Death With All the Trimmings

December 1, 2014
Hayley Snow is excited to write a feature on New York transplant Edel's hot new restaurant in Key West. But on Hayley's first visit to the restaurant, in the middle of the holiday season, the famous chef confides that someone is trying to sabotage her. Then the restaurant is set on fire, and Edel's ex-husband is found dead in a storage shed. Edel asks Haley to help find answers but does not seem straightforward herself. Haley asks questions in between trying to hold on to her writing job at Key Zest magazine and sort out her mother's relationship issues. Shocking turns include Hayley getting shot during a boat parade and her elderly roommate, Miss Gloria, going missing. Burdette infuses the mystery with Key West spirit and holiday fun along with delicious food references and recipes. This strong series continues a unique blend of island mayhem and sparkling characters surrounding a layered mystery. Fans of Julie Hyzy and Laura Childs may also enjoy.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)