The Pumpkin Vice Cafe

Lovely fall weather is giving way to a picturesque early November snow as baker Juliet, or Jules, who’s about ready to deliver her twin babies, is needed to help with friend Lance’s wedding. Though wedding planning is usually fraught, this one is really starting out as a doozie, as the first choice for planner, Maci, seems to flake out at appointments. Imperious and somewhat nasty planner Tippy is there to take over, but arguments and trouble follow, as does finding Tippy’s body in a rocky stream in the local park. Things are not as they seem, and Jules and Lance are determined to find the answers. All this occurs interspersed with Jules baking amazing and mouthwateringly described goodies (don’t read this while hungry), and friendly interactions with staff, family and locals. Each of the suspects is thoroughly vetted by our amateurs, and as expected, truth is found. This classic food-driven cozy that’s warm, inviting, and highly caloric is easy to enjoy.—Danise Hoover