Fatally Flaky

February 23, 2009
Colorado caterer Goldy Schulz doesn't have a moment to spare as she frantically tries to pull everything together for two upcoming wedding receptions, including last-minute venue and menu changes from a spoiled bridezilla, in bestseller Davidson's entertaining 15th culinary suspense novel (after Sweet Revenge
). When Harold “Doc” Finn, Aspen Meadow's beloved retired doctor, dies under mysterious circumstances on his way to the first wedding ceremony, Goldy wonders if it was an accident or murder. When her godfather and Doc Finn's good friend, Jack Carmichael, is also attacked, it's obvious that Goldy will have to venture out of the kitchen and put her detecting skills to use once again. Stir in a slimy spa owner, rumors of a malpractice suit and the usual cast of supporting characters—including Goldy's patient cop husband, Tom, and her capable culinary assistant, Julian Teller—and you've got another winning entry in Davidson's mouthwatering series. 6-city author tour.

Barbara Rosenblat's high-quality performance of Davidson's mystery--which features quirky characters involved in wedding catering--is a delightful listening experience. Rosenblat finds appropriate voices for the broadly drawn characters of heroine Goldy; her lovable husband, Tom, a homicide detective; her best friend, Marla; and a "bridezilla" named Billie. First, Doc Finn, a beloved local physician, dies mysteriously. Then Goldy's godfather is murdered at the local spa, and Goldy goes undercover to find the killer. The plot of Davidson's latest is a bit thin, and the continual banter and bickering of the characters may annoy some listeners. But series fans will enjoy the production's lighthearted and funny moments. One hopes that favorite characters will take center stage next time. S.C.A. (c) AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine

March 23, 2009
Verdict: In her 15th culinary series title, Davidson yet again concocts another excellent recipe-stuffed mystery. The familiar characters, good pacing, and puzzling mystery will make cozie fans hungry for more. Background: It's wedding season in Aspen Meadows, CO, and caterer Goldy Schulz (Double Shot) is busy, particularly with her very own bridezilla, who changes her wedding date, the menu, and finally the location-to Gold Gulch Spa, owned by one of Goldy's enemies, Victor Lane. When a well-loved local physician is killed and Goldy's godfather attacked, you know Goldy can't resist getting involved. Going undercover at a spa that serves canned fruit cocktail for dessert is a torment for Goldy.-Susan Hayes, Chattahoochee Valley Libs., Columbus, GA

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