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Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries #1
Against the Currant
In Olivia Matthews's Against the Currant , the first Spice Isle Bakery Mystery, investigating a murder was never supposed to be on the menu…
Little Caribbean, Brooklyn, New Lyndsay Murray is opening Spice Isle Bakery with her family, and it’s everything she’s ever wanted. The West Indian bakery is her way to give back to the community she loves, stay connected to her Grenadian roots, and work side-by-side with her family. The only thing getting a rise out of Lyndsay is Claudio Fabrizi, a disgruntled fellow bakery owner who does not want any competition.
On opening day, he comes into the bakery threatening to shut them down. Fed up, Lyndsay takes him to task in front of what seems to be the whole neighborhood. So when Claudio turns up dead a day later―murdered―Lyndsay is unfortunately the prime suspect. To get the scent of suspicion off her and her bakery, Lyndsay has to prove she’s innocent―under the watchful eyes of her overprotective brother, anxious parents, and meddlesome extended family―what could go wrong?
Little Caribbean, Brooklyn, New Lyndsay Murray is opening Spice Isle Bakery with her family, and it’s everything she’s ever wanted. The West Indian bakery is her way to give back to the community she loves, stay connected to her Grenadian roots, and work side-by-side with her family. The only thing getting a rise out of Lyndsay is Claudio Fabrizi, a disgruntled fellow bakery owner who does not want any competition.
On opening day, he comes into the bakery threatening to shut them down. Fed up, Lyndsay takes him to task in front of what seems to be the whole neighborhood. So when Claudio turns up dead a day later―murdered―Lyndsay is unfortunately the prime suspect. To get the scent of suspicion off her and her bakery, Lyndsay has to prove she’s innocent―under the watchful eyes of her overprotective brother, anxious parents, and meddlesome extended family―what could go wrong?
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 24, 2023
About the author
Olivia Matthews
20 books221 followersOlivia Matthews is a pseudonym for Patricia Sargeant.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 489 reviews
January 25, 2023
I was excited to read this because I thought it would be super cute. A cozy mystery set in NYC surrounding a newly opened Caribbean bakery? And seeing a book about a family from Grenada was very different in this space.
Sadly the story didn't really engage me. Lyndsay is framed for the murder of a rival bakery owner and has to clear her name because the police aren't even trying to look for the killer. That part tracked. It took so long for her to actually decided to do something in this slow-paced story. Also despite being 27 Lyndsay reads more like 21/22. She keeps harping on childhood bullies, high school, and having to have dealt with those same people in college.
As someone with family from the English speaking Caribbean who even has family friends who live in Little Caribbean, I side-eyed so much of this book. Some things were done well and some things were done so wrong. The descriptions of food and the close connection between the family were the highlight of the book. And I had to resist the urge to go eat something while listening because I didn't have any food to compare. Some of the mentions of popular musicians were completely off. Trust me non Caribbean/Caribbean diasporan readers when I say the only ones who consider Harry Belefonte the Calypso King are white people. And hearing the uncle say "you all" instead of "allyuh" hurt me a little.
If I didn't switch to the audiobook I probably wouldn't have continued. It already started off very heavy-handed with the over explanations of the Murray family's background. And throughout the text kept reminding readers of what proud immigrants they were. Which got repetitive and old real quick! But also the audio narration was so horrible when it came to character's who weren't US born that I found myself cringing as the narrator used an unidentifiable accent and mispronounced popular terms constantly.
On a side note I've seen quite a few white readers complain about this and I'd just like to note that it's a cultural thing to refer to refer to parents as "mommy" and "daddy" not a sign of the main character's maturity level.
Sadly the story didn't really engage me. Lyndsay is framed for the murder of a rival bakery owner and has to clear her name because the police aren't even trying to look for the killer. That part tracked. It took so long for her to actually decided to do something in this slow-paced story. Also despite being 27 Lyndsay reads more like 21/22. She keeps harping on childhood bullies, high school, and having to have dealt with those same people in college.
As someone with family from the English speaking Caribbean who even has family friends who live in Little Caribbean, I side-eyed so much of this book. Some things were done well and some things were done so wrong. The descriptions of food and the close connection between the family were the highlight of the book. And I had to resist the urge to go eat something while listening because I didn't have any food to compare. Some of the mentions of popular musicians were completely off. Trust me non Caribbean/Caribbean diasporan readers when I say the only ones who consider Harry Belefonte the Calypso King are white people. And hearing the uncle say "you all" instead of "allyuh" hurt me a little.
If I didn't switch to the audiobook I probably wouldn't have continued. It already started off very heavy-handed with the over explanations of the Murray family's background. And throughout the text kept reminding readers of what proud immigrants they were. Which got repetitive and old real quick! But also the audio narration was so horrible when it came to character's who weren't US born that I found myself cringing as the narrator used an unidentifiable accent and mispronounced popular terms constantly.
On a side note I've seen quite a few white readers complain about this and I'd just like to note that it's a cultural thing to refer to refer to parents as "mommy" and "daddy" not a sign of the main character's maturity level.
March 4, 2023
Against the Currant by Olivia Matthews is the first book in the new cozy Spice Isle Bakery Mystery series. As with most cozy mysteries each book in the Spice Isle Bakery Mystery series will contain it’s own mystery that will be solved so they all could be read in any order or as a standalone if choosing to do so. There will be of course some character development that carries over from book to book.
Lyndsay Murray’s family originally came from Grenada, a small Carribbean island, and now they are living in Little Caribbean, Brooklyn, New York. Lyndsay wants nothing more than to finally open her new Spice Isle Bakery that her family will help her run and bring some of her heritage to her new home.
Just as the opening day at the Spice Isle Bakery comes comes though the day is ruined for Lyndsay. Claudio Fabrizi who also runs a bakery in the neighborhood comes into the shop and threatens to shut the new bakery down before it can even begin causing a loud argument between Claudio and Lyndsay. When Claudio’s body is found murdered the next day of course Lyndsay becomes a suspect and want to clear her name.
Against the Currant by Olivia Matthews was a fun opener to this new cozy Spice Isle Bakery Mystery series. I’m always on the lookout for charming and humorous new cozies and this one certainly fit that mold. While I enjoyed the main character in here I really enjoyed having the family involved and showing their Carribbean roots too. Will definitely be interested in continuing on with the next in the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Lyndsay Murray’s family originally came from Grenada, a small Carribbean island, and now they are living in Little Caribbean, Brooklyn, New York. Lyndsay wants nothing more than to finally open her new Spice Isle Bakery that her family will help her run and bring some of her heritage to her new home.
Just as the opening day at the Spice Isle Bakery comes comes though the day is ruined for Lyndsay. Claudio Fabrizi who also runs a bakery in the neighborhood comes into the shop and threatens to shut the new bakery down before it can even begin causing a loud argument between Claudio and Lyndsay. When Claudio’s body is found murdered the next day of course Lyndsay becomes a suspect and want to clear her name.
Against the Currant by Olivia Matthews was a fun opener to this new cozy Spice Isle Bakery Mystery series. I’m always on the lookout for charming and humorous new cozies and this one certainly fit that mold. While I enjoyed the main character in here I really enjoyed having the family involved and showing their Carribbean roots too. Will definitely be interested in continuing on with the next in the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
September 13, 2024
3⭐
Genre ~ Culinary Cozy Mystery
Series ~ Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries, #1
Setting ~ NYC
Publication date ~ January 24, 2023
Est Page Count ~ 297 (37 chapters)
Audio length ~ 7 hours 35 minutes
Narrator ~ Janina Edwards
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ rival bakeries, amateur sleuthing
Lyndsay is set to open up a new bakery in town, but Claudio is not too happy as he thinks it a competition to his own bakery even though they sell different items. Then Claudio turns up dead and guess who is the number one suspect?
I didn’t care for Lyndsay too much, but I didn’t mind her amateur sleuthing. I love that recipes are added at the end, but obviously that shows better in the book and not on audio.
Overall, I don’t read too many cozies, but I liked it well enough. There was some repetition, which made it a bit slow moving, though. I don't see myself continuing on with the series unless it's another Hoopla bonus borrow like this one was.
Narration notes:
I don’t have any complaints about her performance.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ Culinary Cozy Mystery
Series ~ Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries, #1
Setting ~ NYC
Publication date ~ January 24, 2023
Est Page Count ~ 297 (37 chapters)
Audio length ~ 7 hours 35 minutes
Narrator ~ Janina Edwards
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ rival bakeries, amateur sleuthing
Lyndsay is set to open up a new bakery in town, but Claudio is not too happy as he thinks it a competition to his own bakery even though they sell different items. Then Claudio turns up dead and guess who is the number one suspect?
I didn’t care for Lyndsay too much, but I didn’t mind her amateur sleuthing. I love that recipes are added at the end, but obviously that shows better in the book and not on audio.
Overall, I don’t read too many cozies, but I liked it well enough. There was some repetition, which made it a bit slow moving, though. I don't see myself continuing on with the series unless it's another Hoopla bonus borrow like this one was.
Narration notes:
I don’t have any complaints about her performance.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
April 11, 2023
Favorite new cozy of the year..so far!! FANTASTIC start to a series!
This series has so many great things going for it....diverse characters (grandma is a new favorite), a bakery cozy...an INDIAN bakery...forget about it!! The food descriptions are mouthwatering, and to top it all off a fun mystery!
I recommend this to all cozy lovers and for those of you that love culinary cozies...you'll want to pick this one ;up today!
I received an arc of this book in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank netgalley, the author Olivia Matthews, and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book!
This series has so many great things going for it....diverse characters (grandma is a new favorite), a bakery cozy...an INDIAN bakery...forget about it!! The food descriptions are mouthwatering, and to top it all off a fun mystery!
I recommend this to all cozy lovers and for those of you that love culinary cozies...you'll want to pick this one ;up today!
I received an arc of this book in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank netgalley, the author Olivia Matthews, and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book!
January 27, 2023
Against the Currant is the first installment in a charming new cozy mystery series!
Lyndsay is opening a bakery with her family in Brooklyn, showcasing the food of their Caribbean heritage. On opening day, the disgruntled owner of a nearby bakery shows up and picks a verbal fight with Lyndsay. So when he winds up dead soon after, she is at the top of the suspect list. But Lyndsay is determined to prove her innocence and put heat on the real killer.
I enjoyed this fast-paced cozy mystery. Lyndsay is close to her family and learning to stick up for herself after being a nerdy wallflower in high school. We get hints at possible love interests for future books in the series, including her former crush who is now a police detective. This gives you exactly what you want from a cozy mystery, but with added diversity that is much needed in the genre. The food sounds delicious! The audiobook was great and a quick listen. Definitely worth checking out if this sounds up your alley. I received an audio review copy via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
Lyndsay is opening a bakery with her family in Brooklyn, showcasing the food of their Caribbean heritage. On opening day, the disgruntled owner of a nearby bakery shows up and picks a verbal fight with Lyndsay. So when he winds up dead soon after, she is at the top of the suspect list. But Lyndsay is determined to prove her innocence and put heat on the real killer.
I enjoyed this fast-paced cozy mystery. Lyndsay is close to her family and learning to stick up for herself after being a nerdy wallflower in high school. We get hints at possible love interests for future books in the series, including her former crush who is now a police detective. This gives you exactly what you want from a cozy mystery, but with added diversity that is much needed in the genre. The food sounds delicious! The audiobook was great and a quick listen. Definitely worth checking out if this sounds up your alley. I received an audio review copy via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
January 9, 2023
What a fun, cozy mystery. This story was so enjoyable, mainly because of the characters here. Lyndsay and her family were so sweet and it was lovely to see their connection and how incredibly supportive they were to each other both in work and in their personal lives as well. I thought this author did a great job at creating a sense of community and showing how a community can band together to support local culture and local businesses. The murder/mystery plot was interesting and kept the story moving while also introducing different characters and personalities to contrast against Lyndsay's family. Also, the descriptions of the food in this book were amazing and kept me hungry almost the whole time reading. The added bonus of recipes for the mentioned baked goods at the end was everything, and I actually plan on attempting those currant rolls.
I was surprised by this books in the most pleasant way. It was heartwarming in a way I wasn't expecting and I just really found myself connecting to it.
Many many thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Publish date for this lovely story will be on 1/24/23, so make sure to look for it!
I was surprised by this books in the most pleasant way. It was heartwarming in a way I wasn't expecting and I just really found myself connecting to it.
Many many thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Publish date for this lovely story will be on 1/24/23, so make sure to look for it!
February 3, 2023
2.5 small business cozy mystery
October 19, 2022
Lyndsay is about to fulfill her dream of opening a Caribbean bakery in her Brooklyn neighborhood. There's a nasty man who runs a different kind of bakery somewhat nearby, and he comes in on opening day and get into an altercation with Lyndsay. Then he's murdered, and Lyndsay is the prime person of interest. The detectives don't seem inclined to look further, so she decides to investigate. Is the deceased's son a suspect because he has gambling debts? How about the woman who felt the dead man cheated her? The Grenadian-American family is very close knit and likable, and they are determined to help prove Lyndsay innocent. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC.
April 30, 2023
The mystery itself was bland and boring. I knew the who and how from the beginning. lol It got to the point that I wouldn't mind if Lyndsay got arrested. Maybe if she went to jail for awhile then she could develop a backbone and some common sense. Ex) She was so lame and especially cringey in her inner monologues. The Rugrats had better mysteries and problem solving skills.
So much repetition about:
1) Lynsay's always going to the gym and has been doing kickboxing since she was 13 and is apparently really good at it.
2) She was shy and timid back in high school.
3) Lyndsay and one of the detectives (Brian? Bryce? Idk, he's forgettable lol) was her high school crush. They had classes together and they never talked so she's always surprised, almost giddy, when he mentions something he's noticed about her back then. The way she speaks of him was giving major 'I peaked in high school' energy.
4) Her family being proud immigrants and to have become US citizens years ago after leaving the Caribbean.
5) The only music artists they seem to know or can name are Bob Marley (🤦🏾♀️ bc of course 🙄), Billy Ocean and Harry Belafonte.
6) Her going to trial.
7) Beef patties.
The real mystery is this being part of a series.
February 17, 2023
There is nothing that I love more in a cozy then when there is food added. And Indian food?! Be still my heart! We need more diverse cozies in the genre and I’m so happy this one stepped up to the plate. I want all of the food in this book. And Grandma is literally my spirit animal. She was feisty and fun! I also loved the whole entire feel of Lindsey’s family and how much family meant in the book. I highly recommend this.
February 8, 2023
Against the Currant Earns 5/5 Island Treats…Engagingly Delicious Cozy!
Claudio Fabrizi, owner of Claudio’s Baked Goods, has been the sour in the milk for the Murray family, but Lindsay knows as the majority partner in the bakery, Spice Isle Bakery, she needs to accept the complaints as well as the successes. Claudio’s Bake Goods is an established business in the neighborhood, but Mr. Fabrizi isn’t really a member of the neighborhood; he lives elsewhere and rarely joins in community affairs or the lives of his neighbors. Today his complaint is both public and threatening waving in Lyndsay’s face a handful of notices she’d posted announcing her bakery’s opening. He is angry about the impending competition, despite their menu’s being vastly different, and demands she open up somewhere else, a tactic he’s tried on other bakeries and succeeded. Of course, Lyndsay’s response is “…you move,” and her grandmother is proud of how she stood up to the man’s threats. Buuuut, it doesn’t end there. Fabrizi shows up at the opening, spewing more threats, and vowing to shut them down. Lyndsay defends the family vehemently, but who will defend her when the homicide detectives arrive wanting to question her about Claudio’s death?
Olivia Matthews has baked up a spicy cozy mystery as her first book in a new series, Spice Isle Bakery Mystery. She introduces a young woman who, although struggles with her confidence, finds her voice. She is supported by a close-knit family, proud of a fascinating culture, and not bad at investigating a clever murder mystery. The crime actually occurs later in the book than I like, but being the first book in the series, the introductions, conflict set up, foodie talk, and extraneous events were quite enjoyable. The investigation turned out to be engaging and complex with several avenues to follow from greedy schemes to broken relationships, illegal intentions to plain ol’ revenge … all fascinating motives entangling a diverse group of suspects. Even an additional victim and a bit of personal peril adds some “nail-biting” excitement. Lyndsay’s methods of investigating are realistic for an amateur seeing beyond official inquires with her insights into the community, loads of gossip, and connections her family has with the locals, yet her involvement causes a riff with childhood friend and, now, detective in charge.
Olivia’s writing is descriptive and entertaining illustrating the environment and the multi-generational characters, and providing a delightful backstory tale of an immigrant family making a success of their second home. The family dynamic was realistic, something with which every reader can identify: Lyndsay’s parents are supportive, of course, but protective and overly cautious; her brother is supportive, literally lending a helping hand; her grandmother is supportive as well as encouraging and definitely has her granddaughter’s back with her own insights as well as baking lessons. But, what about romance? Lyndsay has been quite the introvert and bonding over murder is not the best relationship starter, but there might be an opportunity to consider.
Recipes, Please! It’s not complete until the recipes show up, and straight from Spice Isle Bakery, you can enjoy a taste of the Caribbean with “melt in your mouth” Currant Rolls and Coconut Bread! Yum!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from St. Martin’s Press thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Claudio Fabrizi, owner of Claudio’s Baked Goods, has been the sour in the milk for the Murray family, but Lindsay knows as the majority partner in the bakery, Spice Isle Bakery, she needs to accept the complaints as well as the successes. Claudio’s Bake Goods is an established business in the neighborhood, but Mr. Fabrizi isn’t really a member of the neighborhood; he lives elsewhere and rarely joins in community affairs or the lives of his neighbors. Today his complaint is both public and threatening waving in Lyndsay’s face a handful of notices she’d posted announcing her bakery’s opening. He is angry about the impending competition, despite their menu’s being vastly different, and demands she open up somewhere else, a tactic he’s tried on other bakeries and succeeded. Of course, Lyndsay’s response is “…you move,” and her grandmother is proud of how she stood up to the man’s threats. Buuuut, it doesn’t end there. Fabrizi shows up at the opening, spewing more threats, and vowing to shut them down. Lyndsay defends the family vehemently, but who will defend her when the homicide detectives arrive wanting to question her about Claudio’s death?
Olivia Matthews has baked up a spicy cozy mystery as her first book in a new series, Spice Isle Bakery Mystery. She introduces a young woman who, although struggles with her confidence, finds her voice. She is supported by a close-knit family, proud of a fascinating culture, and not bad at investigating a clever murder mystery. The crime actually occurs later in the book than I like, but being the first book in the series, the introductions, conflict set up, foodie talk, and extraneous events were quite enjoyable. The investigation turned out to be engaging and complex with several avenues to follow from greedy schemes to broken relationships, illegal intentions to plain ol’ revenge … all fascinating motives entangling a diverse group of suspects. Even an additional victim and a bit of personal peril adds some “nail-biting” excitement. Lyndsay’s methods of investigating are realistic for an amateur seeing beyond official inquires with her insights into the community, loads of gossip, and connections her family has with the locals, yet her involvement causes a riff with childhood friend and, now, detective in charge.
Olivia’s writing is descriptive and entertaining illustrating the environment and the multi-generational characters, and providing a delightful backstory tale of an immigrant family making a success of their second home. The family dynamic was realistic, something with which every reader can identify: Lyndsay’s parents are supportive, of course, but protective and overly cautious; her brother is supportive, literally lending a helping hand; her grandmother is supportive as well as encouraging and definitely has her granddaughter’s back with her own insights as well as baking lessons. But, what about romance? Lyndsay has been quite the introvert and bonding over murder is not the best relationship starter, but there might be an opportunity to consider.
Recipes, Please! It’s not complete until the recipes show up, and straight from Spice Isle Bakery, you can enjoy a taste of the Caribbean with “melt in your mouth” Currant Rolls and Coconut Bread! Yum!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from St. Martin’s Press thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
January 28, 2023
Dollycas’s Thoughts
The first book in the Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries introduces readers to Lyndsay Murray. Her lifelong dream has been to open a West Indian bakery featuring food and using recipes from her Grenadian history. The bakery is set to open in the Little Caribbean neighborhood, of Brooklyn, New York. She is so excited to be working alongside her parents, grandmother, and even her brother who is helping out with the opening.
The bakery’s opening day arrives and is very well received by everyone in the area except Claudio Fabrizi, who owns and operates another bakery a few blocks away. He doesn’t want any competition even though the new bakery is offering very different choices from what he serves at his place. He barges into the Spice Isle Bakery spewing threats and just being nasty. Lyndsay has been dealing with the man for weeks and has had enough. She comes around the counter and has a serious verbal altercation with him in front of a room full of her customers. So when Claudio is found murdered the next day, Lyndsey finds herself at the top of the suspect list, Before her lifelong dream goes up in smoke she has to find the real killer and fast.
______
I love that this story features a tight closely knit family. Lyndsay starts out pretty meek and mild but over the course of the book her self confidence grows exponentially. It was a pleasure to see this happen. Her grandmother is also a treasure. Sitting at a table crocheting, ready to jump in and help in any way possible. She is not afraid to speak her mind or give a push or a shove to get anyone moving in the right direction. Her parents are hard workers who love their daughter and want to help her succeed. Her father is in charge of the Caribbean music played at the bakery and Lyndsay knows his emotions through the songs he plays. Her brother Dev, a junior partner of an international law firm has taken time off to help during the opening week. Family always comes first and they back it up in both their words and actions. All are cleverly written and evolve nicely throughout the story, leaving plenty of room for growth as the series continues.
The mystery was complex with more suspects than I first imagined. Claudio Fabrizi was not a nice man. He was cantankerous and rude. No wonder his business was going down the tubes. Filled with twists and turns Lyndsay followed the clues, asked some great questions, and did her best to solve the mystery. Like me, she was surprised when the guilty party revealed themselves, but her actions in the showdown were absolutely epic and had me cheering.
I really enjoy Ms. Matthews’s descriptive writing style. She sets a scene so well without getting overly wordy. I could easily imagine each place Lyndsay went. I could hear the music and smell the food. All the food served at the Spice Isle Bakery was new to me but everything sounded so good. Recipes for the popular Currant Rolls and Coconut Bread are included at the back of the book.
The Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries are off to a great start with Against the Currant. The characters are unique and interesting as is the setting of the Little Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn. I am excited to see the series continuing with Hard Dough Homicide which will be released in May. I am eager to see what drama Lyndsay Murray and her family get into next.
The first book in the Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries introduces readers to Lyndsay Murray. Her lifelong dream has been to open a West Indian bakery featuring food and using recipes from her Grenadian history. The bakery is set to open in the Little Caribbean neighborhood, of Brooklyn, New York. She is so excited to be working alongside her parents, grandmother, and even her brother who is helping out with the opening.
The bakery’s opening day arrives and is very well received by everyone in the area except Claudio Fabrizi, who owns and operates another bakery a few blocks away. He doesn’t want any competition even though the new bakery is offering very different choices from what he serves at his place. He barges into the Spice Isle Bakery spewing threats and just being nasty. Lyndsay has been dealing with the man for weeks and has had enough. She comes around the counter and has a serious verbal altercation with him in front of a room full of her customers. So when Claudio is found murdered the next day, Lyndsey finds herself at the top of the suspect list, Before her lifelong dream goes up in smoke she has to find the real killer and fast.
______
I love that this story features a tight closely knit family. Lyndsay starts out pretty meek and mild but over the course of the book her self confidence grows exponentially. It was a pleasure to see this happen. Her grandmother is also a treasure. Sitting at a table crocheting, ready to jump in and help in any way possible. She is not afraid to speak her mind or give a push or a shove to get anyone moving in the right direction. Her parents are hard workers who love their daughter and want to help her succeed. Her father is in charge of the Caribbean music played at the bakery and Lyndsay knows his emotions through the songs he plays. Her brother Dev, a junior partner of an international law firm has taken time off to help during the opening week. Family always comes first and they back it up in both their words and actions. All are cleverly written and evolve nicely throughout the story, leaving plenty of room for growth as the series continues.
The mystery was complex with more suspects than I first imagined. Claudio Fabrizi was not a nice man. He was cantankerous and rude. No wonder his business was going down the tubes. Filled with twists and turns Lyndsay followed the clues, asked some great questions, and did her best to solve the mystery. Like me, she was surprised when the guilty party revealed themselves, but her actions in the showdown were absolutely epic and had me cheering.
I really enjoy Ms. Matthews’s descriptive writing style. She sets a scene so well without getting overly wordy. I could easily imagine each place Lyndsay went. I could hear the music and smell the food. All the food served at the Spice Isle Bakery was new to me but everything sounded so good. Recipes for the popular Currant Rolls and Coconut Bread are included at the back of the book.
The Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries are off to a great start with Against the Currant. The characters are unique and interesting as is the setting of the Little Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn. I am excited to see the series continuing with Hard Dough Homicide which will be released in May. I am eager to see what drama Lyndsay Murray and her family get into next.
May 20, 2023
3.5 Stars rounded up
I thoroughly enjoyed this.
I think some of the Caribbean elements may be off, I have family from the West Indies, and some of this really felt right like the family dynamic, the stress on education and culture. Yet the use by a character of 'you all' and not 'allyuh' in a scene felt jarring. Some of the musical references seemed off. My West Indies relatives live in the South, so maybe that's the difference as this is set in NY.
Still, the setting was extremely charming. I love the atmosphere of the bakery. I'm charmed by Lyndsey and her family, even her regular customers.
The food references are delectable, and this includes recipes.
I'm looking forward to the next installment in this series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this.
I think some of the Caribbean elements may be off, I have family from the West Indies, and some of this really felt right like the family dynamic, the stress on education and culture. Yet the use by a character of 'you all' and not 'allyuh' in a scene felt jarring. Some of the musical references seemed off. My West Indies relatives live in the South, so maybe that's the difference as this is set in NY.
Still, the setting was extremely charming. I love the atmosphere of the bakery. I'm charmed by Lyndsey and her family, even her regular customers.
The food references are delectable, and this includes recipes.
I'm looking forward to the next installment in this series.
January 24, 2023
I thought this one was just okay.
January 25, 2023
I enjoyed getting to meet Lyndsay and her family as well as getting to know a little more about her Grenadian culture and food. I’m a little sad I don’t have a Grenadian bakery to run to so I can try some of the items mentioned. The mystery was well-paced, although there were so many different suspects and new characters introduced, it was hard to keep track of them all. The setting was quaint and I’m looking forward to the next one in the series.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an honest review.
Audio was well done, no issues.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an honest review.
Audio was well done, no issues.
March 7, 2023
lyndsay murray is strong and capable and could probably beat up anyone who tried to hurt herself or her family. she knows how to fight. but when she gets framed for murder and her name and her family’s bakery’s name is dragged under, she’s clueless of what to do.
this is a cute cozy mystery with a fantastic main character who’s strong, yet shy. i loved lyndsay. she’s not naturally social and has a good bit of anxiety, which makes it all the more interesting that she’s into kickboxing. it’s just such a great contrast.
although she’s clearly strong and can easily take care of herself, her overprotective older brother and parents all treat her as though she’s weak and needs to be protected. her family really annoyed me for a while. her brother gave opinions when there wasn’t any need for one and her parents acted like she didn’t have her own mind. this is when i realized that she’s actually in the exact same situation as me, and it was very weird to see. it was very easy to relate to her character and she seemed very real. i also appreciated how even though she was technically the owner of the family’s bakery, her baking skills were constantly judged by her family. it was so unnecessary of them and so realistic for a youngest child to be treated like that (from my own experience).
AND HER GRANDMA WAS AMAZING
the characterization in this book was fun to read, but it didn’t change the fact that the book wasn’t the most memorable. whenever i put it down, i didn’t often have a very strong urge to pick it up. if i hadn’t gotten it as an audiobook, i’m not sure i would’ve.
the audiobook itself has a great narrator and is very fun :)
a very cute cozy mystery which will make u hungry!!! do not read without food present.
thank you to netgalley and dreamscape media for my arc! all opinions are my own.
this is a cute cozy mystery with a fantastic main character who’s strong, yet shy. i loved lyndsay. she’s not naturally social and has a good bit of anxiety, which makes it all the more interesting that she’s into kickboxing. it’s just such a great contrast.
although she’s clearly strong and can easily take care of herself, her overprotective older brother and parents all treat her as though she’s weak and needs to be protected. her family really annoyed me for a while. her brother gave opinions when there wasn’t any need for one and her parents acted like she didn’t have her own mind. this is when i realized that she’s actually in the exact same situation as me, and it was very weird to see. it was very easy to relate to her character and she seemed very real. i also appreciated how even though she was technically the owner of the family’s bakery, her baking skills were constantly judged by her family. it was so unnecessary of them and so realistic for a youngest child to be treated like that (from my own experience).
AND HER GRANDMA WAS AMAZING
the characterization in this book was fun to read, but it didn’t change the fact that the book wasn’t the most memorable. whenever i put it down, i didn’t often have a very strong urge to pick it up. if i hadn’t gotten it as an audiobook, i’m not sure i would’ve.
the audiobook itself has a great narrator and is very fun :)
a very cute cozy mystery which will make u hungry!!! do not read without food present.
thank you to netgalley and dreamscape media for my arc! all opinions are my own.
March 14, 2023
I'll 100% admit it, this adorable cover drew me in right away. How could I resist?
So glad I gave Olivia Matthews' Against the Currant a try. Matthews captures this little corner of Brooklyn perfectly (I live a few miles from this area, and I can promise it is just as colorful as the author's portrayal).
Creative, realistic characters fill the pages, even if the mystery itself is a scootch fantastical. It was still a lot of fun.
I listened to the audio edition of Against the Currant and I really enjoyed Janina Edwards' performance. Lovely!
thank you to Dreamscape Media, via NetGalley for providing me with an audiobook copy of Against the Currant, all opinions are my own
So glad I gave Olivia Matthews' Against the Currant a try. Matthews captures this little corner of Brooklyn perfectly (I live a few miles from this area, and I can promise it is just as colorful as the author's portrayal).
Creative, realistic characters fill the pages, even if the mystery itself is a scootch fantastical. It was still a lot of fun.
I listened to the audio edition of Against the Currant and I really enjoyed Janina Edwards' performance. Lovely!
thank you to Dreamscape Media, via NetGalley for providing me with an audiobook copy of Against the Currant, all opinions are my own
April 12, 2023
3.5 stars.
Olivia Matthews' "Against the Currant" introduces us to the Spice Isle Bakery and its owners Lyndsay Murray and her family. Lyndsay is a little awkward, and shy, unlike her older brother, and not someone whom people notice, or when they did in the past, for example in school, did so to bully her.
Though not always willing to stand up for herself, Claudio Fabrizi's words rile Lyndsay up because this new business is not just a labour of love for the whole family, it's been something Lyndsay has been working incredibly hard toward for many years.
Lyndsay gives the man a piece of her mind, and her parting words to the bully are unfortunate, as they sound threatening, which brings her to the police's attention when Claudio turns up dead.
When it seems that the police have no intention of looking further than Lyndsay, she decides she needs to clear her name, against her family's wishes, who want her to wait for the police investigation to conclude.
Nope, is pretty much what Lyndsay says, and begins looking into Claudio's finances and business practices by asking around the neighbourhood with people affected by Claudio's actions. Lyndsay quickly finds others with equal or better motives, and eventually discovers who the real killer is.
I liked Lyndsay a lot. She's quiet, determined, and also physically able to take care of herself. She's also incredibly dedicated to her dream, and is willing to go against family and police to discover truths about the dead man.
I loved how well Matthews characterized the different players in the book. Lyndsay begins somewhat naïve, but definitely adjusts her view of things as the book progresses, and I loved all the different baked goods that featured throughout the book. This is a fun cozy, and I look forward to more Lyndsay adventures.
Thank you to Netgalley and to St. Martin's Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Olivia Matthews' "Against the Currant" introduces us to the Spice Isle Bakery and its owners Lyndsay Murray and her family. Lyndsay is a little awkward, and shy, unlike her older brother, and not someone whom people notice, or when they did in the past, for example in school, did so to bully her.
Though not always willing to stand up for herself, Claudio Fabrizi's words rile Lyndsay up because this new business is not just a labour of love for the whole family, it's been something Lyndsay has been working incredibly hard toward for many years.
Lyndsay gives the man a piece of her mind, and her parting words to the bully are unfortunate, as they sound threatening, which brings her to the police's attention when Claudio turns up dead.
When it seems that the police have no intention of looking further than Lyndsay, she decides she needs to clear her name, against her family's wishes, who want her to wait for the police investigation to conclude.
Nope, is pretty much what Lyndsay says, and begins looking into Claudio's finances and business practices by asking around the neighbourhood with people affected by Claudio's actions. Lyndsay quickly finds others with equal or better motives, and eventually discovers who the real killer is.
I liked Lyndsay a lot. She's quiet, determined, and also physically able to take care of herself. She's also incredibly dedicated to her dream, and is willing to go against family and police to discover truths about the dead man.
I loved how well Matthews characterized the different players in the book. Lyndsay begins somewhat naïve, but definitely adjusts her view of things as the book progresses, and I loved all the different baked goods that featured throughout the book. This is a fun cozy, and I look forward to more Lyndsay adventures.
Thank you to Netgalley and to St. Martin's Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
March 2, 2023
Well, this was a cute cozy!
Loved all the Grenadian references! The whole story made me want to try a currant roll SO BADLY! As for the case... eh. It was rather boring.
The inclusion of the currant roll recipe at the end - BRILLIANT!
Loved all the Grenadian references! The whole story made me want to try a currant roll SO BADLY! As for the case... eh. It was rather boring.
The inclusion of the currant roll recipe at the end - BRILLIANT!
December 16, 2022
I love when my cozy mysteries feature supportive family members, other cultures, and food that I want to eat right away! Right away Against the Currant drew me in. I loved reading about the relationship Lyndsay has with her family and how her family has her back. The mystery had me invested to and left me guessing throughout the book who committed the crime. I seriously hope there is more to this series.
April 11, 2023
Thank you Libro.fm for the ALC!
This was a fun cozy mystery! Low-stakes, but still entertaining, plus it made me hungry the whole time.
This was a fun cozy mystery! Low-stakes, but still entertaining, plus it made me hungry the whole time.
September 13, 2022
Against the Currant: A Spice Isle Bakery Mystery
by Olivia Matthews is a great first book in a new culinary cozy mystery series. I really liked this one.
This is such a fresh, interesting, and entertaining take on the classic and contemporary cozy mystery. I really like the author’s inclusion of a wonderful, full of life, and complex and vibrant extended family that surrounds our main character, Lyndsay Murray, and the whole cast really adds to the MC’s interest, personality, and vibe. I really liked Lyndsay, and I think she makes an excellent example of a kickin’ and fiery woman.
I also love that this book is centered around the area of the neighborhood that is Little Caribbean located within Brooklyn, New York. The culture, the family, the personalities, and the food…it all is excellent. The ties and homage paid to Grenada is quite lovely.
I also enjoyed the murder/mystery plot and feel that it added another wonderful dimension to an already excellent book. I amy really looking forward to the next one.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and St Martin’s Press for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 1/24/23.
by Olivia Matthews is a great first book in a new culinary cozy mystery series. I really liked this one.
This is such a fresh, interesting, and entertaining take on the classic and contemporary cozy mystery. I really like the author’s inclusion of a wonderful, full of life, and complex and vibrant extended family that surrounds our main character, Lyndsay Murray, and the whole cast really adds to the MC’s interest, personality, and vibe. I really liked Lyndsay, and I think she makes an excellent example of a kickin’ and fiery woman.
I also love that this book is centered around the area of the neighborhood that is Little Caribbean located within Brooklyn, New York. The culture, the family, the personalities, and the food…it all is excellent. The ties and homage paid to Grenada is quite lovely.
I also enjoyed the murder/mystery plot and feel that it added another wonderful dimension to an already excellent book. I amy really looking forward to the next one.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and St Martin’s Press for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 1/24/23.
December 12, 2022
This was so good! A whole new type of cozy mystery (at least to me!): cozy, savory mystery! We get to follow Lyndsay Murray from opening her dream business, Spice Isle Bakery, and directly into being a murder suspect! When her neighborhood rival comes in on opening day, Lindsay stands up for herself and her family…while also maybe threatening him to never return. But when Claudio is found dead the next day, Lyndsay quickly becomes the prime suspect.
This was such a fun read! Lyndsay shared her Grenadian heritage with her neighbors and readers while setting out to clear her name. All the food descriptions leave you salivating and hungry while the mystery unfolds at a very satisfying pace.
I don’t normally read cozy mysteries so I am SO GLAD this caught my eye! I loved all of this: the family dynamics, the enemies, the freaking food!, the mystery, the twist. AND! It’s the first in a series, so I can’t wait for the next!
Thanks to St Martins Press and NetGalley for my copy to read in exchange for an honest review!
This was such a fun read! Lyndsay shared her Grenadian heritage with her neighbors and readers while setting out to clear her name. All the food descriptions leave you salivating and hungry while the mystery unfolds at a very satisfying pace.
I don’t normally read cozy mysteries so I am SO GLAD this caught my eye! I loved all of this: the family dynamics, the enemies, the freaking food!, the mystery, the twist. AND! It’s the first in a series, so I can’t wait for the next!
Thanks to St Martins Press and NetGalley for my copy to read in exchange for an honest review!
June 19, 2023
did i find the main character annoying ? yes!
am i going to read the second book? hell yeah!
am i going to read the second book? hell yeah!
January 10, 2024
Against the Currant
is the delightful first book in a new cozy mystery series. Our characters are diverse, of West Indian descent, and they live in a neighborhood called Little Caribbean in Brooklyn. Lyndsay Murray has opened a new bakery. Her parents are part of the business and her grandmother is always present. Her best friend and brother is an attorney, but helps out as often as he can. A true family business, with Lyndsay at the helm.
Everyone in the neighborhood is not pleased at the immediate success of the bakery, most notably Claudio Fabrizi, another bakery only a few blocks away in the neighborhood. Although their businesses are a fair distance from each other, Claudio seems determined to shut Lyndsay's bakery down.
After a catering job, a man is found dead. Earlier on Lyndsay lost her charm bracelet, and it was this very bracelet and where it was found that makes Lyndsay the prime suspect. She is determined to prove her innocence, even if this means that she identify the killer.
A typical cozy mystery, no doubt, but what an enjoyable start to this series. If you like strong characters and an even stronger family, then look no further than Against the Currant . This book was a reread for me because I wanted to read the next two books in the series, which I thoroughly enjoyed. They are Hard Dough Homicide and Coconut Drop Dead .
Everyone in the neighborhood is not pleased at the immediate success of the bakery, most notably Claudio Fabrizi, another bakery only a few blocks away in the neighborhood. Although their businesses are a fair distance from each other, Claudio seems determined to shut Lyndsay's bakery down.
After a catering job, a man is found dead. Earlier on Lyndsay lost her charm bracelet, and it was this very bracelet and where it was found that makes Lyndsay the prime suspect. She is determined to prove her innocence, even if this means that she identify the killer.
A typical cozy mystery, no doubt, but what an enjoyable start to this series. If you like strong characters and an even stronger family, then look no further than Against the Currant . This book was a reread for me because I wanted to read the next two books in the series, which I thoroughly enjoyed. They are Hard Dough Homicide and Coconut Drop Dead .
June 25, 2023
This new series celebrates the culture, food, and people of the Caribbean. One aspect that I enjoyed was how close the family was in this book. They supported one another through all of the ups and downs, especially when Lyndsay is a person of interest in the death of a competitor. It is all circumstantial, but the police detectives don't seem to know how to search for other possible suspects. Luckily, Lyndsay is able to sniff out the killer, but almost too late!
The story moves at a slower pace. I did feel like it took a long time to get to the point of Lyndsay investigating to try and clear her name. But perhaps that is indicative of the lifestyle of those from the Caribbean, not in a hurry.
I thought Lyndsay was a unique character with her interests and her desire to open a bakery since she was young. The author does a wonderful job of describing everything, and I felt like I was there and could imagine what the different dishes tasted like.
I did not like the reporter, Jose. While I get he has a job to do, it is like he has a vendetta against Lyndsay and only seems to report things that could hurt her vs. help.
I think this will be a fun but laid-back series. I look forward to seeing what happens next for the family and their bakery.
We give the book 4 paws up.
The story moves at a slower pace. I did feel like it took a long time to get to the point of Lyndsay investigating to try and clear her name. But perhaps that is indicative of the lifestyle of those from the Caribbean, not in a hurry.
I thought Lyndsay was a unique character with her interests and her desire to open a bakery since she was young. The author does a wonderful job of describing everything, and I felt like I was there and could imagine what the different dishes tasted like.
I did not like the reporter, Jose. While I get he has a job to do, it is like he has a vendetta against Lyndsay and only seems to report things that could hurt her vs. help.
I think this will be a fun but laid-back series. I look forward to seeing what happens next for the family and their bakery.
We give the book 4 paws up.
May 25, 2023
This was a great start to a new culinary cozy series! I loved the bakery setting, the wonderful cast and all of those mouth watering food descriptions. This one is going to leave you hungry. It does conclude with a couple recipes mentioned throughout the book. Maybe make those first so you have something to snack on while solving this mystery!
Lyndsay was an excellent lead. I loved how her family was celebrating their roots by opening a Brooklyn bakery specializing in authentic Grenadian cuisine. They were so cute in their various roles of supporting the bakery. Grandma was obviously my favorite. She was feisty and up in everyone's business. She has a really sweet connection with her granddaughter too. Being a person who enjoys shadowboxing, I was excited to see Lyndsay participate in that same form of exercise.
The mystery was well done and kept me guessing. The victim was easy to despise with his sour mood and actions. He had many plausible enemies. I was lead off the case several times by falling for the wrong red herrings.
I'm wondering if a love triangle is brewing involving the ex high school crush turned detective and the journalist who doesn't stop until he gets his story. I definitely look forward to reading the sequel, Hard Dough Homicide! I received an ARC from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press - all opinions are my own.
Lyndsay was an excellent lead. I loved how her family was celebrating their roots by opening a Brooklyn bakery specializing in authentic Grenadian cuisine. They were so cute in their various roles of supporting the bakery. Grandma was obviously my favorite. She was feisty and up in everyone's business. She has a really sweet connection with her granddaughter too. Being a person who enjoys shadowboxing, I was excited to see Lyndsay participate in that same form of exercise.
The mystery was well done and kept me guessing. The victim was easy to despise with his sour mood and actions. He had many plausible enemies. I was lead off the case several times by falling for the wrong red herrings.
I'm wondering if a love triangle is brewing involving the ex high school crush turned detective and the journalist who doesn't stop until he gets his story. I definitely look forward to reading the sequel, Hard Dough Homicide! I received an ARC from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press - all opinions are my own.
February 11, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, St. Martin's Paperbacks for accepting my request to read and review Against the Currant.
Published: 01/24/23
I really, really wanted to like this. Unfortunately, it was a miss for me. I wasn't entertained by the Caribbean family traditions. . The murder was too convenient and seriously cheesy. The familial bantering didn't translate well.
There is a market for this series. It's not with me.
I do recommend if you like cozy mysteries give this a try.
Published: 01/24/23
I really, really wanted to like this. Unfortunately, it was a miss for me. I wasn't entertained by the Caribbean family traditions. . The murder was too convenient and seriously cheesy. The familial bantering didn't translate well.
There is a market for this series. It's not with me.
I do recommend if you like cozy mysteries give this a try.
May 6, 2023
NetGalley ARC.
I enjoyed this new cozy mystery series! I had to speed up the audiobook to 1.75x as the narrator was a very slow speaker. But once I did that, I was able to get into this cozy with Lyndsay and her family and her Caribbean-inspired cafe! Lyndsay also felt a bit young. Who is still talking about high school bullies at 27? I loved her grandmother! I will be reading the next book!
I enjoyed this new cozy mystery series! I had to speed up the audiobook to 1.75x as the narrator was a very slow speaker. But once I did that, I was able to get into this cozy with Lyndsay and her family and her Caribbean-inspired cafe! Lyndsay also felt a bit young. Who is still talking about high school bullies at 27? I loved her grandmother! I will be reading the next book!
January 13, 2023
Against the Currant is a new cozy mystery series and it was very exciting.
Set in Little Caribbean, Brooklyn NY, Olivia brings all the sights, sounds and smells to her Spice Isle Bakery.
Lyndsay has worked very hard to realize her dream of opening her own bakery. She is not going to back down when Claudio comes around threatening her and her family. Will one remark made in haste be her undoing? When Claudio turns up dead after this latest encounter the detectives only have eyes for her.
Drawing on the love and strength of her family, Lyndsay is out to prove she is being framed.
All the supporting characters are likable and I see a few romantic potentials being possible in the future. I like how Lyndsay stands up for herself and enjoys her kickboxing in an attempt to build her confidence.
One line that stood out and it is sad, but true---
"Because they don't expect the NYPD to put much effort into the homicide investigation of a Black woman who'd been suspected of murder."
Some cozies are really light on the action, but not this one. I was actually scared something was going to happen to Lyndsay! I am looking forward to reading more of this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my eArc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Set in Little Caribbean, Brooklyn NY, Olivia brings all the sights, sounds and smells to her Spice Isle Bakery.
Lyndsay has worked very hard to realize her dream of opening her own bakery. She is not going to back down when Claudio comes around threatening her and her family. Will one remark made in haste be her undoing? When Claudio turns up dead after this latest encounter the detectives only have eyes for her.
Drawing on the love and strength of her family, Lyndsay is out to prove she is being framed.
All the supporting characters are likable and I see a few romantic potentials being possible in the future. I like how Lyndsay stands up for herself and enjoys her kickboxing in an attempt to build her confidence.
One line that stood out and it is sad, but true---
"Because they don't expect the NYPD to put much effort into the homicide investigation of a Black woman who'd been suspected of murder."
Some cozies are really light on the action, but not this one. I was actually scared something was going to happen to Lyndsay! I am looking forward to reading more of this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my eArc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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