When I had the opportunity to review The Blueberry Cupcake Mystery for CelebrateLit, I jumped at it. C’mon, a whodunnit in a bakery in the heart of Amish country? Sign me up! I’d never heard of author Naomi Miller and new nothing of the series, but it sounded intriguing!
Written somewhat in the style of Wisdom and the Millers by Mildred Martin, I almost wondered if the two women somehow knew one another or were related. About a chapter or two into the book, I felt foolish. Some of the problems that I was having with it became clear and understandable as I realized it must be written for youth readers! DUH! I felt silly, but it’s a good silly.
So, what’s it about?
The book also has the feel of a Marguerite de Angeli story. Short–definitely novella size in “adult” fiction lengths–this book is a super fast, super clean, super fun read. The mystery begins and ends almost before you realize it. A sweet story, the plot focuses on a young Amish girl working in an “Englisher’s” bakery and discovers that someone has stolen all the Independence Day goodies! EEEP!
While the police try to uncover who could do such a dastardly deed, young Katie sees proof of who must have done it and the rest of the story becomes about why. It’s a tale of kindness, lovingkindness, and showing grace in adversity.
I give The Blueberry Cupcake Mystery four stars as a youth book or three as “adult” material. I find it written in a style very much like I’m accustomed to reading for youth (the diction and syntax as well as plot choices), and yet the categories I see on Amazon show I may be wrong about the intended market. I’m so confused!
Regardless, if you want a short, quick read and a wonderfully wholesome book in the process, grab it. I enjoyed seeing how everything came together at the end, but I do consider the genre of “mystery” to be a bit of a stretch. I expect some sort of sleuthing and at least one red-herring, but if either of those occurred, I missed it. The author provided this book to me, and I freely offer my honest opinion of it.
Ready to try a bite?
And have a LOVELY Labor Day. I’ll be laboring to save the rest of my laptop files before #6 daughter’s boyfriend takes it apart and replaces the Coke-destroyed hard drive. Yes, a block is failing. Guess who bought ANOTHER laptop yesterday? *weeps*
It’s always exciting when a new book comes out and with cupcakes involved?-yum!
I have not heard of this author. I love it when you do book reviews!
I have not heard of Naomi. I’m always on the lookout for good clean books for my kids!
Naomi is a new author to me. I love a light, quick read on a Sunday afternoon!
I have not read anything by this author. I am always looking for good books to read.
This looks like fun, and I think my daughter might like it. Would you say it’s suitable for a 12-year old?
Tina
YES! Absolutely.
I haven’t read anything by this author, but I would certainly like the chance!
Never heard of Naomi Miller. Her name sounds like an Amish name, so maybe she knows what the Amish are like firsthand? I can’t stand most “Amish” novels, but I’d be interested in trying this one if you say it’s good.
Looks like a fun read! I’ve never heard of her.