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Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries #5
Thyme and Trouble: A Mid-Life Contemporary Cozy Mystery
Her past has caught up with her… will a killer do the same?
When Mrs. Mason, the owner of Knit Wit, finds her husband murdered, Sam Jones steps in to console her despite her own troubled life filled with uncertainty and loneliness.
As their friendship blossoms, Sam confronts her past and the mistakes she’s made. But will it be enough for the local deputy, Jordan Branson, to forgive her?
While the police hunt for clues as to who the killer is, Sam also worries for her own life. Will the murderer be revealed before Sam becomes the next victim?
When Mrs. Mason, the owner of Knit Wit, finds her husband murdered, Sam Jones steps in to console her despite her own troubled life filled with uncertainty and loneliness.
As their friendship blossoms, Sam confronts her past and the mistakes she’s made. But will it be enough for the local deputy, Jordan Branson, to forgive her?
While the police hunt for clues as to who the killer is, Sam also worries for her own life. Will the murderer be revealed before Sam becomes the next victim?
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 16, 2023
25 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Carly Winter
56 books236 followersUSA Today bestselling author Carly Winter writes fun, small town cozy mysteries, always with a dash of humor and quirky characters. When not writing, you can find her spending time with her family, on a Pilates reformer or enjoying the fantastic Arizona weather (except summer - she doesn't like summer). She does like dogs, wine and chocolate and wishes Christmas happened twice a year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
October 22, 2024
Fifth installment in the six book series about former soap opera star Samantha Rathbone who has left Hollywood to hide from the scandal caused by her husband, now deceased. She takes refuge in a small town in northern Arizona and makes real friends that stand by her in all situations. Which is a an eyeopener for Sam, who grew up in the phony world of make-believe.
January 11, 2024
I just loved this story about a former soap opera star finding a fresh new start in Arizona and solving crimes around the incredibly incompetant Sherriff. Add in a best friend who is stuck in the 80's, a former Chicago police officer with secrets of his own and a good friend who is also a dog rescuer and ghost writer and you have a rollicking good time from the first page to the final one.
Now that her secret is out, Sam must navigate the hurt feelings of those closest to her, as well as the two LA cops who come sniffing around to verify that she wasn't in on her ex-husband's schemes... You almost don't need a dead body, but when Sam's next-door neighbor's husband is murdered on New Year's Day, you got that too! I seriously enjoyed this book and can't wait to see where the next installment leads!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Now that her secret is out, Sam must navigate the hurt feelings of those closest to her, as well as the two LA cops who come sniffing around to verify that she wasn't in on her ex-husband's schemes... You almost don't need a dead body, but when Sam's next-door neighbor's husband is murdered on New Year's Day, you got that too! I seriously enjoyed this book and can't wait to see where the next installment leads!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 26, 2023
The fifth installment of the Heywood Herbalist series by Carly Winter, Thyme and Trouble, opens with Sam dealing with the fallout from the Christmas murder that she helped solve. As a result of the press coverage from that, one of her former co-stars posts a video to TikTok that goes viral showing several of Sam's less glamorous moments. People in Heywood soon begin clamoring for autographs. Unfortunately, the shop next door to Sage Advice becomes a crime scene when the husband of the owner is discovered shot to death in the backroom.
With the build up from the previous books in this series, the revelation of Sam's past could have caused lasting damage to the various relationships that she has cultivated in town but especially her budding romance with Jordan. However, the author handled the conflict extremely well with a high degree of sensitivity that managed to demonstrate that if people are willing to communicate with everyone keeping an open mind, it is possible to overcome most problems facing a relationship. Within the investigation into the murder, once again the author presents several theories as to motives and suspects for Sam and Jordan to sift through bringing a unique twist to the final revelation of the perpetrator of the crime.
I received an ARC of this book from Booksirens and the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.
With the build up from the previous books in this series, the revelation of Sam's past could have caused lasting damage to the various relationships that she has cultivated in town but especially her budding romance with Jordan. However, the author handled the conflict extremely well with a high degree of sensitivity that managed to demonstrate that if people are willing to communicate with everyone keeping an open mind, it is possible to overcome most problems facing a relationship. Within the investigation into the murder, once again the author presents several theories as to motives and suspects for Sam and Jordan to sift through bringing a unique twist to the final revelation of the perpetrator of the crime.
I received an ARC of this book from Booksirens and the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 3, 2023
Hollywood has finally found Sam in Heywood Arizona, and the online mocking was unkind.
Would LAPD follow?
Would Deputy Jordan get his head on straight and talk things out with Sam? She went to bat for him despite murder allegations against him and dirt from his past being revealed. is he worthy if he fails to stand by Sam?
small town secrets and stories pop up as hungry and shady property developers turn up on the scene, along with threats and property damages and losses
life and death in Haywood are rarely boring.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Would LAPD follow?
Would Deputy Jordan get his head on straight and talk things out with Sam? She went to bat for him despite murder allegations against him and dirt from his past being revealed. is he worthy if he fails to stand by Sam?
small town secrets and stories pop up as hungry and shady property developers turn up on the scene, along with threats and property damages and losses
life and death in Haywood are rarely boring.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 5, 2023
I really liked Sam and will definitely go back to read earlier books in the Heywood Herbalist series. The characters are intriguing and the main ones from this installment are well defined. I like the setting and descriptions of Heywood, and the details about the shops and neighborhood eating places. It would be a place I would be interested in visiting or staying as Sam did. Sam’s voice is clear and smart, her inner dialogue draws you in to root for her. I liked how her goals include finding healing remedies from natural herbs, and researching antibiotics to help add to the options. I received an advanced readers copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing it.
February 18, 2025
I have only one book left oh no😩
July 19, 2023
I received an Advanced Reader copy from Book Sirens. This is book 5 in the series. Book 6, the final book in the series, is releasing in May of 2023. I have read every book in the series so far and enjoyed this one also. The women in the series are strong and independent. The policeman/ love interest Jordan is a George Clooney look alike. Doug is homeless. He has been an important member in the series. The small town setting is appealing with the river walk. Murder, deceit, friendship, romance, and a moral compass come together in this cozy mystery. I will definitely be reading book 6, Chamomile and Chaos. Thanks for a fun read!
March 7, 2023
Trouble Next Door . . .
Former actress Samantha (Rathbone) Jones stood outside in the cold drinking coffee and thinking about Deputy Jordan Branson finding out her real identity she had been hiding from everyone. They hadn’t spoken to each other since then because he didn’t trust her anymore. Her dead husband had stolen millions from powerful people in Hollywood, and she figured the L.A.P.D. still had more questions to ask her about her husband’s shady dealings. Mrs. Mason, the owner of Knit Wit, the store next to Sam’s herbal store, Sage Advice, walked up the path, ready to open her store in preparation of the knitting club meeting, but she stopped a few minutes to chat and ask if Jordan had come by yet, noticing how sad Sam looked.
Going back inside to do inventory, Sam was miserable at the idea of losing Jordan. Annabelle walked in with lattes to cheer her up. She shared a fun karaoke video on her phone, but the one right after that was of Sam’s most humiliating moment at the Emmy’s when she fell. It was posted by her disgusting former co-star in Hollywood, Bradley Bass. Then a terrified scream came from outside, and both of them ran to find Mrs. Mason frantic and pointing inside her shop. They ran inside and find her husband Russell in a pool of blood – murdered, judging by the gunshot wound to his head! Sam took care of Mrs. Mason, then reluctantly called the police. Unfortunately Sheriff Mallory and Jordan arrived on the scene. Mallory had made a mess of other murder investigations, and now she figured Mrs. Mason, a woman in her 70’s, killed her husband. Yet Sam had been outside talking to her and never heard a gunshot.
The day after the murder, as Sam was working on her receipts, a man came into the store. He had tried to buy her business before to tear it down and build a huge resort, but she wouldn’t sell. Now he was back to tell her how dangerous it was for a woman living alone after a vicious murder was committed next door and insisted she sell to him. It sounded very much like a threat. Was he that serious about getting her to sell? Was her life actually in danger? And when Mrs. Mason asked her to organize her accounting until she could get a professional, they found something odd. It looked like Juan Vasquez, a drug dealer who had been the cause of her son’s death, had loaned money to them for some unknown reason and that Russell Mason didn’t mention it to his wife. It was in the store’s books but not in the bank, however. In the past, Sam would have called Jordan. But he wasn’t speaking to her anymore. So she decided to just stay out of it.
And then Detective Gunter and Detective Smith from the L.A.P.D. arrived. Although she had provided them all the information she had and evidence to convict her husband’s murderer, they still had questions. She went out for coffee with Gina and Annabelle, arrived back at the store, and found Jordan holding up a note for her to read. The threat had been taped to her door! And Mrs. Mason had received one too! And when she checked on Mrs. Mason later, she had also had a visit a day or two before her husband was murdered from Aiden at Chester Development Corporation about buying her store so he could build his resort. And he lied to her that Sam was in talks with him about selling! Now Sam starts to worry. Maybe the murderer is closer than they think!
Former actress Samantha (Rathbone) Jones stood outside in the cold drinking coffee and thinking about Deputy Jordan Branson finding out her real identity she had been hiding from everyone. They hadn’t spoken to each other since then because he didn’t trust her anymore. Her dead husband had stolen millions from powerful people in Hollywood, and she figured the L.A.P.D. still had more questions to ask her about her husband’s shady dealings. Mrs. Mason, the owner of Knit Wit, the store next to Sam’s herbal store, Sage Advice, walked up the path, ready to open her store in preparation of the knitting club meeting, but she stopped a few minutes to chat and ask if Jordan had come by yet, noticing how sad Sam looked.
Going back inside to do inventory, Sam was miserable at the idea of losing Jordan. Annabelle walked in with lattes to cheer her up. She shared a fun karaoke video on her phone, but the one right after that was of Sam’s most humiliating moment at the Emmy’s when she fell. It was posted by her disgusting former co-star in Hollywood, Bradley Bass. Then a terrified scream came from outside, and both of them ran to find Mrs. Mason frantic and pointing inside her shop. They ran inside and find her husband Russell in a pool of blood – murdered, judging by the gunshot wound to his head! Sam took care of Mrs. Mason, then reluctantly called the police. Unfortunately Sheriff Mallory and Jordan arrived on the scene. Mallory had made a mess of other murder investigations, and now she figured Mrs. Mason, a woman in her 70’s, killed her husband. Yet Sam had been outside talking to her and never heard a gunshot.
The day after the murder, as Sam was working on her receipts, a man came into the store. He had tried to buy her business before to tear it down and build a huge resort, but she wouldn’t sell. Now he was back to tell her how dangerous it was for a woman living alone after a vicious murder was committed next door and insisted she sell to him. It sounded very much like a threat. Was he that serious about getting her to sell? Was her life actually in danger? And when Mrs. Mason asked her to organize her accounting until she could get a professional, they found something odd. It looked like Juan Vasquez, a drug dealer who had been the cause of her son’s death, had loaned money to them for some unknown reason and that Russell Mason didn’t mention it to his wife. It was in the store’s books but not in the bank, however. In the past, Sam would have called Jordan. But he wasn’t speaking to her anymore. So she decided to just stay out of it.
And then Detective Gunter and Detective Smith from the L.A.P.D. arrived. Although she had provided them all the information she had and evidence to convict her husband’s murderer, they still had questions. She went out for coffee with Gina and Annabelle, arrived back at the store, and found Jordan holding up a note for her to read. The threat had been taped to her door! And Mrs. Mason had received one too! And when she checked on Mrs. Mason later, she had also had a visit a day or two before her husband was murdered from Aiden at Chester Development Corporation about buying her store so he could build his resort. And he lied to her that Sam was in talks with him about selling! Now Sam starts to worry. Maybe the murderer is closer than they think!
March 5, 2023
I love this series and can't believe we're already at book 5! "Thyme and Trouble" part of the Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries series by Carly Winter was as good, if not better than the previous 4 books. This one starts out just after Samantha Jones discloses her big secret to the whole community and is now challenged with living her true life while trying to regain the trust of her friends and neighbors, especially Deputy Jordan Brandon, her maybe boyfriend who is angry she lied to him.
When Mrs. Mason discovers her husband's dead body inside her shop Knit Wit, she reaches out to Sam for help. Sam owns Sage Advice the shop right next door, so Sam is quick to jump in and offer support and assistance. Sam was out on her deck with a perfect view of Knit Wit's front entrance, and she didn't see anyone come or go, so she can't give Deputy Jordan Brandon any suspect details, but she does insist Mrs. Mason was very distraught and would never harm anyone.
Sam, known about town for her amateur sleuthing abilities and successes in solving previous cases immediately starts asking questions but without the help of Deputy Jordan, who is angry and not sharing information this will not be an easy one for her. Never one to shy away from the truth, she's more determined than ever to get to the bottom of things especially because her shop and livelihood are right next door. Was this a crazed robber hoping for reward or a personal vendetta against Mr. Mason?
Cozy mysteries to me are all about the characters and how they all revolve around each other in their communities, so just when Sam's been accepted by her peers, they learn she's been misleading them so the tangled and tortured life she fled in Hollywood becomes an issue that may thwart her attempt at a fresh start makes this book a fun romp through a serious murder mystery. A must read for cozy fans and anyone who loves a good mystery with great characters in a lovely small-town setting! Happy Reading!
When Mrs. Mason discovers her husband's dead body inside her shop Knit Wit, she reaches out to Sam for help. Sam owns Sage Advice the shop right next door, so Sam is quick to jump in and offer support and assistance. Sam was out on her deck with a perfect view of Knit Wit's front entrance, and she didn't see anyone come or go, so she can't give Deputy Jordan Brandon any suspect details, but she does insist Mrs. Mason was very distraught and would never harm anyone.
Sam, known about town for her amateur sleuthing abilities and successes in solving previous cases immediately starts asking questions but without the help of Deputy Jordan, who is angry and not sharing information this will not be an easy one for her. Never one to shy away from the truth, she's more determined than ever to get to the bottom of things especially because her shop and livelihood are right next door. Was this a crazed robber hoping for reward or a personal vendetta against Mr. Mason?
Cozy mysteries to me are all about the characters and how they all revolve around each other in their communities, so just when Sam's been accepted by her peers, they learn she's been misleading them so the tangled and tortured life she fled in Hollywood becomes an issue that may thwart her attempt at a fresh start makes this book a fun romp through a serious murder mystery. A must read for cozy fans and anyone who loves a good mystery with great characters in a lovely small-town setting! Happy Reading!
November 10, 2024
Not My Favorite in the Series, But Still Good
I've really enjoyed this delightful cozy mystery series starring fifty-something amateur Andy McDowell look-alike sleuth and former soap opera star, her '80s-obsessed friend and colleague, and the “will they, won't they” slow-burn romance with the hunky, supposedly George Clooney clone local cop. While I enjoyed the series, this was not my favorite installment! Why, you ask? At the end of the last book, it looked like the heroine and her potential hero might finally agree to be something more than just regular breakfast and crime-solving partners. But her true identity has been a sword of Damocles hanging over the entire series, which was finally revealed at the end of the last book. In this book, we see some of the fallout from that, including too much time apart for the lovely couple. He, both for himself and for their small community, felt betrayed that she hadn't trusted him (or others) enough to tell her secrets. It just went on too long; I just wanted them back together and working on this book's crime! We also see other less difficult, if still annoying, repercussions. For instance, many townspeople see her differently and want her autograph. Of course, it's a cozy mystery in a small town, so there has to be a murder! I like the way the author teased this one out with some excellent red herrings and blind curves. The author has created a fascinating, complex world, and I certainly recommend you start the series from the beginning so you can fully appreciate these well-crafted characters and delightful small-town setting. (Though, when I get into a cozy mystery series, at some point, I ponder: how do so many seemingly delightful small towns have so many murderers!)
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
I've really enjoyed this delightful cozy mystery series starring fifty-something amateur Andy McDowell look-alike sleuth and former soap opera star, her '80s-obsessed friend and colleague, and the “will they, won't they” slow-burn romance with the hunky, supposedly George Clooney clone local cop. While I enjoyed the series, this was not my favorite installment! Why, you ask? At the end of the last book, it looked like the heroine and her potential hero might finally agree to be something more than just regular breakfast and crime-solving partners. But her true identity has been a sword of Damocles hanging over the entire series, which was finally revealed at the end of the last book. In this book, we see some of the fallout from that, including too much time apart for the lovely couple. He, both for himself and for their small community, felt betrayed that she hadn't trusted him (or others) enough to tell her secrets. It just went on too long; I just wanted them back together and working on this book's crime! We also see other less difficult, if still annoying, repercussions. For instance, many townspeople see her differently and want her autograph. Of course, it's a cozy mystery in a small town, so there has to be a murder! I like the way the author teased this one out with some excellent red herrings and blind curves. The author has created a fascinating, complex world, and I certainly recommend you start the series from the beginning so you can fully appreciate these well-crafted characters and delightful small-town setting. (Though, when I get into a cozy mystery series, at some point, I ponder: how do so many seemingly delightful small towns have so many murderers!)
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
March 20, 2023
Sam Jones, a former Soap Opera star changed her name and has been living in Heywood Arizona since her husband caused a scandal and was murdered leaving her to live under a shadow of everyone thinking she knew how he was fleecing their friends. It's just her bad luck to always end up involved in a murder investigation. Recently her former identity has been revealed so she has had to deal with the repercussions of that, one of which is her new boyfriend believing she has deceived him. Now as well as helping the owner of a neighboring store deal with the murder of her husband she is facing the consequences of trying to leave her past behind.
Thyme and Trouble is the fifth book in the Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mystery Series by Carly Winter. This book can be read as a stand alone but as usual in a book series if you want to see how the relationships evolve it is always fun to read the full series in order. I finished it in a couple of hours so it is a quick read. The characters are interesting. The mystery is well written. The story is well paced. As a cozy mystery there is no foul language, gratuitous sex, nor violence.
I received an ARC of this book. This review is left voluntarily.
Thyme and Trouble is the fifth book in the Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mystery Series by Carly Winter. This book can be read as a stand alone but as usual in a book series if you want to see how the relationships evolve it is always fun to read the full series in order. I finished it in a couple of hours so it is a quick read. The characters are interesting. The mystery is well written. The story is well paced. As a cozy mystery there is no foul language, gratuitous sex, nor violence.
I received an ARC of this book. This review is left voluntarily.
February 11, 2023
Sam’s cover has been blown her past is out in the open and the truth has been met with mixed results. Her girlfriends mostly don’t care but Jordan is being pigheaded about the whole situation. Even going so far as to suggest she’s conned everyone in town for her own gain. Idiot. She is once again caught up in a murder investigation when her next door neighbor’s husband is killed. Personal life in shambles, murder at her doorstep and Hollywood and the LAPD have come knocking. Will Sam be able to untangle the web no return to a relatively quiet life or has her peace been shattered permanently? With a killer on the loose and the police holding to their subpar investigative record will she make it through this case in one piece?! Read on for the answers in this installment of …
This one is definitely full of drama. Sam navigates this with as much grace as she can even if it causes her great anxiety. The people of Heywood show the true power of community. Ups and downs, good and bad but in the end we have true friends and a killer in custody. A wonderful read in a great cozy series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This one is definitely full of drama. Sam navigates this with as much grace as she can even if it causes her great anxiety. The people of Heywood show the true power of community. Ups and downs, good and bad but in the end we have true friends and a killer in custody. A wonderful read in a great cozy series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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March 4, 2023This series just keeps getting better and better. This is the 5th installment in the series. Sam's identity has finally been discovered, thanks to some unflattering videos that have gone viral. She has worked so hard to keep herself out of the limelight, including hiding her identity from police officer and love interest, Jordan. Since Jordan found out, he has barely spoken to her, upset that she kept something so important from him.
Sam is trying to make the best of it, and Annabelle is certainly capitalizing on Sam's fame by charging fans for Sam's autograph. Sam and Jordan are thrown back together when the store next door becomes a crime scene, with the owner's husband being shot and killed in the store. Sam, feeling for her elderly neighbor, vows to help her find the killer.
I enjoy the development of relationships in this series. Annabelle always has a revenge idea up her sleeve for those who have wronged them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sam is trying to make the best of it, and Annabelle is certainly capitalizing on Sam's fame by charging fans for Sam's autograph. Sam and Jordan are thrown back together when the store next door becomes a crime scene, with the owner's husband being shot and killed in the store. Sam, feeling for her elderly neighbor, vows to help her find the killer.
I enjoy the development of relationships in this series. Annabelle always has a revenge idea up her sleeve for those who have wronged them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 15, 2023
Sam Jones' work day is interrupted by a scream from the store next door. When she rushes in, she finds the shop owner standing over the body of her very recently deceased husband. Mr Miller, by all accounts, was curmudgeonly but was that enough to get the old man killed?
In Thyme and Trouble we find Sam dealing with the fallout of her unmasking while helping her neighbour find her husband's murderer. Even though Sam was a well-known soap star, she's still a relatable character and the author skillfully weaves her into the reader's heart. I've been anticipating this story since I closed the last page of the previous book, and it was so worth the wait!
The Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries series is an expertly crafted set of mysteries. If cosies are your jam, I highly recommend this series.
Thank you to BookSirens and Carly Winter for the chance to view this e-Arc. My opinions are my own, honest and true.
In Thyme and Trouble we find Sam dealing with the fallout of her unmasking while helping her neighbour find her husband's murderer. Even though Sam was a well-known soap star, she's still a relatable character and the author skillfully weaves her into the reader's heart. I've been anticipating this story since I closed the last page of the previous book, and it was so worth the wait!
The Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries series is an expertly crafted set of mysteries. If cosies are your jam, I highly recommend this series.
Thank you to BookSirens and Carly Winter for the chance to view this e-Arc. My opinions are my own, honest and true.
March 14, 2023
This was a mid-life contemporary cozy mystery.
Loved this story, had great plot twists and relatable characters.
Actress Samantha Rathbone aka Sam Jones fled Hollywood to small town Heywood, Arizona to try to have a normal life after her ex-husband's scandal. She got a job working at Sage Advice, a local apothecary owned by Bonnie. After Bonnie was murdered, Sam found out she had left the building housing the store and two apartments to her. Mrs. Mason who owns Knit Wit finds her husband unalived in the back room of her store. Sam and her employee/friend Annabelle try to help find the killer. Sam's store is vandalized so they are also trying to figure out who is the vandal. Meanwhile Sam and her boyfriend Deputy Jordan Brandon's relationship hit the rocks when he finds out about her past as an actress. They eventually reconcile and solve the vandalism and murder.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Loved this story, had great plot twists and relatable characters.
Actress Samantha Rathbone aka Sam Jones fled Hollywood to small town Heywood, Arizona to try to have a normal life after her ex-husband's scandal. She got a job working at Sage Advice, a local apothecary owned by Bonnie. After Bonnie was murdered, Sam found out she had left the building housing the store and two apartments to her. Mrs. Mason who owns Knit Wit finds her husband unalived in the back room of her store. Sam and her employee/friend Annabelle try to help find the killer. Sam's store is vandalized so they are also trying to figure out who is the vandal. Meanwhile Sam and her boyfriend Deputy Jordan Brandon's relationship hit the rocks when he finds out about her past as an actress. They eventually reconcile and solve the vandalism and murder.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2023
Thyme & Trouble is the 5th book in the Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mystery Series by Carly Winter. The main character, Sam, is in her mid-fifties and is pretty feisty. She owns an herbal store and finds herself solving murders in her adopted town of Heywood, Arizona. She has made two good friends since arriving in Heywood; both are bold women like Sam.
I’ve read several of the books in this series, they all move along quickly. I plan to go back and catch a couple that I haven’t read yet. The Thyme & Trouble mystery is a good one, with lots of suspects. Hearing what Sam is thinking is a lot of fun, and funny. There’s a little romance, a cute cat, and talk of herbal teas and tinctures. I enjoyed the book and I’m a fan of the series. Each book presents an interesting mystery with realistic characters (including the suspects).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’ve read several of the books in this series, they all move along quickly. I plan to go back and catch a couple that I haven’t read yet. The Thyme & Trouble mystery is a good one, with lots of suspects. Hearing what Sam is thinking is a lot of fun, and funny. There’s a little romance, a cute cat, and talk of herbal teas and tinctures. I enjoyed the book and I’m a fan of the series. Each book presents an interesting mystery with realistic characters (including the suspects).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 12, 2023
This is the kind of cozey mystery with mayhem and murder I really enjoy. It's so well written with an array of vibrant, colorful and quirky characters that draw you in with their own unique and intriguing stories, then you're enticed further by the mystery of a death, who could have done such a horrible thing and why. All needs to be revealed while an ongoing plot unfolds around one mystery after another. Once I started reading I had to find as many answers as I could and as with this authors fabulous writer I had reached the unexpected and exciting climatic conclusion. So worth the numb bottom from not moving except to read grunt and smile. Acquire " Thyme and Trouble " book five in ( The Herbalist Cozey Mysteries) if you haven't had the pleasure of reading and enjoying the first four in the series I highly recommend you do so you yourself can enjoy them as much as I have. Kat
February 16, 2023
All Sam wanted was a normal life, out of the spotlight. Guess it was all to good to be true for her.
Samantha's life has blown up, her secret life is no longer a secret and people see her differently now.
Trying to piece her life back together again she is once again put on hold for yet another murder in town.
While trying to find the murderer she just may be next on the chopping block.
For a sweet, cozy little town there sure is a lot of trouble.
What a great series! I am loving all the colorful people and antics. I sure hope there is many more to come.
Thyme and Trouble: A Mid-Life Contemporary Cozy Mystery
Samantha's life has blown up, her secret life is no longer a secret and people see her differently now.
Trying to piece her life back together again she is once again put on hold for yet another murder in town.
While trying to find the murderer she just may be next on the chopping block.
For a sweet, cozy little town there sure is a lot of trouble.
What a great series! I am loving all the colorful people and antics. I sure hope there is many more to come.
Thyme and Trouble: A Mid-Life Contemporary Cozy Mystery
March 17, 2023
Another great entry in the Heywood Herbalist series. Thyme and Trouble is a fun addition to the series. While the mystery was kind of easy to solve, the story is entertaining the familiar characters we've come to know and love. Sam's secret is finally out, and we get to see how the towns people, including Jordan, deal with it. Annabelle isn't nearly as annoying as she was in the last book. And Sam is, as always, relatable and likeable. This thyme (see what I did there?) she's juggling a murder mystery with a bunch of other crises, including autograph hounds, a slimy real estate developer and the LAPD.
Like all of the other books in the Heywood Herbalist series, this one is a light, fun read. I highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Like all of the other books in the Heywood Herbalist series, this one is a light, fun read. I highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 15, 2023
This is the 5th book of the series, and I believe my favorite so far. Sam's true identity has been exposed, and she is dealing with not only her past, but also all the people in town treating her like the celebrity she no longer wants to be. Add in another murder to solve that happened next door, the pesty developer trying to intimidate her into selling her beloved business, and the struggle to win her boyfriend's trust back, and you've got one more absolutely great page turner once again! The caring nature of the main character despite her troubles, and true friendships developing, I find it very touching, enjoyable, and absolutely recommend this entire series! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 6, 2023
This is book 5 in Winter's Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries, and we start off with our main character Sam dealing with the fall out of revealing secrets and building back the trust of her friends all over again, especially the possible boyfriend / love interest Deputy Brandon. Mrs Mason reaches out to Sam for help when she finds her husband dead in her knit shop, but without the help from the Deputy this case maybe too much for her amateur sleuthing skills. Wonderful cast of characters and a fun storyline that is captivating from start to finish. I think this may have been my favorite in the series yet...Can't wait for more!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2024
I keep reading there to see why the sheriff has such a problem with the main character. The antics get more ridiculous and the main character ie more insipid. To be a woman if a certain age, she sure get befuddled a lot. A man gets her so confused, third ie even after a horrible marriage with little trust; sure doesn't stand up for herself even when the situation ie do obvious that sure should, then, she allows a man who could be a criminal live in a private area of her establishment overnight! I also wonder how the relationship between her and the deputy got to falling into one another's arms after he treated her so badly. What happened to taking it slowly? Anyway, for a woman going through menopause, she sure is stupid.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2024
Sam's secret is out and she rings in the new year wallowing in a self pity party for one. She hasn't heard from Jordan except that he needs time and space to process that lack of truth about her past. Fortunately she has her best friends Annabelle and Gina who try and comfort her. When her next door business owner.s husband is murdered she is off and detecting to help take her mind off her past becoming known and the nast posts on social media. When a couple detectives from L.A. show up she fears the worst. A quick read that is well written and we getto know more of the people of Sam's new home in Heywood.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 14, 2025
Thyme and Trouble is part of the Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries series by Carly Winter
In this instillment is just after she discloses her big secret to the whole community. Her past will come back to haunt her while trying to regain the trust of her friends and neighbors, especially Deputy Jordan her maybe boyfriend who is angry she lied to him.
Another murder takes place this time in the shop next door Mrs. Mason discovers her husband's dead body inside her shop Knit Wit. Heating her scream the ladies from Safe Advice rush over to check on her and Sam is determined help her to find out who murder her husband. He kept to himself mostly so there are few suspects.
Will Jordan forgive her?
Can she forgive how he treated her?
Can she figure out who murder Mr Manson?
In this instillment is just after she discloses her big secret to the whole community. Her past will come back to haunt her while trying to regain the trust of her friends and neighbors, especially Deputy Jordan her maybe boyfriend who is angry she lied to him.
Another murder takes place this time in the shop next door Mrs. Mason discovers her husband's dead body inside her shop Knit Wit. Heating her scream the ladies from Safe Advice rush over to check on her and Sam is determined help her to find out who murder her husband. He kept to himself mostly so there are few suspects.
Will Jordan forgive her?
Can she forgive how he treated her?
Can she figure out who murder Mr Manson?
February 15, 2023
Thyme and Trouble is Book 5 in the Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries by Carly Winter. I have been looking forward to reading book 5. Sam's secret is out and Jordan can't handle the truth. Finding out that a former soap star is living in Heywood is definitely causing a stir. Mrs. Mason's husband is murdered and Sam and friends are looking into who shot Mr Mason. I enjoy the small town and wonderful characters. Book 5 has several themes and I thought Carly Winter wove the story perfectly with surprises and a great ending. The Epilogue leads perfectly into Book 6, Chamomile Chaos. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
March 4, 2023
When Mrs. Mason, the owner of Knit Wit, finds her husband murdered, Sam Jones steps in to console her despite her own troubled life filled with uncertainty and loneliness.
"As their friendship blossoms, Sam confronts her past and the mistakes she’s made. But will it be enough for the local deputy, Jordan Branson, to forgive her?
While the police hunt for clues as to who the killer is, Sam also worries for her own life. Will the murderer be revealed before Sam becomes the next victim?"
A lady kills her husband and tries to make it seem that someone else did the deed in this case of mistakes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"As their friendship blossoms, Sam confronts her past and the mistakes she’s made. But will it be enough for the local deputy, Jordan Branson, to forgive her?
While the police hunt for clues as to who the killer is, Sam also worries for her own life. Will the murderer be revealed before Sam becomes the next victim?"
A lady kills her husband and tries to make it seem that someone else did the deed in this case of mistakes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 6, 2023
Thyme and Trouble is book #5 in the Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries series by Carly Winter.
Sam rushes to help her neighbor, Mrs. Mason, whose husband is murdered. She has her own issues with her past being revealed.
I started this series because the main character, Sam, had starred in a soap opera, but I love seeing how her life has changed and she has grown. There was a murder mystery and then what happened to Sam. I thought I had the murder figured out, but then event at Sam’s made me second guess my choice. I really enjoy the series and recommend it to any looking for a good cozy mystery.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Sam rushes to help her neighbor, Mrs. Mason, whose husband is murdered. She has her own issues with her past being revealed.
I started this series because the main character, Sam, had starred in a soap opera, but I love seeing how her life has changed and she has grown. There was a murder mystery and then what happened to Sam. I thought I had the murder figured out, but then event at Sam’s made me second guess my choice. I really enjoy the series and recommend it to any looking for a good cozy mystery.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 6, 2023
This book takes place after Samantha told her big secret and now she has to regain trust from all of her friends especially Deputy Jordan who is mad that she lied to him, what will she do. Mrs. Mason finds her husband dead in her shop Knit wit which is a cool name for a shop and she asks for Sam's help and since she has had success in figuring out murders before she starts asking questions to figure out what happens. Will Sam regain the trust of her friends and Jordan and solve the case of Mrs. Mason husband.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 7, 2023
Thyme and Trouble is book 5 in the A Mid-Life Contemporary Cozy Mystery series.
A strong, independent female protagonist surrounded by a supporting cast of well written and developing characters makes this cozy mystery the perfect quick read for a chilly weekend. Very enjoyable! A good story and smooth writing kept me interested the whole way, and lots of clues keep you guessing. And, of course, I love the characters and how they are developing.
What a great series! I am loving all the colorful people and antics. I sure hope there is many more to come.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A strong, independent female protagonist surrounded by a supporting cast of well written and developing characters makes this cozy mystery the perfect quick read for a chilly weekend. Very enjoyable! A good story and smooth writing kept me interested the whole way, and lots of clues keep you guessing. And, of course, I love the characters and how they are developing.
What a great series! I am loving all the colorful people and antics. I sure hope there is many more to come.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 9, 2024
This is a continuation of a mystery series that, although it builds on things in previous books, can still be read as a standalone. Sam is dealing with the fall out from the big reveal in the previous book and trying to run her business when there is a murder next door. Annabelle reveals her extreme loyalty in this book and I have grown to love her as one of my favorite side characters in a series. Never get on her bad side! There is a conclusion to Sam's mysterious past as well which brings to light the reason she ended up in Heywood. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did a great job.
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