ALL FUDGED UP is the first book in the author's new Candy- Coated cozy mystery series. The McMurphy Hotel and Fudge Shoppe has been in Allie McMurphy's family for decades. She has studied and trained for years, all with the goal of helping her grandfather run the place and then eventually taking over. However, her grandfather (Papa Liam) dies before Allie gets to Mackinaw Island. Not only does she feel the loss on an emotional level, but he never got to show her the ins and outs of running the McMurphy.

Mackinaw Island, the setting for this mystery, is an unusual place in some ways. It's an island on which many locals make money from tourists, people get around via bicycle rather than automobile, and there is a small town atmosphere and mentality. The murder happens fairly early in the story and the body is discovered in the McMurphy. This seriously puts a crimp in Allie's renovation plans.

Some of the humor in this book centers on the fact that locals take sides regarding the murder. Joe Jessop, the victim, was a well- liked and long-standing member of the community. People who believe Allie may have had something to do with Joe's murder wear a purple ribbon, while Allie-friendly supporters wear a green one. The ribbons are even sold at local shops.

The mystery itself was enjoyable and I liked other aspects of the book as well. I liked the romance element and I hope Allie and Officer Manning will get together at some point in future books. I thought the pro- Allie contingent: her Bichon puppy Mal, McMurphy employee Frances, crusty old Mr. Devaney, best friend Jennifer, and of course sexy Officer Manning helped lighten the tone of ALL FUDGED UP.

It looked a little bleak for a bit when Allie was even getting the cold shoulder from the power company. The talk of hidden passageways and buried treasure keeps things interesting. ALL FUDGED UP is littered with delicious fudge recipes, including alcohol-infused ones. I really enjoyed this cozy mystery and look forward to reading more in this series.