Tamar Myers has a way of getting your attention from her first sentence. With Just Plain Pickled to Death, her opener is: “Sarah Weaver was found dead in a barrel of pickled sauerkraut.”
Just Plain Pickled to Death is book four in Myers’ Pennsylvania-Dutch Mystery with Recipes series. The series is set in the small town of Hernia, Pennsylvania, which includes an Amish-Mennonite community. With “death” in the title and a cast of strict church folks, you might expect a very serious story. But no drama with Magdalena Yoder playing the lead will stay serious for long.
Key Takeaways
• Explore the intriguing blend of mystery and faith in Just Plain Pickled to Death.
• Discover unique aspects that define a Christian mystery novel.
• Gain insights into Tamar Myers’ distinctive writing style and Amish cultural influences.
• Find out why this book is a compelling read for both Christian audiences and mystery enthusiasts.
Unlock the Secrets of Just Plain Pickled to Death
Imagine a mystery that not only entices you with its twists and turns but also enriches your spiritual journey. Just Plain Pickled to Death by Tamar Myers is a novel that does just that, blending an Amish country inn setting with a tantalizing whodunit plot, all while offering a dash of faith-based wisdom. Let’s explore the world of Magdalena Yoder, where a barrel of pickled sauerkraut holds more than just a culinary delight—it’s a gateway to uncovering deep-seated mysteries.
An Overview of the Plot
At the heart of Just Plain Pickled to Death lies a wedding celebration turned sour. Magdalena Yoder is poised to marry when a startling discovery interrupts her nuptials – a twenty-year-old barrel of sauerkraut is found to contain more than just fermented cabbage; it’s hiding the body of Sarah Weaver, long thought to have left the community. As Magdalena grapples with this grim finding, she must also confront the undercurrents of her Amish town’s past, all while ensuring her wedding day doesn’t become her funeral.
Main Characters and Their Roles
The novel’s protagonist, Magdalena Yoder, is a character brimming with personality. She’s not your typical Mennonite woman; she’s entrepreneurial, witty, and has a knack for sleuthing. As the owner of an inn, Magdalena finds herself at the intersection of hospitality and homicide.
Other characters include Magdalena’s fiancé Aaron Miller, a colorful cast of out-of-town relatives, and the deceased Sarah Weaver, whose untimely death ignites the mystery Magdalena must solve if she’s going to have the wedding of her dreams.
The deceased Sarah Weaver’s immediate family members deepen the mystery. For example, Rebecca, Sarah’s mother, has also been missing for 20 years. She left town about a month before Sarah vanished, perhaps in the company of an accordion-playing preacher. Then, a year later, her father Jonas departed, leaving no forwarding address.
Counting Down the Days Before Marital Bliss Begins
The week before her wedding is busy for Magdalena. Besides trying to identify a murderer, she has a full inn. She had cleared the week of paying guests so she would have plenty of time to prepare for her big day. But with a funeral added to the wedding, Aaron’s four aunts and their husbands arrive early. Of course, Aaron sees no reason his relatives shouldn’t make use of all those empty rooms. Magdalena sees plenty of reasons they should make other arrangements, but, oh well, anything for her Pooky Bear.
Did I say anything? When Aaron begins talking to his 44-year-old bride about their future son, Aaron Miller the Third, she drops her fork. But she’s on board – she cleans her plate since she’s soon going to be eating for two!
Needless to say, Magdalena gets well-acquainted with her future in-laws during the hectic week. But short of uncovering the identity of the murderer, it is perhaps her future father-in-law, Aaron Miller, Senior, who has the most surprises for her. He explains why Aaron’s four aunties call themselves the Beeftrust and identifies the Bottomless Pit. He reveals who, out of several suspects, actually ran off with the accordion-playing preacher. And he persuades her to let him move into the PennDutch Inn after the wedding because he is pretty much pennyless!
Nope, it’s not the stuff of dreams.
Integrating Faith into the Mystery
What sets a Christian mystery novel apart is the seamless integration of faith into the storyline. In Just Plain Pickled to Death, readers will find that the characters’ beliefs are not just an afterthought; they shape their motivations, their decisions, and the way they interpret the unfolding events. It’s a delicate balance between depicting the reality of Amish-Mennonite life and showcasing the characters’ spiritual beliefs, but Myers does it with finesse.
Just Plain Pickled to Death: A Closer Look at the Author’s Craft
Tamar Myers, the author behind this delightful mystery, brings a unique voice to the Christian fiction landscape. Her background as someone raised in the Congo by missionary parents gives her a distinct perspective on cultural and religious matters, which she skillfully weaves into her stories.
Tamar Myers: Background and Writing Style
Myers’ writing style is characterized by a wry wit and a deep understanding of human nature. Her prose is crisp, her dialogue snappy, and her descriptions vivid. In Just Plain Pickled to Death, she employs these skills to create a world that’s as rich in detail as it is in intrigue.
But it’s not just about crafting a good yarn; Myers’ work reflects a keen insight into the Amish community’s traditions and values. This authenticity brings her characters to life, making them resonate with readers who appreciate a story grounded in real-world practices and beliefs.
The charm of Myers’ writing is that it invites readers of all backgrounds to find common ground in the universal themes of love, justice, and faith. Whether you’re familiar with Amish culture or not, you’ll find yourself at home in the pages of her books.
Why Just Plain Pickled to Death is a Must-Read
Just Plain Pickled to Death is more than just a mystery. Whether you’re looking for an engaging whodunit or an inspiring tale of faith and community, this book delivers. Its unique setting, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a standout read.
Here’s why you shouldn’t miss out on this captivating novel:
• The mystery is well-crafted and keeps you guessing.
• The integration of Christian values adds depth to the story.
• The portrayal of Amish culture is both educational and entertaining.
• The novel’s humor provides a light-hearted balance to the suspense.
• It’s a book that can spark meaningful discussions about life’s bigger questions.
If you’re on the lookout for a book that combines entertainment with meaningful messages, Just Plain Pickled to Death is the perfect pick. Not only will it keep you engrossed in its pages, but it will also leave you with lasting reflections on the role of faith in everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about “Just Plain Pickled to Death” and Christian mystery novels in general:
Is Just Plain Pickled to Death Suitable for All Ages?
While the novel is a mystery, it’s written with sensitivity to a wide audience. It’s appropriate for teens and adults alike, making it a great choice for family book clubs or readers who prefer clean fiction with a strong moral foundation.
Can Non-Christian Readers Enjoy the Novel?
Absolutely! While the novel incorporates Christian themes, its engaging plot and cultural insights make it enjoyable for readers of all backgrounds. The story’s universal themes of community, justice, and personal growth resonate with a broad audience.
What Makes a Mystery Novel ‘Christian’?
A Christian mystery novel typically involves themes of faith and morality interwoven with the suspenseful plot. It’s not just about solving a crime; it’s about the characters’ spiritual journeys and the ethical dilemmas they face along the way.
Are the Recipes Included in the Book Practical?
Yes, the recipes provided in Just Plain Pickled to Death are practical and add a delightful touch to the novel. They offer readers a taste of Amish cuisine and the opportunity to bring a piece of the story into their own kitchens.
Character List for Just Plain Pickled to Death
This list carefully avoids spoilers. Names and descriptions below reflect the original information given about each character. Main characters are listed, as well as some minor players.
Pennsylvania-Dutch Mystery Series RegularsMagdalena Yoder – 44 year-old Mennonite (one of those Mennonites who were formerly Amish, from Switzerland) – owns controlling interest in the PennDutch Inn until Susannah proves herself “competent and productive” – then they will be equal partners
Susannah Yoder Entwhistle – Magdalena’s 34-year-old sister. She ran off and married a Presbyterian after the death of her parents. Now divorced, she is lazy and irresponsible. She billows when she walks because she drapes herself in “enough fabric to clothe a small third-world country.”
Papa and Mama Yoder, deceased – The parents of Magdalena and Susannah died about 11 years earlier in a highway smash-up, their vehicle being sandwiched between a truck full of running shoes and a tanker full of milk. Previously Mr. Yoder had been a dairy man and Mrs. Yoder sold eggs. They may have already passed on to Glory, but you’ll hear about them, especially Mama.
Mose Hostetler – age: mid 70’s, a kinsman and handyman for the inn – Amish instead of Mennonite
Freni Hostetler – about 75 years old, Mose’s wife – the crotchety cook for the PennDutch Inn
Doc Shafor – octogenarian veterinarian
Aaron Miller – the Yoders’ handsome neighbor and Magdalena’s fiancé, her “Pooky Bear”
Aaron Miller, Sr. (Pops) – Aaron’s father
Melvin Stoltzfus – Chief of Police – a sometimes romantic interest of Susannah’s
John Hostetler – Mose and Freni’s son who now runs their farm while they work for Magdalena
Barbara Hostetler – John’s wife – 6 feet tall – always at odds with Freni
Melvin Stoltzfus – Chief of Police
Zelda Root – assistant police chief
Sam Yoder – owner of Yoder’s Corner Market – first cousin once removed of Magdalena’s father
Dorothy Yoder – Sam’s wife – influenced Sam to become a Methodist
PennDutch Animals• Shnookums – Susannah’s tiny dog
• Matilda and Bessie – milk cows
Characters in Current StoryCatherine Miller – Aaron’s deceased mother
Sarah Weaver – found dead in a barrel of pickled sauerkraut on on the back porch of the PennDutch Inn – had been missing 20 years – had been Susannah’s best girlhood friend until she disappeared
Rebecca Weaver – Sarah’s mother – disappeared about a month before Sarah did – sister of Aaron, Sr.
Catherine Miller – Aaron’s deceased mother
Jonas Weaver – Sarah’s father – no one in Hernia knows where he lives now
The Beeftrust – Aaron’s aunts (Aaron Senior’s sisters)
• Veronica (Vonnie) Gerber – the oldest – 6’2″ tall, weighs 200 pounds – has a crabby temperament, a large nose and tiny feet (for her height) – lives in Fox Chapel, a suburb of Pittsburgh
• Leah Troyer – next oldest and the tallest – 6’4″ tall – has a smallish head and no neck – resembles Magdalena, according to Aaron, Jr. – lives in New Jersey
• Lizzie Blough – a devout Mennonite, but looks English – lives in Du Bois, PA – has platinum blond hair, wears lipstick and has pierced ears – has very small ears and large hands
• Magdalena Fike – whimpers like a frightened puppy and has a very large bosom – lives in St. Louis, MO – she mumbles and her speech is so hard to understand her husband sometimes has to translate – has very small hands
• Rebecca Weaver – missing 20 years
Rudy Gerber – Veronica’s husband – pudgy, shorter than his wife, has silver hair and silver-rimmed glasses – wearing an Armani suit and a $500-dollar te
Solomon Troyer – Leah’s husband – he’s short and bald with very short fingers
Manasses Blough – Lizzie’s husband – wears a bolo tie, has dyed hair and mustache, and smokes cigarettes
Elias Fike – Auntie Magdalena’s husband – short, stylish (wearing a suit and tie), and black
Wagler Hooley – lost a barn to a tornado and Magdalena’s mother went into labor with Magdalena during the community barn raising
Rev. Michael Schrock – pastor of Beechy Grove Mennonite Church, Magdalena’s church
Lodema Schrock – wife of Pastor Schrock and organist at the church
Norah Hall – blames Magdalena for her daughter not becoming a movie star (see Book 2 in the Pennsylvania Dutch Mystery Series: Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, and Crime)
Clarence Stucky – former owner of Stucky Ridge – after he had mined all the coal, he turned it over to the city and it is the location of Settlers Cemetery
Dolores Brown – nosy – owns a rooming house in Hernia
Diane Lefcourt – Rebecca’s best friend
Andrea – replacement for Zelda at the P.D. – on loan from Bedford
Hernia’s Two stores:• Yoder’s Corner Market – overpriced and understocked
• Miller’s Feed Store – caters to livestock
Misc. AbbreviationALPO – Amish Lifestyles Plan Option – guests pay for the priviliege of doing their own laundry and maid service
Recipes
Magdalena Yoder’s Wedding Feast, from Soup to Nuts:
• Great-Granny Yoder’s Onion Cheese Soup
• Freni Hostetler’s Wilted Dandelion Salad
• Auntie Leah’s Pork Chops with Sauerkraut und Apples
• Aunti Magdalena’s Potato Dumplings
• Aunt Lizzie’s Mushroom and Pea Casserole
• Barbara Hostetler’s Save-the-Day Pecan Pies
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Here’s a link to the book on Tamar Myer’s website: Just Plain Pickled to Death
Here are links to my blog indexes, which will make it quick and easy for you to find another post to read.
Blog Index – Lists blogs 1-35
Blog Index 2 – Lists blogs 36 to 70
Blog Index 3 – Will list blogs 71-100
Photo credit: OpenClipart-Vectors on pixabay
Here’s a downloadable character list: