Book Two of 2023
The first time I read “Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder,” by Joanne Fluke was back in 2019. I reread it this year in it’s audiobook format to revisit the characters and start the series anew with a refreshed reading. I was looking to mix up my regular reading routine with giving a “cozy” read a try. With the prospect of discovering recipes to try this was the series I had to try.
From the first read to the third this novel did not disappoint. The thought of an author bringing murder, baking, and humour together would have made my eyebrow raise in the past. But here, it was wonderfully done. Who knew bodies, chocolate chips, and out loud laughing were possible in a novel? It was a fun and easy read with characters that the reader can relate to and look forward to getting to know (by continuing the series.) It was refreshing that the unfortunate victim is not just a cardboard character but rather one that was living and breathing before the reader ever opened the pages.
Reading it the second time (well, listening to it) was easy and enjoyable. It was easy to just forget (and ignore) what I had read before and just fall into the story. Hannah and Moishe brought their personalities and flavour to a grizzly business with humour. The narrator had a dynamic voice that brought each character to life. It was a highly enjoyable listen! I would recommend this audiobook to anyone looking for a light murder mystery for their walks or work.
Hannah Swensen is a baker at Lake Eden’s most popular bakery “The Cookie Jar.” With all the obligations of her business to say she is busy would be an understatement. She finds the finesse while dealing with her family and Moishe (who needs a whole different brand of attention.) Hannah is not unlike her cookies in the sense that she does not fit the traditional mold in any sense (much to the despair of her mother Delores.) Hannah makes discovering a murder seem easy and the sleuthing dangerous but intriguing. If you are intrigued check out this book!
However, if you are looking for a serious crime read this is NOT the book for you. This book is intended to be a “cozy” read with any ridiculous ideas or imaginings of what it would be like to be in the pages. The recipes that are included are a delightful surprise that is the gift that just keeps on giving. I can’t wait to try the recipes and share them with my own family.
This book was read in the format of an audiobook available with the Libby app.
It is also available via Kindle Unlimited (ebook) and with a subscription to Audible.
Find “Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder,” by Joanne Fluke here.