Carmel, California is getting a new spa---Aroma Wellness---owned by Emma Brennan. Excited for her opening day, Emma busies herself with getting the treatment rooms ready and the stock in. A rival spa owner makes it known that she is unhappy with Emma's decision to also open a spa. Emma is unconcerned until her rival is murdered and she is the number one suspect!

This is the start of a new series by Daryl Wood Gerber with some of the characters from the Fairy Garden series making an appearance. I hope this trend continues as I love to see characters mingle between the series. Essence of Foul Play is a wonderful start to the new series with the charming characters and cozy vibes Ms. Gerber is known for. The mystery is solid with tangled clues to unravel.

There is a gluten-free Brioche bread recipe I want to try, Plus there are recipes for muffins, cookies, smoothies, and more. It is such fun to try out new things. I recommend this book to others who enjoy cozy mystery, charming settings, recipes, and a bit of magic.

A nice start to a new series set in Carmel. Sharp eyed readers (and fans of Gerber) will spot a cameo from Courtney, protagonist of her other series, as well as fairies. This is classic cozy territory with a nice new age tilt as Emma owns a wellness spa-and she's been accused of killing another spa owner. We all know she didn't do it and that she's going to mobilize her friends, family, and loyal cat Vivi to find the real villain. There's a lot going on that to set the scene and introduce the characters but you won't lose sight of the actual mystery. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. I enjoyed this and am looking forward to the next one.

I enjoyed reading this book and being introduced to new characters, but I spent a lot of my reading time scratching my head. With such an overlap to the Fairy Garden series, why couldn't this just be part of that series? There was a tad too much overlap to keep them separate. And, there were weird timing issues that caused me to pause: a full day of work followed by way too many things to have happened in one night and still get some sleep, interviewing 5 candidates for a job in a single hour and then hiring and starting a candidate at the end of that hour? No way! I need to step back and enjoy the cozy aspects of the book without worrying about technical aspects. After saying all of these things, I expect I will be one of the first in line to read the next in the series, because they are a nice light break from some of the heavier reading I do!

This is the first in the new Aroma Wellness Mysteries by Daryl Woods Gerber. Set in Carmel, California Emma Brennan is about to open a Wellness Spa which targets fields that the local spas do not include. It’s a piece of cake, right? Not actually.

Emma’s gift basket to her friend and business competitor becomes evidence in the spa owner’s death. Emma feels she must solve this mystery as no one is giving her a fair shake.

I liked the setup for the series, the descriptions, and I could picture Carmel. The mystery was interesting and the interactions between the main characters is strong for future installments.

Looking forward to the next book. I learned about spa treatments I had never heard of and more about those I had.

Netgalley gave me an advanced readers e-copy of the book and these are my opinions.

Essence of Foul Play is the debut paranormal cozy mystery by Daryl Wood Gerber. The characters are likable and there are a lot of descriptions of people and.places to set the scene. Emma Brennan is opening up a new spa, Aroma Wellness in Carmel, CA. Her cousin Sierra runs the cafe at the spa. Their grandmother Nana Lissa has helped the cousins financially and is a wonderful character. Emma has her grand opening and finds a rival spa owner and former friend dead. There are a few suspects and I suspected the culprit but wasn't sure. Nana Lissa believes in fairies and has a fairy friend. Emma believes in fairies too but hasn't seen one yet. The fairies are a minor part but make it a paranormal cozy mystery. This was a good beginning to a.new.series. #EssenceOfFoulPlay #KensingtonCozies #DarylWoodGerber

I love the setting for this story. Carmel is a beautiful city. Emma and her cousin Sierra are starting a spa. Sierra will run the cafe, and Emma will run the rest of the business. There are some in town that do not want the spa to open. Even Emma's friend tries to dissuade her from opening the spa, they think it is too new age. When Emma's friend is found dead, Emma is the first suspect. With the help of her cousin and grandmother, Emma starts snooping for clues. There are plenty of suspects and Emma crosses them off the list one by one. So, who did it? The detective in charge keeps telling her to butt out, but she can't leave it alone. Will she be able to find the killer?

ESSENCE OF FOUL PLAY is the first book in the brand-new Aroma Wellness Mysteries by Daryl Wood Gerber. Set in the charming town of Carmel, California, I was delighted to find out that this new series is a spinoff from the author’s Fairy Garden Mysteries, with some overlapping secondary characters. While you don’t need to first read the Fairy Garden Mysteries, I thoroughly enjoyed the interaction with the new protagonist, Emma Brennan, with characters I already know and love as well as new characters introduced. (The author has thoughtfully included a list of characters at the beginning of the book to assist the reader.) Carmel, on its own, is a tempting setting, but paired with Emma’s new Aroma Wellness Spa, the setting becomes downright seductive. I was ready to book a trip within the first ten minutes of starting the book. Ms. Gerber’s strong descriptive skills bring it to life and I loved her relaxing mentions of spa treatments (some new to me and oh so intriguing) along with the sights, sounds, smells, textures, and tastes incorporated.

While all should be relaxation and mindfulness, trouble hits the new spa owner when her rival is found murdered and Emma becomes the only suspect. The author does an admirable job in setting up the conflict and making the reader feel invested in what happens. There are twists and turns in Emma’s desire to clear her name, and the story moves at a fast pace. I also liked that Emma’s cousin (who is also the new spa’s chef) and her grandmother help to find out information. With a bit of magical fairy dust sprinkled in, delightful characters, an adorable Birman cat, and a puzzling mystery to solve, this first book in a new series is sure to charm readers!

As with most of Daryl Wood Gerber’s books, you can count on some delicious recipes at the back of the book. Some recipes are decadent and other recipes are a healthful spin on what might be served at a spa.

This is a new series set in Carmel, California where the Fairy Garden series is set. There are a few crossover characters but other than the police most are just characters in passing. Emma Brennan is opening a new spa which is funded by her grandmother. Unfortunately, the night before opening a rival spa owner is murdered and Emma is a key suspect. Emma is kept busy opening her spa and trying to clear her name. I enjoyed the characters and the storyline. I look forward to the next book in the series.

Essence of Foul Play by Daryl Wood Gerber is a new series in a familiar setting.
Emma Brennan has come “home” to Carmel California to open her dream spa, Aroma Wellness. The goals of the spa staff are to increase and enhance their patron’s health and wellbeing through aroma therapy, massage, meditation, and diet. Unfortunately, not everyone, including her mother and Willow Shafer, a rival spa owner, think that Carmel “needs” another spa. As a friendly gesture Emma sends Willow a gift basket with items sold at Aroma Wellness, but when Willow’s body is found after opening day, with the basket next to her, Emma becomes the prime suspect in her murder. When it is obvious to Emma that she needs to clear her name she enlists the help of her grandmother- Nana Lissa, the librarian, and her cousin Sierra. The twists, turns and suspects are many and well woven into this mystery. To add to the enjoyment there are familiar people and fairies from Gerber’s Fairy Garden series who visit Emma’s spa and aid in the investigations. As always, a well plotted and intriguing mystery enhanced by a familiar setting and an appealing lead character. Thanks to Net Galley for a review copy. 4****

This is the debut release in the authors new series " Aroma Wellness Mystery series, This enchanting series is set in Carmel By The Sea as is the authors Fairy Garden series. Thank you to the author, the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. My review opinion is my own.

The author has gifted her readers with a lovely relaxing spa based series in charming Carmel. Emma is our protagonist and is opening her spa featuring all modalities of spa offerings from facials to sound bowl meditation. As she prepares for the opening she has a disgruntled neighbor who also runs a unpopular spa who is angry with Emma. .In hope of settling their differences Emma delivers a gift basket to her from her spa . When the woman is murdered and Emma's spa basket is found with the body Emma is suspect number one. Now among the customers she is trying to please and starting her spa she decides to clear her name. Investigating on her own finds the victim has many in town that disliked the victim. As the suspect list grows and the police firmly warning her to not investigate Emma is close to finding the suspect with help from the village neighbors.

I enjoyed this first spa based cozy. The characters are richly defined and all add to the series. The cross over with the authors Courtney and fairies from her Fairy Garden Series are enchanting and all to the fun. A delightful Birman cat Viv for a companion ads to the charm of this series. The setting of Carmel By The Sea is always a welcome respite from life with the authors talent for bringing her locations to life. I loved this first in series and look forward to the next in series. Well Done to the author.

‘the fairy’s name was...’

In a lovely spin off series of the Fairy Garden mysteries we find ourselves back in Carmel, California and the terrific world our author has already intricately created. Carmel has gotten just a bit bigger with the opening of Emma’s spa but unfortunately a rival business owner and a long time frenemy ends up dead and Emma’s the main suspect. Determined to clear her name and find justice for Willow she snoops around with the help of a entertaining group of friends and family. Along the way you’re also the recipient of information about aromatherapy, crystals and yummy food. As always with this author’s books, it’s a hit in my book and meant to be savored! Enjoy!

Book Review Information:
Book: Essence of Foul Play: An Aroma Wellness Mystery, Book 1
Author: Daryl Wood Gerber
Genre: Cozy Mystery, Amateur Sleuth Mystery
Print Length: 328 Pages
Publication Date: March 25, 2025
Favorite Quote: “‘Kate’ – I guided my mother into a chair by the nearest table – ‘be as specific as you can be. Did you get any information from the police?’ ‘Willow was bludgeoned. With a brass candlestick.’ ‘In the ballroom,’ someone at the rear of the crowd quipped. ‘Not funny,’ Sierra snapped.”

In "Essence of Foul Play: An Aroma Wellness Mystery, Book 1" by Daryl Wood Gerber, I found myself immediately drawn into the world of Emma Brennan, the determined owner of Aroma Wellness. As Emma prepares for her spa's grand opening, the excitement is palpable, and everything seems to be falling into place. However, the peace is shattered when Willow Shafer, the owner of a competing spa on the opposite end of Ocean Avenue, is found murdered. The story takes a gripping turn when it's revealed that the murder weapon originated from a goodwill basket Emma delivered to Willow the night before. This shocking twist propels Emma into a whirlwind of suspicion and danger as she becomes the prime suspect in the investigation.
This book is a delightful build from Daryl Wood Gerber's previous Fairy Garden Mystery series, seamlessly introducing both new readers and seasoned fans to a world where the fairy realm subtly intertwines with reality. Although the fairies play a less central role here, glimpses of beloved fairy characters provide a comforting sense of continuity for those familiar with Daryl Wood Gerber's previous works. Newcomers are given an enticing taste of this enchanting world, which serves as a delightful backdrop to the unfolding mystery. The fairy elements add a touch of whimsy and magic, enhancing the novel's charm without overshadowing the central plot.
One of the standout features of this novel is its vividly described settings. As I walked through Aroma Wellness alongside Emma, the spa's serene and inviting atmosphere was so richly detailed that I felt as if I was right there, experiencing the tranquil environment and soothing scents. The author masterfully crafts each scene, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in Emma's world. The spa itself becomes a character in its own right, with its calming essence serving as a stark contrast to the turmoil surrounding Emma's life.
Daryl Wood Gerber's expertise in treatments and wellness items is evident throughout the book, providing readers with a fascinating wealth of knowledge. I appreciated the thoughtfully incorporated information about various spa treatments and essential oils, which not only added depth to the story but also educated me on these intriguing topics. The historical tidbits about certain wellness practices were particularly enlightening, making this book both entertaining and informative. I found myself especially captivated by the detailed steps in creating essential oils, adding a layer of authenticity and interest to Emma's profession.
The characters in "Essence of Foul Play" are exceptionally well-developed, each bringing a unique voice and perspective to the story. Emma's interactions with her cousin Sierra and her nana Lissa are heartwarming and genuine, showcasing a strong sense of family and loyalty. The dialogue is skillfully crafted, with each character's voice distinctively clear and engaging. Whether Emma is discussing spa treatments in her soothing tone or engaging in more intense conversations, the dialogue flows naturally, enhancing the narrative's realism and emotional impact.
As the mystery unfolds, a plethora of suspects will keep readers on edge, eagerly turning pages to piece together the clues. The storyline is filled with unexpected twists and turns, challenging me to continually reassess my assumptions about the culprit. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, another surprise would emerge, maintaining suspense throughout the novel. The ending is both satisfying and conclusive, tying up loose ends in a way that leaves readers content yet eager for more. The inclusion of delectable recipes at the conclusion, such as Lemon Butter Cookies and a Raspberry-Turmeric Smoothie, adds a delightful touch, tempting me to try them myself. I'm certainly hoping that this captivating series continues, as I am eager to see what further adventures await Emma in the world of Aroma Wellness.
Book Rating:
Originality: 5.0/5.0
Structure: 5.0/5.0
Pacing: 4.25/5.0
Dialogue: 5.0/5.0
Personal Enjoyment: 4.5/5.0
Cover Design: 4.25/5.0 (Not averaged in the overall rating.)
Overall Rating: 4.75/5.0 (Rating will be rounded up due to platforms not allowing partial ratings.)

Essence of Foul Play is a new series by Daryl Wood Gerber that is set in the same world as their Fairy Garden Mystery Series. Taking place in Carmel-by-the-Sea it follows Emma as she opens up a wellness spa in town. She has some push back from people in town including a former friend who owns their own spa, Willow.
Willow is found murdered by the gift Emma brings her to smooth things over and she becomes an instant suspect. Of course she begins to work to clear her name with the help of her family and friends.
We get cameo's by lots of characters from the fairy garden series and even though Emma is desperate to see a fairy for herself, so far this series seems less magical/paranormal then the garden series. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one!

Emma Brennan is preparing to open her new spa in Carmel, California when the owner of a rival spa is found dead. Of course Emma is the main suspect and has to investigate to clear her name.

This is an entertaining start to a new series. And I like how the author ties in characters from her Fairy Garden series.

This series is apparently a spinoff from the Fairy Garden series so there's mentions of fairies, a little character crossover. Fun but didn't really have much to do with the plot here and I wonder if it would seem out of place to those who aren't familiar with the Fairy series.
Good descriptions of Carmel, makes the setting come to life. The characters are intelligent investigators. There's funny moments and I really enjoyed Vivi the cat, who must drink from a glass not a bowl! Hope to get to meet Emma's father someday, and see how her relationship with her mother progresses.
Recipes are included at the end- although not the caramel cupcake Emma raves about. I must check through my other books by this author to see if it's in another one.

Essence of Foul play is a first book in this series and my second book from this author and I really enjoyed this murder mystery. Here we have our main character Emma who is all set to open her Spa and she is fully prepared for the opening but what she was not prepared of what happened on the morning of her spa opening. She finds that her rival spa owner was bludgeoned to death and she is the main suspect. This is not the kind of opening or publicity she was hoping for.
So she decided to investigate and clear her name and she has her cousin and her nana to help her along with her cat.
This is set on a small town and I loved uncovering the mystery will continue this series.

Big thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for the ARC. All thoughts are my own.

Thank you NetGalley for this arc!!

This was such a fun, unique read. Love the way it was written, I’ll be keeping my eye out for more from this author.

What an interesting start to a new series. This is definitely a different cozy. I really enjoyed the setup in Carmel, California. It is a beautiful place to visit, in real life, and in this book and makes a great backdrop for the spa, Aroma Wellness, that Emma is opening. With her cousin Sierra running the cafe and her friend Yoly running the gift shop there are many, many characters in this book which can be a little confusing, happily the author has a list of all the characters in the book and their roles in the beginning of the book. With many shops and shop owners and many relatives, the cast is large. I really enjoyed learning about different spas and different offerings that were new to me. All that being said, I did find the mystery a little scattered. Maybe it was too many characters and so much backstory, but I felt the mystery was a tad loss, Emma just has so much going on her attention is going everywhere and not really focused on the mystery. I really enjoyed the setup and characters, and I see how many mysteries could take place in this setting. I will definitely look forward to more in this series, I think next time the mystery could be more center stage. Thank you to #Netgally, #KensingtonCozies, and the author for an opportunity to read! #EssenceofFoulPlay #DarylWoodGerber #AnAromaWellnessMystery #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader

This was an interesting start to a new series set in Carmel, CA. If you like fantastical cozy mysteries this one is for you. It is a cute book that was easy to read.

Veteran writer Daryl Wood Gerber launches another well-done cozy mystery series featuring comfortable characters, appropriate twists, and elusive fairies.

When Emma Brennan opens her new spa, Aroma Wellness, she becomes a suspect in the murder of her good friend and competitor. She begins investigating with the help of her cousin, her nana, and Vivi, her loyal cat.

Essence of Foul Play is a good start for Ms. Gerber’s Aroma Wellness Mysteries and a very enjoyable read.