Buried in the depths of winter in southern Indiana,  it's been months since diner owner Robbie Jordan has found herself in the middle of a murder.  All of that changes when she finds a local professor dead, frozen beneath the ice in the middle of Crooked Lake.  When Robbie's friend Lou falls under suspicion, Robbie can't help but investigate.  With a town full of people who hated the victim, several suspects who have seemingly airtight alibis, puzzling objects found in the walls during remodeling and a hidden tunnel under Robbie's diner than someone keeps breaking in to, Robbie's sleuthing skills are put to the test. Can she find a killer with a perfect recipe for murder?

Out of the three books in this series, this one is my favorite. The series has finally hit its stride, showcasing the flavor of southern Indiana with a picturesque setting, colorful characters and an absorbing plot that pulls you right into the wonderful world of South Lick. Picture it: the snow gently falling on the rolling hills, the small town diner serving delicious food with a heaping side of gossip, and the warmth of friends and family - it's all so inviting that it's easy to get comfortable. And that's what I like most about cozy mysteries, how comfortable you are sinking into them, and the Country Store series is an excellent example; it's a great place to spend a few hours, even if there is a murderer on the loose. Throw in a victim that you love to hate (let's face it, it's always satisfying when a thoroughly disagreeable character is the victim, isn't it?) and no shortage of suspects, each with their own good motive for murder, plus hidden tunnels, puzzling objects found in the walls during remodeling and an action packed ending and you have the perfect recipe for a great cozy mystery.