A review by bakingbookworm
Beer and Loathing by Ellie Alexander

lighthearted mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

As a book nerd who loves craft beer (porters + stouts all the way, baby!), this cozy mystery series is right down my alley. But you don't have to love beer to enjoy this series set in a small town in Washington state.

In this sixth book, there's (yet another) murder in the small Bavarian-inspired town and Sloan and Garrett quickly put themselves and the Nitro brewery front and centre to figure out whodunnit. I'm thankful that the on-going (and a little belabored) story arc about Sloan's past that spanned the previous 5 books is done. 

In this book, there's a good balance between the murder mystery and the growing secondary cast, most of whom I love to reconnect with (except April, the over-the-top Bavarian-addict who thankfully plays a very minor role. Can we kill her off?). We get to know Garrett's family and learn a 'big secret from his past' which was a bit lackluster and seemed to come out of nowhere. 

There are decent red herrings, tension (mysterious and sexual) and the possibility of a new resident coming to Leavenworth, WA. And I always enjoy the delicious beer and food descriptions (there are a few recipes in the back!).

This book can be read as a standalone and is a light, 'clean' cozy mystery that has a unique setting and a wintery feel, perfect as we head into cold weather. Cheers!