Smyth Orchards is a beloved family business run by Winnie and her Granny Smyth. It's struggling, though. They're determined to turn things around with the "First Annual Christmas at the Orchard" They never thought they'd find the body of Nadine Cooper, Granny's long-time, grudge-holding nemesis, lodged in the apple press. Granny is the number one suspect and Winnie is hard-pressed to prove her innocence. Great cover. Lots of coziness and interesting things going on - the apple orchard, tasty treats, the relationship between Winnie and her granny, kitties, Christmastime - but the story seemed too bogged down with trivial details. And Winnie didn't do a whole lot of investigating. I did like getting to know more about the victim/granny's nemesis, Nadine Cooper. Overall it was enjoyable and I would give the second book a shot, but it's not overly high on my to-read list. Thanks to Nethgalley and Kensington for an ARC. 3/5.

Ria has always been determined to have her husband's family love her. They're wealthy and glamorous. They're a little intimidating. And Ria believes she'll never be good enough. When Ria's husband, Grayson, leaves the house for work one morning and doesn't return, Ria is left to raise their daughter on her own with the help of her mother-in-law. Grayson's family say they have no idea what happened to him but she gets the feeling they know more than they're letting on. I did finish this one, but at no point did it grip me and keep me hooked well into the night. Unlikable characters, lots of repetition. A forgettable read for me. Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an ARC. 2/5.