Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder by Joanne Fluke
This is the first in a series of cosy mysteries set in a small town in Minnesota called Lake Eden. Hannah Swensen has moved back home after her father's death, and started a shop called the Cookie Jar, where she sells all types of cookies and squares as well as beverages. She also has a young employee, Lisa, who stayed after high school to look after her father who has Alzheimer's.
Hannah's mother keeps setting her up with any possible eligible man, which Hannah deals with kindly. She's not really interested in any companion other than her cat Moishe. The latest man offered up is Norman Rhodes, who has recently moved back to town after his father's death and taken over his father's dentistry practice. He seems nice, if a little boring.
As the book begins, Hannah is off to work, passing a few regulars on her way, including her neighbour Phil, who works at a local manufacturing company; Ron, the dairy delivery driver on the route that comes to her store; and Claire, owner of the fashion boutique next door to the Cookie Jar.
As we begin to get to know the townspeople including Hannah's sister Andrea, and her husband Bill, a police officer, we see how everyone is connected in a variety of ways.
When Ron is late and Hannah checks the alley to see if he's close, she finds his truck, and him dead in it. As she helps Bill follow the clues, often a step ahead of him, we find ourselves caring about the different characters whose lives are affected by this death. When another body is found, things get more tense in town.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters, which I'm sure will reappear and get more depth as the series continues. The introduction of a new detective to the force brings anticipation for future books, on both the mystery and romance fronts.
And as with most food based cosy mysteries, there are lots of recipes included here.
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