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Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Shortbread and Dead is the first novel in The Cookies and Kilts Cozy Mysteries series by Jo A. Hiestand. Set in the charming small town of Beaudin Trace, Missouri, the story follows Kate Dunbar, a widowed baker whose festive spirit is dampened when Pam, the winner of her bakery's grand prize, is found dead just outside her shop. With suspicion falling uncomfortably close to her and her staff, Kate takes matters into her own hands, embarking on a dangerous quest to uncover the truth. Her friend, Deputy Sheriff Josh Cline, tries to warn and stop her, but Kate has her mind set on finding the truth herself. To make matters worse, robberies are happening around town. As she unravels the layers of the town’s secrets, she edges closer to the killer, putting her own life in jeopardy. Can Kate find out who killed Pam and committed the burglaries around town?
Shortbread and Dead is an entertaining holiday mystery that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat and holding your breath. I loved the narrative style, the descriptions, and the characters. Kate is a relatable and entertaining protagonist whose determination and witty charm blew me away. I enjoyed her personality and approach to the chaos around her. The pace of the narrative strikes a fine balance, keeping readers engaged with twists and clues (that I was unable to decipher!). Author Jo A. Hiestand’s narrative style makes descriptions vivid, from the cozy bakery to the wintery streets of Beaudin Trace. Shortbread and Dead is an intriguing read, especially for fans of murder mysteries!
