Kensington Publishing Corporation Murder with Clotted Cream

Daisy's latest catering job has put her in the middle of another murder investigation. She found the body of Margaret Vaughn, who left Willow Creek years ago to become an actress. Now she and her wealthy husband are back and to show his love he built Margaret a theater where she can stage plays for the town to enjoy. Why would someone murder her? Daisy is wary of becoming involved. Her last case almost ended her life but Daisy's heart tells her she needs to help find the culprit. I admire her strong values and her character. She's always there to support her family. Her advice is practical and well thought out. Her daughters know they can come to her for advice. Her romance with Jonas is progressing nicely. The former policeman is there to support and encourage her. I liked that. Unfortunate family matters, the tea room and murder are a heavy load for Daisy to juggle. Karen Rose Smith has a writing style that pulls me in. I like the characters and find it easy to relate to them. The mystery is well written and interesting but it doesn't obscure Daisy's personal life which is good. I want to know the real woman. I hated to see Jonas suffering. He never expected his world to be upended as it was. I hope that he can put his past in perspective. This series keeps getting stronger. I'm anxious to see what happens next in the Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series.

I am loving this series! I look forward to each new book and am never disappointed. I enjoy reconnecting with Daisy’s family and friends as much as trying to solve the mystery.Even though Daisy tries to stay out of this investigation, she keeps finding herself pulled in. (A brooch figures into this story and I enjoyed trying to figure out the clues.) The author kept us guessing and I did not figure out the murderer, until the reveal.Daisy becomes a grandmother, the family works through her daughter’s postpartum depression and lots of other interactions take place, in this installment. I’m already looking forward to the next book!

Too much minute detail & repetition of facts. Seems like she’s getting paid based on word count. I’ve enjoyed previous books in this series but this reads more like a maudlin soap opera than a murder mystery. By the time I got to the end I didn’t care who the murderer was I just wanted the book to be over.

I love this series! Love the characters, the tea room, and all their adventures!

Good read. Keep them coming.