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A Bread Shop Mystery #4
Flour in the Attic
Ivy Culpepper keeps the ovens hot at Yeast of Eden, a Northern California bakery that specializes in traditional breads. But now she has to deal with a stone-cold killer . . .
Just as Ivy’s brother Billy is about to get engaged to his beloved, a tragedy interrupts the happy moment. The body of longtime Santa Sofia resident Marisol Ruiz washes up on the beach—and it’s even more heartbreaking since Marisol’s father also recently died. But Marisol was a strong competitive swimmer. It seems unlikely there’s even a grain of truth to the theory that she accidentally drowned.
As Ivy gets to work helping her mentor, Olaya Solis, with the catering for Marisol’s funeral, she also teams up with her partners in detection—because if they want to prevent someone from getting away with murder, there’s no time for loafing . . .
Just as Ivy’s brother Billy is about to get engaged to his beloved, a tragedy interrupts the happy moment. The body of longtime Santa Sofia resident Marisol Ruiz washes up on the beach—and it’s even more heartbreaking since Marisol’s father also recently died. But Marisol was a strong competitive swimmer. It seems unlikely there’s even a grain of truth to the theory that she accidentally drowned.
As Ivy gets to work helping her mentor, Olaya Solis, with the catering for Marisol’s funeral, she also teams up with her partners in detection—because if they want to prevent someone from getting away with murder, there’s no time for loafing . . .
Audio CD
First published August 27, 2019
34 people are currently reading
546 people want to read
About the author
Winnie Archer
9 books368 followersWinnie Archer is the pseudonym of Melissa Bourbon.
Melissa Bourbon Ramirez is the national bestselling author of seventeen mystery books, including the Lola Cruz Mysteries, A Magical Dressmaking Mystery series, and the Bread Shop Mysteries, written as Winnie Archer. She is a former middle school English teacher who gave up the classroom in order to live in her imagination full time. Melissa, a California native who has lived in Texas and Colorado, now calls the southeast home. She hikes, practices yoga, cooks, and is slowly but surely discovering all the great restaurants in the Carolinas. Since four of her five amazing kids are living their lives, scattered throughout the country, her dogs, Bean, the pug, Dobby, the chug, and Jasper, a cattle dog/lab keep her company while she writes. Melissa lives in North Carolina with her educator husband, Carlos, and their youngest son. She is beyond fortunate to be living the life of her dreams.
Melissa Bourbon Ramirez is the national bestselling author of seventeen mystery books, including the Lola Cruz Mysteries, A Magical Dressmaking Mystery series, and the Bread Shop Mysteries, written as Winnie Archer. She is a former middle school English teacher who gave up the classroom in order to live in her imagination full time. Melissa, a California native who has lived in Texas and Colorado, now calls the southeast home. She hikes, practices yoga, cooks, and is slowly but surely discovering all the great restaurants in the Carolinas. Since four of her five amazing kids are living their lives, scattered throughout the country, her dogs, Bean, the pug, Dobby, the chug, and Jasper, a cattle dog/lab keep her company while she writes. Melissa lives in North Carolina with her educator husband, Carlos, and their youngest son. She is beyond fortunate to be living the life of her dreams.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
August 22, 2020
Another outstanding plot from this wonderful cozy mystery series! Ivy and crew are on the hunt again to figure out what happened to a longtime family friend of Miguel's. The plot that untwists is quite intriguing and definitely heightens the enjoyment of reading this book. The characters as always are well developed and relatable so that you can't help, but fall prey to late night reading binges as you won't be able to stop reading, or as in my case, stop listening to this book! I can't wait to read what happens next as a big bombshell is dropped at the end which only enhances your desire to get your hands on the next book!!
November 12, 2022
I think I'm not the only one, who likes those covers and wants to eat each type of bread, featured in every book. Unfortunately, I can't eat most of those amazing breads, but at least I have a chance to enjoy those tasty descriptions, I just wish there was more about the food aspect.
Finally Billy's line progressed to engagement, also Ivy's love line sounds natural, no rushing there and I like it a lot.
You have probably noticed that I didn't even talk about the main story, which is a mystery itself. And the reason is that I didn't like it much, it was totally predictable from the start and some clues and hints were kinda too obvious. At some point (somewhere close to the middle) the book became boring.
Though still a nice read to pick with a cozy blanket, a cup of aromatic coffee and a loaf of bread.
Finally Billy's line progressed to engagement, also Ivy's love line sounds natural, no rushing there and I like it a lot.
You have probably noticed that I didn't even talk about the main story, which is a mystery itself. And the reason is that I didn't like it much, it was totally predictable from the start and some clues and hints were kinda too obvious. At some point (somewhere close to the middle) the book became boring.
Though still a nice read to pick with a cozy blanket, a cup of aromatic coffee and a loaf of bread.
July 26, 2019
I have found this to be an entertaining series so I was happy to have a chance to read and review Flour in the Attic. I enjoy these characters. They are developing nicely and the relationships are progressing in a natural way. Ivy has settled into her life back in Santa Sofia and finding her niche with her photography as well as at Yeast of Eden. I live the diverse secondary cast of characters as they add depth along with a different perspective to the story. The mystery was well done and kept me guessing throughout the entire book. The author provides good clues that could be interpreted in different ways, thereby causing the reading to be distracted by the true motive for the killings and the true identity of the killer. I was surprised by the outcome as I didn't guess it until shortly before Ivy and Miguel correctly surmised what was happening. I will definitely be back to read more in this series, especially with the bombshell the author dropped in the last sentence of this book.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley
March 19, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
There’s a killer loose in Santa Sofia and sadly the victim was a beloved member of the community. Marisol Ruiz was a waitress at Miguel’s restaurant so the death strikes close for many members of the community including Ivy. Sadly Marisol has just recently lost her father and was having a hard time dealing with his death and at first, some people thought she took her own life but the evidence quickly proved otherwise.
Also happening around town, Sheriff Emmaline Davis is planning to propose to Ivy’s brother but now she has this murder to solve first. Ivy and Miquel are going to do everything they can do to help her do that. They hope that catering Marisol’s funeral will shed some light on who killed her and why.
This series is filled with a great cast of diverse characters that are allowed to shine within these pages. They are all well-crafted with plenty of room left for growth. It was hard to pick a favorite this time because they were all excellent. Miguel and his family always give me the good feels. Ivy is a fantastic protagonist and seems like so much fun to be around.
The mystery this time takes a real unexpected turn that twists the whole story up. After that turn, my stomach got this sick feeling as I knew where everything was headed. I was completely satisfied with the way the story played out. I may have been cheering just a little bit.
I know when I pick up a book by this author I am going to be entertained beginning to end. Flour in the Attic was no exception.
I have gotten behind on this series but the last line of the book was a real zinger. A cliffhanger that draws readers right into the next book in the series. I intend to jump right into Dough or Die soon and the rest of the series too.
There’s a killer loose in Santa Sofia and sadly the victim was a beloved member of the community. Marisol Ruiz was a waitress at Miguel’s restaurant so the death strikes close for many members of the community including Ivy. Sadly Marisol has just recently lost her father and was having a hard time dealing with his death and at first, some people thought she took her own life but the evidence quickly proved otherwise.
Also happening around town, Sheriff Emmaline Davis is planning to propose to Ivy’s brother but now she has this murder to solve first. Ivy and Miquel are going to do everything they can do to help her do that. They hope that catering Marisol’s funeral will shed some light on who killed her and why.
This series is filled with a great cast of diverse characters that are allowed to shine within these pages. They are all well-crafted with plenty of room left for growth. It was hard to pick a favorite this time because they were all excellent. Miguel and his family always give me the good feels. Ivy is a fantastic protagonist and seems like so much fun to be around.
The mystery this time takes a real unexpected turn that twists the whole story up. After that turn, my stomach got this sick feeling as I knew where everything was headed. I was completely satisfied with the way the story played out. I may have been cheering just a little bit.
I know when I pick up a book by this author I am going to be entertained beginning to end. Flour in the Attic was no exception.
I have gotten behind on this series but the last line of the book was a real zinger. A cliffhanger that draws readers right into the next book in the series. I intend to jump right into Dough or Die soon and the rest of the series too.
March 2, 2020
Ivy Culpepper is super excited to learn her best friend Emmaline is about to propose to Ivy's brother Billy. They'll finally be real sisters at last! The next time Ivy talks to Emmaline, she learns the proposal didn't go according to plan. A body washed ashore and Emmaline, as the new sheriff, has to devote all her time and energy into the case. The dead body was that of Marisol Ruiz, a waitress at Baptista's Cantina and Grill and much loved member of the community. Marisol's husband, David, knows Marisol was training for triathlons and therefore a strong swimmer. He believes Marisol was murdered and wants Ivy to solve the mystery. When evidence suggests David is correct, Emmaline is stumped for clues. Could it have been Marisol's ex-husband, Johnny or her current husband David? Who would want to kill Marisol and why? Ivy, Miguel and Mrs. Branford are on the case.
I didn't enjoy this mystery as much as the previous one. I don't like it when good people die.. What Ivy uncovers is really creepy and dark and I didn't like it at all. There's not enough baking in this novel and when there is, it's savory. I'm sorry but you can't put any old filling into shell-shaped flaky pastry and call it sfoliagatelle! That's just not right, especially not crab. Also, how can Ivy have never heard of it? Aren't there Italians in Santa Sofia and Austin? I can't live either of those places if there aren't! I'd stuff myself silly every time I came home to visit! Finally, there's a bit of language in this novel and I'd prefer not to have it spelled out on page.
I didn't like Ivy so much in this one. This is the first mystery where Ivy really gets stupid in her investigations. Yes she has Miguel with her but she puts them both in danger as well as someone else. Miguel is pretty swoony but he helps Ivy do illegal things. I don't understand why they couldn't wait for Emmaline. I'm so happy Emmaline is now sheriff. Ivy can let Emmaline do her job now. I'm pleased Emmaline and Billy's relationship is progressing, finally, but I don't like that it's all off page. Emmaline is very good at her job but she lets Ivy take advantage of their friendship sometimes. As always, Olaya provides calm support for everyone through the magic of her bread baking. Penny is crazy. She enters a potentially dangerous situation on her own and could have gotten into big time trouble. She even brings sweet little Agatha with her! Darling Agatha doesn't have much to do in this book except be cute. Miguel's sister Laura has come around. Marisol was her mother-in-law, grandmother to Laura's young children. She is appropriately devastated, especially after recently losing her father.
Marisol Ruiz was a daughter, mother, grandmother, wife, friend, athlete, waitress. She did not deserve to die. Marisol was like an aunt to Miguel. He knew her his whole life and her death is a devastating blow to the restaurant family. She sounds like an inspiring woman. Her children are not all that appealing. Lisette, the baby, is grieving, I get it, but she's very, very emotional and rude to everyone. Her sons are rather the opposite. They're a little too cool-headed. Marisol's husband, David, is also very emotional. He's crazed with grief or with guilt. Ivy isn't sure which. He comes across as a bit too rough for me. Johnny, Marisol's childhood friend, high school sweetheart and ex-husband is clearly still in love with her. He seems like a nice man so why did they divorce? The reason is pretty valid but it also creates a motive for murder.
Other new characters include Benjamin Alcott and his sister Suzanne who run the Vista Ridge Funeral Home. Personally, funeral home directors give me the creeps. I got a bad vibe from Suzanne. She doesn't seem as dedicated to helping the bereaved as her brother and something else happened that pinged my sense but may not have been anything. Ivy's ex-husband, Luke, shows up to complicate the plot. He's selfish, narcissistic and manipulative. Ivy is well rid of him. Could he be connected to the murder somehow?
The finale of the plot sets up the next story but I'm not too interested in reading it.
Content:
creepy/gross/weird
process of preparing bodies for burial or cremation
language
I didn't enjoy this mystery as much as the previous one. I don't like it when good people die.. What Ivy uncovers is really creepy and dark and I didn't like it at all. There's not enough baking in this novel and when there is, it's savory. I'm sorry but you can't put any old filling into shell-shaped flaky pastry and call it sfoliagatelle! That's just not right, especially not crab. Also, how can Ivy have never heard of it? Aren't there Italians in Santa Sofia and Austin? I can't live either of those places if there aren't! I'd stuff myself silly every time I came home to visit! Finally, there's a bit of language in this novel and I'd prefer not to have it spelled out on page.
I didn't like Ivy so much in this one. This is the first mystery where Ivy really gets stupid in her investigations. Yes she has Miguel with her but she puts them both in danger as well as someone else. Miguel is pretty swoony but he helps Ivy do illegal things. I don't understand why they couldn't wait for Emmaline. I'm so happy Emmaline is now sheriff. Ivy can let Emmaline do her job now. I'm pleased Emmaline and Billy's relationship is progressing, finally, but I don't like that it's all off page. Emmaline is very good at her job but she lets Ivy take advantage of their friendship sometimes. As always, Olaya provides calm support for everyone through the magic of her bread baking. Penny is crazy. She enters a potentially dangerous situation on her own and could have gotten into big time trouble. She even brings sweet little Agatha with her! Darling Agatha doesn't have much to do in this book except be cute. Miguel's sister Laura has come around. Marisol was her mother-in-law, grandmother to Laura's young children. She is appropriately devastated, especially after recently losing her father.
Marisol Ruiz was a daughter, mother, grandmother, wife, friend, athlete, waitress. She did not deserve to die. Marisol was like an aunt to Miguel. He knew her his whole life and her death is a devastating blow to the restaurant family. She sounds like an inspiring woman. Her children are not all that appealing. Lisette, the baby, is grieving, I get it, but she's very, very emotional and rude to everyone. Her sons are rather the opposite. They're a little too cool-headed. Marisol's husband, David, is also very emotional. He's crazed with grief or with guilt. Ivy isn't sure which. He comes across as a bit too rough for me. Johnny, Marisol's childhood friend, high school sweetheart and ex-husband is clearly still in love with her. He seems like a nice man so why did they divorce? The reason is pretty valid but it also creates a motive for murder.
Other new characters include Benjamin Alcott and his sister Suzanne who run the Vista Ridge Funeral Home. Personally, funeral home directors give me the creeps. I got a bad vibe from Suzanne. She doesn't seem as dedicated to helping the bereaved as her brother and something else happened that pinged my sense but may not have been anything. Ivy's ex-husband, Luke, shows up to complicate the plot. He's selfish, narcissistic and manipulative. Ivy is well rid of him. Could he be connected to the murder somehow?
The finale of the plot sets up the next story but I'm not too interested in reading it.
Content:
creepy/gross/weird
process of preparing bodies for burial or cremation
language
August 28, 2019
4 Stars
This is the fourth book in the A Bread Shop Mystery series by Winnie Archer. I am still curious as to why they titled this book the way they did. I know flour goes with the whole bread making aspect of the book but I didn’t think that totally resonated with the story within the pages of this book. I can see where concrete dust which is sort of like flour and the same basic color could by the why to it all, but I guess I just don’t get it.
This story is kind of depressing. I know murder generally is depressing but this entire story is centered around a funeral home. It is not a place I long to visit or stay for very long. I struggled through the beginning of the novel even though the murder happened pretty early on. Once the setting changed to the funeral home and they were gathering for the visitation, the story just flew. I couldn’t read it fast enough. I wish they would have shortened the first half of the book and expanded the back half. That second half made the entire book worth the read. I really enjoyed Ivy and Miguel working together. That was exciting stuff.
I didn’t understand why the ex-husband of Ivy showed up in the middle of the story. It felt like a big red herring making us wonder about him yet not having him really involved in anything. When I got to the end, I realized the author’s intent. His influence and his own ex-wife was going to figure prominently in the next Winnie Archer Bread Shop book.
If you get started on this book and find it a bit on the slow side, don’t give up on it! Keep reading. This book has a slow start, yes, but it builds up to great action and the characters really grow on you, even the crazy ones.
This book was a treat and my first foray into the world of Yeast of Eden. I will definitely be coming back to this Northern California town for a visit. Check it out.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the fourth book in the A Bread Shop Mystery series by Winnie Archer. I am still curious as to why they titled this book the way they did. I know flour goes with the whole bread making aspect of the book but I didn’t think that totally resonated with the story within the pages of this book. I can see where concrete dust which is sort of like flour and the same basic color could by the why to it all, but I guess I just don’t get it.
This story is kind of depressing. I know murder generally is depressing but this entire story is centered around a funeral home. It is not a place I long to visit or stay for very long. I struggled through the beginning of the novel even though the murder happened pretty early on. Once the setting changed to the funeral home and they were gathering for the visitation, the story just flew. I couldn’t read it fast enough. I wish they would have shortened the first half of the book and expanded the back half. That second half made the entire book worth the read. I really enjoyed Ivy and Miguel working together. That was exciting stuff.
I didn’t understand why the ex-husband of Ivy showed up in the middle of the story. It felt like a big red herring making us wonder about him yet not having him really involved in anything. When I got to the end, I realized the author’s intent. His influence and his own ex-wife was going to figure prominently in the next Winnie Archer Bread Shop book.
If you get started on this book and find it a bit on the slow side, don’t give up on it! Keep reading. This book has a slow start, yes, but it builds up to great action and the characters really grow on you, even the crazy ones.
This book was a treat and my first foray into the world of Yeast of Eden. I will definitely be coming back to this Northern California town for a visit. Check it out.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
October 15, 2019
This is the first book I have read in this series and I was happy to dive straight in. Winnie Archer did a fantastic job providing any backstory, making this a great standalone read. I was sold from the very beginning, with its solid characters, great writing and a marvellous mystery that provided a good sprinkling of clues to satisfy even the most painstaking and diligent armchair detective.
The author, Winnie Archer, has drawn a lot of great characters in this fabulous cozy mystery. I particularly liked Ivy Culpepper, a photographer and artist who works part-time in a bread shop called The Yeast Of Eden. Set in the diverse coastal town of Santa Sofia, Northern California, Ivy has a lot going on in this book, having returned to her hometown following a divorce and the death of her mother. Ivy is now steadily building up her own dream business. The busy protagonist had the necessary attributes of any great sleuth: intelligence, curiosity and keenness.
There was a large number of characters in Flour in the Attic but I think I just about managed to keep track of all of them without being overwhelmed! Apart from Ivy herself, I was also rather fond of her friend and neighbour, Mrs Branford, an eager, retired English teacher. I also really liked Miguel, Ivy's boyfriend. Of course, I have to mention Ivy's adorable pug, named Agatha.
Another of my favourite aspects of this novel was the fluidity of the writing. The details of the plot were very well executed and every chapter left me with a compelling need to read on. The author did a brilliant job of balancing a few different story-lines and different events jumbled matters up somewhat, making figuring out the identity of the perpetrator more challenging. There was a sense of increasing menace as the story progressed, which definitely helped to keep my interest.
I am looking forward to returning to Santa Sofia with Ivy on a future occasion and reading the earlier books in the series, too! So entertaining and engaging, Flour in the Attic is definitely well worth the time invested.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the Kensington via NetGalley at my own request. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
The author, Winnie Archer, has drawn a lot of great characters in this fabulous cozy mystery. I particularly liked Ivy Culpepper, a photographer and artist who works part-time in a bread shop called The Yeast Of Eden. Set in the diverse coastal town of Santa Sofia, Northern California, Ivy has a lot going on in this book, having returned to her hometown following a divorce and the death of her mother. Ivy is now steadily building up her own dream business. The busy protagonist had the necessary attributes of any great sleuth: intelligence, curiosity and keenness.
There was a large number of characters in Flour in the Attic but I think I just about managed to keep track of all of them without being overwhelmed! Apart from Ivy herself, I was also rather fond of her friend and neighbour, Mrs Branford, an eager, retired English teacher. I also really liked Miguel, Ivy's boyfriend. Of course, I have to mention Ivy's adorable pug, named Agatha.
Another of my favourite aspects of this novel was the fluidity of the writing. The details of the plot were very well executed and every chapter left me with a compelling need to read on. The author did a brilliant job of balancing a few different story-lines and different events jumbled matters up somewhat, making figuring out the identity of the perpetrator more challenging. There was a sense of increasing menace as the story progressed, which definitely helped to keep my interest.
I am looking forward to returning to Santa Sofia with Ivy on a future occasion and reading the earlier books in the series, too! So entertaining and engaging, Flour in the Attic is definitely well worth the time invested.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the Kensington via NetGalley at my own request. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
July 29, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
I am always excited to get permission to read a book from a series that I've read before, and this was no exception! I remembered Ivy as an excellent sleuth, and both the setting and the theme charmed me yet again. There is something just so stirring with food based mysteries; never read them on an empty stomach is my advice! I don't even have a particular fondness for bread, but somehow this book makes it sound amazing! There were recipes and ideas I couldn't have fathomed before reading this book!
Now, the mystery. It was probably the darkest cozy I've read to date, but it was handled well. It made me very invested in the characters and what had happened to them, and the ending both thrilled and shocked me. I bet very few readers will see it coming, even if they read cozy mysteries for breakfast (like me haha) Basically what I'm saying is this one is both unique and yet still has a cozy flavour, which is never a bad thing. You'll be lulled by the familiar, and then suitably shocked.
The romance is still in the early stages, but progressing nicely. Ivy is still carrying some emotional baggage this time around, just like in the last book I read in this series (Book two) but is moving on with Miguel. I also love to read about her friend Emmaline and brother Billy, and the future wedding!
Another fantastic established cozy. Great plot, writing and characters. Five stars.
I am always excited to get permission to read a book from a series that I've read before, and this was no exception! I remembered Ivy as an excellent sleuth, and both the setting and the theme charmed me yet again. There is something just so stirring with food based mysteries; never read them on an empty stomach is my advice! I don't even have a particular fondness for bread, but somehow this book makes it sound amazing! There were recipes and ideas I couldn't have fathomed before reading this book!
Now, the mystery. It was probably the darkest cozy I've read to date, but it was handled well. It made me very invested in the characters and what had happened to them, and the ending both thrilled and shocked me. I bet very few readers will see it coming, even if they read cozy mysteries for breakfast (like me haha) Basically what I'm saying is this one is both unique and yet still has a cozy flavour, which is never a bad thing. You'll be lulled by the familiar, and then suitably shocked.
The romance is still in the early stages, but progressing nicely. Ivy is still carrying some emotional baggage this time around, just like in the last book I read in this series (Book two) but is moving on with Miguel. I also love to read about her friend Emmaline and brother Billy, and the future wedding!
Another fantastic established cozy. Great plot, writing and characters. Five stars.
July 29, 2019
Flour in the Attic by Winnie Archer was a great addition to this series. I had previously read the first three books in this series and this one is even better than the previous ones.
Ivy and Miguel are together in solving this case since it involves a waitress at Miguel's restaurant and long time family friend. Olaya and Mrs. Branford are wonderful secondary characters that always add depth and insight into the current mysteries as Ivy investigates. This plot was complex; and in spite of the clues that Ms. Archer sprinkled throughout the story, I didn't have a clue as to who had committed the crimes or why they had done it until the reveal. The "surprise announcement" dropped by Ms. Archer on the last page of this book has me eagerly awaiting the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Ivy and Miguel are together in solving this case since it involves a waitress at Miguel's restaurant and long time family friend. Olaya and Mrs. Branford are wonderful secondary characters that always add depth and insight into the current mysteries as Ivy investigates. This plot was complex; and in spite of the clues that Ms. Archer sprinkled throughout the story, I didn't have a clue as to who had committed the crimes or why they had done it until the reveal. The "surprise announcement" dropped by Ms. Archer on the last page of this book has me eagerly awaiting the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
September 30, 2019
Marisol a strong swimmer is found dead on the beach and it was murder. Her father had just died which make it really hard. Ivy is helping to cater the funeral and get her group together to figure out who the murderer was and why he did it. She finds a creepy element in the funeral home before it is all settled.
August 6, 2021
That ending completely blindsided me - I did not see that coming. The rest of the story was good, the build up to the ending was a little slow in the beginning but the ending more than made up for it.
November 4, 2022
Just as Billy is about to get engaged. The body of a long time resident of Santa Sofia Marisol Ruiz washes up on the beach. It seems she drowned . But everyone says that's impossible she was a strong swimmer she competed in races . Since her father recently died they think she was over come with grief and drowned. As Ivy helps prepare the catering her and her partners team up to investigate Marisol's death. They don't want someone to get away with murder!!
November 20, 2022
Fantastic!!! This is my favorite in the series, tied with Crust No One. The plot and the reveal were so incredible. I was glued to the book.
September 4, 2019
Reunited with her high school love, Miguel, Ivy Culpepper life is finally on the upswing. Leaving a disastrous marriage, she has returned to her hometown and started working at Yeast of Eden, a long-rise bread baker which has given her a needed peace and time to work on her freelance photography business. Then a long-time employee of Miguel is found drowned, curious as she was a competitive swimmer. After the death was ruled a homicide, Ivy starts investigating and suspicions arise among a close set of friends. Excellent mystery, even better than the last one, with characters you enjoy reading about.
February 28, 2022
WOW. First off there is a cliffhanger at the end of this book so be prepared. Second I just really adore this series and I think this one was the best. I love the characters and I am so glad Miguel and Ivy are working on their relationship and seem happy. This story line was amazing and kept me guessing to the end. I couldn't put this book down. I love the side characters like Mrs Branford and Olaya and the delicious sounding food both from the bakery and Miguel's restaurant. Oh this was just a terrific read.
February 1, 2022
This is one of my favorite series and one of my absolute favorite authors. You know those authors who you buy the book just because you know it's going to be good, no question? Yep, that's how I feel about Winnie Archer/Melissa Bourbon.
This book is soothing to me, for all that it has suspicious deaths and other miscreant actions. The bread shop, Yeast of Eden, is a place I wish existed so that I could visit or even work there.
I like the town of Santa Sofia too, almost all of its residents and how they embrace celebration.
This is one of those cozy series where the main character actually is encouraged to work with the official investigators. Ivy is best friends with the sheriff, Em. I thought it would lessen my enjoyment as I like the friction of the main character and the officials, but it works here.
We don't meet the victim but get drawn into the backstory and care that the suspicious death gets solved.
The blooming romance between Ivy and Miguel is nice and doesn't overwhelm the story. There is a nice balance of everything.
I can definitely recommend this book, series and author
This book is soothing to me, for all that it has suspicious deaths and other miscreant actions. The bread shop, Yeast of Eden, is a place I wish existed so that I could visit or even work there.
I like the town of Santa Sofia too, almost all of its residents and how they embrace celebration.
This is one of those cozy series where the main character actually is encouraged to work with the official investigators. Ivy is best friends with the sheriff, Em. I thought it would lessen my enjoyment as I like the friction of the main character and the officials, but it works here.
We don't meet the victim but get drawn into the backstory and care that the suspicious death gets solved.
The blooming romance between Ivy and Miguel is nice and doesn't overwhelm the story. There is a nice balance of everything.
I can definitely recommend this book, series and author
March 21, 2025
This is number four in a series. I somehow accidentally read 5 before I read 4. Oops. I looked back and had I had issues with number 5. I'm glad to report that this one was good. I probably should have, but I didn't figure out what was going on in this one. I thought the new husband had gaslit the dead woman and that's why she acted that way before she died. And I'm still at a loss as to why she didn't tell someone, but still. This was a good one.
August 29, 2019
Flour in the Attic by Winnie Archer is the 4th book in A Bread Shop Mystery series, and is quickly becoming one of my favorite. Wow! This book had more twists and turns, and an excellent mystery that kept me reading. I found this book to be a quick read, with a well developed plot and characters. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series, after reading the end of this book, it can't come soon enough. If you love cozy mysteries, I strongly recommend this book.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
September 23, 2019
A creative and unique murder mystery with a passion for baked goods. Has a certain flair to it that others don’t. Loved it. 5/5 stars
November 9, 2019
An amazing story with twists and turns. You never know which way to look first..
I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
August 21, 2022
easy listening and I enjoy this author.
August 18, 2024
I like this series. I like the cast of characters and the mystery was o.O so unexpected. The cliff hanger….
May 19, 2025
Another cozy mystery solved. The perfect palette cleanser after a long book
December 7, 2019
Flour in the Attic by Winnie Archer takes us back to Santa Sofia, California. Ivy Culpepper is thrilled for her friend, Sheriff Emmaline Davis who is planning to propose to Ivy’s brother, Billy that evening at the beach. Unfortunately, Emmaline’s plans are put on hold when the body of Marisol Ruiz is found floating offshore. Marisol’s husband, David suspects foul play since Marisol was a competitive swimmer who swam in the ocean daily and asks that Ivy don her investigator cap once again. Can Ivy find out what happened to Marisol? Flour in the Attic is the fourth A Bread Shop Mystery. It can be read as a standalone for those new to A Bread Shop Mystery series. Ivy is setting up her photography business as well as spending time at Yeast of Eden. I like the diverse cast of characters in this series with Olaya Solis being my favorite. Miguel Baptista and his family are so friendly and accepting. The story is well-written, but I did find the pacing to be a little slow. I wish it had been peppier. The mystery was a little dark, but it was well-done. Ivy actively searches for answers. There are several suspects in Marisol’s death, and I liked the subtle clues. It will depend on your sleuthing level on whether you find this whodunit a challenge to solve. I admit that I had trouble reading Flour in the Attic. I never became engrossed in the book. It did not have the same spark that I enjoyed in Kneaded to Death. There is some foul language which is unusual for a cozy mystery. I like that Emmaline Davis, the town’s sheriff, is proposing to Billy, Ivy’s brother. I look forward to their nuptials. There is a cliffhanger at the end, and we will have to wait for the next A Bread Shop Mystery to see how it plays out. Flour in the Attic is curious cozy mystery with squabbling siblings, a postponed proposal, a marine murder, and an indomitable investigator.
February 19, 2021
In the 4th book in the Bread Shop Mystery series by Winnie Archer, main character Ivy Culpepper is thrilled about the pending engagement of her best friend Emmaline to her brother. But before one can pop the question, a dead body is found. As sheriff, Emmaline needs to respond when duty calls. She finds the body of a competitive swimmer washed up on the beach. How could Marisol Ruiz have drowned when she's such a strong swimmer?
An autopsy reveals a truth that surprises everyone except the dead woman's husband - she was killed. Now Ivy needs to step up and investigate because Marisol was an employee at her boyfriend's restaurant, Baptista's Cantina and Grill. Many people assume the death was caused by Marisol's ex-husband, but he seems genuinely heartbroken by her death. Could it be the new husband, or perhaps one of her children who was waiting for an inheritance? Another body will be found before there's a resolution to the case.
I thoroughly enjoy the setting of this series. Santa Sofia seems like it would be a great place to live, and I adore the bakery - Yeast of Eden - where Ivy works. Though I'm not personally a baker, because I can't cook much of anything, I find the old-fashioned slow-rise method of bread-making surprisingly interesting. For a reason I don't quite understand, I find it soothing to read about people making the dough, rolling it out, and setting it aside while it rises. I definitely want to read the other books in the series.
My one pet peeve is how Ivy's dog's eyes are described as "bulging" MANY times, and that creeped me out a bit. (Sorry, I don't think small dogs with bulging eyes that people carry around all day are cute.)
FTC disclosure: I received an eARC via NetGalley.
An autopsy reveals a truth that surprises everyone except the dead woman's husband - she was killed. Now Ivy needs to step up and investigate because Marisol was an employee at her boyfriend's restaurant, Baptista's Cantina and Grill. Many people assume the death was caused by Marisol's ex-husband, but he seems genuinely heartbroken by her death. Could it be the new husband, or perhaps one of her children who was waiting for an inheritance? Another body will be found before there's a resolution to the case.
I thoroughly enjoy the setting of this series. Santa Sofia seems like it would be a great place to live, and I adore the bakery - Yeast of Eden - where Ivy works. Though I'm not personally a baker, because I can't cook much of anything, I find the old-fashioned slow-rise method of bread-making surprisingly interesting. For a reason I don't quite understand, I find it soothing to read about people making the dough, rolling it out, and setting it aside while it rises. I definitely want to read the other books in the series.
My one pet peeve is how Ivy's dog's eyes are described as "bulging" MANY times, and that creeped me out a bit. (Sorry, I don't think small dogs with bulging eyes that people carry around all day are cute.)
FTC disclosure: I received an eARC via NetGalley.
August 30, 2019
This is the 4th book in the "Bread Shop" cozy mystery series. I love returning to this series and highly recommend the entire series. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the ARC. My opinion is my own. This is a charming series with likable fun charcters that always has a fun sleuth .
Ivy Culpepper runs the "Yeast of Eden" bread bakery in her Northern California town. of Santa Sofia with one of her good friends. They specialize in making traditional Mexican pastries and breads. She is also a photographer and enjoys both her endeavors. She is excited to find out her Brother has decided to get married.
While she and her Brother are happy about that news a drowning occurs that may be murder. A popular well liked woman died who was a excellent swimmer so suspicions arise surrounding her death., When the victims husband questions her death, he is also murdered. Ivy and friends begin to investigate and soon are involved in clues they never expected and suspicions that put everyone at odds.
I loved this well crafted multi layered sleuth ! This was such a excellent mystery that it captured me until conclusion. I was surprised by the ending and shocked ! ( I did not guess the suspect !) I was unable to part with this book until the last page was turned. I love this series and hope it will continue. The charcters are all likable and add to the story. The sleuth is well crafted and I love the setting of the charming town and friendships.
Ivy Culpepper runs the "Yeast of Eden" bread bakery in her Northern California town. of Santa Sofia with one of her good friends. They specialize in making traditional Mexican pastries and breads. She is also a photographer and enjoys both her endeavors. She is excited to find out her Brother has decided to get married.
While she and her Brother are happy about that news a drowning occurs that may be murder. A popular well liked woman died who was a excellent swimmer so suspicions arise surrounding her death., When the victims husband questions her death, he is also murdered. Ivy and friends begin to investigate and soon are involved in clues they never expected and suspicions that put everyone at odds.
I loved this well crafted multi layered sleuth ! This was such a excellent mystery that it captured me until conclusion. I was surprised by the ending and shocked ! ( I did not guess the suspect !) I was unable to part with this book until the last page was turned. I love this series and hope it will continue. The charcters are all likable and add to the story. The sleuth is well crafted and I love the setting of the charming town and friendships.
March 30, 2020
Flour in the Attic is the fourth book in the Bread Shop Mystery series by author Winnie Archer. Winnie Archer also writes under the name Melissa Bourbon and I became a fan of hers through the Lola Cruz series. I was offered the chance to read this book and jumped at it. I am so happy that I did. I had only read the first book in this series previously but the author did a fantastic job of providing enough backstory to where I didn't feel like I had missed much.
I really enjoy the diversity of this series and it's characters. It's nice to read a series with the perspective of a Latina/Hispanic main character and learning more about their culture. I also love reading about the bread making and think it would be a good skill to pick up. I wish I was a much better baker then I am. All of that aside, the mystery in this book was top notch. I thought I had an idea who the killer was but I was proven wrong when Ivy and Miguel figured it out. I was also immediately hooked to read the next book in the series because of how this book ends. I think you should do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of this book. It's a fun, entertaining read and you may even learn how to be a better bread maker (like from scratch!).
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My thanks to Melissa Bourbon/Winnie Archer and Kensington Publishing.
I really enjoy the diversity of this series and it's characters. It's nice to read a series with the perspective of a Latina/Hispanic main character and learning more about their culture. I also love reading about the bread making and think it would be a good skill to pick up. I wish I was a much better baker then I am. All of that aside, the mystery in this book was top notch. I thought I had an idea who the killer was but I was proven wrong when Ivy and Miguel figured it out. I was also immediately hooked to read the next book in the series because of how this book ends. I think you should do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of this book. It's a fun, entertaining read and you may even learn how to be a better bread maker (like from scratch!).
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My thanks to Melissa Bourbon/Winnie Archer and Kensington Publishing.
October 18, 2021
I am continuing to enjoy Ivy's adventures with Olaya, Mrs. Brandford and Miguel as they set out to solve another crime in Santa Sofia. When Marisol Ruiz, an employee at Miguel's family restaurant, washes up on the beach, everyone figures it is suspicious. First Marisol was an amazing swimmer and secondly, she was wearing a bathing suit of the wrong colour (she was superstitious). Olaya and East of Eden is asked to cater her funeral and they talk about Marisol and decide to try and help figure out what actually happened. Once it is determined that she did not drown, but was strangled, Ivy and her team of amateur sleuths begin their own brand of investigating.
One of the strengths of this series is its characters. Ivy, Miguel, Penelope Brandford, Olaya and other regular characters are all well drawn and have great personalities and strengths. They are a very eclectic group, which I really enjoy. The second thing is the interesting motives. I am not going to give this one away, but I found it realistic, a bit stomach churning and one that I was appalled that it led to murder. There were several suspects and trails to follow that kept me guessing. I do like that Ivy does work with the police, in the sense that she shares information with and calls them when something needs to be checked out properly. I did figure out what was going on eventually, but just before the author also revealed it to the reader. Another great addition to this series and one I recommend.
One of the strengths of this series is its characters. Ivy, Miguel, Penelope Brandford, Olaya and other regular characters are all well drawn and have great personalities and strengths. They are a very eclectic group, which I really enjoy. The second thing is the interesting motives. I am not going to give this one away, but I found it realistic, a bit stomach churning and one that I was appalled that it led to murder. There were several suspects and trails to follow that kept me guessing. I do like that Ivy does work with the police, in the sense that she shares information with and calls them when something needs to be checked out properly. I did figure out what was going on eventually, but just before the author also revealed it to the reader. Another great addition to this series and one I recommend.
August 18, 2025
This was supposed to be a cozy with the hook of bread-making, and I was confused while reading this trying to locate the making of the bread. Now, I have not read the previous three installments of this series, so perhaps the author focused more on this premise earlier on. There was very little to none of it here, and we weren't even graced with recipes, which I find to be a cooking-cozy faux pas. The title also had nothing to do with the narrative. There was nothing in any attic, let alone flour. This story was so heavily focused instead on mortuaries that I was wondering why that wasn't the cozy hook instead. It made sense as the novel came to its climax, but until then I found myself double checking the cover to make sure I was reading the right story.
Ivy was a good enough sleuth, but she shared her detective work with several other people instead of making it a one-woman show, which I appreciate. I really don't care for how her ex blasted onto the scene demanding her back in the middle of nowhere, though. I don't understand why cozy authors need to involve ex-boyfriends and ex-husbands to 'heighten the drama'. You're writing a series about solving murders- do we really need to add this in?
To sum up: okay mystery, ending out of left field, poor hook, bad relationship drama. Not sure I'll continue in this series.
Ivy was a good enough sleuth, but she shared her detective work with several other people instead of making it a one-woman show, which I appreciate. I really don't care for how her ex blasted onto the scene demanding her back in the middle of nowhere, though. I don't understand why cozy authors need to involve ex-boyfriends and ex-husbands to 'heighten the drama'. You're writing a series about solving murders- do we really need to add this in?
To sum up: okay mystery, ending out of left field, poor hook, bad relationship drama. Not sure I'll continue in this series.
May 11, 2019
Ivy Culpepper left Austin, her photography business and her cheating ex-husband to return home to Santa Sofia when her mother died and never looked back.
She bought a home, started a new photography business and spent time working with a dear friend Olaya Solis at her bakery, Yeast Of Eden. Along with the help of Olaya and a few other friends became known for her knack of solving murders, the first being her mother's, set in a previous book.
Her high school sweetheart, Miguel, is now her boyfriend, and has been known to help sort the facts.
When Marisol, a waitress in Miguel's family restaurant turns up dead, her husband David Insists she was murdered...and he was proved right. The group of sleuths investigated a lot of clues, but only arrived at the right answers after David's murder, a twist no one saw coming.
The criminals get it in the end...and the Sheriff, Emmaline Davis, gets HER man in the end, Ivy's brother Billy. Emmaline and Billy both have been trying to propose to the other, but calls for the sheriff interrupted the plans, over and over.
I won an ARC to read, with the option to offer my opinion...or not. I've bought and read the other three books in this series, so I jumped on the chance for a sneak peek. It's even better than the last.
She bought a home, started a new photography business and spent time working with a dear friend Olaya Solis at her bakery, Yeast Of Eden. Along with the help of Olaya and a few other friends became known for her knack of solving murders, the first being her mother's, set in a previous book.
Her high school sweetheart, Miguel, is now her boyfriend, and has been known to help sort the facts.
When Marisol, a waitress in Miguel's family restaurant turns up dead, her husband David Insists she was murdered...and he was proved right. The group of sleuths investigated a lot of clues, but only arrived at the right answers after David's murder, a twist no one saw coming.
The criminals get it in the end...and the Sheriff, Emmaline Davis, gets HER man in the end, Ivy's brother Billy. Emmaline and Billy both have been trying to propose to the other, but calls for the sheriff interrupted the plans, over and over.
I won an ARC to read, with the option to offer my opinion...or not. I've bought and read the other three books in this series, so I jumped on the chance for a sneak peek. It's even better than the last.
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