What do you think?
Rate this book
Vampire Chef #2
Let Them Eat Stake
It’s a dream for a “Vampire Chef”-cater the high-profile wedding of a 200-year-old vampire and a wealthy witch. So why did celebrity chef Oscar Simmons walk away from this gig? Charlotte agrees to take his place, even though she knows this event, thrown by power-hungry vampires and witches, could make (or break) her career, her restaurant, and her life. But when Simmons turns up dead, the groom’s family starts vanishing, and the police start asking pointed questions, Charlotte fears she may have picked the wrong wedding to stake her reputation on.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2012
6 people are currently reading
411 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Zettel
60 books437 followersSarah Zettel is the critically acclaimed author of more than twenty novels, spanning the full range of genre fiction. Her debut novel, Reclamation, won the Locus Award for Best First Novel. Her second release, Fool’s War, was a 1997 New York Times Notable Book, and the American Library Association named Playing God one of the Best Books for Young Adults of 1999. Her novel Bitter Angels won the Philip K. Dick Award for best science fiction paperback in 2009. Her latest novel, Dust Girl, was named as one of the best young adult books of the year by both Kirkus Reviews and the American Library Association. Zettel lives in Michigan with her husband, her rapidly growing son, and her cat, Buffy the Vermin Slayer.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 25, 2012
3.5 stars. It's a cozy mystery, it's fun if you like that sort of thing, and I do. But it does have all of the failings of the typical cozy too. Chef Charlotte keeps saying that she knows that the situation is problematic and that she probably should walk away, but she doesn't because she doesn't let anyone lie to her and that she can handle any situation. Miss Attitude, even though she does keep referencing that she did almost die the last time she "played Nancy Drew," she barely considers that she might be in danger in this time or that she might get in over her head. Even though again she's involved with witches, warlocks and mind-controlling vampires who have reason to dislike her. And all she has is a spray bottle of garlic-infused holy water and her wits. I know chefs are arrogant, but come on. If she was more concerned with the money that she needs to keep her restaurant open or the fact that her getting the job was already in the press and that backing out would be a PR disaster, then it would have made more sense than just curiosity and ballsiness. But it's typical cozy behavior and you do just have to accept that kind of thing when you read the genre.
The mystery was generally good, but it got overly complicated by the end, too messy. And there was some way too convenient plotting. Like when Charlotte's friend Minnie was introduced just in time to get a job at Oscar's restaurant and then was able to pass Charlotte the key to his office. Plus what was a regular cook doing with keys to the dead owner's office after one day on the job?
And now that I think about it, we never did find out why someone picked Charlotte for the job. Did I miss it? Deanna said she liked the restaurant, but Charlotte didn't think that was it, she thought there was a deeper, more suspicious reason. Huh.
The romance was pretty typical too. Charlotte likes Boy 1, Brendan, the handsome warlock, but they're both super busy with their jobs and she's afraid to commit or get at all serious. And she also likes Boy 2, Anatole, the charming vampire, but he's a restaurant critic and an association with him would make his good review of her restaurant look suspicious, But she keeps stringing him along too. Both relationships are very mild, it's not a hot, sexy romance novel. It's really much more about the mystery than the romance, but publishers love that love triangle, so, check!
As for the paranormal aspects, for a book with so many vampires, witches and warlocks in it, not much paranormal behavior happens. Don't expect any huge magical battles or wild vampire orgies. Paranormals have been integrated into this society, they're mostly just people like everyone else, or at least that's the tone. Figuring out what the witches or vampires might do, or what threat they might present, is part of the story, but it's mostly pretty civilized. I'm not expressing it very well. But if you're reading the book just because you love paranormals then you might be disappointed, the book is really about the chef trying to solve a mystery involving the paranormals.. On the other hand, if you like cozy mysteries about chefs and normally don't read paranormal romances, give this a try, I bet you find it a fun crossover. There, that's what I'm trying to say, it should appeal to both crowds because it's not crazy wild paranormal, just full of interesting characters with understandable motivations, a few of whom might have a few different abilities is all.
The depiction of the restaurant business continues to be very interesting and detailed without feeling cumbersome. The author definitely works the business and cooking aspects into the story in a lot of nice ways to both move the tale along and flesh out certain scenes to make them feel comfortable and real. The writing overall is very vivid and readable, it's a very enjoyable read. I just keep hoping for more from this author because I know she's capable of it. A cute little formula/checklist cozy mystery is nice, but she could do better.
Annoyed little note: would a guy like Brendan text l8tr? Seriously, he can't be bothered with one more letter to write a real word? He's kind of a formal guy. Especially the second time when he was home and not in a rush. (p260) It's not important to the story, obviously, just one of those things that annoys me in general and also didn't feel genuine to the character. I get when he was in a rush or maybe in danger and did the whole ...wish u wr here thing, but l8tr from an educated guy in an otherwise complete sentence irritated me.
The mystery was generally good, but it got overly complicated by the end, too messy. And there was some way too convenient plotting. Like when Charlotte's friend Minnie was introduced just in time to get a job at Oscar's restaurant and then was able to pass Charlotte the key to his office. Plus what was a regular cook doing with keys to the dead owner's office after one day on the job?
And now that I think about it, we never did find out why someone picked Charlotte for the job. Did I miss it? Deanna said she liked the restaurant, but Charlotte didn't think that was it, she thought there was a deeper, more suspicious reason. Huh.
The romance was pretty typical too. Charlotte likes Boy 1, Brendan, the handsome warlock, but they're both super busy with their jobs and she's afraid to commit or get at all serious. And she also likes Boy 2, Anatole, the charming vampire, but he's a restaurant critic and an association with him would make his good review of her restaurant look suspicious, But she keeps stringing him along too. Both relationships are very mild, it's not a hot, sexy romance novel. It's really much more about the mystery than the romance, but publishers love that love triangle, so, check!
As for the paranormal aspects, for a book with so many vampires, witches and warlocks in it, not much paranormal behavior happens. Don't expect any huge magical battles or wild vampire orgies. Paranormals have been integrated into this society, they're mostly just people like everyone else, or at least that's the tone. Figuring out what the witches or vampires might do, or what threat they might present, is part of the story, but it's mostly pretty civilized. I'm not expressing it very well. But if you're reading the book just because you love paranormals then you might be disappointed, the book is really about the chef trying to solve a mystery involving the paranormals.. On the other hand, if you like cozy mysteries about chefs and normally don't read paranormal romances, give this a try, I bet you find it a fun crossover. There, that's what I'm trying to say, it should appeal to both crowds because it's not crazy wild paranormal, just full of interesting characters with understandable motivations, a few of whom might have a few different abilities is all.
The depiction of the restaurant business continues to be very interesting and detailed without feeling cumbersome. The author definitely works the business and cooking aspects into the story in a lot of nice ways to both move the tale along and flesh out certain scenes to make them feel comfortable and real. The writing overall is very vivid and readable, it's a very enjoyable read. I just keep hoping for more from this author because I know she's capable of it. A cute little formula/checklist cozy mystery is nice, but she could do better.
Annoyed little note: would a guy like Brendan text l8tr? Seriously, he can't be bothered with one more letter to write a real word? He's kind of a formal guy. Especially the second time when he was home and not in a rush. (p260) It's not important to the story, obviously, just one of those things that annoys me in general and also didn't feel genuine to the character. I get when he was in a rush or maybe in danger and did the whole ...wish u wr here thing, but l8tr from an educated guy in an otherwise complete sentence irritated me.
April 11, 2012
3.8
If Clare Cosi was a Chef and a bit more of a hardass, then she would be Charlotte Caine.
Charlotte is a chef at her own restaurant which caters to humans and vampires. She is a rising star and a fairly hard woman. She has to be though. She's working and succeeding in a man's world with the additional stress of having her little brother (and former business partner) as a vampire (and a slightly irresponsible one at that).
Also did I mention that she is a chef? Anyone who has ever known a chef, seen or chef or hell, even worked/known anyone in the restaurant business, you know that they are varying levels of bad-ass, jaded, insane and crude.
Sometimes you just need a break from all the goody-goodies in the cozy world and if you want someone with a bit more a backbone and a propensity for doing something stupid but absolutely knowing that she is, this is the series for you.
There is a love triangle that has been set up since book one and I find that I'm leaning more toward one side and what I like about Charlotte is that she isn't the type to play games. She admits to herself that she needs to know what she wants and who she wants before making any big decisions about either guy. Neither is she really stringing them along. One she is sort of dating and the other is more or less popping up uninivited.
My qualm with this book is the lack of backbone she showed in the kitchen when she checked up on Zoe . I also wish we had seen more of Zoe as well as the rest of the gang in the restaurant. Understandably, we didn't and it wouldn't have been possible under the circumstances but those guys have grown on me.
Also, I really like that the author shows how tired the character can be. Sometimes the author of a book seems to think that their characters, just because they are on paper, have an unlimited amount of steam. Charlotte is a chef, so she sleeps late and works late but she can still get tired. She also had to use the bathroom once....how awesome is that!
The description of the chef bar at the beginning of the book made me smile. It's not a place I'd go into alone for shits and giggles, and I'm a native NYer, but I've been around bartenders, chefs and servers when I accompany them to these bars. It's always very very interesting.
Anyone, loved the depiction of the restaurant business, the characters were pretty cool, the mystery was confusing enough to work and the love triangle was good enough to not make me want to claw my eyes out or yell "Plum Treatment".
If Clare Cosi was a Chef and a bit more of a hardass, then she would be Charlotte Caine.
Charlotte is a chef at her own restaurant which caters to humans and vampires. She is a rising star and a fairly hard woman. She has to be though. She's working and succeeding in a man's world with the additional stress of having her little brother (and former business partner) as a vampire (and a slightly irresponsible one at that).
Also did I mention that she is a chef? Anyone who has ever known a chef, seen or chef or hell, even worked/known anyone in the restaurant business, you know that they are varying levels of bad-ass, jaded, insane and crude.
Sometimes you just need a break from all the goody-goodies in the cozy world and if you want someone with a bit more a backbone and a propensity for doing something stupid but absolutely knowing that she is, this is the series for you.
There is a love triangle that has been set up since book one and I find that I'm leaning more toward one side and what I like about Charlotte is that she isn't the type to play games. She admits to herself that she needs to know what she wants and who she wants before making any big decisions about either guy. Neither is she really stringing them along. One she is sort of dating and the other is more or less popping up uninivited.
My qualm with this book is the lack of backbone she showed in the kitchen when she checked up on Zoe . I also wish we had seen more of Zoe as well as the rest of the gang in the restaurant. Understandably, we didn't and it wouldn't have been possible under the circumstances but those guys have grown on me.
Also, I really like that the author shows how tired the character can be. Sometimes the author of a book seems to think that their characters, just because they are on paper, have an unlimited amount of steam. Charlotte is a chef, so she sleeps late and works late but she can still get tired. She also had to use the bathroom once....how awesome is that!
The description of the chef bar at the beginning of the book made me smile. It's not a place I'd go into alone for shits and giggles, and I'm a native NYer, but I've been around bartenders, chefs and servers when I accompany them to these bars. It's always very very interesting.
Anyone, loved the depiction of the restaurant business, the characters were pretty cool, the mystery was confusing enough to work and the love triangle was good enough to not make me want to claw my eyes out or yell "Plum Treatment".
October 13, 2012
$.5 Stars
Wow...I hope this author can keep this level of writing up and I certainly hope she gains a following because her books really deserve the kudos. This is book 2 in the Vampire Chef series and if you are wondering if you need to read book one first...well you don't have to since the author really gives us just enough back-story to explain things but not enough to bore 'fans'. I personally would suggest you do read book one first, since there is well...only one book to catch up on and it really does explain a lot. Plus it was just a darn good book and I think mystery lovers would really like it.
Charlotte's restaurant has been chosen to cater the wedding for an unlikely couple - a witch and a vampire. Of course her restaurant was second choice since the origination choice has stepped away from the job. This job will put Charlotte in the black and give her some breathing room. She knows this is a horrible idea but the cash...well you can't walk away from that can you?
Now Oscar is dead, part of the grooms family has disappeared and the brides family is acting truly peculiar.
the characters are even more fleshed out than in the first book, which gives me hope that they will all grow throughout the series. The 'love-triangle' is a little less important/highlighted in this book even though Brendon and Anatole have an equal parts in helping Charlotte solve the murder/crimes. The descriptions of New York City are vivid and will make anyone who lives there quite happy and anyone who doesn't live there want to visit.
Again as with book one, I have the same complaint...the food descriptions sounds so delicious that I want some recipes. Alas there are none in the books...so far!
If you are a fan of the Sookie Stackhouse Vampire novels by Charlaine Harris but with a food slant like Diane Mott Davidson's sere is, then I think you will enjoy this new series.
Wow...I hope this author can keep this level of writing up and I certainly hope she gains a following because her books really deserve the kudos. This is book 2 in the Vampire Chef series and if you are wondering if you need to read book one first...well you don't have to since the author really gives us just enough back-story to explain things but not enough to bore 'fans'. I personally would suggest you do read book one first, since there is well...only one book to catch up on and it really does explain a lot. Plus it was just a darn good book and I think mystery lovers would really like it.
Charlotte's restaurant has been chosen to cater the wedding for an unlikely couple - a witch and a vampire. Of course her restaurant was second choice since the origination choice has stepped away from the job. This job will put Charlotte in the black and give her some breathing room. She knows this is a horrible idea but the cash...well you can't walk away from that can you?
Now Oscar is dead, part of the grooms family has disappeared and the brides family is acting truly peculiar.
the characters are even more fleshed out than in the first book, which gives me hope that they will all grow throughout the series. The 'love-triangle' is a little less important/highlighted in this book even though Brendon and Anatole have an equal parts in helping Charlotte solve the murder/crimes. The descriptions of New York City are vivid and will make anyone who lives there quite happy and anyone who doesn't live there want to visit.
Again as with book one, I have the same complaint...the food descriptions sounds so delicious that I want some recipes. Alas there are none in the books...so far!
If you are a fan of the Sookie Stackhouse Vampire novels by Charlaine Harris but with a food slant like Diane Mott Davidson's sere is, then I think you will enjoy this new series.
May 17, 2017
An improvement, plot- and character-wise, over the first book. Still, I can kind of see why further books in this series never materialized. There are so many genre concepts jammed in here that the series isn't quite sure what it wants to be. There's the Unmasqued World trope, witches and vampires having revealed themselves 25 years ago and the subsequent adjustments to society. There's the cozy mystery element--someone's been murdered, but they were jerks, and so the mystery is being solved not really for Great Justice, but because the protagonist for some reason needs/wants to know. There's a burgeoning love triangle between Chef Caine, a wizard, and a vampire. And there's the inherent drama of life as a professional chef, with all the craziness that entails. Any one--heck, any two--of these elements would have made a good story, but all four are fighting with each other for space in a 300-page book, so the plot careers wildly from kitchen hijinks to searching the murder victim's office to taking a call from the vampire while the jealous wizard listens. We get a fair amount of characterization for our heroine Charlotte, and some more details about her wizard semi-boyfriend Brendan, but everyone else is a collection of personality quirks, eye color, and clothes, and occasionally fangs. If the series had just been about a professional chef catering to living and dead clientele, or a cute little mystery series with a supernatural love triangle, I think everything would be smoother and I'd be more inclined to care about the characters.
Fun reads, but I don't feel deprived of a new favorite series or anything.
Fun reads, but I don't feel deprived of a new favorite series or anything.
August 1, 2012
Second book in the Vampire Chef Mystery Series has Charlotte (Chef Caine) agreeing, against her better judgment after another well-known chef backs out, to take on the catering of a huge wedding between a very wealthy family and a vampire. There’s a lot of money involved which would greatly help her restaurant. She doesn’t discover until after she accepts that the family is part of the Maddox family, known vampire-slayers before that became illegal; the family that her possible boyfriend, Brendan, belongs to. It doesn’t help matters that the original chef is found dead of poison the next day.
As with the first book, the main focus of the story is on the running of a restaurant and now a catering operation while Charlotte tries to find out what’s going on because things just don’t add up. And as usual, there’s danger. She’s got help from both Brendan, and vampire food critic, Anatole, both who would do anything for her. And of course, she’s attracted to both.
There’s plenty of humor and action along with the mystery and the story is an easy read even though the mystery of the who-done-it and why is nicely complicated and not something most would figure out.
An enjoyable paranormal cozy.
As with the first book, the main focus of the story is on the running of a restaurant and now a catering operation while Charlotte tries to find out what’s going on because things just don’t add up. And as usual, there’s danger. She’s got help from both Brendan, and vampire food critic, Anatole, both who would do anything for her. And of course, she’s attracted to both.
There’s plenty of humor and action along with the mystery and the story is an easy read even though the mystery of the who-done-it and why is nicely complicated and not something most would figure out.
An enjoyable paranormal cozy.
July 18, 2014
Wonderful wonderful !!!
October 5, 2018
Let Them Eat Stake had such a fun premise: a woman is catering a vampire-witch wedding after the last chef quit under mysterious circumstances. Unfortunately, this book didn't lean into its silly premise and took itself way too seriously.
Everything about the story was completely flat. There were too many characters, the characters we did have were uninteresting, the love triangle didn't have anyone you wanted to root for, the dialogue was outdated and robotic, the mystery wasn't engaging and was way too complicated, and I had to re-read several sentences throughout the book because I was so bored that I was reading without taking in much information. This is a very forgettable book and if you ask me for any details after today, I won't be able to tell you anything because I'm already forgetting things as I write this review.
There were vampires, witches, and mentions of werewolves in this book but they might as well have been human. They barely showed any of their powers and posed very little threat to our main character. What is the point of having witches and vampires if they never show off their abilities?
I guess I have to look elsewhere for a fun paranormal mystery book.
Everything about the story was completely flat. There were too many characters, the characters we did have were uninteresting, the love triangle didn't have anyone you wanted to root for, the dialogue was outdated and robotic, the mystery wasn't engaging and was way too complicated, and I had to re-read several sentences throughout the book because I was so bored that I was reading without taking in much information. This is a very forgettable book and if you ask me for any details after today, I won't be able to tell you anything because I'm already forgetting things as I write this review.
There were vampires, witches, and mentions of werewolves in this book but they might as well have been human. They barely showed any of their powers and posed very little threat to our main character. What is the point of having witches and vampires if they never show off their abilities?
I guess I have to look elsewhere for a fun paranormal mystery book.
April 14, 2018
3.5 stars.
Primarily a mystery, with romance a part of the storyline. I liked the world that Sarah Zettel has constructed -- it's one that accomodates several definitions of what a paranormal existence might be like, depending on what facet you are examining. In terms of the politics, pacts, allegiances and feuds are myriad. Socializing as a paranormal with the Muggles, however, seems to be merely a matter of finding a place that will cater to your graduate-level food preferences; Instead of Paleo-this, and Gluten-Free that, an order of the Extra-Sanguinated smoothie, hold the carbs. As a non-food industry person, the amount of detail about issues in professional kitchens and dealing with star-crossed wedding receptions seemed believable to me, but your mileage may vary. It's not clear if this is the last book in the series; although some parts resolve (ie, the love triangle), it feels open-ended. If there was a third book, I'd pick it up.
Primarily a mystery, with romance a part of the storyline. I liked the world that Sarah Zettel has constructed -- it's one that accomodates several definitions of what a paranormal existence might be like, depending on what facet you are examining. In terms of the politics, pacts, allegiances and feuds are myriad. Socializing as a paranormal with the Muggles, however, seems to be merely a matter of finding a place that will cater to your graduate-level food preferences; Instead of Paleo-this, and Gluten-Free that, an order of the Extra-Sanguinated smoothie, hold the carbs. As a non-food industry person, the amount of detail about issues in professional kitchens and dealing with star-crossed wedding receptions seemed believable to me, but your mileage may vary. It's not clear if this is the last book in the series; although some parts resolve (ie, the love triangle), it feels open-ended. If there was a third book, I'd pick it up.
October 26, 2023
Another "cozy" chef mystery, this one was a little more interesting than the last one. I enjoyed seeing outside the restaurant and what was going on in the rest of the world. Charlotte and the rest of the characters are still pretty two dimensional and could use lots of fleshing out. Overall, it was entertaining and quick to read but nothing amazing. 3 out of 5 stars.
August 17, 2018
Chicklit meets paranormal cozy mystery
July 1, 2019
Enjoyed this better than the first book. There were more twists and turns and the ending was definitely not what I expected.
December 27, 2019
It was a good mystery but took me longer than usual to read. Characters were good, but think it could have used a little bit more to it. It was hard to hold my attention
February 4, 2023
4 stars
I got this book from giveaway I won back then in 2012 at The Qwillery Blog Books. Last time I check, Qwillery's last post is exactly 1 year ago. In the time of booktok, booktwt and bookstagram, managing a book blog is a tough cookie and I amend that since I rarely post in my blog. Still sad to see it though, especially the fact that it's need 11 years to me to read this one. Sorry not sorry, though.
I rated Let Them Eat Stake higher by 0.5 stars compared to its predecessor, A Taste of Nightlife, because the writing and the characters are improvement. I won't said Book 2 is a cozy mystery, much like book 1. Its mostly fall into urban fantasy with mystery elements and culinary settings, but try to be cozy? I don't know what to make this series either, because Vampire Chef series have all that urban fantasy trope but lack oomph, since maybe it was marketed as cozy mystery too.
Just like book 1, Charlotte Caine still find herself in the midst of murder, only right now the preperator is not a person or vampire that closed to her. Nor that the murder scene is in her haute noir restaurant that cater to both human and vampire alike, the Nightlife. But the victim, Oscar, was a man well known to her, he was also a chef and just left a once in a the lifetime opportunity to be a sole caterer into the wedding of the decade between a witch and vampire. Witch and vampire didn't get along, so the wedding is a surprise. This opportunity will not come twice so Charlotte agree to take over. But the more she knows about the Aldens, the more she thinks that they hide a terrible secrets. Didn't help that Oscar had some connection to the Aldens, and surprisingly that the matriach of the Aldens is also one of the Maddoxes. And Charlotte happen to dating one of them, Brendan Maddox.
Honestly, the mystery is well written, although it got too messy in the end. What I liked in this book is, the writing sure was more refined. Zettel also introduced Charlotte's employer and write them thoroughly. It make sense that they are not the focus in book 1 because Charlotte busy to prove that her little brother, Chet, is not a murderer. In this book, their interactions are part of the book's charm. I also like the way Zettel incorporated cooking business, the kitchen hierarchy and also the way she described of the food are delish they make me drool. Zettel sure know what she write.
Charlotte itself still channeling her inner Nancy Drew, and sadly the reason why she go into the investigation is not as strong as book 1. Like, she just doesn't want people lie to her. Uhh, yeah, a strong reason to start a career as an amateur sleuth. There are some unbelievable moment in the investigation, like how its so convenient for Charlotte to infiltrate Oscar's office because her friend happen to work in here and she didn't have a hard time to enter the office. Also when she investigate the Aldens home when they are out there and the vampire is sleeping and Charlotte just casually strolled in here. Hello, breaking and entering? It's sketchy and awkward because the Aldens happen to be Charlotte's employee.
Another minus point is..the love triangle. Even though Charlotte and Brendan are dating, I don't feel their chemistry because apparently Charlotte still have some feeling for her vampire beau, Anatole Sevarin. Speaking about Anatole, not enough of him sadly. I prefer Anatole to be Charlotte's boyfriend because at least he's charming, not like Brendan who imho can be a little too bland. I get now why people shipping Buffy with Spike. This love triangle also get me annoyed because its clear that Anatole have feeling for Charlotte and Charlotte "might" reciprocate only to see that she choose the safe choice by being with Brendan. Also the end when Anatole decide to not go further kinda rolling my eyes, because come on, the chemistry is off the chart. I found myself liking when Charlotte interact with Anatole rather than with Brendan.
Speaking about Chet, not much about him, and I liked that while in the first Zettel write about the Caine siblings quarrel that still happen after event in book 1, it took some times for them to make amend. I see that Charlotte might be act as mother hen to Chet and it took a hard way for her to realize that because she doesn't like when people lie to her and Chet's betrayal kinda stung. At least, all in well for Caine siblings and their bonds seems to rekindled.
Sadly, Let Them Eat Stake is the last of Vampire Chef mystery despite some things still left unsolved in which my hope to see my Charlotte-Anatole ship to sailing is crushed down. And yeah, Zettel left the story with a promise for more to come.. but sadly, fast forward 10 years later and there's no Vampire Chef Mystery book 3 in the horizon. This book and series have some potential and I would love to see how Charlotte once again try to balance her life, in become both haute noir chef and amateur sleuth in the making.
I got this book from giveaway I won back then in 2012 at The Qwillery Blog Books. Last time I check, Qwillery's last post is exactly 1 year ago. In the time of booktok, booktwt and bookstagram, managing a book blog is a tough cookie and I amend that since I rarely post in my blog. Still sad to see it though, especially the fact that it's need 11 years to me to read this one. Sorry not sorry, though.
I rated Let Them Eat Stake higher by 0.5 stars compared to its predecessor, A Taste of Nightlife, because the writing and the characters are improvement. I won't said Book 2 is a cozy mystery, much like book 1. Its mostly fall into urban fantasy with mystery elements and culinary settings, but try to be cozy? I don't know what to make this series either, because Vampire Chef series have all that urban fantasy trope but lack oomph, since maybe it was marketed as cozy mystery too.
Just like book 1, Charlotte Caine still find herself in the midst of murder, only right now the preperator is not a person or vampire that closed to her. Nor that the murder scene is in her haute noir restaurant that cater to both human and vampire alike, the Nightlife. But the victim, Oscar, was a man well known to her, he was also a chef and just left a once in a the lifetime opportunity to be a sole caterer into the wedding of the decade between a witch and vampire. Witch and vampire didn't get along, so the wedding is a surprise. This opportunity will not come twice so Charlotte agree to take over. But the more she knows about the Aldens, the more she thinks that they hide a terrible secrets. Didn't help that Oscar had some connection to the Aldens, and surprisingly that the matriach of the Aldens is also one of the Maddoxes. And Charlotte happen to dating one of them, Brendan Maddox.
Honestly, the mystery is well written, although it got too messy in the end. What I liked in this book is, the writing sure was more refined. Zettel also introduced Charlotte's employer and write them thoroughly. It make sense that they are not the focus in book 1 because Charlotte busy to prove that her little brother, Chet, is not a murderer. In this book, their interactions are part of the book's charm. I also like the way Zettel incorporated cooking business, the kitchen hierarchy and also the way she described of the food are delish they make me drool. Zettel sure know what she write.
Charlotte itself still channeling her inner Nancy Drew, and sadly the reason why she go into the investigation is not as strong as book 1. Like, she just doesn't want people lie to her. Uhh, yeah, a strong reason to start a career as an amateur sleuth. There are some unbelievable moment in the investigation, like how its so convenient for Charlotte to infiltrate Oscar's office because her friend happen to work in here and she didn't have a hard time to enter the office. Also when she investigate the Aldens home when they are out there and the vampire is sleeping and Charlotte just casually strolled in here. Hello, breaking and entering? It's sketchy and awkward because the Aldens happen to be Charlotte's employee.
Another minus point is..the love triangle. Even though Charlotte and Brendan are dating, I don't feel their chemistry because apparently Charlotte still have some feeling for her vampire beau, Anatole Sevarin. Speaking about Anatole, not enough of him sadly. I prefer Anatole to be Charlotte's boyfriend because at least he's charming, not like Brendan who imho can be a little too bland. I get now why people shipping Buffy with Spike. This love triangle also get me annoyed because its clear that Anatole have feeling for Charlotte and Charlotte "might" reciprocate only to see that she choose the safe choice by being with Brendan. Also the end when Anatole decide to not go further kinda rolling my eyes, because come on, the chemistry is off the chart. I found myself liking when Charlotte interact with Anatole rather than with Brendan.
Speaking about Chet, not much about him, and I liked that while in the first Zettel write about the Caine siblings quarrel that still happen after event in book 1, it took some times for them to make amend. I see that Charlotte might be act as mother hen to Chet and it took a hard way for her to realize that because she doesn't like when people lie to her and Chet's betrayal kinda stung. At least, all in well for Caine siblings and their bonds seems to rekindled.
Sadly, Let Them Eat Stake is the last of Vampire Chef mystery despite some things still left unsolved in which my hope to see my Charlotte-Anatole ship to sailing is crushed down. And yeah, Zettel left the story with a promise for more to come.. but sadly, fast forward 10 years later and there's no Vampire Chef Mystery book 3 in the horizon. This book and series have some potential and I would love to see how Charlotte once again try to balance her life, in become both haute noir chef and amateur sleuth in the making.
November 2, 2012
The book opens with Felicity, a friend of Charolotte's, barging in Nightlife's kitchen in tears. She is a wedding and event planner whose chef quit on her with only days till the wedding event of the social pages. Felicity talks Charlotte into stepping in as chef for the wedding of a wealthy witch and a vampire. Dollar signs were in her eyes or she would not have taken a job that Chef Oscar Simmons had run from. Charlotte soon discovers that this isn't just any witch family, it is the Maddox witches, headed-up by grandpa Lloyd Maddox, who has been pushing to deny legal rights to vampires and make killing them legal again.
Then there is a fake ICE raid during one of the dinners at the mansion, supposedly to catch unregistered vampires from the groom's family, but turns out to provide a distraction for the theft of a powerful witch talisman. Then Chef Oscar dies of a stroke, or was it poisoning? On top of that, the bride's family is crazy dysfunctional, with a vengeful sister-of-the-bride and secrets everywhere. Charlotte is up to her eyeballs in this volatile situation. Brendon, her kinda-sorta boyfriend, is on the case too, as well as the golden haired vampire Anatole. Anatole is still trying to woo Charlotte away from Brendon.
Charlotte is developed better in this book. It still bugs me that the character is full figured and dark haired, but the covers insist on a pencil thin blond. Charlotte deals with her relationship with her brother more in this book, realizing that she may be older, but Chet has some things right. That is an interesting break through for her. I liked Chet much better in this book. She is not very successful in resisting Anatole's charms even though she is clearly falling for Brendon. I am not sure about the chances of her relationship with Brendon based on this book. They just don't seem to really connect meaningfully. Brendon needs to have more "page-time" for the reader to get to know him. I enjoyed Charlotte's staff, they are a great group with a lot of potential there. A breakout character is the groom's brother, Jacques, who is a great surprise with some depth.
The mansion of the Bride's family is where the majority of the story unfolds. It adds to the story mostly because it is outside Charlotte's comfort zone. This was a perfect setting to add a few gothic suspense touches, but no.
I did take issue with one scene towards the end of the book. Charlotte has been staying at the mansion so her roommates have not been part of the story on any level. Charlotte stops by her apartment and her roommate gets demanding of her. It seemed completely out of place. Otherwise, the plot kept moving and there were enough suspects and secrets everywhere to be entertaining.
The killer confrontation is devised as a trap for Charlotte that isn't obvious. It was suspenseful and even tragic. The wrap-up has touches of bittersweet, some may need a tissue. It does make me want to read the next book immediately.
For the second entry in a new series, this one tops the debut for drama and twists. This was nicely developed and kept me reading.
Rating: Excellent - Loved it! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list.
Series: 2nd in Vampire Chef Mysteries
Main Characters: Chef Charlotte Caine, Owner of Nightlife Restaurant catering to day-bloods and night-bloods both.
Setting: Modern day, New York City
Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review
Mysteries and My Musings book blog
http://www.mysterysuspence.blogspot.com
Then there is a fake ICE raid during one of the dinners at the mansion, supposedly to catch unregistered vampires from the groom's family, but turns out to provide a distraction for the theft of a powerful witch talisman. Then Chef Oscar dies of a stroke, or was it poisoning? On top of that, the bride's family is crazy dysfunctional, with a vengeful sister-of-the-bride and secrets everywhere. Charlotte is up to her eyeballs in this volatile situation. Brendon, her kinda-sorta boyfriend, is on the case too, as well as the golden haired vampire Anatole. Anatole is still trying to woo Charlotte away from Brendon.
Charlotte is developed better in this book. It still bugs me that the character is full figured and dark haired, but the covers insist on a pencil thin blond. Charlotte deals with her relationship with her brother more in this book, realizing that she may be older, but Chet has some things right. That is an interesting break through for her. I liked Chet much better in this book. She is not very successful in resisting Anatole's charms even though she is clearly falling for Brendon. I am not sure about the chances of her relationship with Brendon based on this book. They just don't seem to really connect meaningfully. Brendon needs to have more "page-time" for the reader to get to know him. I enjoyed Charlotte's staff, they are a great group with a lot of potential there. A breakout character is the groom's brother, Jacques, who is a great surprise with some depth.
The mansion of the Bride's family is where the majority of the story unfolds. It adds to the story mostly because it is outside Charlotte's comfort zone. This was a perfect setting to add a few gothic suspense touches, but no.
I did take issue with one scene towards the end of the book. Charlotte has been staying at the mansion so her roommates have not been part of the story on any level. Charlotte stops by her apartment and her roommate gets demanding of her. It seemed completely out of place. Otherwise, the plot kept moving and there were enough suspects and secrets everywhere to be entertaining.
The killer confrontation is devised as a trap for Charlotte that isn't obvious. It was suspenseful and even tragic. The wrap-up has touches of bittersweet, some may need a tissue. It does make me want to read the next book immediately.
For the second entry in a new series, this one tops the debut for drama and twists. This was nicely developed and kept me reading.
Rating: Excellent - Loved it! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list.
Series: 2nd in Vampire Chef Mysteries
Main Characters: Chef Charlotte Caine, Owner of Nightlife Restaurant catering to day-bloods and night-bloods both.
Setting: Modern day, New York City
Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review
Mysteries and My Musings book blog
http://www.mysterysuspence.blogspot.com
December 30, 2012
About halfway through this book, I got pretty upset. Why, you ask? Because I was enjoying the book so much that I looked up how many others were in the series and discovered there isn't another one after this!!!
I liked the first one in the series quite a bit. This one, however, was bordering on love. Seriously, it was teetering between four and five stars, but I ultimately decided on four because of a small quibble.
This book is almost a perfect read for me: the characters are funny, smart, and relate-able; the dialogue sounds natural and snappy; the writing and descriptions are fun and interesting; the mystery kept me on my toes; the semi-love-triangle wasn't overdone. And, the most important consideration to me: it was FUN. Some mysteries I continue reading because I want to find whodunit. With this book, however, I could have read a whole story just about Charlotte's day-to-day life.
(I just reread what I've written to far and realized that I sound a bit fangirlish, but I'm OK with it. I think this book deserves it.)
My one complaint is that the mystery got really confusing at the end. There were a lot of people involved, and there were a few smaller mysteries that got solved along the way, and you weren't sure if they would or would not relate to the main mystery. I read this over the holidays when there was a lot of hullabaloo going on, which might have been why I found the mystery a bit confusing.
So now I'm impatiently waiting for the third book. I scoped out (aka stalked) the writer's website and all online interviews I could find, and didn't see a mention of any additional books in the series, which has me freaking out a bit! I may have to contact the publisher and ask (aka demand) that the author be contracted for more books!
Note: The author seems to write across many different genres, so I'll probably pick up another one of her books, but the premise of this series was a perfect fit for me (cozy + paranormal = win).
I liked the first one in the series quite a bit. This one, however, was bordering on love. Seriously, it was teetering between four and five stars, but I ultimately decided on four because of a small quibble.
This book is almost a perfect read for me: the characters are funny, smart, and relate-able; the dialogue sounds natural and snappy; the writing and descriptions are fun and interesting; the mystery kept me on my toes; the semi-love-triangle wasn't overdone. And, the most important consideration to me: it was FUN. Some mysteries I continue reading because I want to find whodunit. With this book, however, I could have read a whole story just about Charlotte's day-to-day life.
(I just reread what I've written to far and realized that I sound a bit fangirlish, but I'm OK with it. I think this book deserves it.)
My one complaint is that the mystery got really confusing at the end. There were a lot of people involved, and there were a few smaller mysteries that got solved along the way, and you weren't sure if they would or would not relate to the main mystery. I read this over the holidays when there was a lot of hullabaloo going on, which might have been why I found the mystery a bit confusing.
So now I'm impatiently waiting for the third book. I scoped out (aka stalked) the writer's website and all online interviews I could find, and didn't see a mention of any additional books in the series, which has me freaking out a bit! I may have to contact the publisher and ask (aka demand) that the author be contracted for more books!
Note: The author seems to write across many different genres, so I'll probably pick up another one of her books, but the premise of this series was a perfect fit for me (cozy + paranormal = win).
March 13, 2014
Let Them Eat Stake is the second in this Vampire Chef Mystery series and it was almost as fun to read as the first one. I found the mystery a little convoluted to figure out. In fact, I thought perhaps I was just reading it when I was too tired so I started over when I was almost to the end. I noted many things I'd missed before that tickled me, but I still was a bit confused by the twisty plot. Usually that is a good thing, but it never quite seemed completely explained to me. We still get great details about being a chef and the restaurant cooking world: It's hard for chefs to have a normal relationship because they are "a pack of control freaks with industrial-size egos" with horrible working hours. They rarely wear perfume or cologne; "It's simply not practical. [Their] sense of smell is one of the major tools of [their] trade, and it directly affects the sense of taste. [They] can't be smelling of Chanel No. Zillion when trying to check the seasoning in the soup of the night." And in this installment, we get a peek into the world of catering, in addition to restaurant cooking. "If being a good cook is only part of what makes a successful executive chef, it's even less of what makes a successful caterer. That's all about logistics and proper staffing. What can you get to the space, what can you do in the space, how many people do you need to pull it off, and how much time do you have?" I did enjoy the great cooking details, I had fun with the vampire/witch/human drama, and I liked the bit of romantic tension going on. There was action and mystery and plot twists, even if the plot twisted to complexly for me to figure out.
February 6, 2015
Let Them Eat Stake is the second book in Sarah Zettel’s Vampire Chef series. These Tea Cozy Paranormal Mysteries are quite the fun, light read. Chef Charlotte Cain’s restaurant is starting to go under after her first run in with murder and mystery, and the loss of her brother as financial genius. So, when the opportunity to take on the wedding of the century comes along, Charlotte only hesitates half of a second before agreeing. Plus, she figures she can gain some inside knowledge on why the former Chef quit the extravaganza and a 500 thousand dollar paycheck if she caters the wedding between a vampire and witch.
I really enjoyed Let Them Eat Stake. I thought the plotline was fun and exciting, with a little bit more politics and intrigue than the first book in the series. It is hard to take Chef Cain seriously some times when she recognizes getting involved puts her life in danger, but she does it anyway. But that is what makes it a tea cozy mystery, and I only minded for half a second before I realized most characters in tea cozy mysteries don’t make a whole lotta sense. I mean who finds that many bodies? No one one in real life. Except maybe cops investigating a funeral home.
If you are looking for a fun summer read I recommend picking up the Vampire Chef series.
Read my full review at Absurdly Nerdly
I really enjoyed Let Them Eat Stake. I thought the plotline was fun and exciting, with a little bit more politics and intrigue than the first book in the series. It is hard to take Chef Cain seriously some times when she recognizes getting involved puts her life in danger, but she does it anyway. But that is what makes it a tea cozy mystery, and I only minded for half a second before I realized most characters in tea cozy mysteries don’t make a whole lotta sense. I mean who finds that many bodies? No one one in real life. Except maybe cops investigating a funeral home.
If you are looking for a fun summer read I recommend picking up the Vampire Chef series.
Read my full review at Absurdly Nerdly
November 21, 2012
This is the second book in the Vampire Chef Mystery series, and it's even better than the first one! Vampires, witches and werewolves have been integrated into society, which has inspired Chef Charlotte Caine to open a restaurant that serves vampire haute cuisine as well as fine dining for humans. Having overcome the hurdle of finding a murdered warlock in her restaurant in the last book but still struggling to pay her bills, she thinks her financial woes are over when she is asked to cater what is supposed to be the society wedding of the year because the celebrity chef originally commissioned has quit.
Any misgivings she may have already had because the wedding was between a witch and a vampire - traditional enemies - are amplified when the celebrity chef turns up dead and she suspects his death is linked to his former connection with the wedding. Unable to resist playing Nancy Drew, she works at unraveling the mystery behind his death while dealing with a prominent client's family tensions and the groom's possibly larcenous family all while being somewhat torn between the warlock she is seeing and the vampire she thinks she should NOT be seeing.
The book is witty, flows seamlessly, and kept me guessing until the end who was responsible for poor Chef Oscar's murder! I'd really give it 4 1/2 stars for pure enjoyment! No recipes, but then again, I don't really want one for a bloody sangria.....
Any misgivings she may have already had because the wedding was between a witch and a vampire - traditional enemies - are amplified when the celebrity chef turns up dead and she suspects his death is linked to his former connection with the wedding. Unable to resist playing Nancy Drew, she works at unraveling the mystery behind his death while dealing with a prominent client's family tensions and the groom's possibly larcenous family all while being somewhat torn between the warlock she is seeing and the vampire she thinks she should NOT be seeing.
The book is witty, flows seamlessly, and kept me guessing until the end who was responsible for poor Chef Oscar's murder! I'd really give it 4 1/2 stars for pure enjoyment! No recipes, but then again, I don't really want one for a bloody sangria.....
April 11, 2012
This book started off a bit slow for me, but I'm going to blame outside influences and not the book itself. Once I was able to pick it up and start reading uninterrupted, I didn't put it down again until I was finished. I really liked the mystery, it had a lot of good, solid suspects and I didn't have any idea who the culprit was until it all came together in the end. A couple of smaller sub-plots are nicely interwoven into this story, but it's clear these are story lines that will continue throughout multiple books, without leaving you with a cliffhanger. I really liked the ending as well. I still find Chef Caine to be a little cold, but I enjoy reading about her and the other characters.
June 11, 2012
Let Them Eat Stake is a fun romp into New York society and another mystery for Charlotte, who can't help but channel her Nancy Drew. It shouldn't be missed, be it in the time of the nightbloods or the daybloods.
To prove something is hinky with a vampire/warlock wedding that includes a Maddox clan member, Charlotte will hang on to a job that puts her in a percarious situation again. With the help of Brendan Maddox her delicious warlock and Anatole her scrumpcious vampire, she sticks her nose in where it doesn't always belong to sniff out who done it only to find herself in danger. Who will come to her rescue or will she finally get in over her head?
To prove something is hinky with a vampire/warlock wedding that includes a Maddox clan member, Charlotte will hang on to a job that puts her in a percarious situation again. With the help of Brendan Maddox her delicious warlock and Anatole her scrumpcious vampire, she sticks her nose in where it doesn't always belong to sniff out who done it only to find herself in danger. Who will come to her rescue or will she finally get in over her head?
July 10, 2012
In Zettel’s paranormal mystery, Charlotte Caine, the “Vampire Chef”, has just landed the catering job of all time—the high-profile wedding of an ancient vampire and a wealthy witch. The original chef, Oscar Simmons, walked away for reasons unknown, and Charlotte swoops in even though she suspects this isn’t the most practical job she could take. But it pays and she has bills and decides to take a chance on it. Then Oscar turns up dead, the groom’s family vanishes, and the police start asking questions, and Charlotte realizes this was right up there on the “Worst Ideas” list of the year.
Let Them Eat Stake is great sequel in the A Vampire Chef Mystery series.
Let Them Eat Stake is great sequel in the A Vampire Chef Mystery series.
September 1, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. Love the humor and excitement. I love that Chet had a roll showing what a protector he can be.
I feel for Brandon and having to deal wth his family. I'm glad he has Chef Caine as a friend and more.
Ah, poor Anatole. I was hoping for a three-way, though I figured I was just dreaming.
I hope he comes back to Charlotte. I love Anatole's power, loyalty and friendship with Charlotte and I hope that continues.
Finally , what is Chef Caine gonna do about Melody and how badly is her return going to affect Chet, especially since he's doing so well on his own?
Sigh, I do hate waiting for the next story.
I feel for Brandon and having to deal wth his family. I'm glad he has Chef Caine as a friend and more.
Ah, poor Anatole. I was hoping for a three-way, though I figured I was just dreaming.
I hope he comes back to Charlotte. I love Anatole's power, loyalty and friendship with Charlotte and I hope that continues.
Finally , what is Chef Caine gonna do about Melody and how badly is her return going to affect Chet, especially since he's doing so well on his own?
Sigh, I do hate waiting for the next story.
November 17, 2012
this book was such an easy read and quite hilarious. I mean you can't take a book with such a title too seriously and you need to expect frivolity, which this book had in droves. I followed along reasonably well despite the fact that I haven't read the first in the series, and thats always a good type of series book, where one is able to stand alone and still be enjoyable.
There was some major eye rolling by friends when they saw I was reading this but I wanted to just get the point across that reading is meant to be fun so why not read something like this every once in a while? It was good and I've certainly read worse! Worth a look if you're looking for a light, entertaining read.
There was some major eye rolling by friends when they saw I was reading this but I wanted to just get the point across that reading is meant to be fun so why not read something like this every once in a while? It was good and I've certainly read worse! Worth a look if you're looking for a light, entertaining read.
June 28, 2013
This was another good read in the Vampire Chef series. I would love to give this series more than 3 stars but for some reason the books just seem a little one dimensional to me. There is not the depth needed to make me really love the books. The story line is always interesting but often a little convoluted. Things don't tie together as smoothly as they should. The characters are interesting, but again don't have enough depth to make them really memorable.
I will gladly continue with this series if there are more. But I hope that they author is able to add that something more that seems to be lacking to make it a really great series instead of just a good one.
I will gladly continue with this series if there are more. But I hope that they author is able to add that something more that seems to be lacking to make it a really great series instead of just a good one.
September 23, 2013
Vampire chef, Charlotte Caine, is asked to cater THE wedding of the year between a powerful witch and a vampire after the original chef backs out. Charlotte moves into sleuth mode when the chef dies under mysterious circumstances. The tension between Charlotte and Brendan increases when she discovers that the witchy bride is his cousin. The Maddox family is known for its vampire hunting leaving Charlotte to ponder the upcoming nuptials. A theft from the bride's home throws everyone into a tizzy. The triangle between Charlotte, Brendan and Anatole is still simmering as well. Good follow up to the first book. 3 stars
November 12, 2016
Charlotte runs a restaurant that specializes in dinner dining for humans and vampires. Charlotte becomes involved in a bizarre situation when famous chef drops out of a fancy witch/vampire wedding and she is asked to cater the entire event. Thinking the huge fee is worth it, she takes the job. When a item is stolen from the bride's house, things become crazy. The chef that dropped out of the wedding is found dead, and Charlotte feels obliged to find out what the heck is going on. With a little help from her vampire brother, vampire suitor and warlock 'boyfriend', she is able to uncover the mystery involving the wedding and the death. This is part of a series that is fund to read.
September 16, 2013
Lots going on here. A wedding between a witch and a vampire? Charlotte gets dragged in when the scheduled chef quits. Brendan's family is involved and the whole thing heats up fast. Who's dead? Who is on first, and who is conspiring with whom? Fast paced and full of red herrings, or should I say red stakes? Those who hate triangles will applaud, or maybe hold there breath. Only the next book will tell. (Not me!)Suspense, romance, vampires, warlocks and witches. And and good murder mystery. Dive in!
July 23, 2012
On the one hand I really enjoyed this as a much needed fluffy holiday read. On the other I kept wishing for it to be more than it is, it's so busy being breezy and charming that it didn't bring the depth of world building that I know Zettel can write. Everything is charming and flashy and about 2mm deep. Perfect when that is what you need, but Zettel can bring so much more to the table ( try her scifi! )
June 25, 2012
Great read. A vampire hunting witch heiress is planning to marry a vampire. What could possibly go wrong with this high profile wedding, and why would a vampire hunter marry a vampire? When the first caterer ends up dead more mysteries surrounding the wedding and the two families come out. No one can be trusted, and everyone becomes a suspect. It is up to Chef Cain to put the clues together before she ends up just like the first caterer.
November 3, 2013
The first book dealt more with the vampire end of the setting, this book focuses on the witches. Otherwise it's still much of the same engaging characters, professional chef details, and urban fantasy trappings as the previous book. Still quite enjoyable, and I still have much the same issue with the relative powerlessness of the protagonist against inhuman foes (though she does, IIRC, accomplish more herself in this one than book 1.)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews