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Cookbook Nook Mystery #2
Inherit the Word
Jenna Hart moved back to Crystal Cove, California, to recapture her joie de vivre and to help her aunt Vera run the local culinary bookshop and café. But it’s hard to follow a simple recipe for relaxation when murder gets thrown in the mix�
The Cookbook Nook is set to host the town’s upcoming Grill Fest, a tasty tradition which pits local amateur chefs against one another to concoct the most delicious dishes. This year’s challenge: grilled cheese. But with competing chefs bearing grudges from past years, more mouths are running off than savoring the fare.
The expression "too many cooks� proves all too true when the eight-time champ is found murdered in the alley behind the café. Soon a local diner owner (and Jenna’s "second mother�) is suspected of bumping off the competition, and Jenna has to douse the flames before the wrong person gets burned�
The Cookbook Nook is set to host the town’s upcoming Grill Fest, a tasty tradition which pits local amateur chefs against one another to concoct the most delicious dishes. This year’s challenge: grilled cheese. But with competing chefs bearing grudges from past years, more mouths are running off than savoring the fare.
The expression "too many cooks� proves all too true when the eight-time champ is found murdered in the alley behind the café. Soon a local diner owner (and Jenna’s "second mother�) is suspected of bumping off the competition, and Jenna has to douse the flames before the wrong person gets burned�
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 4, 2014
141 people are currently reading
2,394 people want to read
About the author
Daryl Wood Gerber
43books2,439followersAgatha Award-winning and nationally bestselling author Daryl Wood Gerber writes the Aroma Wellness Mysteries, Literary Dining Mysteries, Fairy Garden Mysteries, Cookbook Nook Mysteries, and French Bistro Mysteries. As Avery Aames, she pens the popular Cheese Shop Mysteries.
In addition, Daryl also writes suspense including the stand-alone novel, THE SON'S SECRET, the Aspen Adams novels of suspense, and two more stand-alone titles, DAY OF SECRETS and GIRL ON THE RUN.
She has recently delved into the realm of romance with her first Christmas romance, HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS.
Fun tidbit: as an actress, Daryl appeared in “Murder, She Wrote.� She loves to cook, and she has a frisky Goldendoodle named Sparky who keeps her in line!
Visit Daryl at .
In addition, Daryl also writes suspense including the stand-alone novel, THE SON'S SECRET, the Aspen Adams novels of suspense, and two more stand-alone titles, DAY OF SECRETS and GIRL ON THE RUN.
She has recently delved into the realm of romance with her first Christmas romance, HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS.
Fun tidbit: as an actress, Daryl appeared in “Murder, She Wrote.� She loves to cook, and she has a frisky Goldendoodle named Sparky who keeps her in line!
Visit Daryl at .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
July 20, 2021
Inherit the Word is the second book in Daryl Wood Gerber's Cookbook Nook series. I read the first book, and I've read several of the author's other series. I'm planning to read one per month this year so that I'm fully caught up by the end of the year and able to read the newest one when it releases. Set in a beautiful California town, it offers a charming setting with food, books, and mysteries. I like Gerber's writing style, and while the series is still fleshing out some of its style and supporting cast, it shows promise to be a strong one.
Grill Fest, an annual cooking competition, is taking place in Jenna's Cookbook Nook shop. She opened it the prior year with her aunt, and now it's taken off. The top two contenders have fought with each other for years, and one's husband is the business manager for the other. Keep your enemies close, that's the key here. Unfortunately, one of the top two is taken out after a fire alarm goes off. And Lola, Jenna's sorta other mother (of her bestie) who was in the competition, is accused of the crime. The women had a public fight over a chef who'd resigned and worked at the other's restaurant. What really happened here? Toss in two daughters of the deceased, with a strange relationship, and a possible abuse scenario, and it's very complex.
Not only are we treated to a fun competition with mouthwatering meals, but we learn about several amazing cookbooks and authors we should get to know better. On top of that, the peculiar disappearance and death of Jenna's husband two years ago is further explored. While everything seems to indicate he died, there was never a body, so I'm confident he will reappear at some point, probably when Jenna gets serious with the new guy, Rhett. In this book, her husband, David, left behind a mysterious key and kitty cat statue. What could it all be about?
The setting is the best piece of this series. The writing is good and the characters are all fun, but I adore reading about the town, the personal relationships between friends and enemies, the history of the cookbooks that pop up in the store as potential new sellers. The recipes sound good, and a few hints dropped about the author's other series (under pseudonym Avery Ames) about a cheese shoppe is very enticing. I look forward to reading more in this series!
Grill Fest, an annual cooking competition, is taking place in Jenna's Cookbook Nook shop. She opened it the prior year with her aunt, and now it's taken off. The top two contenders have fought with each other for years, and one's husband is the business manager for the other. Keep your enemies close, that's the key here. Unfortunately, one of the top two is taken out after a fire alarm goes off. And Lola, Jenna's sorta other mother (of her bestie) who was in the competition, is accused of the crime. The women had a public fight over a chef who'd resigned and worked at the other's restaurant. What really happened here? Toss in two daughters of the deceased, with a strange relationship, and a possible abuse scenario, and it's very complex.
Not only are we treated to a fun competition with mouthwatering meals, but we learn about several amazing cookbooks and authors we should get to know better. On top of that, the peculiar disappearance and death of Jenna's husband two years ago is further explored. While everything seems to indicate he died, there was never a body, so I'm confident he will reappear at some point, probably when Jenna gets serious with the new guy, Rhett. In this book, her husband, David, left behind a mysterious key and kitty cat statue. What could it all be about?
The setting is the best piece of this series. The writing is good and the characters are all fun, but I adore reading about the town, the personal relationships between friends and enemies, the history of the cookbooks that pop up in the store as potential new sellers. The recipes sound good, and a few hints dropped about the author's other series (under pseudonym Avery Ames) about a cheese shoppe is very enticing. I look forward to reading more in this series!
April 23, 2019
With the same rating as its predecessor, and initiator, Inherit the Word is that rare type of book where I don't rate it very highly, yet want to read the next book.
The thing is, that the characters in the books are all vibrant, each one having a secret. It's the same reason I was drawn to Jenn Mckinlay's books, but also those of Joanna Carl's.
The plot revolves around a cooking contest, where the favorite to win candidate is murdered. The finale provides a clear explanation of sorts, but not too many proofs against the murderer.
Given that I've rated Inherit the Word 3 stars, and plan to read the next book muy pronto, I don't recommend it. The reason is simple; it's a chore to read. Only curiosity is pressing me forward.
The thing is, that the characters in the books are all vibrant, each one having a secret. It's the same reason I was drawn to Jenn Mckinlay's books, but also those of Joanna Carl's.
The plot revolves around a cooking contest, where the favorite to win candidate is murdered. The finale provides a clear explanation of sorts, but not too many proofs against the murderer.
Given that I've rated Inherit the Word 3 stars, and plan to read the next book muy pronto, I don't recommend it. The reason is simple; it's a chore to read. Only curiosity is pressing me forward.
March 4, 2014
Daryl Wood Gerber brings readers the second book in her Cookbook Nook mystery series, Inherit the Word. This is a fast paced mystery filled with plenty of surprises for readers to figure out. The whodunit is well plotted and keeps the reader interested while well drawn characters captivate and engage the reader. Gerber has a knack for cooking as well as writing and centers this book around a grilled cheese cookoff that gets a little out of hand when the winner of eight years running, ends up dead.
What I liked:
Daryl Wood Gerber never disappoints whether it's this series or the Cheese Shop Mysteries she writes under the name Avery Aames. She always has a food related element in her books and I love that about her writing. It's one thing for a million other writers to use food as a catalyst for the plots of their books, but it's another thing when the writer is actually a good cook. It gives this book a ring of authenticity that shows on every page. Especially the recipe section in the back of the book. I'm trying that Brie, Apple, and Turkey Grilled cheese, very sooon!
Jenna and her crystal ball toting Aunt Vera are at it again in this book. Jenna is a great protagonist for a lot of reasons. She never goes off haphazardly. She always has a reason to investigate and she doesn't try to do the job of the police. She is also caring and kind and that goes a long way in my book. I think the author wants her main character to be responsible, yet interesting to the reader. So she is a mix of those traits. I love reading about her personal life as much as the mystery itself.
Aunt Vera once again provides a lot of comic relief to the dark subject of murder. That's one of the things I like about cozies in general. They don't go into all the gory details. This book has a lightness about it even though murder is definitely afoot. I think Aunt Vera's character is meant to be eccentric and a little out there just for the reason of adding a smile to the readers face.
I liked the whole grilled cheese competition angle. I have had some good grilled cheeses in my day and I could totally buy into the idea of this kind of food competition. They have them for just about every thing now, from Chili cook offs to pit master barbeque cook offs, so this was an interesting surprise. I could definitely believe that amateur cooks could get so wrapped up in the heat of competition that a murder is possible. I thought the plot was engaging, and plausible, this could happen. Well done!
What I didn't like:
There was a bit of a mystery within a mystery going on in this one, and that was a little unnecessary. The main plot was definitely enough to keep the reader engaged. It wasn't a critical error, just something that didn't need to be included, though it did change some things on a personal level for the lead character.
Bottom Line:
This is shaping up to be quite a good series. Daryl Wood Gerber was on to something with the cookbook nook idea and I think readers are buying into it and liking it more with each new book to the series.
What I liked:
Daryl Wood Gerber never disappoints whether it's this series or the Cheese Shop Mysteries she writes under the name Avery Aames. She always has a food related element in her books and I love that about her writing. It's one thing for a million other writers to use food as a catalyst for the plots of their books, but it's another thing when the writer is actually a good cook. It gives this book a ring of authenticity that shows on every page. Especially the recipe section in the back of the book. I'm trying that Brie, Apple, and Turkey Grilled cheese, very sooon!
Jenna and her crystal ball toting Aunt Vera are at it again in this book. Jenna is a great protagonist for a lot of reasons. She never goes off haphazardly. She always has a reason to investigate and she doesn't try to do the job of the police. She is also caring and kind and that goes a long way in my book. I think the author wants her main character to be responsible, yet interesting to the reader. So she is a mix of those traits. I love reading about her personal life as much as the mystery itself.
Aunt Vera once again provides a lot of comic relief to the dark subject of murder. That's one of the things I like about cozies in general. They don't go into all the gory details. This book has a lightness about it even though murder is definitely afoot. I think Aunt Vera's character is meant to be eccentric and a little out there just for the reason of adding a smile to the readers face.
I liked the whole grilled cheese competition angle. I have had some good grilled cheeses in my day and I could totally buy into the idea of this kind of food competition. They have them for just about every thing now, from Chili cook offs to pit master barbeque cook offs, so this was an interesting surprise. I could definitely believe that amateur cooks could get so wrapped up in the heat of competition that a murder is possible. I thought the plot was engaging, and plausible, this could happen. Well done!
What I didn't like:
There was a bit of a mystery within a mystery going on in this one, and that was a little unnecessary. The main plot was definitely enough to keep the reader engaged. It wasn't a critical error, just something that didn't need to be included, though it did change some things on a personal level for the lead character.
Bottom Line:
This is shaping up to be quite a good series. Daryl Wood Gerber was on to something with the cookbook nook idea and I think readers are buying into it and liking it more with each new book to the series.
October 25, 2017
Crystal Cove is having a Grill Fest and the theme is grilled cheese this year. The town is all excited and the competing chefs are getting their best recipes ready. A couple of the contestants are seen having a very vocal almost physical fight before the event. When one of the ladies turns up murdered, Jenna of course feels the urge to investigate especially when it may mean clearing her very good friend's name.
This was a really fun read as far as getting to know some of the other shop owners in Crystal Cove. Jenna had a side story going on involving her late husband, David and she finally got to have some closure from it as unsettling as the closure was. That's all I'm going to say. I would, however, recommend reading this book before you venture on. I'm glad I did because in the next book, it's recapped a little and for me it would have been a little bit disappointing not to have read the details.
I liked how the character of Ellen, the daughter of the woman who was killed and new co-owner of Mum's the Word cafe, who was depicted as a possible abuse victim (turns out not physical) and not a very well person, but seemed to grow stronger as the story went along.
The twists and turns were really good because I would have my suspicions, then that person would either end up dead or with an alibi. I also loved Jenna's thought processes. So I didn't guess the killer until the author revealed it. I am really loving this series and currently reading the 3rd book, Stirring the Plot which is set during Halloween season.
Inherit the Word had a great ending and I am really liking how different Pepper and her daughter Cinnamon are from the first book. Granted, Pepper will probably always be cynical and grumpy but Cinnamon is coming around to being friendly-ish with Jenna. And I'm very happy about Jenna and Rhett getting together and just a little bit closer every time I read about them! This is a great end of summer/fall type read.
This was a really fun read as far as getting to know some of the other shop owners in Crystal Cove. Jenna had a side story going on involving her late husband, David and she finally got to have some closure from it as unsettling as the closure was. That's all I'm going to say. I would, however, recommend reading this book before you venture on. I'm glad I did because in the next book, it's recapped a little and for me it would have been a little bit disappointing not to have read the details.
I liked how the character of Ellen, the daughter of the woman who was killed and new co-owner of Mum's the Word cafe, who was depicted as a possible abuse victim (turns out not physical) and not a very well person, but seemed to grow stronger as the story went along.
The twists and turns were really good because I would have my suspicions, then that person would either end up dead or with an alibi. I also loved Jenna's thought processes. So I didn't guess the killer until the author revealed it. I am really loving this series and currently reading the 3rd book, Stirring the Plot which is set during Halloween season.
Inherit the Word had a great ending and I am really liking how different Pepper and her daughter Cinnamon are from the first book. Granted, Pepper will probably always be cynical and grumpy but Cinnamon is coming around to being friendly-ish with Jenna. And I'm very happy about Jenna and Rhett getting together and just a little bit closer every time I read about them! This is a great end of summer/fall type read.
April 7, 2018
The Grill Fest is being hosted this year by the
Cookbook Nook in Crystal Cove, California. This
store is a cookbook and culinary mystery lovers
haven.
Jenna Hart has moved back to Crystal Cove to
help her Aunt Vera run her bookstore. Aunt Vera
is a real enjoyable, quirky character that the
reader will love. She has a great sense of humor
and enjoys giving people their tarot card readings.
The theme of the years Grill Fest is Grilled Cheese.
The competitors are all geared up and ready to go.
Competition is fierce. Then one of the competitors
is found dead. Another one of the competitors
becomes the main suspect. Jenna knows this
person is innocent. Now she needs to prove the
person innocence by finding the real killer.
A good plot with lots of twists and turns. The
characters are well defined, colorful, interesting
and make for a good cast of suspects.
The reader will enjoy learning about all the cookbooks
in the story. This story is a culinary delight.
Cookbook Nook in Crystal Cove, California. This
store is a cookbook and culinary mystery lovers
haven.
Jenna Hart has moved back to Crystal Cove to
help her Aunt Vera run her bookstore. Aunt Vera
is a real enjoyable, quirky character that the
reader will love. She has a great sense of humor
and enjoys giving people their tarot card readings.
The theme of the years Grill Fest is Grilled Cheese.
The competitors are all geared up and ready to go.
Competition is fierce. Then one of the competitors
is found dead. Another one of the competitors
becomes the main suspect. Jenna knows this
person is innocent. Now she needs to prove the
person innocence by finding the real killer.
A good plot with lots of twists and turns. The
characters are well defined, colorful, interesting
and make for a good cast of suspects.
The reader will enjoy learning about all the cookbooks
in the story. This story is a culinary delight.
April 12, 2022
Honestly, I kind of forgot about this series but I am so glad I picked it back up!! This murder takes place during a grilled cheese competition, I wanted to eat every time I sat down to read. The mystery, the setting, the cozy town, & fun characters made for a fantastic story. I will be chowing down on book 3 as soon as I can.
September 21, 2022
Nice addition to the Cookbook Nook Mystery series! This second installment kicks off with preparing for Grill Fest, an annual cooking contest. Lola Bird and Natalie Mumford are not only competitors in this year's grilled cheese themed event, but both women also own eateries in the seaside town of Crystal Cove, California. Shortly after a heated public exchange regarding one of their mutual employees, Natalie is found dead. Protagonist Jenna Hart sets out to prove the innocence of prime suspect Lola, who also happens to be the mother of her best friend. Before long, a second death occurs, and Jenna suddenly faces questions regarding unanswered questions from her own past. While I found this book a bit slow to start, it quickly picked up the pace and held my attention until the thrilling conclusion. I also enjoyed the character development of Jenna, Rhett, Aunt Vera, Bailey, and Katie. Looking forward to picking up book three, Stirring the Plot, to see what's next in store for the gang.
August 27, 2014
I enjoyed the first book in this series, FINAL SENTENCE so much (You can find my review on that title’s page), I just knew I was going to love INHERIT THE WORD, and I sure did!
It was great to be back in Crystal Cover with Jenna Hart, her Aunt Vera, and the rest of the great cast of characters.
The Cookbook Nook is hosting the town’s Grill Fest with the challenge being grilled cheese sandwiches (I stayed hungry through the entire book). On the first day of the challenge the eight-time champ is found dead. As with her first book in the series, Ms. Gerber had plenty of suspects, but the investigation seems to be centered on Jenna’s second mother Lola.
There are many twists and turns throughout the entire book. I keep going back and forth on who I thought the killer was. I was completely surprised when reading the reveal!
If you read FINAL SENTENCE and liked it, you’re going to love INHERIT THE WORD. You don’t have read the first book to be able follow this one, but I would recommend it since they are both so wonderful.
To sum it up, this is a fantastic mystery, set in a beautiful location full of characters you’ll love. And there are awesome recipes included
Read both FINAL SENTENCE and INHERIT THE WORD now and get yourself ready for STIRRING THE PLOT coming in September!
It was great to be back in Crystal Cover with Jenna Hart, her Aunt Vera, and the rest of the great cast of characters.
The Cookbook Nook is hosting the town’s Grill Fest with the challenge being grilled cheese sandwiches (I stayed hungry through the entire book). On the first day of the challenge the eight-time champ is found dead. As with her first book in the series, Ms. Gerber had plenty of suspects, but the investigation seems to be centered on Jenna’s second mother Lola.
There are many twists and turns throughout the entire book. I keep going back and forth on who I thought the killer was. I was completely surprised when reading the reveal!
If you read FINAL SENTENCE and liked it, you’re going to love INHERIT THE WORD. You don’t have read the first book to be able follow this one, but I would recommend it since they are both so wonderful.
To sum it up, this is a fantastic mystery, set in a beautiful location full of characters you’ll love. And there are awesome recipes included
Read both FINAL SENTENCE and INHERIT THE WORD now and get yourself ready for STIRRING THE PLOT coming in September!
August 14, 2014
I just love this book. It kept me guessing right up to the end as to who the killer was. Every time I thought I had it figured out some other information came out about persons of interest.
Jenna Hart had moved back to Crystal Cove to help her aunt, Vera, run her culinary café and bookshop, The Cookbook Nook. Her chef, Katie, makes the most mouth watering delights to tickle your stomach and it tastes SO GOOD. Katie also has been helping Jenna learn to cook and become more at ease with cooking.
The Cookbook Nook is hosting a Grill Fest, where amateur chefs vie against each other to make the most delectable dishes. This year's theme is grilled cheese.
Before the contest begins, the 8 time champion has been found dead in the alley behind the Nook.
Yellow tape goes up, the venue is closed for the day as well as the café. People are questioned. No answers or why.
This is just a "juicy" book to keep you wondering who in the world done it.
I won this book through ŷ Giveaway and am appreciative of this. Daryl Wood Gerber captured the essence of this story so well. Thanks.
Jenna Hart had moved back to Crystal Cove to help her aunt, Vera, run her culinary café and bookshop, The Cookbook Nook. Her chef, Katie, makes the most mouth watering delights to tickle your stomach and it tastes SO GOOD. Katie also has been helping Jenna learn to cook and become more at ease with cooking.
The Cookbook Nook is hosting a Grill Fest, where amateur chefs vie against each other to make the most delectable dishes. This year's theme is grilled cheese.
Before the contest begins, the 8 time champion has been found dead in the alley behind the Nook.
Yellow tape goes up, the venue is closed for the day as well as the café. People are questioned. No answers or why.
This is just a "juicy" book to keep you wondering who in the world done it.
I won this book through ŷ Giveaway and am appreciative of this. Daryl Wood Gerber captured the essence of this story so well. Thanks.
July 15, 2019
When I am hurting or when I am not feeling good, I love to get lost in a good book and that is just what I did in this case.
I am struggling to find books in this series from my library. I started with a book later on in this set which I had won from a giveaway from here on ŷ but wanting to read more of the series has been hard for me. But at least I am finding a few of them. They are good books and pull you into the stories. Granted even if you miss a few books, you can somewhat understand what is going on in the story. But reading from the start helps you understand the story line more. So it works for someone like me that can't always get their hands on all of the books.
I am struggling to find books in this series from my library. I started with a book later on in this set which I had won from a giveaway from here on ŷ but wanting to read more of the series has been hard for me. But at least I am finding a few of them. They are good books and pull you into the stories. Granted even if you miss a few books, you can somewhat understand what is going on in the story. But reading from the start helps you understand the story line more. So it works for someone like me that can't always get their hands on all of the books.
March 6, 2014
I enjoy cozy mysteries that feature bookshops, it gives the story such a "cozy" feeling!
Jenna and her Aunt, Vera own a bookshop called "The Cookbook Nook" and a café next door they call "The Nook Cafe". When they find themselves hosting the town's Grill Fest competition they quickly put together the work stations for the contestants in The Cookbook Nook book store. I liked the different personalities of the contestants, all of them really want to win! There are really two mysteries in this story, - Jenna discovers some things about her ex-husband that she needs to figure out....
I like Jenna's cute little kitten in this story named Tigger ( who likes to get into mischief )
With the different titles of cookbooks mentioned in the story ( and the grilled cheese sandwich recipes ) -- I found myself getting hungry reading this story... =)
The first book in this series is called "Final Sentence". I have this book, but I haven't read it yet.. After reading this book, I'm really looking forward to going back and catching up with how this series began! You can read "Inherit the Word" as a stand alone book, but as with series books, I think its helpful to read them in order if possible to get a better feel of the characters and the background of the story.
With interesting characters and two mysteries to this story, I found it hard to put down!
Jenna and her Aunt, Vera own a bookshop called "The Cookbook Nook" and a café next door they call "The Nook Cafe". When they find themselves hosting the town's Grill Fest competition they quickly put together the work stations for the contestants in The Cookbook Nook book store. I liked the different personalities of the contestants, all of them really want to win! There are really two mysteries in this story, - Jenna discovers some things about her ex-husband that she needs to figure out....
I like Jenna's cute little kitten in this story named Tigger ( who likes to get into mischief )
With the different titles of cookbooks mentioned in the story ( and the grilled cheese sandwich recipes ) -- I found myself getting hungry reading this story... =)
The first book in this series is called "Final Sentence". I have this book, but I haven't read it yet.. After reading this book, I'm really looking forward to going back and catching up with how this series began! You can read "Inherit the Word" as a stand alone book, but as with series books, I think its helpful to read them in order if possible to get a better feel of the characters and the background of the story.
With interesting characters and two mysteries to this story, I found it hard to put down!
October 2, 2017
I enjoyed this wonderful whodunit that brought a satisfying mystery to solve. Jenna Hart is back and running her shop and this time is hosting a contest for the best grilled cheese sandwich. one of the contestants in the completion is murdered and Jenna is back to her old sleuthing ways. I enjoyed the first book in the series. It is a very engaging mystery with a cast of interesting character. I also enjoy that it is a light entertaining read that still provides a whodunit I can solve. the heroine, Jenna, is grear and I like looking thought the investigation form an amatuers point of view. The small town setting is spot on as well, and its new to visit a costal town in Californina, but the people are spot on to small towns.
March 29, 2014
If you like a book that keeps you guessing until the very end, has great characters, a beautiful setting and yummy recipes, this is the one for you. Ms. Gerber writes about a grill fest this time. In the midst of the first round of the contestants, one of them is murdered. Was it for her grilled cheese recipes, or was it for cheating with another woman’s husband, or was it for some other reason? There are so many suspects in this one, it had me scratching my head going, yep I can see that…oh wait, maybe it was her right up until the very end of the book. Oh yes, the recipes in the back are to die for. I’m going to be making some of them soon.
October 29, 2015
It has been a while since I read Final Sentence, the first book in the series, so it took a few pages to reacquaint myself with the characters. But then the story really took off. I really enjoyed this book! There was no shortage of suspects, all had different reasons they could have and/or had reason to do the crime. The story was woven quite nicely to keep me not really knowing for sure who had done it.
There is also the sub-story of the mystery surrounding Jenna's husband's death. That was quite interesting also.
I need to get the next two books in the series as soon as possible! Daryl Wood Gerber is a great storyteller!
There is also the sub-story of the mystery surrounding Jenna's husband's death. That was quite interesting also.
I need to get the next two books in the series as soon as possible! Daryl Wood Gerber is a great storyteller!
October 3, 2017
I liked the first book in the Cookbook Nook series, and I like this second book even more! The setting of a cookbook shop-slash-cafe by the beach sounds so lovely... aside from the "accidents" that seem to happen there! This mystery had more than one victim and several suspects, which made for an interesting read. We also learn a bit more about her late husband, which adds a nice layer to the story. There's a bit of romance in the air, too, with several characters. I'm really getting into this series and am happy I have the next book already, so I can start anytime!
June 13, 2014
An ok read that suffers from some awkward writing. What could be clever use of other book titles comes across as sales pitches. Very well done murder plotting though.
Full review:
Full review:
January 9, 2020
I really enjoyed this one. I like Jenna and she and her friends are a lot of fun. The mystery totally kept me guessing (as well as Jenna). I'm looking forward to seeing what happens in the personal lives of all the characters.
January 16, 2016
The Cookbook Nook and Cafe has been asked to host this year’s Grill Fest. The theme is GRILLED CHEESE!! Eight local chefs plan to win the judges favor with their sandwich creations. This is not a friendly battle, it is a grudge match and tempers are as hot as the stoves they are cooking on. A break is taken before Round 1 and it proves deadly. The 8 time Grill Fest Champ is found dead in the alley behind the Nook. It doesn’t take long for one of the other competitors to be named the prime suspect. Jenna know the woman wouldn’t hurt a fly and she is bound and determined to find the real killer before they get away with another murder.
Dollycas’s Thoughts
The second Cookbook Nook Mystery is even better than the first. I don’t know why but it took be awhile to get in touch with Jenna in Final Sentence, the first book in this series. This time she had be from page one. She jumped right in to prove her friend’s mother was innocent and sort through a ton of clues to catch the killer. I also was happy that more about Jenna’s husband death came out but I think there is more to that story.
My favorite character again was Aunt Vera, she is so funny and takes everything in stride. She can also give you a tarot card reading on the spur of the moment. There are plenty of the required quirky characters in this cozy and level headed ones as well. Jenna’s dad is a former FBI analyst, and Rhett Jackson, former chef and now owner of a sporting goods store, both are easy on the eyes.
The mystery was extremely well plotted and kept me guessing until the very end. I had a twist in my head that didn’t play out at all. I will say the final twist Gerber threw at us did really throw me for a loop.
I also like the bookstore setting and the wide range of books and other products they carry, including a kids corner. Much more than cookbooks, culinary mysteries too. It is fun to see some of my favorite cozies are on the shelves at The Cookbook Nook. Another plus is the Nook Cafe. I would love a few cooking lessons from Katie myself.
This is a fun and entertaining story. It will have your mouth watering in no time. Good thing the author includes some recipes!! Stirring the Plot, the next book in this series hits stores September 30.
Dollycas’s Thoughts
The second Cookbook Nook Mystery is even better than the first. I don’t know why but it took be awhile to get in touch with Jenna in Final Sentence, the first book in this series. This time she had be from page one. She jumped right in to prove her friend’s mother was innocent and sort through a ton of clues to catch the killer. I also was happy that more about Jenna’s husband death came out but I think there is more to that story.
My favorite character again was Aunt Vera, she is so funny and takes everything in stride. She can also give you a tarot card reading on the spur of the moment. There are plenty of the required quirky characters in this cozy and level headed ones as well. Jenna’s dad is a former FBI analyst, and Rhett Jackson, former chef and now owner of a sporting goods store, both are easy on the eyes.
The mystery was extremely well plotted and kept me guessing until the very end. I had a twist in my head that didn’t play out at all. I will say the final twist Gerber threw at us did really throw me for a loop.
I also like the bookstore setting and the wide range of books and other products they carry, including a kids corner. Much more than cookbooks, culinary mysteries too. It is fun to see some of my favorite cozies are on the shelves at The Cookbook Nook. Another plus is the Nook Cafe. I would love a few cooking lessons from Katie myself.
This is a fun and entertaining story. It will have your mouth watering in no time. Good thing the author includes some recipes!! Stirring the Plot, the next book in this series hits stores September 30.
May 10, 2015
Inherit The Word is the second book in the A Cookbook Nook Mystery series.
It's always a joy to visit Crystal Cove, CA, especially on these winter days in the Midwest.
Jenna and her Aunt Vera, and all the residents of Crystal Cove, are looking forward to Grill Fest. Before the Grill Fest even begins, to restaurant owners, Lola and Natalie, are having words over whether Natalie stole Lola's chef from her. Then as the contestants are gathering, Mitzi, the eight time runner-up to Natalie have a disagreement over who will win this years contest. A recess is taken before the cooking begins and soon the smoke alarms are blaring and the body of Natalie is found in the alley. The murder weapon is found next to the body and it reportedly belonged to Lola.
Jenna wants to clear Lola from any involvement in the murder, as she feels certain that she didn't do it and Lola's daughter, Bailey, works at the Book Nook. As Jenna begins to sort thru the stories she soon finds that there are several prospects to the murder. Mitzi's husband, Sam, is rumored to be having an affair with Natalie and Sam's alibi seems to be questionable, too. And things weren't all that good on the home front either. Natalie's son-in-law is deep in debt and maybe figures that inheriting the business is the answer to his problem. Natalie's daughters aren't above reproach either.
In addition to dealing with the murder, Jenna has found some gold coins that were hidden in a ceramic cat that her husband had given her shortly before heading on his fateful sailing. Where did they come from and why didn't he tell her about them? That's question she needs to answer.
A very interesting cast of characters in this delightful series. Even the accusing mother of the police chief has her redeeming qualities, I haven't figured out what they are. Every book needs a character you love to hate, and she's mine.
Looking forward to book three in this series.
Recipes are included, as are names of tempting sounding cookbooks.
It's always a joy to visit Crystal Cove, CA, especially on these winter days in the Midwest.
Jenna and her Aunt Vera, and all the residents of Crystal Cove, are looking forward to Grill Fest. Before the Grill Fest even begins, to restaurant owners, Lola and Natalie, are having words over whether Natalie stole Lola's chef from her. Then as the contestants are gathering, Mitzi, the eight time runner-up to Natalie have a disagreement over who will win this years contest. A recess is taken before the cooking begins and soon the smoke alarms are blaring and the body of Natalie is found in the alley. The murder weapon is found next to the body and it reportedly belonged to Lola.
Jenna wants to clear Lola from any involvement in the murder, as she feels certain that she didn't do it and Lola's daughter, Bailey, works at the Book Nook. As Jenna begins to sort thru the stories she soon finds that there are several prospects to the murder. Mitzi's husband, Sam, is rumored to be having an affair with Natalie and Sam's alibi seems to be questionable, too. And things weren't all that good on the home front either. Natalie's son-in-law is deep in debt and maybe figures that inheriting the business is the answer to his problem. Natalie's daughters aren't above reproach either.
In addition to dealing with the murder, Jenna has found some gold coins that were hidden in a ceramic cat that her husband had given her shortly before heading on his fateful sailing. Where did they come from and why didn't he tell her about them? That's question she needs to answer.
A very interesting cast of characters in this delightful series. Even the accusing mother of the police chief has her redeeming qualities, I haven't figured out what they are. Every book needs a character you love to hate, and she's mine.
Looking forward to book three in this series.
Recipes are included, as are names of tempting sounding cookbooks.
March 5, 2014
Title: Inherit the Word
Author: Daryl Wood Gerber
Series: Book 2, A Cookbook Nook Mystery
Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime
Format: Paperback
Source: Received for Review from Publisher
Reviewed by: Tina
The grill fest is in full swing at the Cookbook Nook, a culinary Disneyland for cookbook and culinary mystery lovers, This year's theme is "Grilled Cheese". It seems every amateur chef has come to the Cookbook Nook to test their cooking chops and it also seems that all the chefs really want to do Is battle each other because of past grievances.
Contestant, Natalie Mumford finds herself a murder victim when she is found slain in the alley with a Panini grill, and when Lola, another grill fest contestant is accused of the murder The Cookbook Nook proprietor Jenna Hart takes it upon herself to try to help her friend Lola beat a murder wrap and let Justice prevail.
Rumors and innuendos about the murder and it's residents are flying among everyone around this picturesque town of Crystal Cove and everyone in this town has secrets. But as all of this is going on Mayor Zeller decides to continue with the "grill fest" competition in honor of Natalie. Surely the contestants can cook up something delicious and Jenna can find a murderer before someone else gets grilled. This is fast becoming one of my favorite series, I love the characters, the settings, the culinary theme. All the names of the cookbooks that are mentioned though out the book with being a cookbook fan and collector myself I happen to love. Sometimes you love a book so much you just want to crawl inside and live there, that's how I feel about this series and this book. Just to add that Katie is my favorite character. I can't wait to read the third book in the Cookbook Nook Mysteries, Stirring the Plot, coming in October 2014.
Author: Daryl Wood Gerber
Series: Book 2, A Cookbook Nook Mystery
Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime
Format: Paperback
Source: Received for Review from Publisher
Reviewed by: Tina
The grill fest is in full swing at the Cookbook Nook, a culinary Disneyland for cookbook and culinary mystery lovers, This year's theme is "Grilled Cheese". It seems every amateur chef has come to the Cookbook Nook to test their cooking chops and it also seems that all the chefs really want to do Is battle each other because of past grievances.
Contestant, Natalie Mumford finds herself a murder victim when she is found slain in the alley with a Panini grill, and when Lola, another grill fest contestant is accused of the murder The Cookbook Nook proprietor Jenna Hart takes it upon herself to try to help her friend Lola beat a murder wrap and let Justice prevail.
Rumors and innuendos about the murder and it's residents are flying among everyone around this picturesque town of Crystal Cove and everyone in this town has secrets. But as all of this is going on Mayor Zeller decides to continue with the "grill fest" competition in honor of Natalie. Surely the contestants can cook up something delicious and Jenna can find a murderer before someone else gets grilled. This is fast becoming one of my favorite series, I love the characters, the settings, the culinary theme. All the names of the cookbooks that are mentioned though out the book with being a cookbook fan and collector myself I happen to love. Sometimes you love a book so much you just want to crawl inside and live there, that's how I feel about this series and this book. Just to add that Katie is my favorite character. I can't wait to read the third book in the Cookbook Nook Mysteries, Stirring the Plot, coming in October 2014.
April 1, 2014
I am really coming to love Crystal Cove! In book two of A Cookbook Nook Mystery, a local restaurant owners is found murdered in the alley behind the shop during the annual Grill Fest.
Inherit the Word, is really a fun read and the locals of Crystal Cove are full of quirky brilliance. Oh and I would so spend all my time at The Cookbook Nook and Cafe! The foods described will have you running for snacks while you turn the pages. (Thank goodness there are recipes included)
Jenna is coming along nicely as our resident amateur sleuth. She's out to clear her friend's name of Natalie's murder, and she has a mystery of her own to solve. She finds a key in a cat statue that her husband had given her, and she has to figure out what it opens. I liked that there is real depth to Jenna. She's fun and she cares about people, plus she's not a great cook, she's really a beginner.
The real mystery is full of suspense. There are so many people with motives and just when you think you might have a clue who did it, you have to cross them off the list. Add another murder to the mix and the story gets even more interesting.
What you'll love about Jenna and her friends has to do with the lack of obnoxiousness they display. Sure they are trying to solve a murder that is the police department's job, but Jenna doesn't act like she's smarter than the cops. She wants to help.
Oh and for those of you that like a little romance, there's always Rhett. Nice that she only has one guy in her life too!
Definitely a great foodie cozy!
Inherit the Word, is really a fun read and the locals of Crystal Cove are full of quirky brilliance. Oh and I would so spend all my time at The Cookbook Nook and Cafe! The foods described will have you running for snacks while you turn the pages. (Thank goodness there are recipes included)
Jenna is coming along nicely as our resident amateur sleuth. She's out to clear her friend's name of Natalie's murder, and she has a mystery of her own to solve. She finds a key in a cat statue that her husband had given her, and she has to figure out what it opens. I liked that there is real depth to Jenna. She's fun and she cares about people, plus she's not a great cook, she's really a beginner.
The real mystery is full of suspense. There are so many people with motives and just when you think you might have a clue who did it, you have to cross them off the list. Add another murder to the mix and the story gets even more interesting.
What you'll love about Jenna and her friends has to do with the lack of obnoxiousness they display. Sure they are trying to solve a murder that is the police department's job, but Jenna doesn't act like she's smarter than the cops. She wants to help.
Oh and for those of you that like a little romance, there's always Rhett. Nice that she only has one guy in her life too!
Definitely a great foodie cozy!
August 30, 2016
I clambered down the ladder in the storeroom of The Cookbook Nook carrying a stack of cookie cookbooks in my arms.
This is the second book in the Cookbook Nook mystery series. Jenna Hart moved to Crystal Cove, California to help her Aunt Vera run her bookstore. The town's local Grill Fest is being hosted by the bookshop this year and features grilled cheese as the centerpiece. Infighting ensues among the contestants and Jenna's friend Lola becomes the prime suspect in another competitor's murder.
I must admit that I read this book without reading the first one. That is something that I rarely do. However, I do want to go back and start at the beginning. I love Aunt Vera! Her quirky eccentricities make me smile. I appreciate Jenna's stalwart support of Lola and her ability to think things out rather than jump into situations. I don't think I know of a grilled cheese competition but it sounds delightful (as do the recipes in the book). The addition of a mystery within the mystery was a bit puzzling but not enough to put me off the story. This book also made me realize that I need to go back and read the books Ms. Gerber writes as Avery Aames.
3.5 stars
This is the second book in the Cookbook Nook mystery series. Jenna Hart moved to Crystal Cove, California to help her Aunt Vera run her bookstore. The town's local Grill Fest is being hosted by the bookshop this year and features grilled cheese as the centerpiece. Infighting ensues among the contestants and Jenna's friend Lola becomes the prime suspect in another competitor's murder.
I must admit that I read this book without reading the first one. That is something that I rarely do. However, I do want to go back and start at the beginning. I love Aunt Vera! Her quirky eccentricities make me smile. I appreciate Jenna's stalwart support of Lola and her ability to think things out rather than jump into situations. I don't think I know of a grilled cheese competition but it sounds delightful (as do the recipes in the book). The addition of a mystery within the mystery was a bit puzzling but not enough to put me off the story. This book also made me realize that I need to go back and read the books Ms. Gerber writes as Avery Aames.
3.5 stars
April 5, 2014
I had been waiting for some time for the second outing in the “A Cookbook Nook Mystery� series and it does not disappoint. Jenna Hart, the protagonist, is still working at her Cookbook shop, hosting a community grill off event, grieving for her “dead� husband and, of course, sleuthing.
The mystery revolves around a murder at the competition and involves many recurring characters from book one. After a rocky start in book one, Jenna and Cinnamon, the local Police Chief, have a tentative new friendship. The Mayor Zeller returns again in this book and features prominently in it. Many of the other locals are included as well.
The characters are interesting and many of them seem like people you could know in real life. There are lots of possible culprits to choose from and the plot takes the reader through many twists and turns. The mystery plot is two-fold, the current murder mystery and a continuing plot from book one about David, Jenna’s dead (maybe missing??) husband. I am eager to read the next in this series.
The mystery revolves around a murder at the competition and involves many recurring characters from book one. After a rocky start in book one, Jenna and Cinnamon, the local Police Chief, have a tentative new friendship. The Mayor Zeller returns again in this book and features prominently in it. Many of the other locals are included as well.
The characters are interesting and many of them seem like people you could know in real life. There are lots of possible culprits to choose from and the plot takes the reader through many twists and turns. The mystery plot is two-fold, the current murder mystery and a continuing plot from book one about David, Jenna’s dead (maybe missing??) husband. I am eager to read the next in this series.
March 20, 2018
This is the 2nd book in the Cookbook Nook Mystery series. There are always many suspects and then to figure out why is the fun of reading this series.
Jenna was ask to host the Grill Fest at the store with the challenge being grilled cheese. Everyone is excited and things seem to be going okay until one of the competitors is killed and Jenna's second mom, Lola is accused of the murder. On top of all that Jenna finds gold coins left in a ceramic cat by her late husband along with a key. So between solving the murder and finding what the key went to Jenna is kept busy while still trying to run the Cookbook Nook.
I have always enjoyed the author's writing in both series she does. Very well written with just enough suspence to keep you turning the pages. And I love all the characters in her book. They seem to fit right in even if they are not a part of the murder. Great series.
Jenna was ask to host the Grill Fest at the store with the challenge being grilled cheese. Everyone is excited and things seem to be going okay until one of the competitors is killed and Jenna's second mom, Lola is accused of the murder. On top of all that Jenna finds gold coins left in a ceramic cat by her late husband along with a key. So between solving the murder and finding what the key went to Jenna is kept busy while still trying to run the Cookbook Nook.
I have always enjoyed the author's writing in both series she does. Very well written with just enough suspence to keep you turning the pages. And I love all the characters in her book. They seem to fit right in even if they are not a part of the murder. Great series.
July 25, 2016
This is the second book in Daryl Wood Gerber's Cookbook Nook Mysteries. Under the pseudonym Avery Aames, Daryl writes the Cheese Shop Mysteries. Inherit the Word is a wonderful cozy culinary mystery.
Gerber is obviously an expert on all books related to cooking as well as other culinary mystery authors. Inherit the Word is a good story centered around the town's Grill Fest, a cooking competition. When a murder occurs, suspects abound. I was kept guessing until the end which is always the sign of a well plotted, well written mystery.
I highly recommend Inherit the Word for fans of cozy mysteries. It will be released on March 4th. Thanks for the advanced copy Daryl. It was greatly appreciated.
Gerber is obviously an expert on all books related to cooking as well as other culinary mystery authors. Inherit the Word is a good story centered around the town's Grill Fest, a cooking competition. When a murder occurs, suspects abound. I was kept guessing until the end which is always the sign of a well plotted, well written mystery.
I highly recommend Inherit the Word for fans of cozy mysteries. It will be released on March 4th. Thanks for the advanced copy Daryl. It was greatly appreciated.
January 12, 2014
The 2nd book in the Cookbook Nook series is very good. I find myself thoroughly invested in the characters. I get angry when they are hurt and I laugh with them at their joy and happiness. As always, I find myself wishing that I knew such people as Jenna, Aunt Vera and Bailey. The antics that go on in the bookstore are truly believable, and find myself looking for their counterparts in the bookstores I visit. But, unfortunately, I guess they only live in the pages of this great book and in Ms. Gerbers mind.
As long as I cannot write something this entertaining, I will be content to read, and enjoy the online friendships that I have made with these great gals. Who would have believed that I, shy, quiet Tess, would be graced with the friendship of my reading heroes?
As long as I cannot write something this entertaining, I will be content to read, and enjoy the online friendships that I have made with these great gals. Who would have believed that I, shy, quiet Tess, would be graced with the friendship of my reading heroes?
July 12, 2016
Grilled cheese...how could this simple comfort food provide a reason for murder? Read this delightful cozy to find out. Crystal Cove, California, sounds as if it would be a great place to visit or even live. Lots of interesting characters to get to know. Do so appreciate the cooking struggles of Jenna. She is not alone! Wonderful tips and recipes to try, especially the Caramel Macchiato Ice Cream. Yum! So nice to see Jenna moving on from her life with David. I expect more to be revealed in Daryl's next book. Lots of potential to keep me enjoying this series. I was given a proof copy from which to provide my honest review.
April 3, 2014
The Cookbook Nook is hosting the town's annual grill competition, but things turn sour when the reigning champion is murdered before the first round even starts. When a friend of Jenna's becomes the prime suspect, she starts nosing around to find the killer.
I love this small touristy beach town, and I have already grown to love these characters. The plot was great with lots of good suspects and plenty of red herrings, too. I can't wait to visit again.
Read my full review at .
I love this small touristy beach town, and I have already grown to love these characters. The plot was great with lots of good suspects and plenty of red herrings, too. I can't wait to visit again.
Read my full review at .
April 17, 2021
Inherit the Word by Daryl Wood Gerber is the 2nd book in the Cookbook Nook Mystery series. Crystal Cove's annual Grill Fest is being held at the Cookbook Nook when the lead contender is found murdered in the alley behind the cafe. An interesting mystery where I enjoyed getting to know more of the town inhabitants and I love Aunt Vera. I'm glad that Jenna has finalised the events regarding her husband's death and hopefully can move forward. The food and recipes sound delicious, although many of the cookbooks mentioned are not relevant to non American readers. Overall an engaging and enjoyable cozy mystery.
September 23, 2019
Jenna is back home and settling in, running (with her Aunt Vera) The Cook Book Nook bookstore and cafe. They happily agree when asked to host the annual Grill Fest cooking competition, but have second, third and fourth thoughts when one of the competitors is murdered right outside their back door! There are more than one or two suspects, and the plot just thickens when the most likely turns up murdered as well! Will Jenna be able to find a killer before the killer finds her?
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