Murder by Cheesecake Summary, Characters and Themes

Murder by Cheesecake by Rachel Ekstrom Courage is a comedic mystery that combines quirky characters, family dynamics, and unexpected twists.  The plot centers around Rose Nylund, a woman from St. Olaf, who is determined to uphold the traditional values of her hometown while navigating the chaos surrounding her cousin Nettie’s wedding.  The wedding, originally set in St. Olaf, has been thrown into turmoil after the venue burns down, and the bride and groom opt for a Miami celebration. 

However, things take a dark turn when a body is discovered in a freezer, leading Rose and her friends into a tangled investigation. Along the way, they try to balance wedding preparations, relationships, and a murder mystery, all while dealing with their own personal struggles.  Murder by Cheesecake offers a blend of humor, mystery, and heartfelt moments as the characters navigate an unpredictable journey to ensure the wedding takes place.

Summary

The story of Murder by Cheesecake begins with Rose Nylund receiving an unexpected phone call.  Initially dismissing it as a prank, she soon learns that her cousin Nettie’s wedding is in jeopardy.

Nettie had planned a traditional St.  Olaf wedding, but the local hotel where the event was to take place had burned down.

In response, Nettie and her fiancé, Jason, decide to elope, a decision that greatly disappoints Rose, as it goes against the traditional values of their town.  Rose, who had helped raise Nettie, is determined to keep the St.

Olaf spirit alive and tries to find a way to convince the couple to reconsider.

As Rose reflects on the situation, she realizes that Nettie’s fiancé, Jason, is not enthusiastic about the small-town traditions that the St.  Olaf community holds dear.

The decision to elope only fuels Rose’s desire to keep the wedding’s traditional elements alive.  She is not only concerned with the emotional significance of the event but also with ensuring that the family’s customs are respected.

Rose’s close friend Dorothy suggests holding the wedding in Miami, a suggestion that excites Rose as it presents an opportunity to merge the traditions of St.  Olaf with the vibrancy of Miami.

With the help of her friends, Rose sets out to plan a wedding in just one week.  Dorothy takes charge of the wedding logistics, Blanche helps find wedding venues, and Sophia offers advice for the bachelorette party.

Despite the challenges of planning such a big event in such a short time, Rose is determined to honor her family’s traditions.  She also attempts to navigate her personal life by trying out a VHS dating service to find a date for the wedding.

After some awkward encounters, Rose connects with a man named Henry, and they make plans to meet.

As the wedding preparations continue, things take a dark turn when a body is discovered in the hotel freezer.  Rose and her friends must keep the situation under wraps, as they don’t want to worry the bride and groom.

This discovery sets off a chain of events that sees Rose caught between family expectations, wedding chaos, and a looming investigation into the death.  While her friends try to manage the various elements of the wedding, Rose remains steadfast in her commitment to making Nettie’s wedding a success.

Meanwhile, Dorothy experiences her own personal challenges.  She briefly dated the man found dead in the freezer, Henry, and a note with her name on it is discovered in his pocket.

This causes the authorities to treat her as a suspect in the investigation.  Although Dorothy insists that she had no involvement in Henry’s death, the police remain suspicious, especially as they uncover a history of Henry conning women out of money and valuables.

This complicates the situation further, as Dorothy is forced to deal with the ramifications of the investigation while still trying to support Rose and the wedding.

Despite the mounting pressure, Rose continues to press forward.  She organizes a bridal shower for Nettie, which includes a traditional St.

Olaf ceremony, but the event is overshadowed by the investigation.  The St.

Olaf community grows increasingly critical of Rose’s handling of the wedding, with her cousin Gustave expressing disappointment in her ability to manage the situation.  However, Rose stands her ground, confronting Gustave for the first time in her life and asserting her authority.

This marks a turning point in her character, showing her growth and resilience.

As the wedding day approaches, the tensions rise even higher.  Rose navigates the complexities of her family’s expectations, the wedding preparations, and the ongoing police investigation.

At the same time, she continues to manage the situation without revealing the truth about the murder to Nettie and Jason.  In the end, Rose’s determination and caring nature shine through as she works tirelessly to ensure that Nettie’s wedding is a success.

As the investigation intensifies, the women find themselves in increasingly absurd situations, including wearing disguises to gather clues and avoid suspicion.  Dorothy and Sophia take on tourist personas, trying to blend in at the hotel while gathering information on the murder.

Rose, Blanche, and Dorothy investigate further, uncovering key clues and interacting with various people who might be involved in the mystery.  Throughout this process, they try to keep the wedding preparations going, even though the investigation continues to disrupt their plans.

As the investigation unravels, it becomes clear that the wedding and the murder are more connected than anyone realized.  The clues begin to point to a larger conspiracy involving the sugar industry and illegal dealings.

Dorothy’s role in uncovering the conspiracy and clearing her name adds another layer of complexity to the plot.  She earns recognition for her efforts, but her personal life remains a source of uncertainty as she continues to deal with the aftermath of the investigation.

Finally, after a series of chaotic events, Nettie’s wedding takes place in a ceremony that blends St.  Olaf traditions with modern wedding elements.

The wedding is marked by rain, unexpected surprises, and moments of humor and heart.  Despite the challenges they faced, the characters come together in the end, reflecting on their relationships and the importance of family traditions.

Through it all, Rose remains determined to see Nettie happy and to uphold the values of St.  Olaf, even in the face of overwhelming obstacles.

In the end, Murder by Cheesecake is a story about love, loyalty, and the challenges of maintaining traditions in the modern world.  Rose’s efforts to preserve her family’s customs while dealing with the murder investigation and wedding chaos highlight her strength and commitment to her loved ones.

The novel showcases the importance of friendship, family, and perseverance, even when life throws unexpected challenges your way.

Characters

Rose Nylund

Rose Nylund is a kind-hearted, yet anxious woman who takes on the role of a caretaker in the narrative, primarily focusing on her cousin Nettie’s wedding.  As someone who holds St.

Olaf traditions close to her heart, Rose’s desire to ensure that the wedding goes smoothly and adheres to these customs reflects her deep care for her family and her heritage.  Her determination to create the perfect wedding amidst several unforeseen complications, including a murder investigation, speaks to her resilience and devotion.

Although Rose can be overly anxious at times, especially when dealing with the delicate dynamics of her family’s expectations and the unfolding drama, her genuine concern for others, particularly Nettie, shines through.  Her ability to confront family members, such as her cousin Gustave, and take charge of a challenging situation marks significant personal growth in her character, showing her capacity to stand up for herself and her values.

Nettie

Nettie, Rose’s cousin, is a young woman caught between her love for St.  Olaf traditions and her desire for a modern, personal wedding.

Throughout the story, Nettie struggles with her feelings toward her fiancé Jason, sensing that he might not fully understand or appreciate the significance of these traditions.  This tension causes her to doubt both her relationship and the wedding, leading her to consider eloping instead.

Nettie’s internal conflict reflects her desire for autonomy and individuality, particularly as she feels torn between her family’s expectations and her own vision for her life.  Although she is emotionally charged and reactive at times, Nettie’s journey ultimately highlights her growth as she learns to navigate complex family dynamics and the expectations placed upon her.

Jason

Jason, Nettie’s fiancé, plays a key role in the tensions surrounding the wedding.  His lack of enthusiasm for the St.

Olaf traditions, particularly the more eccentric aspects of the ceremony, such as the barn and the cow, creates friction with Nettie and her family.  Jason’s practical nature and focus on what he believes is important for their future often clash with Nettie’s desire for a traditional wedding.

Although he does care for Nettie, his reluctance to embrace her family’s customs leads to misunderstandings and emotional turmoil.  Jason’s character is more reserved compared to Nettie’s, but his determination to make things work for the couple’s future reveals his commitment, even if it doesn’t always manifest in the way Nettie hopes.

Dorothy

Dorothy is one of Rose’s closest friends and an essential part of the story’s unfolding mystery.  Despite being wrongly implicated in a murder investigation, Dorothy remains level-headed and determined to clear her name.

Her sharp wit and pragmatic approach to problem-solving come in handy during the investigation, as she teams up with Rose and the others to uncover clues.  Dorothy’s romantic life, however, is less smooth, and her interactions with men, particularly with Henry Pattinson, expose her vulnerability and desire for meaningful connections.

While her personal life seems to be in constant disarray, Dorothy’s intelligence and tenacity allow her to navigate the turmoil surrounding the murder investigation, ultimately helping to resolve the mystery.  Her character arc shows her evolving from a victim of circumstance into an active participant in solving the mystery.

Blanche

Blanche is another close friend of Rose, known for her charming and flirtatious personality.  Throughout the story, Blanche finds herself caught between managing her own romantic entanglements, particularly with Jorgen, and helping Rose with the wedding and the investigation.

Her character is defined by her glamorous, often dramatic demeanor, but beneath the surface, she shows a genuine care for her friends.  Blanche’s frustration with Jorgen’s unavailability and her apparent romantic pursuits add complexity to her character, as she seeks fulfillment in her relationships while supporting the larger group.

Her contributions to the wedding planning, particularly in finding venues, demonstrate her ability to juggle her personal desires with the needs of those around her.

Sophia

Sophia, the oldest and most outspoken of the group, adds humor and wisdom to the narrative.  Her sharp tongue and no-nonsense attitude often cut through the chaos, providing much-needed clarity during the investigation and wedding preparations.

Despite her aging appearance and occasional eccentricities, Sophia proves herself resourceful, helping to devise the disguises for the group as they work to gather clues.  Her character is a blend of wit and practicality, and she serves as the voice of reason in many situations.

While her personal life is not the focus of the story, Sophia’s steadfast loyalty to her friends and her ability to bring levity to even the most serious moments make her an indispensable member of the group.

Gustave

Gustave, Rose’s cousin, embodies the deep-rooted traditions of St.  Olaf.

He represents the more rigid side of the family, holding steadfastly to the customs that Rose is trying to preserve for Nettie’s wedding.  Gustave’s character is often critical of Rose’s efforts to balance the wedding traditions with the changing dynamics of the family, particularly as the modern world clashes with the older ways of St.

Olaf.  While his loyalty to the family’s heritage is admirable, it also creates tension with Rose, who is determined to make decisions that reflect her own growth and personal agency.

Gustave’s role serves as both a source of pressure and a catalyst for Rose’s personal development, especially when she confronts him for the first time.

Henry Pattinson

Henry Pattinson, though not a central character in the traditional sense, plays a significant role in the narrative.  His unexpected death sets off the investigation, which becomes a key subplot in the story.

As a man involved with Dorothy, Henry’s connections to the women and his mysterious background add intrigue to the plot.  His murder and the subsequent investigation reveal layers of deceit, leading Dorothy and the others to uncover hidden truths about him.

Although Henry is not around to defend himself, his actions and relationships create a ripple effect that affects the central characters and adds complexity to the unfolding drama.

These characters, with their distinct personalities, motivations, and relationships, create a dynamic narrative filled with humor, intrigue, and heartfelt moments.  Each character plays a vital role in moving the story forward, whether through the mystery, the wedding, or the personal dramas that intersect throughout the plot.

Themes

Friendship and Loyalty

The bonds of friendship and loyalty are central to the narrative, with Rose and her friends forming the emotional backbone of the story.  Rose’s loyalty to her cousin Nettie is unwavering, even as she faces mounting obstacles in trying to preserve the St. Olaf wedding traditions.  She navigates personal crises, logistical nightmares, and an unexpected murder investigation while always keeping Nettie’s best interests at heart.

This theme is explored through the support that Rose receives from her friends, Dorothy, Blanche, and Sophia, who contribute their time, resources, and expertise to ensure the wedding’s success.  The women’s friendship is tested through various challenges, yet their commitment to each other never wavers.

Dorothy’s role in the investigation, her efforts to clear her name, and the support she receives from the others in times of trouble highlight how the characters’ loyalty to one another sustains them through moments of personal doubt and external pressures.  Even in the face of danger and confusion, the characters’ mutual support emphasizes the significance of loyalty in relationships, underscoring how people find strength through their connections with others.

Tradition vs. Change

The theme of tradition versus change plays a significant role in the story, with Rose caught between her desire to uphold St.  Olaf traditions and the pressures of adapting to modern circumstances.

Rose’s commitment to preserving the customs of her hometown, such as the St.  Olaf wedding rituals, is tested when Nettie decides to elope, abandoning the traditional wedding she had planned.

Rose’s determination to keep the essence of St.  Olaf alive is central to her character and the story’s conflict.

The clash between the traditions of St.  Olaf and the modern sensibilities of Nettie and Jason’s families reflects the tension many people face when balancing cultural practices with contemporary values.

Nettie’s frustration with the traditional wedding customs, particularly her perception that Jason is more interested in the rituals than in their relationship, further complicates this theme.  This tension between upholding tradition and embracing change creates a dynamic narrative, where Rose’s resolve to find a balance showcases her growth as she navigates the evolving landscape of family expectations, modern relationships, and the pressures of the modern world.

Family Dynamics

Family relationships are at the heart of the story, with the complex dynamics between Rose, Nettie, and the rest of the characters providing both emotional depth and conflict.  Rose’s role as a caregiver and aunt to Nettie is central to the plot, as she tries to fulfill her duty by ensuring Nettie’s wedding goes as planned despite numerous challenges.

The narrative explores the role of family in shaping individual identities and the sacrifices made for loved ones.  However, the story also highlights the tension within families, especially when personal desires and expectations clash.

Nettie’s evolving relationship with her fiancé Jason, marked by miscommunications and doubts, adds another layer to the theme of family dynamics.  The interference of extended family members, particularly Rose’s cousin Gustave, who is rigid in his adherence to St.

Olaf traditions, reflects how family members can either support or impose pressures that complicate personal decisions.  Rose’s struggle to navigate these pressures, while simultaneously trying to make Nettie’s wedding a success, emphasizes how family can both strengthen and challenge individuals in the pursuit of their goals.

The resolution of family conflicts, especially Rose’s reconciliation with her cousin Gustave, reinforces the importance of understanding and compromise within familial relationships.

Resilience and Personal Growth

Throughout the narrative, resilience emerges as a key theme, particularly through Rose’s character.  Despite the many hurdles she faces, from managing a wedding in crisis to dealing with the discovery of a dead body and the pressure of family expectations, Rose continues to persevere.

Her determination to uphold the wedding’s traditional aspects while handling the chaos around her showcases her inner strength.  This theme is also explored through her personal growth as she confronts difficult situations and stands up for herself when her cousin Gustave criticizes her handling of the wedding.

Rose’s ability to balance the demands of her family, her friends, and the investigation highlights her personal development.  Moreover, Dorothy’s journey, particularly her role in solving the murder mystery, also demonstrates resilience.

Both women grow in their respective capacities, showing that adversity can lead to empowerment and self-discovery.  The resilience of the characters is not just about surviving their challenges but also about learning from them and evolving in response to the unexpected trials life throws their way.

This theme encourages the idea that personal growth often stems from facing and overcoming adversity, and that resilience is a key element in maintaining one’s integrity and sense of purpose.

Love and Relationships

The theme of love, both romantic and familial, runs throughout the story and is integral to its emotional resonance.  Rose’s deep affection for Nettie is the driving force behind her determination to create the perfect wedding for her, despite the numerous setbacks.

This love transcends the typical role of a relative and speaks to the broader idea of familial devotion, where sacrifice and effort are made out of love.  The romantic relationships in the story are also explored, particularly Nettie’s relationship with Jason.

While Nettie initially feels frustrated by the pressure of St.  Olaf traditions, her eventual realization of Jason’s genuine love for her points to the complex nature of relationships.

In addition, Dorothy’s awkward yet endearing attempts at dating and her eventual involvement in the murder investigation add another layer to the theme of love.  Her journey highlights the challenges of finding romantic connections in a world full of complications, where trust and compatibility are not always easy to discern.

Love, in all its forms, acts as both a motivator and a challenge for the characters, prompting them to question their expectations, confront their insecurities, and ultimately grow closer to the people who matter most to them.  The resilience of love, despite misunderstandings and external crises, forms the emotional core of the story, showing that love, whether between family members or romantic partners, can withstand even the most chaotic circumstances.