Kristina Anderson
Toxic Toffee is the latest humorous tale in An Amish Candy Shop Mystery series. It can be read alone if you have not had the pleasure of reading the other books in the engaging series. Toxic Toffee has Bailey back in Harvest, Ohio after her six weeks in New York filming her new cooking show. Before she has time to take her bag home, Margot Rawlings pulls Bailey aside to discuss her making a very large toffee rabbit for Easter Days. Of course, it needs to be at least six feet tall or maybe just a wee bit bigger. Then Stephen Raber, owner of Raber’s Rabbits, drops dead in the square. The poor man was poisoned (want to take a guess with what candy) and Eli Raber, the victim’s son, wants Bailey to find the killer. He then leaves his father’s pet rabbit in Bailey’s care (he really does not give her a chance to say no). I enjoy Amanda Flower’s writing style. It draws a reader into the story and keeps them absorbed along with the quirky characters and the various comical capers. Jethro, the polka dotted pig, and his owner, Juliet Brody are back. Juliet wants Bailey and Aiden to set a wedding date so the planning can begin. Of course, the fact that the pair are not engaged does not deter Juliet. Bailey’s grandmother, Clara is such a sweet woman and she remains calm no matter what happens (even the police showing up in the middle of the night). The mystery was intriguing, and I like how it is woven throughout the story. There are surprising twists along with artfully placed clues. While I was not surprised by the killer’s identity, I loved following the hints and enjoyed the unpredictable take down. It is funny that Bailey’s reputation for solving mysteries is widely known among the English and Amish in Holmes County. One person commented “Don’t look so surprised, Bailey. Your reputation precedes you.” I was frustrated with the reiteration of certain details. Bailey being told to leave the investigating to the police, Aiden does not want her to get hurt, and certain details regarding the mystery are a couple of the repetitious items. I had to laugh, though, when Juliet said, “I’m so glad that you will be my daughter just as soon as you and Aiden get around to announcing your wedding.” There is a very special event at the end that will delight readers of this series. Toxic Toffee is a charming Amish cozy mystery that will tickle your funny bone.
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Ellen White
TOXIC..TOFEE.....by Amanda..Flower Stephan was busy with the preparation for the .Easter Days, being a bunny farmer, and now he has dropped dead. The created of a chocolate bunny with toffe, was also a disaster, having been outside.. The more she looks into the background of Stephen, there were secrets, an a confession he had left. Another sweet story and mystery to figure out. Looking for the next in this series. Given ARC by Net Galley and Kensington for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.