The Cider Shop Rules is the third installment in the A Cider Shop Mystery series set in Blossom Valley, WV and featuring Winona Mae "Winnie" Montgomery. Town is buzzing with tourists thanks to the annual Fall Festival and the influx of Civil War reenactors come to pay homage to John Brown.

Winnie and best friend, Dot make a trip out to Potter's Pumpkin Patch to pick up an order of hay, pumpkins and gourds which Granny will use to decorate the Smythe Family Orchard. What Winnie doesn't realize when they leave is that tucked under the tarp covering her pickup bed is also the dead body of Mr. Potter.

Despite repeated warnings by Sheriff Colton Wise to stay out of the investigation, Winnie vows to help Granny's friends find the killer. When Winnie becomes the next target the question arises - is she being threatened by Mr. Potter's killer or is it someone from Colton's past back to seek revenge against the Sheriff?

Another action packed mystery filled with suspense, the return of series regulars and the arrival of new characters, mouthwatering descriptions of homemade ciders, a delightful menagerie of pets that will have you laughing out loud at their antics, and a blossoming romance. One of the best series on the cozy scene. I can't wait for my next trip to Blossom Valley.

I received an advanced copy of The Cider Shop Rules from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.

A small town murder, beautiful setting that draws you in, loveable characters and more combine to make this one great read and wondering what the next adventure will bring.

Fall is in full swing in Blossom Valley when Winona Mae Montgomery finds herself caught up in another murder investigation. After picking up an order at the local pumpkin patch, Winnie and her friend stop in town to get ice cream. It is while they are enjoying their frozen treat that the body of the pumpkin patch's owner is found in the bed of Winnie's vintage farm truck. When the locals ask Winnie to look into Jacob Potter's murder, she can't help but agree. Even after receiving multiple threats from the killer and repeated pleas from the local sheriff to stay out of his investigation, Winnie keep questioning suspects and investigating clues. All the time she is tracking a killer, she is being stalked by another killer—placing her in double danger.

I was torn between conflicting feelings over THE CIDER SHOP RULES. I have not read the first two novels in the series, and I felt like I missed something by not reading them. Yes, backstory is provided and it kept me filled in on the pertinent facts. But having missed the early stages of Winnie's relationship with the local sheriff left me baffled when it came to their current relationship. Despite being in their late-twenties/early-thirties, both Winnie and Colton Wise both act like juveniles. There was something about their relationship—or lack thereof—that got under my skin and kept me from really enjoying the book. Winnie is being stalked by a murderer who has made it clear that he plans to hurt her. Instead of being worried about that, she's more worried about what the locals will say if the sheriff sleeps over to protect her. Maybe it's just me, but I'd be far more concerned about staying alive than I would be over what the local busybodies are saying. Aside from Winnie's and Colton's "relationship," I enjoyed the book. The investigation was interesting and kept me guessing. Also, the writing was well done. And I loved the setting.

A great fall read. I fell right into the story. I could smell the apples and hear the laughter. I loved Winnies determination to find the killer no matter what and Colton thawing his outer shell! I will definitely look into this series for more to come!

Can this series please become a Hallmark Mystery series? Honestly it would be perfect. Small town murder? Check. A will they or won't they romance? Check! An amateur sleuth that you really hope won't die? Double check!! This series is so cute. Winnie runs her own Cider Shop while her Granny runs the family orchard. In the beginning of this one Winnie is picking up an order at the local pumpkin patch and someone leaves a dead body in her truck. She also meets a tall, dark, and yummy man in town for a war reenactment. And quickly she's investigating who killed Mr. Potter and trying not to flirt with the mystery man.

The Cider Shop Rules by Julie Anne Lindsey is the third book in this series and was a good addition to this cozy mystery series. The book drew me in from the first chapter and I didn't stop reading until I reached the end.

Ms. Lindsey is meticulous in using language and visual imagery is set each scene and Blossom Valley comes to life as you read. Winnie, Grammy, Dot, Colton and the other secondary characters are all developing into their own personalities with quirks and flaws. I enjoyed the quick visit from Lacy and Jack from Ms. Lindsey's Kitty Couture cozy mystery series. With Colton's past nemesis back, a local murder to solve, Colton's family visiting for a civil war reenactment the plot is quickly paced and action driven as they race to solve it all.

Winnie Mae Montgomery helps run her grandmother's cider farm, and she's made several key improvements, including a renovated barn where she sells her specialty ciders. With the Fall Festival, they've also got plenty to do, and the farm is finally making a little money, with the Civil War reenactors in town and tourists filling the farm. One day she and her friend Dot go to the nearby Potter farm, where she's picking up an order from Mr. Potter for her grandma. But after they stop for ice cream, Winnie notices liquid coming from the back of her truck -- and when the tarp is lifted, it turns out to be the body of Mr. Potter. Now Winnie's truck is a crime scene, and she's once again in the middle of a murder, which Sheriff Colton Wise doesn't like. What's also unsettling is the attractive man she's just met who turns out to be Colton's younger brother, Blake, and it appears he's interested in her.

While trying to navigate her way out of sticky situations, and discovering there's another danger lurking around the corner, Winnie's doing all she can not to have a nervous breakdown. But when she's asked to find the killer by Mrs. Potter's best friend, she's over her head in trouble. The problem is, will she be able to figure things out before a killer slays her?...

This is the third book in the series and I've read all of them. I do like this series quite a bit. It's progressing along nicely, with Winnie's life in the turmoil it usually is, but she handles everything with aplomb, or at least tries to. She doesn't accuse people of murder, nor does she keep information from Colton, which I approve of. It shows she has common sense. Even her questioning isn't invasive, and she thinks before she asks. Smart woman.

[The one thing that bothers me is Winnie is always thinking of accusing men of being men -- she doesn't want them carrying things for her, or opening doors, or even thinking of protecting her -- things my mother and father taught us were the way men showed respect for women. It's not offensive for men to do things for women; and for the record, I worked on cars with my dad and can change parts, but I still love it when men open doors. Act like a lady and you will be treated like one. It has nothing to do with 'I can do this too, you know.'] Okay, rant over!

Anyway, there was one scene on the battlefield which I found lovely; I'm not going to name it here, although I want to, and I was surprised and delighted to read it. Also, one of the funniest situations takes place on a night that Winnie has dinner with the Wise clan - Colton, Blake, and their parents. It had me laughing and grateful I've never been in that situation! Not to mention Waddles the goose...

As for the mystery, it was a bit suspenseful, and it seemed that there was real danger around every corner. As the story wove through the pages, I could almost feel Winnie's tenseness, and her hesitation to step foot out of her home. It kept me reading throughout the book, and wanting to find out what was around the next page.

When the ending comes, the climax is both gripping and satisfying, with everything finally being resolved just as it should be. Killers have their own sense of justice, and we can never understand what makes them do the things they do.

All in all, the writing is taut, expressive, and makes the characters come to life easily. The descriptions of the farm and its people is wonderful, and the book leaves us wanting more. I would love to see more of Colton's family and, of course, the people of Blossom Valley. Highly recommended.

I enjoyed this book. It's fast paced and exciting. I liked seeing Winnie and Colton finally get together. The scene where the murderers were caught is exciting. #TheCiderShopRules #NetGalley

The Cider Shop Rules by Julie Anne Lindsey is a great story. Thank you NetGalley for the advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. Its time for the Fall Festival. Winona May and her Granny Smythe's Cider Shop is as busy as ever. They are located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in northern Virginia. Winona and her friend, Dot, are visiting Fall Family Fun Days in early November. Then Winona finds a local farmer in the back of her truck dead.
I had never heard of Julie Anne Lindsey or read any of her books before, but I really enjoyed Cider Shop Rules and plan to read her other books. I can't wait until the next book is out in the series.

I found this book to be enjoyable. I did like the previous one in the series so I was glad that this one kept up the standard. I thought the characters were likeable and well thought out. There did seem to be enough action to keep my attention throughout the book. I am not a fan of cider so the descriptions didn't pull me in. There were actually parts of two stories going on in this one that involves Winnie. YOu just have to pay attention to figure out which story an item belongs to.

I received this book for an honest review from netgalley #netgalley

Omg she did it again! Julie Anne Lindsey is one of the best cozy writers I've read. This book is no exception. Wonderful cast of characters and the setting it to die for. 5 stars all the way!

There's so much I love about this series, I'm not sure where to start!
I love cozy mysteries, and every time I read a new book in a favorite series, I get excited, heart fluttering excited, because I know I'm going to love the book.
This is exactly how I felt when I saw The Cider Shop Rules on NetGalley. When it popped up on my screen, I gave a little cheer, a quiet "Yes" to myself, because I truly love this series.
Winona Mae and her granny are such fun characters, easy to relate to, & easy to like.
In this book, Winnie meets Blake, the brother of her crush, Colton. I really like the interaction among all the characters, but Winnie & Colton are funny together.
Of course this story wouldn't be complete without a murder investigation, or without a crazed killer.

I hope other readers are as excited to read this book as I was, and I'm already looking forward to reading the next book.

Winnie and Granny are such likeable characters. Fall time at the orchard brings such a warm vivid picture to mind. This is the third book in the series and it is great. Probably will be the most liked by readers due to a great story. A book so good I didn't want to put it down! Such a fun read! Thanks #netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

What a wonderful installment to the series. The addition of characters to the group add to the character development and overall plot of the series. The twists and turns, along with the splash of romance, throughout the book keep you on your toes and riveted to the page to see what comes next. I can't wait for the next book in the series and all it has in store.

A solid 5-star third book in the Cider Shop Mystery series by Julie Anne Lindsey. I love the book so much I read it twice (April 28-29, 2021 the first time and May 8, 2021 the second time) and pre-ordered the paperback.

Fall has arrived in Blossom Valley and the town decked out in autumn fun. There is a Civil War reenactment taking place, bringing all sorts of newcomers to take part in the festivities. Potter's Pumpkin Farm is bursting with families participating in the hayrides, corn maze, and picking out the perfect pumpkins. When beloved Mr. Potter's body is found in the back of Winnie's truck everyone is shocked. In front of Sheriff Colton Wise, a familiar citizen confronts Winnie with the expectation Winnie will investigate, as she's done in the past. Mr. Potter's murder isn't the only issue to crop up in Blossom Valley. Colton and Winnie still have an issue they deal with from the past, threatening their lives and possibly the lives of those around them.

The Cider Shop Rules is a wonderful third book in the Cider Shop Mysteries. The mystery was solid, exciting, and kept me on my toes. I enjoyed the small-town setting with the main character living with her granny on an apple orchard. Winnie is a fantastic, down-to-earth heroine who wants the wedding being held at the orchard to go off without a hitch. Unfortunately, when Winnie’s ex, Hank, is noticed arguing with the groom, who is later found dead outside the reception, he becomes suspect number one. Knowing he would never arbitrarily take another person’s life, Winnie begins looking into the bride, the groom, and anyone who would want the groom dead.

I loved The Cider Shop Rules as much as I loved Pulp Friction and Apple Cider Slaying. The murder isn’t the only theme in the book, giving the book a lot of realism. The romance build-up between Winnie and the sheriff is slow and exciting and I had all the feels while I read The Cider Shop Rules. I love the chemistry and the ease in which the author is developing their potential relationship. The addition of Colton's younger brother, Blake, was everything I could have ever hope for and enjoyed his character. We were also provided excellent imagery, character development, and a great story.

The author's writing style is fluid, the pacing is perfect, and the story is so easy to read that when I reached the end, I couldn’t believe I was done already. I found myself engaged and completely captivated in the story from the very beginning. I really enjoyed The Cider Shop Rules and can't wait for the next book.

I was provided an e-copy of the book to read but I also ordered the paperback for my bookshelf.

Through NetGalley, I received a free copy of THE CIDER SHOP RULES (Book 3 of the Cider Shop Mysteries) by Julie Anne Lindsey in exchange for an honest review. Blossom Valley has a bounty of fall events including a Civil War reenactment, a fall fair at Jacob Potter’s pumpkin farm, and a harvest festival at Granny Smythe’s orchard. Winnie attends the fall fair and picks up some decorations for the orchard’s celebration. Afterward, Mr. Potter’s body is found concealed under the tarp on the back of Winnie’s truck. While Mr. Potter was wildly popular with most of the town, there were a few people who really didn’t like him. One of the town elders orders Winnie to solve the case while both Winnie and the elder are standing with the law enforcement officers investigating the death. Pressure is on for Winnie to find the killer while mitigating the frustration of law enforcement. To add a little more spice to the cider, Winnie is threatened by a danger from the past.

I liked this book and enjoy the series. I look forward to the next story. I recommend this book to fans of cozy mysteries featuring murder, town festivities, civil war reenactments, farms, and law enforcement.

#TheCiderShopRules #NetGalley

Fall has arrived in Blossom Valley and Winnie and Granny are wrapping heading into the last few months of the orchard’s season. Winnie heads over to the Potters’ farm to pick up an order with her BFF Dot. Enjoying the warm weather, the girls head to get ice cream in town only to find Mr Potter’s body under the tarp with her order. Who would have done this to the popular man?

The ladies in town ask Winnie to solve yet another murder in their small town, and she agrees, since they killer used her truck, making it her business too. But the sheriff isn’t happy about Winnie putting herself at risk yet again. Now she has to just hope and pray she fingers the killer before they kill her.

This is such a fun series. I love the animals, including a new one added to the menagerie in this entry. Granny and Winnie are two strong women and their small town is filled with good people just like them., making this series quaint and cozy. The whodunit is also well done with quite few ball up in the air all at once…and it’s always fun to see if one will drop. This is one of my favorite cozy series out there today!

I received an advance copy of, The Cider Shop Rules, by Julie Anne Lindsey. Romance and a mystery throw in fall, and its wonderful themes, and you got this great book!

Kindle Copy for Review from NetGalley and Kensington Books.

I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.

Winnie has away with solving murders but she didn’t expect to be a target of one. A dead body is found underneath a tarp on the back of her truck as she becomes suspect number one.

It is a fall festival with a seemingly nice but now dead farmer who could have wanted him dead? Winnie will have to watch her step before she catches the killer eyes.

A fun delightful read.

The Cider Shop Rules by Julie Anne Lindsey is an excellent cozy mystery that is the third book in the amazing A Cider Shop Mystery series. I have read all three books in this series now, and I feel like it just keeps getting better and better.

I loved visiting Blossom Valley in the Blue Ridge Mountains again. I love Winnie and her Grandmother (Granny Smythe). I also love this wonderful collection of inhabitants within the town. So realistic and down to earth. Of course I also love anything that is fall related, so this was of course right up my alley.

As with the previous two books, this one is packed with an excellent murder/mystery plot, sassy and entertaining characters, realistic situations and profiles, and a witty and genuine narrative. This is such an excellent series and I cannot wait to read the next book.

This series is for anyone that is a fan of an excellent and addictive cozy mystery.

5/5 stars

Thank you NG and Kensington Books 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.