Book Review: "Blackberry Crumble"

Reading is one of my absolute favorite pastimes. I especially enjoy a fun mystery novel. However, there is also something I really have a love for...and that's eating. Well, cooking. But let's face it, it's the end result that counts. Luckily, there is a fabulous series that combines those loves--reading, mysteries, eating and cooking.

I'm really writing about the series' latest installment, "Blackberry Crumble", but I can't resist giving a shout out to the entire fabulous series. The author, Josi S. Kilpack, is LDS but don't let that scare you away if you're not. This is not a "religious" book, just good, clean fun...well, unless you count the murders. The series features widow Sadie Hoffmiller and her uncanny ability to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. She's gotten herself into some pretty sticky situations and collected some delicious recipes along the way...recipes that are printed in the book! Think Jessica Fletcher meets Paula Deen. Be sure to check out the entire series if you haven't! The mysteries are as delicious as the recipes!

In this fifth installment, Sadie is off to Portland, Oregon to test her amateur sleuth skills and it's just in time for berry season in the great Northwest. Here's the official "write-up" from Kilpack's website:

"The word is out about Sadie Hoffmiller’s amateur detective work, but it’s not the kind of publicity Sadie wants. When Jane’s article threatens Sadie’s reputation in the community, she accepts her first investigation-for-hire and travels to Portland, Oregon – if only to give herself some space from her whispering neighbors. And from Pete, who is sending her mixed signals about their budding relationship.


Sadie hopes the Portland air will clear her head, and she is eager to get to work for May Sanderson, who has suspicions about her father’s untimely death.


Putting her detective skills to the test, Sadie delves into a complicated past that includes a business partnership that didn’t end well, several unsavory family secrets, and more than a few motives for murder.
Sadie is afraid she might crumble under the pressure, but in a new place with new recipes, she finds herself more determined than ever to uncover the answers buried in scandal, insatiable appetites, and pure and simple greed."

I was craving to read this book like I was craving blackberry crumble and it did not disappoint! Packed with plot twists as always, Kilpack had me guessing until the end. I felt this book came off a little different than the rest of the series. Kilpack spent much more time on character development in this novel than in the previous books of the series, which hopefully a sign that it won't be ending any time soon. Her characters are rich and believable as ever. Some of them quite humorous while others have you on edge.

Kilpack also managed captured the weirdness of Portland, making me anxious for a return visit to places like the famous Powell's bookstore. She added 8 yummy and equally quirky recipes, like bacon ice cream. She'll have you ready to head to Oregon in no time, while keeping your tummy rumbling for blackberry crumble. 

Sadie is as adventurous and daring as ever, yet remaining compassionate and steady in her determination for justice. True to character, she finds herself in trouble and in many cringe-worthy, embarrassing situations. She'll keep you laughing, especially with her ever-entertaining inner dialog. She will have you longing for her as your neighbor, until you consider the trouble she would inevitably find! This book is just as charming as the rest.

In a society that makes it hard to find a good, clean book that's just as entertaining, "Blackberry Crumble" (and all the Sadie Hoffmiller books) is the one to read. It's available in print and Kindle editions!


***Editor's Note: Let it be known that I am close personal friends with one of the test cooks for the Sadie Hoffmiller culinary mystery recipes!! She's even listed in the books. Let's just say I'm pretty jealous!