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Canine Confections Mystery #1
Paws for Concern
Life is good for Samantha Armstrong. She left her cheating boyfriend, settled into her cozy cottage on her Aunt Mary’s Palm Beach estate and is finally opening Canine Confections, her dream dog bakery on the ritzy Worth Avenue. But Samantha’s happy new life goes doggone crazy when Palm Beach resident and pastry shop owner Whitney Goodwin is found dead on Canine Confections’ floor, whisking Samantha into the middle of a murder investigation. The only bright spot is that she finds herself adopting Whitney’s loveable dog Sweet Pea. As the killer strikes again, it’s obvious that the shopkeepers on Worth Avenue are the target. Samantha’s impatience won’t let sleeping dogs lie. She takes it upon herself to move things along by padding around town with Sweet Pea and sniffing out clues to clear her name and Canine Confections’ reputation—before it is too late … Includes a recipe from Chef Sarah Deters at the test kitchen of Three Dog Bakery, the original bakery for dogs!
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2020
59 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Amy Hueston
7 books93 followersMy Canine Confections Puzzle Book uses clues from Paws for Concern, the 1st in the Canine Confections series - the 2 books go hand in hand. If you want a chance to win a free print copy of BOTH, comment below by July 15 with one of the following subjects and I'll have my dog stick his nose in a hat with your names to choose the winner:
Sunshine
Dogs
Dog bakeries
Palm Beach
Mansions
Murder
Puzzles
Cozy items
Happy endings
Delicious desserts
Cats
Solving myseries or puzzles
Recipes
Something that makes you happy
Sunshine
Dogs
Dog bakeries
Palm Beach
Mansions
Murder
Puzzles
Cozy items
Happy endings
Delicious desserts
Cats
Solving myseries or puzzles
Recipes
Something that makes you happy
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 2, 2020
A pawsitively delightful first in the new Canine Confections cozy series. A light, fast-moving mystery with lots of cute pets that can be read in a couple of hours time. Protagonist Samantha Armstrong is anxious to open her dog treat bakery, Canine Confections; however, a corpse on the floor of the main room puts that on hold! Sam doesn’t waste a minute adopting the decedent’s rescue dog, Sweet Pea, since a dog is on her wish list. In between cautiously questioning her business neighbors for morsels of information on the dead woman, Sam enjoys the beach which is only steps away. The author provides a recipe for readers to make for their own pets? I’m looking forward to enjoying the next story from this new-to-me author.
May 10, 2021
I enjoyed the setting, Palm Beach, FL, for this new cozy mystery series as I appreciate a book set near an ocean. I liked Samantha and her Aunt Mary and the other shop owners along Worth Avenue, Bethany, Rick, as well as Tracey and Detective Trumble were not only supportive of Samantha but were integral to the story through both their dialogues and their interactions with Samantha. A few twists, only a limited number of suspects and a sweet rescue dog made this a fun read.
October 28, 2020
Samantha Armstrong starts the grand opening of her new dog bakery with a dead body in her lobby. In no time at all, it appears as if every potential customer in Palm Beach knows more about the murder than she does. Snarky shop owners, snoopy reporters, and the local police detective all seem to think that just because she is an outsider, she has to be the murderer. Customers are more interested in seeing the scene of the crime than spoiling their pooches. She has her work cut for her if she is going to build her business up.
Aside from Sam (who is a great heroine for this series), Aunt Mary is my favorite character in this book. In addition to her hard belief in Sam’s abilities, she is just an interesting person. Pup, Sweet Pea, is just a sweetie and makes a great foil for snooping around the shops. The dichotomy between the haves and the have-nots in this story distills beautifully into the fact that despite the size of the bank account, everyone has the same dreams and desires. I look forward to meeting these characters again in the future.
I am not ashamed to say that I did not figure out the killer. It doesn’t happen that often. I did entertain the notion of that person early on but waited for more to become clear. All in all, it was a fun little mystery that makes great use of canine pals and creamy confections.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Aside from Sam (who is a great heroine for this series), Aunt Mary is my favorite character in this book. In addition to her hard belief in Sam’s abilities, she is just an interesting person. Pup, Sweet Pea, is just a sweetie and makes a great foil for snooping around the shops. The dichotomy between the haves and the have-nots in this story distills beautifully into the fact that despite the size of the bank account, everyone has the same dreams and desires. I look forward to meeting these characters again in the future.
I am not ashamed to say that I did not figure out the killer. It doesn’t happen that often. I did entertain the notion of that person early on but waited for more to become clear. All in all, it was a fun little mystery that makes great use of canine pals and creamy confections.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 24, 2021
Synopsis:
Life is good for Samantha Armstrong. She left her cheating boyfriend, settled into her cozy cottage on her Aunt Mary’s Palm Beach estate and is finally opening Canine Confections, her dream dog bakery on the ritzy Worth Avenue.
But Samantha’s happy new life goes doggone crazy when Palm Beach resident and pastry shop owner Whitney Goodwin is found dead on Canine Confections’ floor, whisking Samantha into the middle of a murder investigation. The only bright spot is that she finds herself adopting Whitney’s loveable dog Sweet Pea.
As the killer strikes again, it’s obvious that the shopkeepers on Worth Avenue are the target. Samantha’s impatience won’t let sleeping dogs lie. She takes it upon herself to move things along by padding around town with Sweet Pea and sniffing out clues to clear her name and Canine Confections’ reputation—before it is too late …
Includes a recipe from Chef Sarah Deters at the test kitchen of Three Dog Bakery, the original bakery for dogs! (Amazon)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I enjoyed getting to meet Samantha and her Aunt Mary. Although her aunt has money, she does not flaunt it and is very down to earth. Samantha had benefited from Aunt Mary’s money because she was able to open her dog bakery, Canine Confections. But just as she is about to open her bakery, Samantha finds a dead body in there. Now Samantha has to find the killer so she can open the bakery and put the murder behind her. She will have some help from Tracy, a wanna-be reporter and her employee, and Sweet Pea, the victim’s dog.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The author's descriptions of Palm Beach made the area come alive in my mind’s eye. The mystery was well plotted and held my interest throughout the book. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
Life is good for Samantha Armstrong. She left her cheating boyfriend, settled into her cozy cottage on her Aunt Mary’s Palm Beach estate and is finally opening Canine Confections, her dream dog bakery on the ritzy Worth Avenue.
But Samantha’s happy new life goes doggone crazy when Palm Beach resident and pastry shop owner Whitney Goodwin is found dead on Canine Confections’ floor, whisking Samantha into the middle of a murder investigation. The only bright spot is that she finds herself adopting Whitney’s loveable dog Sweet Pea.
As the killer strikes again, it’s obvious that the shopkeepers on Worth Avenue are the target. Samantha’s impatience won’t let sleeping dogs lie. She takes it upon herself to move things along by padding around town with Sweet Pea and sniffing out clues to clear her name and Canine Confections’ reputation—before it is too late …
Includes a recipe from Chef Sarah Deters at the test kitchen of Three Dog Bakery, the original bakery for dogs! (Amazon)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I enjoyed getting to meet Samantha and her Aunt Mary. Although her aunt has money, she does not flaunt it and is very down to earth. Samantha had benefited from Aunt Mary’s money because she was able to open her dog bakery, Canine Confections. But just as she is about to open her bakery, Samantha finds a dead body in there. Now Samantha has to find the killer so she can open the bakery and put the murder behind her. She will have some help from Tracy, a wanna-be reporter and her employee, and Sweet Pea, the victim’s dog.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The author's descriptions of Palm Beach made the area come alive in my mind’s eye. The mystery was well plotted and held my interest throughout the book. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
June 20, 2021
This is the first book in the Canine Confections series. Samantha moves to Palm Beach to take care of our Aunt Mary and to open a doggie bakery on exclusive Worth Avenue. When a neighboring shop owner is found dead in the bakery, Sam must figure out who killed her, or her dream bakery will close before it even opens. I really enjoyed this book. Sam is a great main character, and I am anxious to see how her character develops as the series continues. I will definitely check out Book 2 in the series, Paws for Alarm.
I won an ebook copy of this book from the author in a Facebook contest. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I won an ebook copy of this book from the author in a Facebook contest. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 27, 2020
If you’re like me and think the cover for Paws for Concern is adorable, then you’ll probably find the story equally adorable – just like I did! From Samantha herself to Aunt Agatha to Detective Trimble to Sweet Pea the affectionate dog… and of course Tracy (who is a hot mess but so cute you can’t help but like her) … the characters settle in your heart and keep you chuckling.
I mean, poor Samantha. The grand opening of her dream bakery for dogs is completely overshadowed by a murder. In said bakery. On opening day. And as small towns are wont to do, gossip flies across the grapevine and pins Samantha as the murderer, threatening her shop, her life savings, and her aunt’s investment. This gives the reader an emotional connection to Samantha right away, and even though some of her decisions/actions didn’t make much sense you are still solidly in her corner. A bevy of suspects fill Worth Avenue, giving readers a taste of life among the Palm Beach elite and setting the stage nicely for future books in the series.
Bottom Line: Paws for Concern is a “doggone” delightful start to this new series, from the adorable cover to the very last page. Samantha is a mostly relatable heroine who doesn’t take too many unnecessary risks (as far as crime solving goes) and keeps readers engaged in where the plot will take her. A quirky but heartwarming cast of supporting characters and a romantical possibility rounds out the mix, and the culprit may not be as easy to figure out as it first appears. Fun & full of warmth!
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I borrowed via Kindle Unlimited.)
first appeared on Reading Is My SuperPower
I mean, poor Samantha. The grand opening of her dream bakery for dogs is completely overshadowed by a murder. In said bakery. On opening day. And as small towns are wont to do, gossip flies across the grapevine and pins Samantha as the murderer, threatening her shop, her life savings, and her aunt’s investment. This gives the reader an emotional connection to Samantha right away, and even though some of her decisions/actions didn’t make much sense you are still solidly in her corner. A bevy of suspects fill Worth Avenue, giving readers a taste of life among the Palm Beach elite and setting the stage nicely for future books in the series.
Bottom Line: Paws for Concern is a “doggone” delightful start to this new series, from the adorable cover to the very last page. Samantha is a mostly relatable heroine who doesn’t take too many unnecessary risks (as far as crime solving goes) and keeps readers engaged in where the plot will take her. A quirky but heartwarming cast of supporting characters and a romantical possibility rounds out the mix, and the culprit may not be as easy to figure out as it first appears. Fun & full of warmth!
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I borrowed via Kindle Unlimited.)
first appeared on Reading Is My SuperPower
September 14, 2020
Paws for Concern by Amy Hueston is the first book in the Canine Confections Mysteries and it was a fun look at a rich and famous world I will never be part of, Palm Beach. Paws for Concern would be a great beach read or when you want a light, entertaining read.
I enjoyed getting a peek into all the fancy stores and the art gallery on Worth Avenue. Many of the owners were a bit snotty, but there were a couple that seemed a bit more down to earth… even if they almost all had a trust fund.
It’s a good thing that a reporter for the local gossip rag shows up to get a story on Canine Confections’ Grand Opening, otherwise Samantha wouldn’t have had someone to watch the store while she was off chasing down leads and interrogating her fellow shop owners. It may make Samantha seem a bit naive trusting Tracy so quickly, but there is just something about Tracy that makes her so lovable. I am looking forward to more scenes with Samantha and Tracy.
I also really liked how in most cozies the police officer/detective/lawyer/reporter is the protagonist’s love interest, but in Paws for Concern it happens to be Sam’s aunt’s. This was a fun way to change it up, show some romance between older people, and still have someone that Samantha can go to for help if need be… and you know she’s going to need it!
The killer was easy for me to guess very early on, but one doesn’t read cozies for the mystery alone, but for the community, location, and career/hobbies too. A great start to the Canine Confections Mysteries and I am looking forward to more in the series.
I enjoyed getting a peek into all the fancy stores and the art gallery on Worth Avenue. Many of the owners were a bit snotty, but there were a couple that seemed a bit more down to earth… even if they almost all had a trust fund.
It’s a good thing that a reporter for the local gossip rag shows up to get a story on Canine Confections’ Grand Opening, otherwise Samantha wouldn’t have had someone to watch the store while she was off chasing down leads and interrogating her fellow shop owners. It may make Samantha seem a bit naive trusting Tracy so quickly, but there is just something about Tracy that makes her so lovable. I am looking forward to more scenes with Samantha and Tracy.
I also really liked how in most cozies the police officer/detective/lawyer/reporter is the protagonist’s love interest, but in Paws for Concern it happens to be Sam’s aunt’s. This was a fun way to change it up, show some romance between older people, and still have someone that Samantha can go to for help if need be… and you know she’s going to need it!
The killer was easy for me to guess very early on, but one doesn’t read cozies for the mystery alone, but for the community, location, and career/hobbies too. A great start to the Canine Confections Mysteries and I am looking forward to more in the series.
May 6, 2021
I discovered this book thanks to a book club takeover by the author, Amy Hueston. This is the first of a cozy series featuring Samantha Armstrong and her new business, Canine Confections, a dog baker.
I never knew there was such a thing, but there is and it’s the scene of a murder that totally throws off her grand opening. Samantha, wanting her new business to be a success, jumps into the fray with a handful of neighboring shop owners, to find out whodunnit while at the same time fending off tourists interested in visiting the site of a murder.
The characters are fun and quirky, especially her Aunt Mary who owns a beautiful house - complete with guest cottage - in town and is more than happy to keep things interesting
Enter Mr. Sexy Stubble, the owner of the nearby pet supplies store and you have the makings of a fun mystery, one I didn’t solve until the author wanted to solve it.
I already have book two and look forward to getting to know the characters better, including Samantha’s adopted dog, Sweet Pea.
This is a great summer read and yes - it’s early May, but pick it up! It’s a fun read!
I never knew there was such a thing, but there is and it’s the scene of a murder that totally throws off her grand opening. Samantha, wanting her new business to be a success, jumps into the fray with a handful of neighboring shop owners, to find out whodunnit while at the same time fending off tourists interested in visiting the site of a murder.
The characters are fun and quirky, especially her Aunt Mary who owns a beautiful house - complete with guest cottage - in town and is more than happy to keep things interesting
Enter Mr. Sexy Stubble, the owner of the nearby pet supplies store and you have the makings of a fun mystery, one I didn’t solve until the author wanted to solve it.
I already have book two and look forward to getting to know the characters better, including Samantha’s adopted dog, Sweet Pea.
This is a great summer read and yes - it’s early May, but pick it up! It’s a fun read!
December 9, 2020
Loved this cozy
I am delighted to discover a new cozy mystery author! Paws For Concern grabbed my interest from the beginning and held it until the end. I loved the idea of a doggy bakery, and then on opening day to have a body in the floor when Samantha arrived to open up--I really felt for her. Samantha was a strong character with great sleuthing abilities. And her dog, Sweet Pea!
This is a book cozy mystery readers will love!
I am delighted to discover a new cozy mystery author! Paws For Concern grabbed my interest from the beginning and held it until the end. I loved the idea of a doggy bakery, and then on opening day to have a body in the floor when Samantha arrived to open up--I really felt for her. Samantha was a strong character with great sleuthing abilities. And her dog, Sweet Pea!
This is a book cozy mystery readers will love!
April 13, 2021
I absolutely loved everything about this book from the moment I picked it up. I hated to set it aside for things like eating and sleeping. This has everything a cozy mystery should have: a small community, a dog (actually, lots of dogs), a main character who's moved from somewhere else to start fresh, lots of twists and turns, a lot of humor, no sex, no on-the-page violence, and no bad language.
I love the setting, the main character, her aunt, her dog, and the fact that she owns a dog bakery. Congratulations to the author, Amy Hueston, on writing such an engaging and un-put-downable story.
I love the setting, the main character, her aunt, her dog, and the fact that she owns a dog bakery. Congratulations to the author, Amy Hueston, on writing such an engaging and un-put-downable story.
February 22, 2021
Samantha Armstrong has a a dog bakery shop Canine Cofections. Her Aunt Mary has invested in it.Whitney , Rick, Tracy Martha and Bethany are longtime friends. Samantha is new to town she wants t o make friends. Whitney comes in Samantha dog bakery and says people don't want you here.. After awhile Whitney is murdered in Canine Confections dog bakery.. Who wanted Sam out of her dog shop. And who wanted Whitney dead. Sam keeps Sweet Pea after Sam finds her in shop with her dead owner
November 2, 2020
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
what an adorable new cozy series this is! We meet Samantha as she is living in Palm Beach helping out her Aunt while also gearing up to open her brand new doggy bakery. The day of the Grand Opening she arrives early only to find the owner of a close by bakery dead on her floor. This derails everything and when the cops won't tell her anything she starts asking questions hoping to save her new business. Add in an adorable rescue dog named Sweet Pea on top of clues all over the place plus a few surprise twists to get a fun cozy that will make it easy to read your day away. A great fit for fans of cozies that have a strong animal element to them. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
what an adorable new cozy series this is! We meet Samantha as she is living in Palm Beach helping out her Aunt while also gearing up to open her brand new doggy bakery. The day of the Grand Opening she arrives early only to find the owner of a close by bakery dead on her floor. This derails everything and when the cops won't tell her anything she starts asking questions hoping to save her new business. Add in an adorable rescue dog named Sweet Pea on top of clues all over the place plus a few surprise twists to get a fun cozy that will make it easy to read your day away. A great fit for fans of cozies that have a strong animal element to them. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
August 30, 2021
Kindle freebie at the time of download. My review reflects my own opinion of the book and is not affected by the giveaway.
Samantha is about to finally realize her dream of opening a dog bakery. After catching her boyfriend with her supposed best friend and her Aunt Mary had knee surgery, Samantha quit her job at Debbie's Bakery and moved to Palm Beach to stay on her Aunt Mary's estate and open a bakery. Next on her to-do list comes actually adopting a dog! First she has to get through the grand opening of her store. Samantha is all set for success- if Aunt Mary doesn't eat all the inventory. Then Whitney Goodwin, the owner of the neighborhood patisserie stops by to warn Samantha that not everyone is happy about her new business. At least Whitney's dog, Sweet Pea, is friendly. Awake early on opening day, Samantha arrives at her bakery to discover Whitney's dead body lying on the bakery floor, bashed in the head with Samantha's rolling pin and Sweet Pea stuck in the back of the shop! Samantha wants justice for Whitney and Sweet Pea but worries her business will be impacted when she becomes the target of malicious gossip and horrible pranks. She gets tired of waiting for the detective to do his job so she decides to just ask a few little questions. When someone else gets hurt, Samantha knows it's time to catch a killer but can she figure it out before another person is killed?
This mystery is light and simple. It reads like a YA book, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but not what I was expecting. The mystery kept me guessing but I did end up figuring it out before Samantha did. I didn't care for the ultra wealthy Palm Beach setting. Estates and snooty rich people are better left in the 19th-century where they belong. I loved the bakery and all the yummy treats for pups. The recipe included in the back sounds better for people than dogs because of the white flour and berries. I don't know any dogs that LIKE berries! The peanut butter and carob bars sound more appealing to my furry friend. If I were going to open a dog bakery, it would be take out only for dogs and no espresso (yuck), no people treats, no sitting because I'm not cleaning up after someone else's dog! IF I were going to run a dog cafe with people treats, I'd partner with other local businesses to have a deal where I serve their coffee and baked goods or give out coupons for a combo. Problem solved, end of story LOL!
Samantha is an OK character. She's a bit too sunny and optimistic for my personal taste but I like how it means she's determined not to quit and how she has compassion for the victim and victim's family. Her personality also makes her a great new mom to Sweet Pea, who is my favorite character. She's just ADORABLE and like Samantha, I want to squeeze her! Samantha knows a lot about dogs and training dogs. I really appreciate how she handled the strange dogs that came in to the bakery and kept them and Sweet Pea from getting hurt. She handled things better than just saying "Be nice!" which I myself am guilty of. Aunt Mary is lovable but drove me crazy with her lack of worldly knowledge. Is she sure Uncle Joseph handled everything? Has she checked out her financial adviser to make sure he's doing the right thing? The state of her finances is worrisome and bears looking into. I didn't like how wealthy she is but unlike some of the other people, she wasn't born to it. She needs a little extra help because of her knee surgery but it sounds like she had a personal assistant and a chef all along and takes this lifestyle for granted.
The other business owners on Worth Avenue are not super pleasant people. Whitney sounds a little mean girlish but she's a dog mom so she can't be all that bad. When we get to know more about her, she doesn't seem like she was the most pleasant person in the world but she didn't deserve to me murdered. I think her parents truly loved her and are in shock over what happened. That's heartbreaking and pretty much one of the few times I've read that grief. Usually I prefer my victims to be so nasty everyone wanted them dead! Whitney's assistant Martha is also mean girlish without the social cachet. She's a talented baker but doesn't appear to have the people skills to manage the business. Perhaps she should stick to baking. Bethany, the gallery owner next door, is awful! Her personality is akin to sucking on a lemon and she is nothing but rude to Samantha. It's not Samantha's fault if customers aren't looking at Bethany's gallery sheesh! She doesn't FORCE anyone to stop and linger over espresso and dog treats. Rick aka Mr. Sexy Stubble, owns the pet supply shop. Could he be jealous of the pet bakery? He's slick and a charmer but I don't trust him. I don't think he has reason to be jealous.
Other characters include Tracy, an eager young reporter who arrives a day early to report on the bakery's opening day. Tracy has an incredible eye for interior decorating and setting up display cases. Unfortunately, that's where her talent ends. She isn't good at her job, lacks the killer shark instinct to write for a tabloid and is just too sweet. Tracy is unbelievable naïve and not all that intelligent - unless it's all an act. Perhaps she's undercover as the bumbling blond to get the inside scoop on Samantha. Detective Trumble is a casual, laid-back, beachy sort of person. What on earth is he doing leading up a homicide investigation? He doesn't seem to be quick or efficient. He's close to retirement and motivated to clear this one up quickly. Has he settled on Samantha as the most likely killer? He's sort of seeing her aunt so I hope not! That would be the end to that relationship. Personally, he seems to be a good guy but professionally? He may not be that great at his job. The responding officer and other people indicate the town is pretty sleepy and nothing like this has happened before.
I recommend this to cozy mystery fans who want something to share with their children/grandchildren, etc. because it's a good, nice introduction to cozy mysteries for a teen or younger adult.
Samantha is about to finally realize her dream of opening a dog bakery. After catching her boyfriend with her supposed best friend and her Aunt Mary had knee surgery, Samantha quit her job at Debbie's Bakery and moved to Palm Beach to stay on her Aunt Mary's estate and open a bakery. Next on her to-do list comes actually adopting a dog! First she has to get through the grand opening of her store. Samantha is all set for success- if Aunt Mary doesn't eat all the inventory. Then Whitney Goodwin, the owner of the neighborhood patisserie stops by to warn Samantha that not everyone is happy about her new business. At least Whitney's dog, Sweet Pea, is friendly. Awake early on opening day, Samantha arrives at her bakery to discover Whitney's dead body lying on the bakery floor, bashed in the head with Samantha's rolling pin and Sweet Pea stuck in the back of the shop! Samantha wants justice for Whitney and Sweet Pea but worries her business will be impacted when she becomes the target of malicious gossip and horrible pranks. She gets tired of waiting for the detective to do his job so she decides to just ask a few little questions. When someone else gets hurt, Samantha knows it's time to catch a killer but can she figure it out before another person is killed?
This mystery is light and simple. It reads like a YA book, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but not what I was expecting. The mystery kept me guessing but I did end up figuring it out before Samantha did. I didn't care for the ultra wealthy Palm Beach setting. Estates and snooty rich people are better left in the 19th-century where they belong. I loved the bakery and all the yummy treats for pups. The recipe included in the back sounds better for people than dogs because of the white flour and berries. I don't know any dogs that LIKE berries! The peanut butter and carob bars sound more appealing to my furry friend. If I were going to open a dog bakery, it would be take out only for dogs and no espresso (yuck), no people treats, no sitting because I'm not cleaning up after someone else's dog! IF I were going to run a dog cafe with people treats, I'd partner with other local businesses to have a deal where I serve their coffee and baked goods or give out coupons for a combo. Problem solved, end of story LOL!
Samantha is an OK character. She's a bit too sunny and optimistic for my personal taste but I like how it means she's determined not to quit and how she has compassion for the victim and victim's family. Her personality also makes her a great new mom to Sweet Pea, who is my favorite character. She's just ADORABLE and like Samantha, I want to squeeze her! Samantha knows a lot about dogs and training dogs. I really appreciate how she handled the strange dogs that came in to the bakery and kept them and Sweet Pea from getting hurt. She handled things better than just saying "Be nice!" which I myself am guilty of. Aunt Mary is lovable but drove me crazy with her lack of worldly knowledge. Is she sure Uncle Joseph handled everything? Has she checked out her financial adviser to make sure he's doing the right thing? The state of her finances is worrisome and bears looking into. I didn't like how wealthy she is but unlike some of the other people, she wasn't born to it. She needs a little extra help because of her knee surgery but it sounds like she had a personal assistant and a chef all along and takes this lifestyle for granted.
The other business owners on Worth Avenue are not super pleasant people. Whitney sounds a little mean girlish but she's a dog mom so she can't be all that bad. When we get to know more about her, she doesn't seem like she was the most pleasant person in the world but she didn't deserve to me murdered. I think her parents truly loved her and are in shock over what happened. That's heartbreaking and pretty much one of the few times I've read that grief. Usually I prefer my victims to be so nasty everyone wanted them dead! Whitney's assistant Martha is also mean girlish without the social cachet. She's a talented baker but doesn't appear to have the people skills to manage the business. Perhaps she should stick to baking. Bethany, the gallery owner next door, is awful! Her personality is akin to sucking on a lemon and she is nothing but rude to Samantha. It's not Samantha's fault if customers aren't looking at Bethany's gallery sheesh! She doesn't FORCE anyone to stop and linger over espresso and dog treats. Rick aka Mr. Sexy Stubble, owns the pet supply shop. Could he be jealous of the pet bakery? He's slick and a charmer but I don't trust him. I don't think he has reason to be jealous.
Other characters include Tracy, an eager young reporter who arrives a day early to report on the bakery's opening day. Tracy has an incredible eye for interior decorating and setting up display cases. Unfortunately, that's where her talent ends. She isn't good at her job, lacks the killer shark instinct to write for a tabloid and is just too sweet. Tracy is unbelievable naïve and not all that intelligent - unless it's all an act. Perhaps she's undercover as the bumbling blond to get the inside scoop on Samantha. Detective Trumble is a casual, laid-back, beachy sort of person. What on earth is he doing leading up a homicide investigation? He doesn't seem to be quick or efficient. He's close to retirement and motivated to clear this one up quickly. Has he settled on Samantha as the most likely killer? He's sort of seeing her aunt so I hope not! That would be the end to that relationship. Personally, he seems to be a good guy but professionally? He may not be that great at his job. The responding officer and other people indicate the town is pretty sleepy and nothing like this has happened before.
I recommend this to cozy mystery fans who want something to share with their children/grandchildren, etc. because it's a good, nice introduction to cozy mysteries for a teen or younger adult.
September 14, 2021
Book One in the Canine Confections series starts off with a murder when canine bakery owner Samantha Armstrong finds a dead body on her shop floor right before the grand opening. Needing to make a success of the store that was funded by her aunt’s generosity, she sets out to investigate the other shopkeepers on ritzy Worth Avenue. She’s aided in her efforts by her dog, Sweet Pea, and possibly by the handsome pet supply owner down the block. Or is he a suspect? The detective on the case warns her to be careful, especially after several other incidents point to Samantha as the next target. But she’s determined to track the killer even if it puts her own life at risk. This charming debut is witty and fun and cast against the glamorous backdrop of Palm Beach. It’ll have you panting for a treat in terms of the sequel.
November 1, 2020
PAWS FOR CONCERN by Amy Hueston
The First Canine Confections Mystery
Bankrolled by her wealthy aunt, Samantha Armstrong is ready to open her canine bakery among the swanky stores in Palm Beach, Florida. With fake smiles and whiffs of condescension, Samantha isn't greeted with open arms. Instead of a grand opening she's met with a dead body in her shop. What was the owner of the patisserie doing in her bakery and who would want to kill her? Does someone want to run Samantha out of business before she even begins? Could someone be targeting the merchants on Worth Avenue? Is the killer one of their own? With the friendliest dog ever, Samantha is determined to save her business, and her aunt's investment, even if it means confronting a killer.
I enjoyed my first foray into Palm Beach with Samantha. I love the concept of an elegant pastry shop for dogs, and while her fellow shop keepers may not agree, I think it's a perfect fit for the neighborhood. Samantha is a likable protagonist. While she's a bit too trusting, she's aware of that fact and though she may have misgivings she still gives them the benefit of the doubt. I like the fact that her aunt is entertaining a romantic relationship with the detective and I adore Sweet Pea, the sweetest dog ever.
It's always interesting to catch glimpses of the lifestyles of the rich and famous and readers get to do just that in the first Canine Confections Mystery. I enjoy seeing how the other half lives, with gated mansions, cocktail hour, and servants. Even trust fund babies have business issues and it's interesting to see how power and connections work in this close knit community.
PAWS FOR CONCERN is a quick fun read. Several suspects and a questionable motive make for a puzzling mystery, although I admit to being pretty sure of the killer's identity prior to things clicking into place for Samantha. I look forward to seeing further developments at Canine Confections and getting to know the Palm Beach elite even better.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me an e-copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
The First Canine Confections Mystery
Bankrolled by her wealthy aunt, Samantha Armstrong is ready to open her canine bakery among the swanky stores in Palm Beach, Florida. With fake smiles and whiffs of condescension, Samantha isn't greeted with open arms. Instead of a grand opening she's met with a dead body in her shop. What was the owner of the patisserie doing in her bakery and who would want to kill her? Does someone want to run Samantha out of business before she even begins? Could someone be targeting the merchants on Worth Avenue? Is the killer one of their own? With the friendliest dog ever, Samantha is determined to save her business, and her aunt's investment, even if it means confronting a killer.
I enjoyed my first foray into Palm Beach with Samantha. I love the concept of an elegant pastry shop for dogs, and while her fellow shop keepers may not agree, I think it's a perfect fit for the neighborhood. Samantha is a likable protagonist. While she's a bit too trusting, she's aware of that fact and though she may have misgivings she still gives them the benefit of the doubt. I like the fact that her aunt is entertaining a romantic relationship with the detective and I adore Sweet Pea, the sweetest dog ever.
It's always interesting to catch glimpses of the lifestyles of the rich and famous and readers get to do just that in the first Canine Confections Mystery. I enjoy seeing how the other half lives, with gated mansions, cocktail hour, and servants. Even trust fund babies have business issues and it's interesting to see how power and connections work in this close knit community.
PAWS FOR CONCERN is a quick fun read. Several suspects and a questionable motive make for a puzzling mystery, although I admit to being pretty sure of the killer's identity prior to things clicking into place for Samantha. I look forward to seeing further developments at Canine Confections and getting to know the Palm Beach elite even better.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me an e-copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
October 26, 2020
Paws for Concern by Amy Hueston has Samantha Armstrong opening Canine Confections in Palm Beach, Florida. On the day of her grand opening, Samantha arrives early to begin baking and finds Whitney Gooodwin, owner of Patisserie of Palm Beach, dead on the floor. With it being the consensus of the local shopkeepers that Samantha is the culprit, and the police investigation is slow going, Samantha decides to do a little sleuthing of her own. When another shop owner is attacked, Samantha decides to make a bold move to settle this case once and for all. Paws for Concern is the first A Canine Confections Mystery. This is a cute, lighthearted cozy mystery. I enjoyed the author’s descriptions of Palm Beach. She really brought the city alive for me. Samantha is a relatable and friendly protagonist. She whips up delicious treats that the dogs just lap up. I also liked Samantha’s Aunt Mary who made it possible for Samantha to open the dog bakery. Tracy, former reporter and Samantha’s new employee, is a happy-go-lucky individual who seems very naïve. She provided humor throughout the story as well as providing background information on the suspects to Samantha. Sweet Pea was the hit of the story. The investigation into the murder of Whitney Goodwin had a handful of suspects. Samantha questioned the various suspects and obtained background information on Whitney. Avid cozy mystery readers will not find the mystery challenging, but it is entertaining following Samantha and Sweet Pea as they search for the guilty party. I like that the whodunit was completely resolved at the end. It was a cute touch having Detective Trumble with a penchant for Tootsie Pops. Paws for Concern is an upbeat cozy mystery with scrummy canine confections, an altruistic aunt, the sociable Sweet Pea, suspicious shopkeepers, a disobliging detective, and a curious canine baker.
April 8, 2021
Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking on the link below. It is also posted in full.
https://novelsalive.com/2021/04/08/4-...
PAWS FOR CONCERN is the first book in the cozy mystery series, A CANINE CONFECTIONS MYSTERY. When Samantha moves to Palm Beach, Florida, to help care for her aunt after knee surgery, she gets more than she bargains for. Samantha’s living in the cottage on her aunt’s estate. It’s beachfront, and her aunt lives in the mansion with an elevator! I love how they spend time together and how they chat and share their day over their cocktail half-hour with mock cocktails each day. Her aunt sets her up with her dream job – owning a dog bakery in the ritzy shopping area – but she gets more than she bargains for on the day that should have been her grand opening! There’s a murder victim on the floor of her shop, and it’s the bakery owner whose shop is two doors down. She has no idea how Whitney would even be in her closed shop with her dog, Sweet Pea, whom Samantha quickly adopts with the blessing of the murder victim’s mother.
Samantha gets to know some of the other shop owners and tries to piece together what happened since many fingers seem to be pointed her way that she’s the murderer. Bad things continue to happen, and keep Samantha in touch with the detective in charge of the case. He wishes she’d let the police do their job instead of helping except when he’d like her take on things. Samantha hires Tracy, who was to cover the grand opening for the newspaper she works for, to help her in the shop. She’s quirky and has an artistic bent, and likes interior design, but many in town seem to have doubts about her. Tracy does seem to beat to her own drum. There are twists and turns to the story, as well as lots of dogs and dog treats. There are nice descriptions of the town, the estate, the shops, and the crimes committed. There is closure with a few loose ends and a twist at the end of whodunnit and why. There’s even a recipe for a dog treat at the back of the book.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series, PAWS FOR ALARM, and seeing what Samantha and her new friends are up to next. I liked everything about the enticing cover—the cute title, its playfulness, the setting, and the vivid colors.
https://novelsalive.com/2021/04/08/4-...
PAWS FOR CONCERN is the first book in the cozy mystery series, A CANINE CONFECTIONS MYSTERY. When Samantha moves to Palm Beach, Florida, to help care for her aunt after knee surgery, she gets more than she bargains for. Samantha’s living in the cottage on her aunt’s estate. It’s beachfront, and her aunt lives in the mansion with an elevator! I love how they spend time together and how they chat and share their day over their cocktail half-hour with mock cocktails each day. Her aunt sets her up with her dream job – owning a dog bakery in the ritzy shopping area – but she gets more than she bargains for on the day that should have been her grand opening! There’s a murder victim on the floor of her shop, and it’s the bakery owner whose shop is two doors down. She has no idea how Whitney would even be in her closed shop with her dog, Sweet Pea, whom Samantha quickly adopts with the blessing of the murder victim’s mother.
Samantha gets to know some of the other shop owners and tries to piece together what happened since many fingers seem to be pointed her way that she’s the murderer. Bad things continue to happen, and keep Samantha in touch with the detective in charge of the case. He wishes she’d let the police do their job instead of helping except when he’d like her take on things. Samantha hires Tracy, who was to cover the grand opening for the newspaper she works for, to help her in the shop. She’s quirky and has an artistic bent, and likes interior design, but many in town seem to have doubts about her. Tracy does seem to beat to her own drum. There are twists and turns to the story, as well as lots of dogs and dog treats. There are nice descriptions of the town, the estate, the shops, and the crimes committed. There is closure with a few loose ends and a twist at the end of whodunnit and why. There’s even a recipe for a dog treat at the back of the book.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series, PAWS FOR ALARM, and seeing what Samantha and her new friends are up to next. I liked everything about the enticing cover—the cute title, its playfulness, the setting, and the vivid colors.
September 16, 2020
If you like cozy mysteries--or simply enjoy reading a good book---you won't want to miss Paws for Concern, the first book in Amy Hueston's Canine Confections Mystery series. The novel is a quick, fun read that you won't want to put down once you begin.
Samantha Armstrong is ready for the grand opening of her dog bakery, Canine Confections, in Palm Beach when she discovers a body on the floor of her shop. She ends up in the thick of the investigation and becomes the proud owner of Sweet Pea, the deceased woman's dog. When another shopkeeper on the street is attacked, Samantha steps up her efforts to paste the clues together before another murder occurs.
You will find yourself right in the middle of the action with Samantha. You will love her wit and the bantering between her and the detective. And who wouldn't love an adorable dog like Sweet Pea? Amy Hueston has done a magnificent job of developing believable characters and creating a fast-moving plot. The humor is an extra-special bonus! Kudos, Amy, for a great five-star novel. I'm looking forward to Book #2!
Samantha Armstrong is ready for the grand opening of her dog bakery, Canine Confections, in Palm Beach when she discovers a body on the floor of her shop. She ends up in the thick of the investigation and becomes the proud owner of Sweet Pea, the deceased woman's dog. When another shopkeeper on the street is attacked, Samantha steps up her efforts to paste the clues together before another murder occurs.
You will find yourself right in the middle of the action with Samantha. You will love her wit and the bantering between her and the detective. And who wouldn't love an adorable dog like Sweet Pea? Amy Hueston has done a magnificent job of developing believable characters and creating a fast-moving plot. The humor is an extra-special bonus! Kudos, Amy, for a great five-star novel. I'm looking forward to Book #2!
August 29, 2020
I loved this book. I've been in isolation a lot like most people and I really was just looking for a lighthearted book that I could enjoy some mystery in an easy reading kind of way. It had all the things I look for when reading a cozy mystery. I had my suspicions who the killer was but I didn't know for sure until the end. I liked how I knew what the main character was thinking and I loved all of the dogs in it. I also loved that there were so many parts that were funny. I've read cozies with dogs and bakeries but I don't remember reading one with a dog bakery in it. It was fun to read about the different dog treats, and like a lot of cozies, this one has a recipe in the back, only it's a recipe for dog treats instead of human treats and it's from Three Dog Bakery. There's a Three Dog Bakery a couple hours from where I live and they make the best dog treats. So that was a fun added thing in this book. I hope there's another book coming soon in this Canine Confections series.
September 9, 2020
A delightful romp through the trials and tribulations of starting a new business--made even more trying when the owner, Samantha Armstrong, discovers a dead body on the floor of her dog bakery only hours before the Palm Beach mayor is scheduled to cut the ribbon at Samantha's grand opening. And, wouldn't you know it...the deceased is the person that many along the high-end shopping strip consider to have been Samantha's competition. So not only does Samantha have to figure out how to get her fledgling business off the ground in the midst of such bad publicity, but also how to keep herself from being arrested for murder.
The story is terrific and the writing superb. A truly fun cozy mystery, made even more intimate because we are able to learn about Samantha in first person. An extremely enjoyable read and I highly recommend it.
The story is terrific and the writing superb. A truly fun cozy mystery, made even more intimate because we are able to learn about Samantha in first person. An extremely enjoyable read and I highly recommend it.
July 5, 2021
There wasn’t one page or even word of this book that I didn’t love. It was amazingly well written. The characters were completely three dimensional. They could have been real people.
I think, for me, the best thing that came from me reading this book was giving my oldest child a direction in her after high school goals. She’s always loved animals and baking. This book gave us an opportunity to speak about business ideas and what it takes to stand out. For that, I am grateful.
Even If your kid isn’t in the culinary arts for animals field, I would recommend this books. You can’t help but cheer on the main character who is just trying to find her place in the world. She faces more potholes on the road to success than there are on a Missouri backroad. And yet, through determination and support from family and friends, she moves toward her goal of having a bakery for dogs.
I think, for me, the best thing that came from me reading this book was giving my oldest child a direction in her after high school goals. She’s always loved animals and baking. This book gave us an opportunity to speak about business ideas and what it takes to stand out. For that, I am grateful.
Even If your kid isn’t in the culinary arts for animals field, I would recommend this books. You can’t help but cheer on the main character who is just trying to find her place in the world. She faces more potholes on the road to success than there are on a Missouri backroad. And yet, through determination and support from family and friends, she moves toward her goal of having a bakery for dogs.
May 7, 2021
This was such a good first book for a new to me series. What an awesome tropical setting. Even though I know Palm Beach is good-sized, the shops area did seem more like a little village. I know Samantha didn't quite feel like she fit in, but with Aunt Mary on her side, everyone seemed to come around...until the body was found in Sam's shop. I loved that Samantha was able to adopt the dead woman's sweet dog.
There were suspects everywhere, and until the very end, I wasn't sure who to trust except for Samantha and Aunt Mary. There were some I wanted to trust, and I was happy when I found out who the perp was. I had my suspicions starting on that at one point when the clues started coming together. I'm definitely borrowing the next book in KU right away!
There were suspects everywhere, and until the very end, I wasn't sure who to trust except for Samantha and Aunt Mary. There were some I wanted to trust, and I was happy when I found out who the perp was. I had my suspicions starting on that at one point when the clues started coming together. I'm definitely borrowing the next book in KU right away!
October 18, 2020
If you love dogs, like me, and enjoy a cozy mystery, this one is made for you!
What a fun idea, open a doggie treat shop, all for pups, not humans, but they sure sound yummy. Not everyone thinks this is a great idea, and when a body appears in her shop, well, we are on a journey to find out why!
I felt like I was walking the street at West Palm, and could almost smell the ocean, what a beautiful place!
I was waiting for a bit of romance, but that hunky guy, well, maybe in the next book!
Come along and guess, I kept changing mine, and hope for the best!
I received this book through Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
What a fun idea, open a doggie treat shop, all for pups, not humans, but they sure sound yummy. Not everyone thinks this is a great idea, and when a body appears in her shop, well, we are on a journey to find out why!
I felt like I was walking the street at West Palm, and could almost smell the ocean, what a beautiful place!
I was waiting for a bit of romance, but that hunky guy, well, maybe in the next book!
Come along and guess, I kept changing mine, and hope for the best!
I received this book through Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
July 5, 2021
Paws for Concern by Amy Hueston is a fun cozy mystery. Set in South Florida, it centers around Samantha Armstrong and her Aunt Mary Price. Samantha is getting ready to open Canine Confections-a place to get treats for dogs-with help from her aunt. On the morning ,of her grand opening, she discovers another business owner, Whitney Goodwin, dead on her floor! She ends up keeping Whitney's rescue dog, Sweet Pea. This book is filled with an eclectic mix of characters who are possible suspects. Tracy Oshkosh, Samantha's new assistant, is definitely unique! This looks like the beginning of an entertaining series.
January 5, 2021
The main character in Paws for Concern, Samantha Armstrong has recently moved into the cottage on her aunt Mary's estate. Life is good or is it?
She is finally getting ready to open - Canine Confections - when a body is found inside her shop. The locals are all talking and whispering. Will Samantha figure out who the killer is before it's too late?
The story grabs you from the beginning and has enough surprises to keep you guessing until the very end. I enjoyed meeting all these new characters and can't wait for book 2.
I especially like the fact that it contains a recipe for Blue Blue Berry Berry Bun Buns - can't wait to try it out. I am certain my lovelies will enjoy it.
She is finally getting ready to open - Canine Confections - when a body is found inside her shop. The locals are all talking and whispering. Will Samantha figure out who the killer is before it's too late?
The story grabs you from the beginning and has enough surprises to keep you guessing until the very end. I enjoyed meeting all these new characters and can't wait for book 2.
I especially like the fact that it contains a recipe for Blue Blue Berry Berry Bun Buns - can't wait to try it out. I am certain my lovelies will enjoy it.
April 11, 2023
After leaving her cheating boyfriend behind, Samantha Armstrong starts over in Palm Beach and opens her own canine confectionary while living with her aunt. Unfortunately, Whitney Goodwin is killed in her business and she becomes a suspect. She proceeds to investigate to clear her name.
This story started off being a little slow for me. I had trouble getting into the story at first but it did pick up midway through. I also figured out the killer earlier than I would have liked. I liked that there was a touch of romance and recipes were included.
This story started off being a little slow for me. I had trouble getting into the story at first but it did pick up midway through. I also figured out the killer earlier than I would have liked. I liked that there was a touch of romance and recipes were included.
September 3, 2020
I told myself I was going to read one chapter before going to bed and next thing I knew I finished the book. A great start to a new series.
I really liked reading about not just a bakery and dogs but a dog bakery. I also loved that I wasn't sure who the killer was until the end. I read cozies a lot and it's no fun if I can figure out the killer too soon. That, along with humorous lines throughout made this a fun read.
I really liked reading about not just a bakery and dogs but a dog bakery. I also loved that I wasn't sure who the killer was until the end. I read cozies a lot and it's no fun if I can figure out the killer too soon. That, along with humorous lines throughout made this a fun read.
April 19, 2022
This book was a delight! I really enjoy the cozy mystery genre and this book had all the elements that I love. The pacing was spot on, the characters were lovable, and you can't get a better setting than a dog bakery. Whether you're a pup person or not, I recommend this to any mystery lover. Dogs just happen to be a major bonus for me! I plan to read the entire series and I really look forward to more recipes from the Three Dog Bakery as I am a huge fan of making homemade dog treats as well.
September 8, 2020
This cozy mystery has it all--dogs, secrets, cannoli and a ruggedly handsome dude that grabs your attention. I loved Amy Hueston's Paws for Concern. Lovely, funny, sweet summer read. And while I'm waiting for the next book in the series, I'll make a few dog treats. Because there's a handy recipe right there on the last page! Curl up on the couch with your pet and enjoy every word.
February 17, 2021
A must read for the lover of cozy mysteries.
I love, love, love Paws for Concern. What a fun twist on a cozy mystery by having the story center around a swanky pet bakery. I loved the story line that kept me guessing until the end who was the culprit who was striking the small business owners in town.
I love, love, love Paws for Concern. What a fun twist on a cozy mystery by having the story center around a swanky pet bakery. I loved the story line that kept me guessing until the end who was the culprit who was striking the small business owners in town.
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