Criminally Cocoa
by Amanda Flowers
I have read books in two different series by Amanda Flowers and generally find her plots intriguing, her characters interesting, and her writing style excellent. Criminally Cocoa, except for the kitschy title, was disappointing. Normally I like the rare cozy mystery that doesn’t revolve around a murder. No murder here, but no plot success either. Flowers and her characters kept strolling through the same territory with two themes (Amish girl in the big city and the success or failure of a new cooking show) over and over again. Fortunately this book is a novella. Otherwise, I would have broken my own rule for my book world and not finished the book. I did complete it, but only so I could write a proper review.
I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Kensington Books for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 2/5
Category: Mystery
Notes: Novella in the Amish Candy Shop Mystery Series
Recipe for Bailey’s Easy Easter Birds’ Nests included.
Publication: February 26, 2019—Kensington Press
education pathways 
I did find slow going in the middle of the tale.
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I noticed that most reviewers rated it higher than I did, but rereading my review I’ll stick by it.
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Sometime it helps is a book sell better.
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Sorry this one wasn’t satisfying, Linda. It’s commendable that you stuck it out and finished it. I’m not sure if I could have.
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I can’t guarantee that I will on every book I read, but that is my goal—and it makes me choose more carefully.😉
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Oh darn, this one looked so cute for a cozy.
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It has a cute cover!
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Oooh sounds bad. This was a great review in spite of not liking it
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Thanks. I feel a little like “the emperor is wearing no clothes” on this one.
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Hahaha I loved that story. I am sure all cons in the world started with that one
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I really like Amanda Flowers’ books, but sometimes when they try to write a novella, they just can’t.I hope this is not a sign of things to come now that she is writing full time. It is too bad this one isn’t one of her successes. I need to read this one and will probably fit it in between a couple I am really looking forward to. Nice, honest review Linda.
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Good idea to read between some you are more sure of. Who knows, you may love it!
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