Can't Judge A Book by it's Murder by Amy Lillard

There is something about a mystery book, especially when you mention it's a cozy mystery that gets everyone excited.  

Most people who know me know that I normally avoid mysteries but I am starting to come around to cozy ones.  Amy Lillard delivers and fun and entertaining read in the first of a new series: Not every murder is by the book…

As Sugar Springs gears up for its all-class high school reunion, Mississippi bookstore owner Arlo Stanley prepares to launch her largest event: a book-signing with the town’s legendary alum and bestselling author, Wally Harrison. That’s when Wally is discovered dead outside of Arlo’s front door and her best friend is questioned for the crime.

When the elderly ladies of Arlo’s Friday Night Book Club start to investigate, Arlo has no choice but to follow behind to keep them out of trouble. Yet with Wally’s reputation, the suspect list only grows longer—his betrayed wife, his disgruntled assistant, even the local man who holds a grudge from a long-ago accident.

Between running interference with the book club and otherwise keeping it all together, Arlo anxiously works to get Chloe out of jail. And amidst it all, her one-time boyfriend-turned-private-eye returns to town, just another distraction while she digs to uncover the truth around Wally’s death and just what Sugar Springs secret could have led to his murder.

This was a well written and had great flowing dialogue.  I loved the small town feel and the set of characters, there will be plenty pf chances for more books in the series. Arlo is quirky and I enjoyed her a lot more as the story went on.  

Now there were a few parts that didn't flow together as well as I would have liked, and I did figure out who did it.  But overall it was still a fun story and a good fast paced read.  I will be interested in seeing this series evolve!  

So pick up your copy of Amy Lillard's new book (releasing on the 29th this month) and enjoy a fun new read!  Happy reading!  

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Love At Pebble Creek (Hope Chest of Dreams #5) by Lisa Jones Baker

I truly love when I can go back and visit a favorite fictional place and the people who make up that world.  

So when I had a chance to review Lisa Baker's book and peek in on the people of Pebble Creek I jumped at the chance.  From the back: In Lisa Jones Baker's heartwarming series, precious hand-carved chests hold treasured dreams--and bring blessings to a new generation ...

Anna King has a talent--and a secret. Like the birth mother she never knew, Anna is gifted at sketching and longs to study and teach art one day. Unbeknownst to her beloved adoptive family, she's even entered a contest to win a full scholarship to art college. Sketching isn't a desirable vocation in her community, so Anna does her work in a remote spot by Pebble Creek and stores it in her beautiful hope chest. Only her family's farmhand, Jesse Beiler, knows her plans--and that's by accident ...

The bishop's son, Jessie is surprised to discover Anna's contest entry form. He can't imagine wanting a life beyond having his own farm and raising a family. Still, he admires Anna's spirit and promises to keep her secret, despite their differences. Yet the better he and Anna get to know each other, the more they find their personalities--and their hearts--complement one another. With Gott's guidance, can they forge the futures they desire--together?

Anna and Jessie are great characters and well written.  Being adopted (and having adopted) I can identify with Anna's feelings of not fitting in and struggling to find what world she belongs in.  With a secret laying heavy on her heart can she figure out what she needs to do? Jessie is confident and admires Anna.  But can he convince her to stay?  

With some unexpected twists and turns this enjoyable story brings us back to Pebble Creek and well written with truly enjoyable characters you will want to pick up your copy of Love at Pebble Creek to enjoy.  Happy reading!  

Disclaimer: *Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*