“Take the Honey and Run” is the first installment in Jennie Marts’ delightful Bee Keeping Mystery series, published on July 18, 2023, by Crooked Lane Books2. This cozy mystery novel combines elements of humor, romance, and small-town charm, all wrapped up in a sweet, honey-coated package that’s sure to please fans of the genre.
Plot Overview
The story revolves around Bailey Rhoads, a mystery writer who returns to her hometown of Honey Buzz, Colorado. Bailey’s grandmother, affectionately known as Granny Bee, is the town’s largest beekeeper and runs a successful honey business. However, things take a sour turn when the town’s mayor, Werner Humble, is found dead, and Granny Bee’s infamous “Honey I’m Home” hot spiced honey is implicated as the murder weapon1.With her grandmother now the prime suspect, Bailey decides to put her fictional detective skills to the test in real life. Aided by her best friend Evie, her social media-savvy daughter Daisy, and the ladies of The Hive (her grandmother’s book club), Bailey sets out to uncover the truth and clear Granny Bee’s name1.
Characters and Relationships
The novel introduces a cast of colorful characters that bring Honey Buzz to life:
- Bailey Rhoads: Our protagonist, a mystery writer turned amateur sleuth.
- Granny Bee: Bailey’s grandmother, the town’s largest beekeeper and prime suspect.
- Evie: Bailey’s best friend and partner in crime-solving.
- Daisy: Bailey’s daughter, a social media expert who aids in the investigation.
- Sawyer Dunn: The town sheriff and Bailey’s ex-boyfriend, adding a dash of romantic tension to the mix.
The dynamics between these characters are well-developed, with plenty of witty banter and heartwarming moments. The relationship between Bailey and Sawyer, in particular, adds a layer of complexity to the story, hinting at unresolved feelings and potential future developments1.
Writing Style and Tone
Jennie Marts’ writing style in “Take the Honey and Run” is light-hearted and engaging. The author skillfully balances the mystery elements with humor, creating a story that’s both intriguing and entertaining. Marts’ use of bee-related puns and wordplay adds a charming touch to the narrative, keeping readers amused throughout1.The novel has been praised for its “Murder, She Wrote” vibes, as Bailey channels her inner Jessica Fletcher to solve the crime. This nostalgic nod to classic mystery series adds an extra layer of appeal for fans of the genre1.
Themes and Setting
Set in the fictional town of Honey Buzz, Colorado, the novel explores themes of community, family, and the power of determination. The beekeeping aspect adds a unique flavor to the story, with Marts weaving in interesting facts about bees and honey production throughout the narrative.The small-town setting is vividly portrayed, creating a cozy atmosphere that serves as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding mystery. Readers will find themselves immersed in the charm of Honey Buzz and its quirky inhabitants.
Author’s Background
Jennie Marts is a USA Today bestselling author known for her ability to blend different genres. Her works often feature elements of romance, humor, and mystery, creating stories that appeal to a wide range of readers4. Marts has written several series, including the Hearts of Montana contemporary western romance series and The Page Turners romantic comedy/cozy mystery series6.Marts’ writing is characterized by its warmth, humor, and always-guaranteed happily-ever-after endings. Her ability to create lovable characters and engaging plots has earned her a dedicated following among romance and cozy mystery readers alike4.
Critical Reception
“Take the Honey and Run” has received positive reviews from both critics and readers. Kirkus Reviews praised the novel for its “appealing characters” and “nicely integrated beekeeping lore”5. Readers on Goodreads have lauded the book for its humor, engaging mystery, and charming small-town setting1.Many reviewers have highlighted the novel’s ability to keep them guessing until the end, with numerous red herrings and plot twists that maintain suspense throughout. The balance of mystery, humor, and romance has been particularly well-received, making it a standout in the cozy mystery genre1.
Conclusion
“Take the Honey and Run” is a sweet and satisfying start to Jennie Marts’ Bee Keeping Mystery series. With its engaging characters, intriguing plot, and generous dose of humor, this novel is sure to appeal to fans of cozy mysteries and anyone looking for a light-hearted, entertaining read. Marts has successfully created a world that readers will be eager to return to in future installments of the series.Whether you’re a fan of mysteries, small-town stories, or just enjoy a good laugh, “Take the Honey and Run” is a book that’s sure to leave you buzzing with excitement. It’s a testament to Jennie Marts’ skill as a storyteller and her ability to craft a narrative that’s as sweet as the honey at its center.#TakeTheHoneyAndRun #JennieMarts #CozyMystery #BeeKeepingMystery #SmallTownMystery #HumorousMyster #RomanticMystery #BeekeepingFiction #AmateurSleuth #MurderMystery
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