plugged into the sockets. It might also have something to do with her birthday at that time. But this holiday may not go the way she planned when she finds 95 year old Everett dead at the museum. Now everyone else thinks it is natural causes, but Marlee suspects otherwise. The story just takes off from there and Marlee ends up playing Jacob Marley in the theater's performance of A Christmas Carol, she stumbles across several unknown facts (which I won't disclose) about Everett and a few other characters. All culminate into a point where Marlee is nearly killed, but who is the killer? You'll have to read the book to discover the killer and his/her motive for yourself.
I have enjoyed this series and I always feel like I gain weight just reading the book and dreaming about the pastries, cookies, ice cream, jams and jellies, and many other berry flavored items. We don't see as much of Kit in this book who is Marlee's love interest since he is working out of town on a case. I really do like Theo and his baking skills. He is a very sweet character and I like that Marlee has taken him under her wing to help him continue to grow and mature. And then there is Natasha, Marlee's Russian friend. She is a hoot and a half.
This is a great series so if you haven't read any of the first 5, I suggest you do so before diving into this book. It will help you understand the characters a little better.
We give this book 5 paws up.
September 29, 2020
In this fifth book of the series Marlee Jacob is getting her shop ready for the holidays and enjoying different festivities available for the season. She is at a local museum where there is a train exhibit that has her boyfriend all excited. Marlee decides to wonder around and during her circuit of the exhibits an elderly man is found dead, it looks like he passed away while eating some gingerbread cookies. His death is concluded to be natural but with his death a spot opens up in the local theater production of A Christmas Carol. Marlee is soon asked to play the role of Jacob Marley due to the nature of her name. She agrees bit worries she won't have her lines memorized before the play opens. Soon it seems that the play is cursed, accidents keep happening and Marlee soon wonders if the man who died at the museum really.died of natural causes, she begins to think he was murdered. Another death occurs and Marlee knows she must dig in to figure out just what is going on. Can she fit all the.puzzle pieces together before she herself ends up dead? Wonderful series filled with great characters, a lovely location, and fun berry facts!
September 5, 2021
This story takes the reader to Oriole Point
in Michigan. Marlee Jacobs is the owner of
The Berry Basket where she sells all things
berry related. She is busy decorating her
store and home for Christmas with
Nutcrackers, snow globes, twinkle light,
everything Christmas. She is also preparing
for the upcoming Hollyberry Festival.
This festival includes a parade, snowman
building contest, street caroler’s, hot chestnut
stands, food truckers, horse-drawn carriage
rides and an open-air Hollyberry Market in
the park. There is a huge Christmas tree in
the town square….so big that it keeps falling
over from the lake winds??
The town is also putting on The Christmas
Carol play. The man who for years played
Jacob Marley has died. While everyone else
believes it was old age, Marlee suspects
foul play. Marlee takes over his part in the
production.
A fire prevents the play production from
happening. Then the huge tree falls on the
man playing Santa…accident or on purpose??
A terrific cast of characters are weaved
Into the story making the reader feel as if
they are right there along with the cast.
A fun read with yummy recipes at the end.
But a quick reminder: Real Holly Berries are
poisonous to eat.
in Michigan. Marlee Jacobs is the owner of
The Berry Basket where she sells all things
berry related. She is busy decorating her
store and home for Christmas with
Nutcrackers, snow globes, twinkle light,
everything Christmas. She is also preparing
for the upcoming Hollyberry Festival.
This festival includes a parade, snowman
building contest, street caroler’s, hot chestnut
stands, food truckers, horse-drawn carriage
rides and an open-air Hollyberry Market in
the park. There is a huge Christmas tree in
the town square….so big that it keeps falling
over from the lake winds??
The town is also putting on The Christmas
Carol play. The man who for years played
Jacob Marley has died. While everyone else
believes it was old age, Marlee suspects
foul play. Marlee takes over his part in the
production.
A fire prevents the play production from
happening. Then the huge tree falls on the
man playing Santa…accident or on purpose??
A terrific cast of characters are weaved
Into the story making the reader feel as if
they are right there along with the cast.
A fun read with yummy recipes at the end.
But a quick reminder: Real Holly Berries are
poisonous to eat.
October 30, 2020
“Hollyberry Homicide" is the 5th instalment in the "A Berry Basket Mystery" series by Sharon Farrow. This can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading in order. I found it to be a fun and entertaining Christmas read.
I really enjoyed this story, and it has made me want to catch up on the series. I have several books in my TBR pile. I loved all the Christmas cheer and the friendships between the main characters.
The mystery was interesting and well plotted, and I loved the characters which are well developed.
I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this story, and it has made me want to catch up on the series. I have several books in my TBR pile. I loved all the Christmas cheer and the friendships between the main characters.
The mystery was interesting and well plotted, and I loved the characters which are well developed.
I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 2, 2020
A light, easy to read holiday mystery with vivid descriptions that are certain to put you in the holiday spirit. Protagonist Marlee Jacob is the owner of The Berry Basket and new recruit to play Jacob Marley in A Christmas Carol. This happened because the 95 year old man that was supposed to play the part seemingly died of natural causes but things aren't always as they seem. Marlee soon finds herself looking into a number of odd happenings and even murder.
I have read all the books in this series and I enjoy the wide variety of characters and the mystery that keeps you guessing until the end. Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
I have read all the books in this series and I enjoy the wide variety of characters and the mystery that keeps you guessing until the end. Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 30, 2020
Hollyberry Homicide is the 5th book in the Berry Basket Mystery series.
Marlee Jacob runs 'The Berry Basket', a berry lovers delight, in Oriole Point, Michigan. Marlee has been given the opportunity to play the part of Jacob Marley in Oriole Point's production of 'A Christmas Carol' because the elderly actor who'd originally been cast has died. His body was found with a half-eaten bag of gingerbread men cookies, by one of her employees. Marlee, soon realises that there's danger behind the scenes, with accidents on set, and falling village tree and a black squirrel dies after being fed the remaining pieces of a cookie...
Hollyberry Homicide was my 1st in this series. Although it was book five, I had no difficulties keeping up with characters and events and it worked for me as an individual story. Marlee was kept extremely busy as she had a Russian house guest, her friend Natasha, staying whilst waiting for her luxury condo to be finished, and Natasha was an absolute scream in this story. Protagonist Marlee was a great character and I found her keen, funny, down to earth, and feisty and she was never too busy to help others.
I was sold on this classy, Christmassy compulsive story from the very beginning, and Sharon Farrow really impressed me with her fluid writing. The details of the plot were very well-executed, the story was amusing and easy to follow, and every chapter left me with a compelling need to read on. The story was brimming with humour, scrumptious food, and suspects and clues were scattered throughout. As a lover of berries myself, Sharon Farrow's mentions of delectable sounding desserts and treats were pure joy and I could almost taste the white chocolate cranberry cookies! The closing reveal was very good, and it eluded me until the very end.
This was a tremendous festive novel and I am looking forward to reading book six. If you adore a fantastic cozy mystery, don't miss out on Hollyberry Homicide!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Marlee Jacob runs 'The Berry Basket', a berry lovers delight, in Oriole Point, Michigan. Marlee has been given the opportunity to play the part of Jacob Marley in Oriole Point's production of 'A Christmas Carol' because the elderly actor who'd originally been cast has died. His body was found with a half-eaten bag of gingerbread men cookies, by one of her employees. Marlee, soon realises that there's danger behind the scenes, with accidents on set, and falling village tree and a black squirrel dies after being fed the remaining pieces of a cookie...
Hollyberry Homicide was my 1st in this series. Although it was book five, I had no difficulties keeping up with characters and events and it worked for me as an individual story. Marlee was kept extremely busy as she had a Russian house guest, her friend Natasha, staying whilst waiting for her luxury condo to be finished, and Natasha was an absolute scream in this story. Protagonist Marlee was a great character and I found her keen, funny, down to earth, and feisty and she was never too busy to help others.
I was sold on this classy, Christmassy compulsive story from the very beginning, and Sharon Farrow really impressed me with her fluid writing. The details of the plot were very well-executed, the story was amusing and easy to follow, and every chapter left me with a compelling need to read on. The story was brimming with humour, scrumptious food, and suspects and clues were scattered throughout. As a lover of berries myself, Sharon Farrow's mentions of delectable sounding desserts and treats were pure joy and I could almost taste the white chocolate cranberry cookies! The closing reveal was very good, and it eluded me until the very end.
This was a tremendous festive novel and I am looking forward to reading book six. If you adore a fantastic cozy mystery, don't miss out on Hollyberry Homicide!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
November 8, 2020
https://openbooksociety.com/article/h...
Hollyberry Homicide
A Berry Basket Mystery, Book #5
By Sharon Farrow
ISBN 9781496722621
Author Website: sharonfarrowauthor(.)com
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
A cold wind is blowing off Lake Michigan, and murder is scaring the dickens out of everyone . . .
Considering her name, Marlee Jacob is an obvious choice for the role of Jacob Marley in Oriole Point’s production of A Christmas Carol. It’s just sad that the role has opened up because of the death of the elderly actor who’d originally been cast.
But Marlee, the proprietor of The Berry Basket, will do her best to keep spirits high–that is, until clues start mounting that there’s danger behind the scenes. There are accidents on set, the tree in the village square topples over, and worst of all, a body is found with a sprig of holly draped over it. If Marlee can’t wrap up the case, she may not have a berry merry Christmas. (Goodreads)
Review:
What do Santa Claus, a giant chipmunk, and Jacob Marley’s ghost have in common? You might have to visit Oriole Pointe, Michigan and find out! Hollyberry Homicide is the latest in the very entertaining Berry Basket Mystery series, and I really enjoyed it. From the setting at Lake Michigan, to the characters who could step off the pages and the challenging mystery, it is an exciting read for those who enjoy Christmas cozy mysteries.
Marlee Jacob left the bright lights of New York City to open her shop, The Berry Basket, that deals in most things related to western Michigan berries. Her parents now live in Chicago and plan to be there on Christmas Eve, as will the parents of her boyfriend, Atticus “Kit” Holt, a detective for the sheriff’s department. While Marlee’s mom’s favorite author is Charles Dickens, Kit’s mom’s favorite fiction character is Atticus Finch.
Marlee loves the holidays and decorates to excess. Christmas is only a week away. Marlee was at the local historical museum when her friend and employee Gillian finds her. Gillian is in a panic, as the man playing Jacob Marley’s ghost in the local amateur theater production is dead. Everett Hostetter, who just turned 95, was hunched over on a bench in a hallway. Marlee confirmed the man was dead, and very recently as his body was still warm. She noticed a cookie falling from his clothing, a bag of cookies under the bench, and cookie crumbs on his face as they await emergency personnel. Diane Cleverly, a retired professor who is now the head curator of the museum, approached them, and is very upset at his passing. They had known each other most of her adult life, and he was primary donor to the historical museum, local theater group, and other local charities.
Anthony, the nephew who lived with Everett, came to pick him up and was shocked that his uncle had just passed away. Everett had seemed the same as always when he dropped him off for the toy train collection display he had looked forward to seeing.
The next day, Suzanne, mother of Marlee’s employees Dean and Andrew, had an emergency meeting of the Green Willow Players. Not only did Everett, who always played Jacob Marley pass away, but the woman playing the Ghost of Christmas Past had emergency surgery the night before. Gillian is convinced there is a curse on the old Calico Barn, where the plays are produced. When Andrew told Marlee that Suzanne wants her to play Jacob Marley – even though she’s not a man – Gillian doesn’t want her to because of the curse. She finally gives up and gives in, hoping she can learn the lines quickly.
Marlee asks Gareth, a man who handcarves duck decoys, to play Santa Claus at her shop. She learned that Gareth was a retired attorney who had taken care of Everett’s business for many years. She learned interesting things about Everett’s family, such as who might have an interest in inheriting the millions he left behind. There are three potential heirs who are financially needy – or greedy – enough to have finished him off. Marlee finds pieces of the broken cookie he was eating when he died and took it to the police to test.
None of the possible heirs wants a funeral or memorial service for Everett. He had given Diane Cleverly her first job after getting her PhD, and she learned a great deal from him over the years. She finally planned and held a memorial service at the museum. Marlee learns that nobody knows where Everett’s will is other than Gareth, who is playing games about filing it with the court. Marlee has an idea where it might be but will put herself in serious jeopardy if anyone finds out she is looking.
The characters are a wonderful mix of well-defined personalities. I really enjoy Marlee and her dedication to her business and Oriole Point. I do like how she finally learned her lines! Theo, her baker, is one of the best friends and employees one could have! One of the things I enjoyed reading about Theo and Marlee is how they are bird watchers, as it further rounds them out as people.
There are several plot twists and turns that add to the intrigue and keep the pages turning. I’m not sure how I absolutely missed the real bad guy other than that I was enjoying the novel as a whole too much. I do admit to being stumped, and quite surprised to see who the killer was. The end was satisfactory, with all loose ends tied up. I highly recommend this, especially for those who enjoy reading about A Christmas Carol and Christmas festivities.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Hollyberry Homicide
A Berry Basket Mystery, Book #5
By Sharon Farrow
ISBN 9781496722621
Author Website: sharonfarrowauthor(.)com
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
A cold wind is blowing off Lake Michigan, and murder is scaring the dickens out of everyone . . .
Considering her name, Marlee Jacob is an obvious choice for the role of Jacob Marley in Oriole Point’s production of A Christmas Carol. It’s just sad that the role has opened up because of the death of the elderly actor who’d originally been cast.
But Marlee, the proprietor of The Berry Basket, will do her best to keep spirits high–that is, until clues start mounting that there’s danger behind the scenes. There are accidents on set, the tree in the village square topples over, and worst of all, a body is found with a sprig of holly draped over it. If Marlee can’t wrap up the case, she may not have a berry merry Christmas. (Goodreads)
Review:
What do Santa Claus, a giant chipmunk, and Jacob Marley’s ghost have in common? You might have to visit Oriole Pointe, Michigan and find out! Hollyberry Homicide is the latest in the very entertaining Berry Basket Mystery series, and I really enjoyed it. From the setting at Lake Michigan, to the characters who could step off the pages and the challenging mystery, it is an exciting read for those who enjoy Christmas cozy mysteries.
Marlee Jacob left the bright lights of New York City to open her shop, The Berry Basket, that deals in most things related to western Michigan berries. Her parents now live in Chicago and plan to be there on Christmas Eve, as will the parents of her boyfriend, Atticus “Kit” Holt, a detective for the sheriff’s department. While Marlee’s mom’s favorite author is Charles Dickens, Kit’s mom’s favorite fiction character is Atticus Finch.
Marlee loves the holidays and decorates to excess. Christmas is only a week away. Marlee was at the local historical museum when her friend and employee Gillian finds her. Gillian is in a panic, as the man playing Jacob Marley’s ghost in the local amateur theater production is dead. Everett Hostetter, who just turned 95, was hunched over on a bench in a hallway. Marlee confirmed the man was dead, and very recently as his body was still warm. She noticed a cookie falling from his clothing, a bag of cookies under the bench, and cookie crumbs on his face as they await emergency personnel. Diane Cleverly, a retired professor who is now the head curator of the museum, approached them, and is very upset at his passing. They had known each other most of her adult life, and he was primary donor to the historical museum, local theater group, and other local charities.
Anthony, the nephew who lived with Everett, came to pick him up and was shocked that his uncle had just passed away. Everett had seemed the same as always when he dropped him off for the toy train collection display he had looked forward to seeing.
The next day, Suzanne, mother of Marlee’s employees Dean and Andrew, had an emergency meeting of the Green Willow Players. Not only did Everett, who always played Jacob Marley pass away, but the woman playing the Ghost of Christmas Past had emergency surgery the night before. Gillian is convinced there is a curse on the old Calico Barn, where the plays are produced. When Andrew told Marlee that Suzanne wants her to play Jacob Marley – even though she’s not a man – Gillian doesn’t want her to because of the curse. She finally gives up and gives in, hoping she can learn the lines quickly.
Marlee asks Gareth, a man who handcarves duck decoys, to play Santa Claus at her shop. She learned that Gareth was a retired attorney who had taken care of Everett’s business for many years. She learned interesting things about Everett’s family, such as who might have an interest in inheriting the millions he left behind. There are three potential heirs who are financially needy – or greedy – enough to have finished him off. Marlee finds pieces of the broken cookie he was eating when he died and took it to the police to test.
None of the possible heirs wants a funeral or memorial service for Everett. He had given Diane Cleverly her first job after getting her PhD, and she learned a great deal from him over the years. She finally planned and held a memorial service at the museum. Marlee learns that nobody knows where Everett’s will is other than Gareth, who is playing games about filing it with the court. Marlee has an idea where it might be but will put herself in serious jeopardy if anyone finds out she is looking.
The characters are a wonderful mix of well-defined personalities. I really enjoy Marlee and her dedication to her business and Oriole Point. I do like how she finally learned her lines! Theo, her baker, is one of the best friends and employees one could have! One of the things I enjoyed reading about Theo and Marlee is how they are bird watchers, as it further rounds them out as people.
There are several plot twists and turns that add to the intrigue and keep the pages turning. I’m not sure how I absolutely missed the real bad guy other than that I was enjoying the novel as a whole too much. I do admit to being stumped, and quite surprised to see who the killer was. The end was satisfactory, with all loose ends tied up. I highly recommend this, especially for those who enjoy reading about A Christmas Carol and Christmas festivities.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
November 4, 2020
Marlee Jacob doesn't have for this. Between running her store the Holly berry Festival, the last thing she needs is to be wrangled into playing Jacob Marley in A Christmas Carol replacing the gentleman whose dead body she found. All in all, a cute cozy, my first in the series. Good mystery and fun characters with lots of holiday cheer. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 23, 2021
HOLLYBERRY HOMICIDE by Sharon Farrow is the fifth book in the A Berry Basket Mystery series. It’s the story of Marlee Jacob, the owner of The Berry Basket in Oriole Point, Michigan and the town’s production of The Christmas Carol by the local theater group, the Green Willow Players. Nobody embodies Christmas more than Marlee. She loved everything about it – the smells, the sights, the sounds, the tastes, the decorations – which there are never enough whether at home or at the shop, the parties, the need for more of trees, her birthday and of course The Christmas Carol for which she was named.
When Everett Hostetter is found dead on a bench in the train exhibit at the Historical Museum, everyone assumes he just died of old age considering he had just turned 95. They figured he had sat down on the bench to rest and to enjoy eating his gingerbread cookies since he was still holding the cookie bag and cookie pieces were on his face and under the bench.
Everett’s passing left a big hole in the annual Christmas production since he always played the part of Jacob Marley. Since Marlee had been named after the character in Dicken’s story and it was a great play on words – Marlee Jacob playing Jacob Marley, they figured it would be a great advertising stunt to sell more tickets and asked her to take up the part in the play. After some thought, Marlee agreed to play the role. After finding out she had to wear Everett’s costume that hadn’t been washed in years and having trouble finding the time to study her lines, Marlee was starting to second guess her decision.
Marlee had picked up the pieces of the gingerbread cookies that were on the floor where they found Everett and stuck them in her pocket since no trash can had been readily available. It wasn’t until a couple days later that she found them and fed them to a squirrel that dies suddenly bringing up questions that maybe old man Everett didn’t just pass away peacefully. With other accidents on other actors in the play, rumor started circulating that the play was cursed and bad luck will befell on those involved with it. A local business man, a retired attorney and also Everett’s attorney, agreed to play Santa for Marlee in her shop. In payment, she bought him supper at the local pub. He seemed to drink more than eat at supper letting some secrets slip out about some of the local residents. When he was killed when the town Christmas tree falls on him, was it an accident or murder?
Can Marlee learn her lines with all that’s going on both on the stage and off? Is Everett the center to it all? The list of folks that did not like Everett is long because he seemed to never have a kind word for anyone or anything, but was it bad enough to murder him? Are the deaths connected? Was the fire at Calico Barn an accident or deliberate? Is Marlee getting to close making her life in grave danger? Is Marlee’s birthday going to be a happy one? Will they have a Merry Christmas?
HOLLYBERRY HOMICIDE is a magnificent Christmas cozy mystery that would be a joy to read any time of the year. Sharon Farrow weaves such a magnificent story that she has us falling in love with Marlee with her array of furry and feathered family members and house guest, her family by blood and by choice - consisting of the employee of The Berry Basket and dear friends, and the towns people of Oriole Point as we take the many twists and turns the story takes us on as we trying to figure out whodunit and why. Love a story where I have to change my idea about who that is more than once and I’m still surprised at the big reveal. That’s exactly what this author did!
Although part of the series, HOLLYBERRY HOMICIDE can most definitely be read as a standalone book. Don’t short change yourself thinking you can only read this Christmas story during the holiday or you will be doing yourself a great disservice. Highly recommend this book for anyone that loves a well-written cozy mystery! 5+ STARS I, for one, was happy to see recipes at the back of the book after having our taste buds tempted so during the pages of the story
When Everett Hostetter is found dead on a bench in the train exhibit at the Historical Museum, everyone assumes he just died of old age considering he had just turned 95. They figured he had sat down on the bench to rest and to enjoy eating his gingerbread cookies since he was still holding the cookie bag and cookie pieces were on his face and under the bench.
Everett’s passing left a big hole in the annual Christmas production since he always played the part of Jacob Marley. Since Marlee had been named after the character in Dicken’s story and it was a great play on words – Marlee Jacob playing Jacob Marley, they figured it would be a great advertising stunt to sell more tickets and asked her to take up the part in the play. After some thought, Marlee agreed to play the role. After finding out she had to wear Everett’s costume that hadn’t been washed in years and having trouble finding the time to study her lines, Marlee was starting to second guess her decision.
Marlee had picked up the pieces of the gingerbread cookies that were on the floor where they found Everett and stuck them in her pocket since no trash can had been readily available. It wasn’t until a couple days later that she found them and fed them to a squirrel that dies suddenly bringing up questions that maybe old man Everett didn’t just pass away peacefully. With other accidents on other actors in the play, rumor started circulating that the play was cursed and bad luck will befell on those involved with it. A local business man, a retired attorney and also Everett’s attorney, agreed to play Santa for Marlee in her shop. In payment, she bought him supper at the local pub. He seemed to drink more than eat at supper letting some secrets slip out about some of the local residents. When he was killed when the town Christmas tree falls on him, was it an accident or murder?
Can Marlee learn her lines with all that’s going on both on the stage and off? Is Everett the center to it all? The list of folks that did not like Everett is long because he seemed to never have a kind word for anyone or anything, but was it bad enough to murder him? Are the deaths connected? Was the fire at Calico Barn an accident or deliberate? Is Marlee getting to close making her life in grave danger? Is Marlee’s birthday going to be a happy one? Will they have a Merry Christmas?
HOLLYBERRY HOMICIDE is a magnificent Christmas cozy mystery that would be a joy to read any time of the year. Sharon Farrow weaves such a magnificent story that she has us falling in love with Marlee with her array of furry and feathered family members and house guest, her family by blood and by choice - consisting of the employee of The Berry Basket and dear friends, and the towns people of Oriole Point as we take the many twists and turns the story takes us on as we trying to figure out whodunit and why. Love a story where I have to change my idea about who that is more than once and I’m still surprised at the big reveal. That’s exactly what this author did!
Although part of the series, HOLLYBERRY HOMICIDE can most definitely be read as a standalone book. Don’t short change yourself thinking you can only read this Christmas story during the holiday or you will be doing yourself a great disservice. Highly recommend this book for anyone that loves a well-written cozy mystery! 5+ STARS I, for one, was happy to see recipes at the back of the book after having our taste buds tempted so during the pages of the story
October 4, 2020
HOLLYBERRY HOMICIDE by Sharon Farrow
The Fifth Berry Basket Mystery
The death Everett Hostetter is not that surprising. After all, Oriole Point's annual Jacob Marley was 95 years old. The curmudgeonly man had his fingers in lots of Oriole Point pies, but was not well liked and didn't seem to mind that fact. But the more Marlee Jacobs learns of the man, the more suspicious she becomes of his death. As the town's Hollyberry Festivities start Marlee is drawn into Everett's life, from taking over his role in A CHRISTMAS CAROL to talking with those closest to him. The more she learns the more Marlee believes his death was not natural. But will she be able to prove it before his killer decides she knows too much?
The spirit of Christmas is alive and well in this fifth Berry Basket Mystery. Lake effect snow, holiday festivities, and the love of family and friends fill the pages of this mystery. I love Marlee's Christmas spirit as evidenced in her overly decorated store and home. More than that, I love how she cares for her friends, giving Natasha a home while hers is under construction, caring for Theo, and loving the animals in her life-pets and wildlife alike.
HOLLYBERRY HOMICIDE brings the tale of A CHRISTMAS CAROL to Oriole Point, and not just with the town's annual theatrical production. It begs the question, will you be a Scrooge or a Marley? One was able to be redeemed in life with the other only able to give warnings after death. Or will you continue the cheating avaricious path you're on forever? Several characters are faced with these questions and their responses may be surprising!
I loved the application of the teachings within A CHRISTMAS CAROL mirrored in this modern cozy mystery. I love the characters and the manner in which they live and work together. The mystery was intriguing and complex and had me considering an A MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS scenario. The pulse pounding penultimate scene had me alternately holding my breath and swinging imaginary objects to help Marlee.
HOLLYBERRY HOMICIDE is a fast paced Christmas tale of redemption. It's a tale of friendship and family and the importance of both. It brings the spirit of Christmas to life.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
The Fifth Berry Basket Mystery
The death Everett Hostetter is not that surprising. After all, Oriole Point's annual Jacob Marley was 95 years old. The curmudgeonly man had his fingers in lots of Oriole Point pies, but was not well liked and didn't seem to mind that fact. But the more Marlee Jacobs learns of the man, the more suspicious she becomes of his death. As the town's Hollyberry Festivities start Marlee is drawn into Everett's life, from taking over his role in A CHRISTMAS CAROL to talking with those closest to him. The more she learns the more Marlee believes his death was not natural. But will she be able to prove it before his killer decides she knows too much?
The spirit of Christmas is alive and well in this fifth Berry Basket Mystery. Lake effect snow, holiday festivities, and the love of family and friends fill the pages of this mystery. I love Marlee's Christmas spirit as evidenced in her overly decorated store and home. More than that, I love how she cares for her friends, giving Natasha a home while hers is under construction, caring for Theo, and loving the animals in her life-pets and wildlife alike.
HOLLYBERRY HOMICIDE brings the tale of A CHRISTMAS CAROL to Oriole Point, and not just with the town's annual theatrical production. It begs the question, will you be a Scrooge or a Marley? One was able to be redeemed in life with the other only able to give warnings after death. Or will you continue the cheating avaricious path you're on forever? Several characters are faced with these questions and their responses may be surprising!
I loved the application of the teachings within A CHRISTMAS CAROL mirrored in this modern cozy mystery. I love the characters and the manner in which they live and work together. The mystery was intriguing and complex and had me considering an A MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS scenario. The pulse pounding penultimate scene had me alternately holding my breath and swinging imaginary objects to help Marlee.
HOLLYBERRY HOMICIDE is a fast paced Christmas tale of redemption. It's a tale of friendship and family and the importance of both. It brings the spirit of Christmas to life.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
September 21, 2020
HOLLYBERRY HOMICIDE, the fifth book in A Berry Basket Mystery series by Sharon Farrow, has all the trappings that make a holiday cozy mystery enjoyable! From the delightful Christmas cover, to the protagonist, Marlee Jacob, (named after famed Jacob Marley of A Christmas Carol), to Marlee’s obsession with decorating both her shop and home, and to the town’s Hollyberry Festival, the reader is immersed in a flurry of holiday activities. The author’s descriptive voice shines through and brings the characters and setting to life on the pages without slowing down the plot. Ms. Farrow’s use of a local stage production, A Christmas Carol, to highlight the death of the 95-year-old man playing Jacob Marley, adds to the entertainment. Everyone is sure he died of natural causes but Marlee is convinced foul play was involved. With a colorful and humorous cast of characters surrounding Marlee (including Minnie, her African Gray parrot) I couldn’t help but be enthralled with the story and enjoyed several laugh out loud moments.
The murder mystery itself was well-plotted and had a good pace. I enjoyed that Marlee’s friends are supportive of her snooping and help out as they can. As I turned the pages, layers of suspicion and secrets were revealed but I still couldn’t hone in on the killer. The author expertly weaves in twists that left me shocked and the clues she includes had me fixating on one character then another. But in the thrilling conclusion, they all piece together into one cohesive ending that made me yearn for more!
As owner of The Berry Basket, Marlee serves an assortment of mouthwatering berry-themed goodies. While holly berries are poisonous, Ms. Farrow includes several holiday-themed recipes at the back of the book that are not only safe to eat but sound scrumptious.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The murder mystery itself was well-plotted and had a good pace. I enjoyed that Marlee’s friends are supportive of her snooping and help out as they can. As I turned the pages, layers of suspicion and secrets were revealed but I still couldn’t hone in on the killer. The author expertly weaves in twists that left me shocked and the clues she includes had me fixating on one character then another. But in the thrilling conclusion, they all piece together into one cohesive ending that made me yearn for more!
As owner of The Berry Basket, Marlee serves an assortment of mouthwatering berry-themed goodies. While holly berries are poisonous, Ms. Farrow includes several holiday-themed recipes at the back of the book that are not only safe to eat but sound scrumptious.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 30, 2020
What’s your favorite version of A Christmas Carol? I have to go with The Muppet Christmas Carol as my favorite. I’ve got it on VHS; and, believe you me, I watch that tape every Christmas season. Who doesn’t love Michael Caine? He’s the perfect Scrooge, and the two old hecklers from The Muppet Show are the perfect Marley(s). You’re doomed, Scrooge, doomed for all time….
However, in Hollyberry Homicide, it’s Jacob Marley who’s doomed! Mr. Hostetter was dead to begin with. And, no! Despite the fact that he was a curmudgeonly old man, he did not play the role of Ebeneezer Scrooge in Oriole Point’s yearly production. Rather, he insisted upon playing Marley. Since he was the biggest patron of the theater, he got his way. In fact, he got his way about everything. He spent his life being an awful old man, so solving his murder isn’t easy since there are so many suspects!
Hollyberry Homicide is the first book I’ve read in the Berry Basket Mystery series, but it’s the fifth book in the series. For this reason, it took me a few chapters to get a feel for who’s who and what’s what. Once I did, I found the story very enjoyable. I love Christmas almost as much as Marlee Jacob, so if I owned her store, it would be as overflowing with holiday decor as hers is. I doubt I’ll ever be able to buy another Christmas decoration as my house is decorated to the hilt.
And, as much as I hate to admit it, I loved the setting. Yes, I’m from Ohio, so Michiganers know how hard it is for an Ohioan to admit loving anything about Michigan (even when it’s fictional!). They get lots of lake effect snow in Oriole Point, so a white Christmas makes the setting even more lovely. I’m a little south of Ohio’s snow belt, but I know how that lake effect snow is! Any plans we make to go to Cleveland are always done very hesitantly during the winter. I love how they’ve got a Christmas festival with booths and fun activities. That part reminds me a little of Stars Hollow (Gilmore Girls fans got me).
Hollyberry Homicide has many fun characters with mostly forgivable foibles and quirks. The holidays can bring out the beast in Type A personalities, and that’s quite evident among some of these characters!
All in all Hollyberry Homicide is an enjoyable Christmas cozy, so if you like your cozies to line up with the holidays, I suggest picking this one up and reading it around Christmas! It’ll put you in the holiday spirit!
However, in Hollyberry Homicide, it’s Jacob Marley who’s doomed! Mr. Hostetter was dead to begin with. And, no! Despite the fact that he was a curmudgeonly old man, he did not play the role of Ebeneezer Scrooge in Oriole Point’s yearly production. Rather, he insisted upon playing Marley. Since he was the biggest patron of the theater, he got his way. In fact, he got his way about everything. He spent his life being an awful old man, so solving his murder isn’t easy since there are so many suspects!
Hollyberry Homicide is the first book I’ve read in the Berry Basket Mystery series, but it’s the fifth book in the series. For this reason, it took me a few chapters to get a feel for who’s who and what’s what. Once I did, I found the story very enjoyable. I love Christmas almost as much as Marlee Jacob, so if I owned her store, it would be as overflowing with holiday decor as hers is. I doubt I’ll ever be able to buy another Christmas decoration as my house is decorated to the hilt.
And, as much as I hate to admit it, I loved the setting. Yes, I’m from Ohio, so Michiganers know how hard it is for an Ohioan to admit loving anything about Michigan (even when it’s fictional!). They get lots of lake effect snow in Oriole Point, so a white Christmas makes the setting even more lovely. I’m a little south of Ohio’s snow belt, but I know how that lake effect snow is! Any plans we make to go to Cleveland are always done very hesitantly during the winter. I love how they’ve got a Christmas festival with booths and fun activities. That part reminds me a little of Stars Hollow (Gilmore Girls fans got me).
Hollyberry Homicide has many fun characters with mostly forgivable foibles and quirks. The holidays can bring out the beast in Type A personalities, and that’s quite evident among some of these characters!
All in all Hollyberry Homicide is an enjoyable Christmas cozy, so if you like your cozies to line up with the holidays, I suggest picking this one up and reading it around Christmas! It’ll put you in the holiday spirit!
October 24, 2020
It’s Christmas time in Hollyberry Homicide, and Marlee is all set to enjoy x-mas with friends, family, and customers in her berry shop. But wouldn’t you know it, murder finds itself nestled in Oriole Point’s holiday festivities. What started as a fun season takes a turn when Marlee gets involved in finding a killer.
This new book is a wonderful addition to the series. It can stand on its own without the need for a lot of background information, but there is enough to give readers a good idea of who the characters are and the part they play in Marlee’s life. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep readers interested and turning the page. Suspects vary and are easy to follow. The setting, mainly Marlee’s berry themed shop, is fun and detailed enough to make readers want to visit during the holiday season or even year-round.
One of my favorite parts of the story is when Marlee gets to play in the local production of A Christmas Carol as Jacob Marley, which also happens to be whom she was named after. Her parents had a wonderful sense of humor and dedication to literary figures. Cast members in the play keep having accidents, are taken ill, or murdered, so it makes for a very entertaining part of the story to see if they will be able to pull off the play before Marlee ends up as the next victim.
The killer did not come as a big surprise to me, but I have a highly suspicious nature and rarely need to read the entire book to know who-done-it. In this case, however, many readers will not guess who the bad guy is until the very end of the story. This is the mark of a good mystery. Hollyberry Homicide is a good story that leaves readers feeling happy and excited for the holiday season to come. I am pleased to recommend this book to those looking for a feel-good Christmas story they can wrap their head around and let the worries of the world fade away for a brief time.
This new book is a wonderful addition to the series. It can stand on its own without the need for a lot of background information, but there is enough to give readers a good idea of who the characters are and the part they play in Marlee’s life. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep readers interested and turning the page. Suspects vary and are easy to follow. The setting, mainly Marlee’s berry themed shop, is fun and detailed enough to make readers want to visit during the holiday season or even year-round.
One of my favorite parts of the story is when Marlee gets to play in the local production of A Christmas Carol as Jacob Marley, which also happens to be whom she was named after. Her parents had a wonderful sense of humor and dedication to literary figures. Cast members in the play keep having accidents, are taken ill, or murdered, so it makes for a very entertaining part of the story to see if they will be able to pull off the play before Marlee ends up as the next victim.
The killer did not come as a big surprise to me, but I have a highly suspicious nature and rarely need to read the entire book to know who-done-it. In this case, however, many readers will not guess who the bad guy is until the very end of the story. This is the mark of a good mystery. Hollyberry Homicide is a good story that leaves readers feeling happy and excited for the holiday season to come. I am pleased to recommend this book to those looking for a feel-good Christmas story they can wrap their head around and let the worries of the world fade away for a brief time.
October 4, 2020
When a young woman, witnesses a very old man collapse at a model train show, she rushes to find help. She runs into her employer, Marlee Jacob, who returns to sit with him while medical aid is found. Unfortunately, Marlee realizes immediately that the man is dead While she waits for someone to collect the body, she picks up the bag of gingerbread cookies he dropped & wipes up the crumbs from the cookie he was eating. Without thinking, she shoves the crumbs in her pocket and forgets about them. After all, given his age, there's no reason to suspect foul play so no reason to think of them as evidence...that is, until she feeds them to a squirrel a few days later.
Hollyberry Homicide is the fifth cozy mystery in A Berry Basket Mystery series by author Sharon Farrow. Set in Oriole Point, Michigan during the Christmas season, it offers a strong, intelligent female protagonist in Marlee Jacob and of course, given her name, a nod to Charles’ Dickens A Christmas Carol. There are plenty of twists and turn, suspects and red herrings to keep the reader guessing who the real murderer is. Although part of a series, Hollyberry Homicide works well as a stand-alone and I recommend it anyone who enjoys holiday cozies.
Hollyberry Homicide is the fifth cozy mystery in A Berry Basket Mystery series by author Sharon Farrow. Set in Oriole Point, Michigan during the Christmas season, it offers a strong, intelligent female protagonist in Marlee Jacob and of course, given her name, a nod to Charles’ Dickens A Christmas Carol. There are plenty of twists and turn, suspects and red herrings to keep the reader guessing who the real murderer is. Although part of a series, Hollyberry Homicide works well as a stand-alone and I recommend it anyone who enjoys holiday cozies.
August 19, 2020
4.5 stars
This is the fifth book in the A Berry Basket mystery series by Sharon Farrow.
Marlee and her best friend discover the local curmudgeon has died in what seems a natural death. She is already in full investigation mode even before she realizes that the cookies she picked up at the scene were poisoned making his death a homicide.
This was a pretty complex mystery. No one really liked this man but he seemed to be pulling the strings of everyone in town. So nearly everyone had a motive.
They pull Marlee into the production of A Christmas Carol simply because she has a similar name as the character. I thought that was crazy. And the people were completely rude to her to top it off. She told them she would take over for the dead man and then they kept pressuring her to learn her lines. I would have just walked away.
I am glad Marlee persisted in chasing after this death. I am not sure it would have been solved otherwise.
Overall, it was an excellent read. Definitely recommend this series, for sure!
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. 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 fifth book in the A Berry Basket mystery series by Sharon Farrow.
Marlee and her best friend discover the local curmudgeon has died in what seems a natural death. She is already in full investigation mode even before she realizes that the cookies she picked up at the scene were poisoned making his death a homicide.
This was a pretty complex mystery. No one really liked this man but he seemed to be pulling the strings of everyone in town. So nearly everyone had a motive.
They pull Marlee into the production of A Christmas Carol simply because she has a similar name as the character. I thought that was crazy. And the people were completely rude to her to top it off. She told them she would take over for the dead man and then they kept pressuring her to learn her lines. I would have just walked away.
I am glad Marlee persisted in chasing after this death. I am not sure it would have been solved otherwise.
Overall, it was an excellent read. Definitely recommend this series, for sure!
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. 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.
July 24, 2020
The first corpse was a wealthy 95 year old curmudgeon who always played Marley in the local production of A Christmas Carol, so everyone assumed that it was natural causes. Lots more about him came out after that and the play seemed cursed as players continued to have unexpected problems. The small but fairly affluent town had lots of secrets and divas to add to the mysteries that were as thick on the ground as the lake effect snow. A really good whodunit with some fun situational humor.
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley.
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley.
August 1, 2020
Marlee Jacob is very busy getting ready for the holidays. Her shop, The Berry Basket ready for the holidays. The town goes crazy for Christmas with a tree lighting ceremony with shopkeepers on the square with special sales, and a Christmas play.
Marlee goes overboard every year with decorating. With a little time off she accompanies her beau Kit, to the train display and runs into Gillian, who has found a body on a bench.
Even with all she has on her plate she wonders about the dead man. Even getting dragged into the play to replace him can't stop her from wondering if it was foul play.
She does find her suspicions justified and tries to snoop, putting a big target on her back.
Ms. Farrow's eclectic cast of characters playing against her 'normal' folk make this little intrigue lots of fun. Everett Hostetter wasn't beloved or young, but didn't deserve to die like that...or did he?
This twisted mystery will have you reluctant to put it down until you found out who...and then why.
I requested and received a NetGalley ARC to peruse and offer my opinion freely.
Marlee goes overboard every year with decorating. With a little time off she accompanies her beau Kit, to the train display and runs into Gillian, who has found a body on a bench.
Even with all she has on her plate she wonders about the dead man. Even getting dragged into the play to replace him can't stop her from wondering if it was foul play.
She does find her suspicions justified and tries to snoop, putting a big target on her back.
Ms. Farrow's eclectic cast of characters playing against her 'normal' folk make this little intrigue lots of fun. Everett Hostetter wasn't beloved or young, but didn't deserve to die like that...or did he?
This twisted mystery will have you reluctant to put it down until you found out who...and then why.
I requested and received a NetGalley ARC to peruse and offer my opinion freely.
December 18, 2020
DNF. This book was just to confusing to me. Too many characters mentioned pretty much all at once. I didn't feel a connection to any of them. Maybe I will go back and read the first in the series and go from there. I need more background info. on these characters before reading this one further.
December 5, 2020
Very cute story!!
December 3, 2020
Another delightful mystery in Oriole Point
The berry basket mysteries deliver drama, humor, fellowship and knowledge. The realistic characters are clever, intelligent, funny and loving residents joined together by friendship and life in a small town and they all contribute to the solving of the mystery. I recommend this series to everyone.
The berry basket mysteries deliver drama, humor, fellowship and knowledge. The realistic characters are clever, intelligent, funny and loving residents joined together by friendship and life in a small town and they all contribute to the solving of the mystery. I recommend this series to everyone.
December 18, 2020
Marlee Jacob lives in Oriole Point, Michigan, and owns The Berry Basket, a shop with all things connected to berries of all varieties. It's nearing Christmas, and she's decorated the shop to within an inch of its life -- leaving barely enough room for employees and customers to move through, much to the consternation of her employees.
Marlee is attending a model train show with her boyfriend Kit, a homicide detective, when her employee Gillian runs up to her to tell her that she's found a dead man. When Marlee investigates, she discovers that the elderly man is indeed dead, holding a bag of gingerbread men, with crumbs around his mouth. While everyone agrees that he died of old age, Marlee isn't sure about that...especially when she discovers that his relatives might have wanted him out of the way and his attorney thinks so, too.
It seems Everett Hostetter was not a likable man. Unfortunately, he also played Jacob Marley in the local production of A Christmas Carol for years in return for funding the theater. When Marlee is pressed into accepting the role, she suddenly becomes a target. But is it due to the fact that she's asking questions, or the fact that she might actually be getting closer to the answer?...
This is the fifth book in the series and in my estimation the best of the lot. Marlee has a temporary house guest in Natasha, her Russian friend, who sold her home and is awaiting her condo to be finished, and is a hoot in this book. Piper is back to being her usual self, obsessed and crazed, but for some odd reason I still enjoy having her around. But being the holiday, everyone is is busy, and Marlee more so with her added 'appearance' in the play and being nagged by the other actors to learn her lines.
But what's bothering her most is that she knows Everett was murdered, and now she needs to find out why, considering he was ninety-five and probably didn't have many years left anyway. What ensues is a tale of greed and more greed, all perpetrated by several people who may have been the sole heir to his considerable fortune. But finding out the correct person may not be as easy as she thinks, and when she starts looking into their pasts, she discovers they all had a reason to want him gone.
We still have the Christmas season interspersed in the story, so it feels like the holiday along with the mystery itself. I really enjoyed this story and the direction that it's taking everyone's lives, and I do like all Marlee's friends as well. When the murderer is discovered, it comes as a bit of a surprise, but a good one at that (and I won't say why but anyone who's read my reviews will figure it out soon enough). In the end, everything comes together nicely and I look forward to the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but it in no way influenced my review.
Marlee is attending a model train show with her boyfriend Kit, a homicide detective, when her employee Gillian runs up to her to tell her that she's found a dead man. When Marlee investigates, she discovers that the elderly man is indeed dead, holding a bag of gingerbread men, with crumbs around his mouth. While everyone agrees that he died of old age, Marlee isn't sure about that...especially when she discovers that his relatives might have wanted him out of the way and his attorney thinks so, too.
It seems Everett Hostetter was not a likable man. Unfortunately, he also played Jacob Marley in the local production of A Christmas Carol for years in return for funding the theater. When Marlee is pressed into accepting the role, she suddenly becomes a target. But is it due to the fact that she's asking questions, or the fact that she might actually be getting closer to the answer?...
This is the fifth book in the series and in my estimation the best of the lot. Marlee has a temporary house guest in Natasha, her Russian friend, who sold her home and is awaiting her condo to be finished, and is a hoot in this book. Piper is back to being her usual self, obsessed and crazed, but for some odd reason I still enjoy having her around. But being the holiday, everyone is is busy, and Marlee more so with her added 'appearance' in the play and being nagged by the other actors to learn her lines.
But what's bothering her most is that she knows Everett was murdered, and now she needs to find out why, considering he was ninety-five and probably didn't have many years left anyway. What ensues is a tale of greed and more greed, all perpetrated by several people who may have been the sole heir to his considerable fortune. But finding out the correct person may not be as easy as she thinks, and when she starts looking into their pasts, she discovers they all had a reason to want him gone.
We still have the Christmas season interspersed in the story, so it feels like the holiday along with the mystery itself. I really enjoyed this story and the direction that it's taking everyone's lives, and I do like all Marlee's friends as well. When the murderer is discovered, it comes as a bit of a surprise, but a good one at that (and I won't say why but anyone who's read my reviews will figure it out soon enough). In the end, everything comes together nicely and I look forward to the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but it in no way influenced my review.
October 21, 2020
Trying to read in the weeks leading up and after oral surgery is not easy, at least not for me, and I feel super sad about not being able to get this review posted.
This book is the fifth installment of the Berry Basket Series, which features Marlee Jacob as the proprietor of the Berry Basket shop.
Hollyberry Homicide is really an amazing cozy that revolves around a small town's production of A Christmas Carol. The classic tale plays a huge part in the plot and as part of the plot of this story.
Everret Hostetter is the wealthy old man that is found dead at the start of the novel. He's also the actor that plays Jacob Marley in Oriole Point's production of A Christmas Carol. Now at 95 years old, most think that he simply died of old age, but then Marlee feeds one of the gingerbread cookies he had with him to a squirrel. When that critter up and dies, she knows there's more to his death than just old age.
Its a shame the local PD isn't taking her seriously, but that doesn't stop her from wanting to find out how he really died, all the while preparing for Hollyberry Festival and taking over Everret's part in the play. (She's not doing too well with the play)
Ms. Farrow does a wonderful job with her usual cast of characters and the list of possible killers that all have a chance at profiting from Everret's death. There are quite a few of them an let's just say Everret didn't lead the best of lives. So this old guy had few friends and he also knew to keep his enemies close.
When one of his only friends (and his attorney) also ends up dead, Marlee is sure there is more to both of these deaths.
I really loved how everything was tied together and a nice touch of drama at the end to wrap the story up.
If you love cozy mysteries with a whole lot of Christmas spirit (pun intended) this is definitely the book for you.
This book is the fifth installment of the Berry Basket Series, which features Marlee Jacob as the proprietor of the Berry Basket shop.
Hollyberry Homicide is really an amazing cozy that revolves around a small town's production of A Christmas Carol. The classic tale plays a huge part in the plot and as part of the plot of this story.
Everret Hostetter is the wealthy old man that is found dead at the start of the novel. He's also the actor that plays Jacob Marley in Oriole Point's production of A Christmas Carol. Now at 95 years old, most think that he simply died of old age, but then Marlee feeds one of the gingerbread cookies he had with him to a squirrel. When that critter up and dies, she knows there's more to his death than just old age.
Its a shame the local PD isn't taking her seriously, but that doesn't stop her from wanting to find out how he really died, all the while preparing for Hollyberry Festival and taking over Everret's part in the play. (She's not doing too well with the play)
Ms. Farrow does a wonderful job with her usual cast of characters and the list of possible killers that all have a chance at profiting from Everret's death. There are quite a few of them an let's just say Everret didn't lead the best of lives. So this old guy had few friends and he also knew to keep his enemies close.
When one of his only friends (and his attorney) also ends up dead, Marlee is sure there is more to both of these deaths.
I really loved how everything was tied together and a nice touch of drama at the end to wrap the story up.
If you love cozy mysteries with a whole lot of Christmas spirit (pun intended) this is definitely the book for you.
November 12, 2020
Hollyberry Homicide, the 5th book in the Berry Basket Mystery series, is an entertaining Christmas read and a welcomed addition to this series. One of the reasons I enjoy this series so much is that it is set in my home state. I always find it to be fun reading a book where I can recognize the places, both named and described when the book is set in my home state. The author does a wonderful job of creating a fictional town that is quintessential small-town Western Michigan. The characters are well-written and developing well. The series as a whole has hit its stride and when I pick up a new installment I feel like I'm taking a drive across the state to visit friends.
The mystery is well done. The victim was a grumpy, elderly citizen who is found deceased outside of the train museum. Even though the victim was well into his 90's, Marlee is a bit suspicious even if no one else in town finds his death suspicious. There are a lot of secrets that come to light in this book (which I won't divulge so as not to spoil the fun for other readers). Those secrets were dropped slowly throughout the book and culminated in a climactic reveal. Along the way, Marlee finds that this Christmas (and her birthday) was more than she might have bargained for.
This is a terrific series and always a quick read for me because I just get lost in the story while enjoying the entertainment each new book brings. I will definitely back for any future books in this series.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley. The opinions are my own.
The mystery is well done. The victim was a grumpy, elderly citizen who is found deceased outside of the train museum. Even though the victim was well into his 90's, Marlee is a bit suspicious even if no one else in town finds his death suspicious. There are a lot of secrets that come to light in this book (which I won't divulge so as not to spoil the fun for other readers). Those secrets were dropped slowly throughout the book and culminated in a climactic reveal. Along the way, Marlee finds that this Christmas (and her birthday) was more than she might have bargained for.
This is a terrific series and always a quick read for me because I just get lost in the story while enjoying the entertainment each new book brings. I will definitely back for any future books in this series.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley. The opinions are my own.
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