Oh Say Can You Fudge: A Candy-Coated Mystery with Recipes By Nancy Coco

by Cynthia Chow

Details on how to win a copy of this book at the end of the review.

Everyone on Mackinac Island expects an explosive display of fireworks for the Fourth of July celebration, but they certainly didn’t plan on the fireworks warehouse going up in smoke! As a newcomer (despite her family’s ownership of the historic McMurphy Hotel and Fudge Shop), Allie McMurphy normally wouldn't have been allowed onto the fireworks committee. But she insisted, and she now feels some responsibility for the explosion, which killed technician Rodney Rivers.

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It's been an unusual summer for the island, with accidental fires flaring up and Allie continuing to discover a new body every month. She learns that the efficient Mr. Rivers had a shady partner—and threats left on the dead man's phone indicate that he might have had his own explosive secrets.

After initial lapses in common sense (she knows there may be sabotage but still enters a building full of fireworks), Allie fortunately displays both practicality and intelligence that make her perfect for this fudge-filled cozy novel. Her real reason for involvement is to prove that neither she nor the celebration is cursed with bad juju. While developing a closer relationship with the extremely attractive and wealthy Trent Jessop, Allie juggles her duties preparing delicious Fourth of July-themed fudge, running the hotel, and attempting to prevent anything else from going up in smoke.

Image source: Kensington

The author (who also writes under the name Nancy J. Parra) continues to craft delectable mysteries. Allie is focused on becoming accepted in the society where she summered and where newcomers will always be called “fudgies” and residents pass on gossip faster than the local newspaper can print it. Mackinac Island is a charming place to live, with motorized vehicles prohibited and bicycles the main means of transport.

Fudge recipes are scattered throughout the novel and even non-bakers will be tempted by the descriptions of Allie's unique creations. It’s an idyllic setting with a threat of real jeopardy as the fires increase and the threats to Allie escalate. This is a strong third entry in the series that revels in candy-making and genial good humor.

To enter to win a copy of Oh Say Can You Fudge, simply email KRL at krlcontests@gmail[dot]com by replacing the [dot] with a period, and with the subject line “Fudge,” or comment on this article. A winner will be chosen May 16, 2015. U.S. residents only. If entering via email please include your mailing address.

You can use this link to purchase the book & a portion goes to help support KRL & an indie bookstore:

Oh Say Can You Fudge

Cynthia Chow is the branch manager of Kaneohe Public Library on the island of Oahu. She balances a librarian lifestyle of cardigans and hair buns with a passion for motorcycle riding and regrettable tattoos (sorry, Mom).