The Cure For What Ales You

This is the fifth book in the cozy mystery series that follows craft brewer Sloan Krause. The series has a small-town feel, good mysteries, and an interesting cast. There are also descriptions of craft beer and brewing processes that were giant bonuses for this craft beer lover, but they aren't so dominant in the story that they will alienate those who aren't as fond of the popular beverage.

Set in the small Bavarian-inspired town of Leavenworth, Washington, amateur sleuth Sloan once again comes across a dead body - as one does in a cozy mystery. The murder, at times, takes a backseat to an ongoing storyline regarding the mystery surrounding Sloan's early life which has been a larger story arc since the beginning of the series. Unfortunately, the mystery was weaker this time out with repetition in the dialogue and less action than previous books, but it was still an enjoyable, easy read. 

I'm glad we finally get resolution about Sloan's mysterious past. This ongoing story arc kept me picking up the next book in the series, but I can't say I loved the end result. It felt rushed, farfetched and a bit lackluster after all the build-up over the past four books. I'm hoping future books focus more on twisty mysteries and more time in the pub with wonderful beer descriptions.

Non-beer lovers don't let the beer theme steer you away from this 'clean read' cozy mystery. It has impressive red herrings, a wonderful family feel set in a Bavarian-inspired town and a cast of characters who you'll enjoy coming back to visit. 

Beer in this picture: 'Yes, Honey Cream Ale' brewed by Rural Roots Brewing located in Elmira, Ontario.

My Rating: 3 stars

Author: Ellie Alexander

Genre: Cozy Mystery

Series: #5 in the Sloan Krause series

Type and Source: Hardcover from public library

Publisher: Minotaur Books

First Published: October 5, 2021

Opening Line: The scent of citrus enveloped the brewery 

as I dumped a bucket of Lemondrop hops into the brew.

Book Description from GoodReads: Amateur sleuth and brewer Sloan Krause contends with her past--and a murder related to it--in The Cure for What Ales You, another delightful mystery from cozy writer Ellie Alexander.

After a long cold winter, spring is beginning to bloom in the alpine village of Leavenworth, Washington, where craft brewer Sloan Krause and her partner in crime Garrett Strong are putting the finishing touches on their bright and refreshing Lemon Kiss ale. They’ll be debuting their new line at the Maifest celebration, which will bring visitors from near and far to dance around the Maipole and shop at the outdoor flower markets.

Despite the festive spirit in the air, Sloan is brewing over her past. She’s spent months following leads that have turned into dead ends. But when she spots a woman who strongly resembles Marianne—a long lost contact who may be her only connection to piecing together her story—she hopes that things might be taking a turn in her favor. That hope is quickly smashed when Marianne is involved in the murder of a local housekeeper. To make matters worse, Marianne issues a dire warning that Sloan and her entire family are in danger. If Sloan can’t figure out who the killer is and what happened in her past, she won’t find any hoppy endings.