Reviews

Killer Crullers by Jessica Beck

moondance120's review

3.0

It is a pleasure to drop in on Suzanne at Donut Hearts in April Springs, NC. I always imagine a small town in the mountains like Clyde or Bakersville when I read this series. Both are places I like to visit. This installment opens with a stranger buying crullers from Suzanne to throw at Gabby's second hand clothing shop. He accuses Gabby of stealing from his aunt. When he later turns up dead in the alley behind the shops, Gabby is suspect number one. Of course, Suzanne, Grace and George have to get in on the action to try and nab the murderer. Things heat up between Suzanne's mom and the chief of police. I would like for Suzanne's relationship with Jake to heat up a bit as well. The list of suspects gets longer rather than shorter as the story continues. Really like this town and its townspeople. The recipes are good, too. I haven't tried any of them, but always sigh and think about it.

skullfullofbooks's review

3.0

How many donuts can you give out for free and still profit? I think the biggest issue I have with this series, after 6 books, is the inconsistencies with how Suzanne's shop runs. In the first few books, she needed any customer and any donut sold she could get. Losing her recipe book was a mighty blow that could mean the end. Suddenly, without much noticeable change, she can cut hours and gives out dozens like it isn't an issue. I guess I'd believe it more if she had outside income, but it just doesn't make sense when one second she is complaining about margins and the next she throws in three free donuts to "appease" some grumbling customers.

I liked the relationship arc in this book. It was a little silly at times but believable and cute. A nice add in, considering the fact that the mystery was pretty sparse.

It started out corny and turned more interesting as the plot progressed. I figured the killer out midway throuh, but there were enough red herrings to keep me doubtful until the grand unveiling.