Murder She Wrote Books

 

My husband and I really enjoyed the Murder She Wrote TV series, both when it originally ran in the 80's and 90's and today in reruns.  The original series consisted of 264 episodes all starring Angela Lansbury as Jessica Fletcher.   What we didn't realize until recently is that there is a whole series of books (currently 63) that are written based on the characters from the TV Series.  So now we are enjoying our favorite characters from the TV series in some delightful mystery books.

About the Books

The Murder She Wrote book series began in 1989 and are still being written.  At this writing there are 63 books in the series.  

Jessica Fletcher in the TV series as well as the books, is a retired- teacher who writes mystery books. She lives in the made up town of Cabot Cove, Maine.  Jessica seems to often find herself in places where a murder occurs and she "helps" the local law enforcement.

When we started the book series it was like going back to a familiar small town and greeting familiar people.  Along with Jessica we greet Dr. Seth Hazlitt, the town physician, Sheriff Mort Metzger, and a host of other town residents.

We have found the books can be read in any order, but I would suggest reading book 1 "Gin and Daggers" first.  In this book Jessica is off to London to deliver the keynote address at a mystery writer convention.  She is looking forward to visiting with her mentor, Marjorie Ainsworth.  While at the convention, Marjorie is found stabbed to death in her bedroom.  Jessica is at first a suspect but then goes on to help work with local law enforcement to solve the murder of her good friend.  While there she meets a charming man from Scotland Yard and they develop a friendship.  He comes up in later books.

I really enjoy these cozy mysteries and always look forward to the next one.  

The Books on Amazon

The books can be purchased on Amazon.  We enjoy them on Kindle but I know they are also available on Audible and Paperback.  Here is a link to the books on Amazon.

Murder She Wrote Books

More Cozy Mystery Reviews

I enjoy reading a lot of different genres of books. I think Historical Fiction is probably my favorite, but when I need something lighter a cozy mystery seems to always fit the bill.  Here are a few other cozy mysteries that have been reviewed on Review This.

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The Fatal Flotilla at Sea Oaks Beach 

The Cat in Stacks

Murder at Cape Costumers  

Murder on Cape Cod  

Tea by the Sea  

Everything Bundt the Truth  

Irish Village Mystery Series   

Toes on the Dash

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Crumpets for High Tea ~ A Recipe For You

Nothing says summer more than a nice afternoon tea with friends in the shadow of a lovely tree!  Okay, maybe I'm behind the times but it's nice to have a nostalgic visit  to bygone days. If you are lucky enough  to live in a city or village that still has a nice tea house, why not make that date for a Summer Tea with some good friends.

Hubby and I have gone back to making a lot of baked goods.  Breads, rolls, and of course crumpets and English Muffins.  

We are not into the cakes so much, even though they can be part of an afternoon tea.  Somehow with our age, the sweets just aren't as appetizing as they once were.  I guess we are concerned for our aging figures,  NOT!  But the truth is that we prefer the savory things over the sweets.  I know, we are weird, but that is how it is for us.  If you enjoy the sweets go right ahead and enjoy.

I'm sharing with you our recipe for some lovely crumpets that are light airy and can be used in many ways.  So Here you go:

CRUMPETS FOR HIGH TEA AND MORE (yield  for recipe 6 crumpets)

INGREDIENTS:

150 g (1 cup) white flour, plain all purpose flour works

200 ml (3/4 cup + 1 TBSP) warm water (warm and not cold)

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp white sugar

1 tsp baking powder

YEAST MIXTURE

1 tsp yeast (instant or rapid rise works)

1 TBSP warm water 

DURING COOKING 

2 TBSP unsalted or sweet butter

Now the the how to!

• Place flour, water and salt in a bowl and whisk for 2minutes
• Dissolve the yeast into 1 TBSP warm water in a small bowl
• add yeast mixture sugar and baking powder into a bowl and whisk it all for 30 seconds 
• cover with cling wrap or a plate and place in a very warm place for 15 to 30 minutes until the surface becomes nice and foamy.  This will not double like bread does, but it will increase in volume a little bit.

Now if you've been reading these reviews, you know that a while ago I posted a review on baking rings.  These are perfect for making crumpets!  Baking rings review right here.

Now let's continue making crumpets!

Grease 2 or 3 rings, or better yet, spray them with non-stick  spray.  

In a non-stick skillet coat with some melted butter and then add the rings to the skillet as well.

On medium high heat warm the skillet and rings.

Pour 1/4 cup batter into the rings.  Do not over fill, they will rise in the rings.

Cook on medium heat for 1 and 1/2 minutes and then on low heat for another 2 to 4 minutes.  Bubbles should stop showing up on the surface of your crumpets.  

When this is happening, it's time to flip the crumpet over and cook for just 30 seconds on the other side,without the rings.

Transfer to a cooling rack for a few minutes and enjoy!  Some people say they are better on day 2.  But I can't help myself, they are usually gone very quickly.

Now this might seem like a lot of work, but if you have nice cool day, you can make these up and any number and freeze them for a later date.

Don't forget to invite you friends to join you for some fresh baked crumpets and honey, jam or fresh fruit compote.  Yum!

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Journals Can Be a Tool

The word journaling is an overall broad term, which I have gathered to mean, to basically free-write whatever you want to write about.

It can be about a memory, a feeling, a desired outcome, a plan for your day, and I'm sure you may come up with others.

The one that I want to talk about today, is a way that I recently used journaling. I wrote about an instance that I wasn't sure what I wanted to do to proceed. I initially wrote just to get my thoughts down so that I could more easily move forward, and stop giving so much of my thoughts to that instance.

However, once I achieved that, what I felt like was my next step, in order to more fully move on, was to make what I came to, into an affirmation.

I was so pleased with how that went, that I decided to repeat the process. I wrote about another instance that I had been trying to get beyond, with the single purpose of wanting to get to an affirmation about it.

It worked the second time too, even knowing I had an intention of turning what I would come to, into an affirmation.

I found this very helpful. If I had tried to write an affirmation first, it probably would have felt not as complete. There probably would have been some unfinished thoughts that just need to get dealt with.

So I am glad that I used this two step approach.

I used a plain lined notebook, in which I can freely write my thoughts and ultimately what I want to come from them; and a second book, in which I can write down my affirmation that I came too.

The second book is the one that I will keep, from which I can read my affirmations, for however long I want to use those pages.

The free flowing journaling that I did, still has blank lined pages in it for whenever I want to do this again, for whatever reason or purpose. The writings that I did, however, I removed. I tore them up, and threw them away. They had served their purpose. There was no reason to revisit them.

There are a variety of notebooks in my CherylsArt store on Zazzle, if you would like a unique and or personalized notebook.

The sunflower design is an example of one.

Personalized Sunflowers in Watercolor Notebooks
by CherylsArt

There are also plain designs if you prefer something that doesn't have personalization on it, such as this leopard print notebook.

Leopard Spots Painting Custom Notebooks
by CherylsArt

You can browse all the notebook designs here. The larger notebooks no Zazzle seem to show a variety of inside paper styles to choose from. The smaller notebooks, however, do not show that option when I have been browsing. However, if you see a design that you like, click on it, and then check below the featured product that you clicked on, for options to transfer the design to, and select spiral notebook. That should give you the inside paper design options.

Might you give this two step journaling method a try?

Happy journaling and or affirmation writing.

Cheryl Paton

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Honoring Growing Older in a Song

 

The Quiet Wisdom of Growing Older

We spend so much of our lives talking about the milestones of youth, but we rarely give the same attention to the quiet, profound experience of growing older. I wrote this piece with seniors in mind, and as the words came together, it became deeply personal for me. I found myself becoming quite emotional while writing because I started reflecting on how it feels when the world begins to look past the person you once were.

Honoring My Mother's Perspective

I was thinking specifically of my mother. She once shared with me how it feels to be discounted, or to have your words and experiences treated as though they no longer hold value. That sense of invisibility is a challenge many in our generation face. While I do not personally feel invisible, I know that those moments of being overlooked are very real. I wanted to capture that experience, giving voice to the dignity that remains long after the world stops paying close attention.

A Reflection on My Younger Self

In the second verse, I had to be honest about my own younger self. When we are young, we often believe we have the world by the tail, with everything ahead of us. We do not always see the depth of character and the light that shines within an elderly person. I wrote about that because I wanted to acknowledge that it is a natural part of life. I don't judge anyone for that perspective, as I was just as blind to that wisdom when I was younger as anyone else. It is simply a part of our evolution to eventually realize what we were once unable to see.

Essence Beyond Memory

While this song celebrates the enduring spirit, these words also hold a special resonance for those navigating the complexities of dementia or Alzheimer's. It serves as a gentle reminder that even when the mind may struggle or memories begin to fade, a person's true essence remains deeply rooted within. That spirit still shines through in precious, fleeting moments of connection and love.

A Gentle Invitation

This song isn't a judgment or a negative critique. It is simply an observation about what it feels like to walk through these years and a gentle invitation to see the person behind the age. As a lyricist, I wanted to touch on this subject to give it time in the sun and perhaps foster a little more understanding. 

I hope that when you listen, you feel the heart behind the lyrics and are reminded to cherish the wisdom and stories that surround us every day.

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"Drageda Lyrics" on all Platforms, including Streaming Platforms**

YouTube:  Follow Me on YouTube - @dragedapoemslyrics

Spotify:    Stream Drageda Lyrics on Spotify

Subscribe For A Free Short Guide on How to Convert Your Poems Into Lyrics

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**I write and produce story-driven lyrics. ** ** Vocals and music are digitally produced (I am not the singer). I digitally direct and arrange the video and recording. ©2026 DragedaPoemsLyrics (B.T.C) - All Rights Reserved. Licensed Digital Composition (Commercial Rights Held). I wrote, created, and produced this piece on June 21st, 2026 - Member of SOCAN (Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada)**

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National Ice Cream Sundae Day Review

This delicious food holiday is held each year on July 8th. 

National Ice Cream Sundae Day

This is a sweet celebration that happens on July 8 every year. It is called ‘Ice Cream Sundae Day’

Ice Cream Sundaes are the most popular ice cream dessert in America. The top favorite Sundae flavors are chocolate, caramel, butterscotch, and strawberry. These concoctions of cold, creamy sweetness are seemingly loved by everyone. They consist of one or more scoops of ice cream, favorite flavors of syrup, then topped with your preferred fruits, maraschino, cherries, nuts, and whipped cream!  Kids also love various ‘sprinkles’ on their sundaes!

History of National Ice Cream Sundae Day

The first ice cream sundae dessert was a scoop of vanilla ice cream with strawberry-flavored syrup drizzled over it and topped with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. It was served in a tulip-shaped glass vase which was given the name “sundae glass”.  Over the years, sundaes began to come in many forms and shapes and have become one of  the most popular desserts today! 

The origin of the sundae has several versions, with Two Rivers, Wisconsin, Ithaca, New York and Evanston & Plainfield, Illinois each claiming that they served it first.  Two Rivers, Wisconsin is now believed to be the original site of the ice cream sundae. It was invented in 1881 by Edward C. Berner, owner of Berners’ Soda Fountain located in Two Rivers, WI.

How Do You Make a Regular Sundae?

Put scoops of ice cream in a bowl, pour on your favorite syrup (mine is chocolate fudge), then top with whipped cream, nuts, and a cherry on top! 

The banana split dessert is a classic sundae loaded with vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream, syrup, nuts, whipped cream, and cherries. It is a perfect summer sundae.

*Personal Notes: As a child, my Uncle Bud frequently came over on summertime Saturdays to take my brother and I out to our local soda fountain for a sundae treat. Mine was always a Hot Fudge Sundae; my brother always had a  Banana Split. Such fun (and delicious) childhood memories.

Why We Love National Ice Cream Sundae Day

Besides being a delicious food holiday, it reminds us of joyful times where we shared moments together, such as mine with Uncle Bud and the Saturday Sundaes. It is the simplest things that feel special when looking back. Those fun trips down memory lane become the important times.

So spread a little joy with your friends, family, and children on July 8 by treating yourselves to an Ice Cream Sundae!

*National Ice Cream Sundae Day Review was written by Wednesday Elf.

Make your own ice cream sundae with these handy supplies added to scoops of your favorite ice cream: 

Smuckers Sundae Syrup Chocolate, Caramel, Butterscotch, and Strawberry (Variety Pack of 4)Check PriceHeated Ice Cream Scoop Rechargeable, Electric Warming Ice Cream Scooper with LED Display, Heats to 158°F for Hard Ice CreamCheck Price50ct 8oz Plastic Dessert Cups with Spoons, Clear Flower shaped Ice Cream Bowls, Party Sundae Serving BowlsCheck PriceSet of 4 Reusable Banana Split Boats with Color Matching Spoons Use as Desert Dish, Ice Cream SundaeCheck Price

 

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Cool Down with Cold Treats on the 4th of July

Everybody loves desserts and specialty treats for the 4th of July celebrations.  Fireworks & outdoor fun are a huge part of the holiday, especially when we can stretch the activities across several days or an extended weekend.  

Unfortunately, July is a really hot month for many of us.  We need cool water and refreshing treats to keep us going throughout the day.  The specialty treats are especially awesome when they are easy to grab and carry out to the picnic table, pool side, lake or even on a boat.  

Below are some excellent cool treats that we can make ahead and have ready to serve at a moments notice.  Glass is beautiful, but I do recommend making the 4th of July treats in clear disposable transparent plastic cups or small bowls and serve with plastic spoons when needed.  Making everything disposable allows us to focus on fun and not washing dishes.

 

Jello Treats for the 4th of July 

Jello is one of the easiest desserts or specialty treats that can be made in 4th of July colors

 4th of July Jello Cups with Fresh BerriesCheck Price 4th of July Firecracker Jell-O CupsCheck Price Super Easy Patriotic 4th of July Layered JelloCheck Price

 

Popsicle Treats for the 4th of July

Nothing compares to a cold Popsicle to cool you down fast!  It is like a drink and a dessert all in one 

 Red, White & Blue PopsiclesCheck Price Healthy Red White and Blue PopsiclesCheck Price Red, White, and Blue Patriotic PopsiclesCheck Price

 

Cold Drinks for the 4th of July

Cool down with an actual drink! Even water with fruity ice cubes tastes delicious in the heat

 July 4th Layered DrinksCheck Price Homemade Lemonade RecipeCheck Price Red White and Blue Infused Ice CubesCheck Price

 

More 4th of July Recipes Previously Reviewed

Easy No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Dessert Recipe - Decorated like the American Flag 

Cooking for the 4th of July Celebrating an All-American 4th of July - Part I  

4th of July Desserts Reviewed - Part II of the Review This 4th of July Menu  

Reviewing July 4th Appetizers - Part III of Our 4th of July Menu  

4th of July Cookbooks - Free on KindleUnlimited

 

Happy 4th of July!  
Stay cool, be safe and enjoy the celebration 

 

Check Out More Recipe Reviews at
ReviewThisRecipes.com

 

Cool Down with Cold Treats on the 4th of July Written by:

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Easy No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Dessert

 Our granddaughters are visiting for the week, and we made this easy strawberry cheesecake dessert for the 4th of July. We used strawberry pie filling, but you can use any pie filling you like. Following is our review of how to make this easy and delicious dessert.

Ingredients:

1 SaraLee Pound Cake (cut into small pieces)

2 cans of strawberry pie filling

1 24.3oz Philadelphia No-Bake cheesecake filling (You can find this at Wal-Mart)

1 container of Cool Whip

We thought pictures would be best for our step-by-step instructions.

Here, Giada is cutting the cake into about 1-inch pieces.

Giada and Guiles spread the cut-up cake into a 13 x 9-inch glass baking dish and mixed in the pie filling.

Now they are spreading the no-bake cream cheese filling evenly over the top.

Spread the cool whip over the cream cheese filling. Now it was time to decorate our patriotic dessert with fresh blueberries and strawberries. Set it in the refrigerator for about two hours before serving.

This was easy and fun to do. The girls finished and decorated this in about 20 minutes. So there is plenty of time to make this for your 4th of July celebration.

Have a Happy and Safe 4th of July

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Fun Cat Sayings, Product Reviews

Hello fellow cat lovers. You're purr-fect!

Welcome to my blog that showcases some of my fun cat sayings, that are printed on a variety of products. They can be a gift for yourself, and or for other cat lovers that you know.

This first item is a basic and cute notebook. A simple outline of a cat is drawn and printed on a gray background. The saying is, My cat inspires me. Have you ever had a cat that inspires you? My cat has inspired me to be more active and to also take more naps! Balance is key, she says.

The paper inside notebooks from Zazzle, can be whatever you choose, from ten options. They include college and wide ruled, storybook style, checklist, and more. You can visit the product page to view the different examples.

Cute Cat Drawing, My cat inspires me, storybook
by CherylsArt

I had bought a planter and had it sitting in my living room. My cat jumped right in. It was as good as any box! The text says, "Planter cat. No soil required." This fun design is printed on the mug style and color of your choice.

Funny Planter Cat Mugs, Template
by CherylsArt

This fun gift is for the dogs. Cats and dogs can be best friends, and this cute pet tag is a purr-fect choice for dogs that have cat best friends.

My best friend is a cat, dog pet tags
by CherylsArt

My favorite one is Trampoline Cats. I might have been inspired by my cats to be more active, but my cats were not inspired to be active on my mini trampoline. They only saw it as a new bed that was just cozy enough for the both of them. This fun design is printed on the tshirt style, size, and color of your choice, for any gender and or age.

Two Cute cats on trampoline painting, t shirts
by CherylsArt

All of the above designs were designed by me and can be purchased in my CherylsArt store on Zazzle. Zazzle does the printing and shipping, and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee that is good for 30 days from the date of your receiving the product(s). I have purchased both mugs and tshirts from Zazzle, and everything turned out great.

Thank you for visiting. May you have a purr-fect rest of your day.

You can browse more cat themed products in my CherylsArt store on Zazzle.

Cheryl Paton

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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