Quick Take

This is a short story that can be read as a stand-alone or as a prologue to the Olivia Faulkner Mysteries series. It is shorter than the rest of the books in the series which are all full length novels. Olivia planned on a summer road trip across the country, but she ends up stuck in her childhood home in Grand Arbor Township when her camper van breaks down. Good thing there's a $1000 grand prize in this year's Grand Arbor Cherry Festival Pie Baking Contest... The problem is--somebody is determined to make sure nobody wins. Can Olivia find out who's sabotaging the contest or will this year be the last cherry festival in Grand Arbor?

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: A Pie To Vie For (Olivia Faulkner # 0.5)

Introduction

"A Pie To Vie For" by Kathryn Lin is a short story that serves as a prequel to the Olivia Faulkner Mysteries series. It is a stand-alone read that can be enjoyed on its own or as an introduction to the series. The story revolves around Olivia Faulkner, a single mother who enters a cherry pie baking contest to win the $1000 grand prize. However, she faces sabotage from an unknown source, making it difficult for her to succeed. With its engaging plot and well-developed characters, this book has captivated readers and left them eager to explore more of Olivia Faulkner's adventures.

About Kathryn Lin

Kathryn Lin, the author of "A Pie To Vie For," is a talented writer known for her cozy mystery novels. She has a knack for creating relatable and likable characters that readers can easily connect with. Her writing style is engaging, making it easy for readers to become immersed in the story. With "A Pie To Vie For," Lin has once again demonstrated her ability to craft a captivating mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

Analysis of Views

Engaging Plot: Readers have praised the book for its engaging plot, which keeps them guessing until the end. The sabotage element adds a layer of intrigue to the story, making it difficult for readers to predict the outcome.
Well-Developed Characters: The characters in this book are well-developed and believable, making it easy for readers to connect with them. Olivia Faulkner, the main character, is particularly well-liked by readers, who appreciate her determination and resourcefulness.
Sweet and Cozy Atmosphere: The book has been described as sweet and cozy, with a warm and inviting atmosphere that draws readers in. The setting of Grand Arbor Township adds to the charm of the story, creating a sense of nostalgia and familiarity.
Unique Storyline: While some readers have noted that the story lacks a murder element, they still appreciate its unique storyline. The focus on a cherry pie baking contest adds a fresh twist to the cozy mystery genre, making it stand out from other books in the same category.
Promising Series: Many readers have expressed their interest in reading more books in the Olivia Faulkner Mysteries series, citing their enjoyment of Olivia and her daughter Vi as characters. They are eager to see how the characters develop further and explore more mysteries in Grand Arbor Township.

Reasons for Recommendation

Engaging Plot: The engaging plot keeps readers hooked from start to finish, making it a highly recommended read for those who enjoy cozy mysteries with unexpected twists and turns.
Well-Developed Characters: The well-developed characters make it easy for readers to connect with them, creating a sense of familiarity and empathy. Olivia Faulkner's character is particularly well-liked by readers, who appreciate her strength and resilience.
Sweet and Cozy Atmosphere: The sweet and cozy atmosphere of the book creates a warm and inviting reading experience, making it perfect for fans of cozy mysteries who enjoy a lighthearted read with a touch of intrigue.
Unique Storyline: While some readers may prefer mysteries with murder elements, they can still appreciate the unique storyline of "A Pie To Vie For." The focus on a cherry pie baking contest adds a fresh twist to the genre, making it stand out from other books in the same category.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Murder Element: Some readers may find that the lack of a murder element in this book detracts from their enjoyment of the story. They may prefer mysteries with more suspenseful elements or dead bodies as central elements of the plot.
Shorter Length: The shorter length of this book may be a drawback for some readers who prefer longer novels with more detailed character development and complex plotlines. While many readers appreciate the brevity of this story, others may feel that it could have been expanded further.

Conclusion

"A Pie To Vie For" by Kathryn Lin is a delightful short story that serves as a prequel to the Olivia Faulkner Mysteries series. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, sweet and cozy atmosphere, and unique storyline, this book has captured the hearts of many readers. While some may prefer mysteries with murder elements or longer novels, they can still appreciate the charm and intrigue of "A Pie To Vie For." Overall, this book is highly recommended for fans of cozy mysteries looking for a quick and enjoyable read with a touch of intrigue and charm.