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Hart Times Cozy Mysteries #1
High Steaks Murder
Losing a job is hard…
But sometimes telling your family is harder.
When Carolina Hart is abruptly fired, she decides to return to her hometown of Sycamore Ridge, New Mexico after receiving a letter from her uncle asking her to help revive her family’s restaurant.
On her first day at work, she handles a chance encounter with an extremely unpleasant caterer by agreeing to cater an event for the entire town…despite the fact that she doesn’t have a lick of experience.
Carolina’s sticky situation becomes a quagmire when her rival’s assistant is found dead and the rival, who is the primary suspect, actually comes to Carolina, begging for help.
The pressure builds as she prepares to prove herself to the community, all the while working to solve a murder so that her nemesis won’t be jailed for a crime that she didn’t commit.
In the midst of it all, a blast from the past that complicates her investigation significantly, sends Carolina reeling.
Can she crack the case in time to save her family’s business and possibly her life? Find out in this delectable Culinary Cozy Mystery!
But sometimes telling your family is harder.
When Carolina Hart is abruptly fired, she decides to return to her hometown of Sycamore Ridge, New Mexico after receiving a letter from her uncle asking her to help revive her family’s restaurant.
On her first day at work, she handles a chance encounter with an extremely unpleasant caterer by agreeing to cater an event for the entire town…despite the fact that she doesn’t have a lick of experience.
Carolina’s sticky situation becomes a quagmire when her rival’s assistant is found dead and the rival, who is the primary suspect, actually comes to Carolina, begging for help.
The pressure builds as she prepares to prove herself to the community, all the while working to solve a murder so that her nemesis won’t be jailed for a crime that she didn’t commit.
In the midst of it all, a blast from the past that complicates her investigation significantly, sends Carolina reeling.
Can she crack the case in time to save her family’s business and possibly her life? Find out in this delectable Culinary Cozy Mystery!
84 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2023
254 people are currently reading
204 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 28, 2025
Not sure how I feel about this book. It felt like it was over before it even got started! I thought maybe I missed something, but nope. This book felt rushed and it seemed like you barely got to know the characters and the book was done. Will give the next book a chance to see if it reads better.
December 11, 2024
Ok Emma, I have something to say about this book alright. Here that is - it was so short! Ya, that’s my only complaint; however, that doesn’t knock a star off the rating because this book is part of a series. Yay! Plus, I enjoy short books that include an entire story with a plot line, a mystery, and even potential romance. 🥰
This series is definitely different from the other series I read by Emma which is the Razed and Glazed series. I’ve read all the books in that one! This book rotates around a family’s Mexican food restaurant whereas the Razed and Glazed is about donuts, donuts, and more donuts! I love food centered books though, so I love both these series.
Oh! I want to add that I like this introductory read. A lot of times I don’t particularly like the first book in a series because that is when all the characters are introduced and I find that boring, but necessary. It seems we are slowly getting to know everyone and solving a murder in between. Haha.
My hope is that Carolina ends up getting together with Levi because he seems to know her and maybe he even cares for her or he will soon. Levi sure loves Carolina’s family though. It’s sweet.
I actually laid down for a nap just before finishing this and I dreamed that I was living with my mom (we don’t get along because we’re both alpha females) and I was out of a job so I couldn’t move into my own place. Then I knew that I couldn’t afford rent even if I dos get my own place and a job, because rent is so high. Then my mom came in and we argued and I was reminded how I needed OUT! I was so stressed! I’m glad I wins up before it got worse, but it’s obviously a reflection of my own current circumstances because I am actually without a job and can’t find one. However, I own my home and live with my bf and son, so not with my mother.
This book is making me see that I’m not the only one struggling (a though Carolina isn’t a real person).
Next is book 2, “Souped Up Murder.”
See you in my next review.
Deuces to your cabooses!
~ themoodyredhead ✨👩🏻🦰✨
This series is definitely different from the other series I read by Emma which is the Razed and Glazed series. I’ve read all the books in that one! This book rotates around a family’s Mexican food restaurant whereas the Razed and Glazed is about donuts, donuts, and more donuts! I love food centered books though, so I love both these series.
Oh! I want to add that I like this introductory read. A lot of times I don’t particularly like the first book in a series because that is when all the characters are introduced and I find that boring, but necessary. It seems we are slowly getting to know everyone and solving a murder in between. Haha.
My hope is that Carolina ends up getting together with Levi because he seems to know her and maybe he even cares for her or he will soon. Levi sure loves Carolina’s family though. It’s sweet.
I actually laid down for a nap just before finishing this and I dreamed that I was living with my mom (we don’t get along because we’re both alpha females) and I was out of a job so I couldn’t move into my own place. Then I knew that I couldn’t afford rent even if I dos get my own place and a job, because rent is so high. Then my mom came in and we argued and I was reminded how I needed OUT! I was so stressed! I’m glad I wins up before it got worse, but it’s obviously a reflection of my own current circumstances because I am actually without a job and can’t find one. However, I own my home and live with my bf and son, so not with my mother.
This book is making me see that I’m not the only one struggling (a though Carolina isn’t a real person).
Next is book 2, “Souped Up Murder.”
See you in my next review.
Deuces to your cabooses!
~ themoodyredhead ✨👩🏻🦰✨
June 1, 2023
This was a fun start for a new series by an author whose cozy mysteries I’ve really come to love, so of course when I saw this in KU, I had to grab it. It made for a nice morning read. Carolina’s a great main character and doesn’t take lip from anyone, but that’s what it’ll take for her to turn her uncle’s business around. Carolina was pretty good at sleuthing things out which made her what-she-thought-was-her-ex-husband now sheriff actually act like she’d done a good job.
I really liked Marissa and how she helped her cousin find a place to buy and call her own. The two men in Carolina’s life (prep cook Levi and sorta ex Billy, the sheriff), well it kinda remains to be seen whose team I’m on for any interest she shows. I need more books to tell me more about what they’re like, although I do like Levi so far lol. Can’t wait to borrow and read the next book and see what kinds of catering wars Carolina and her competitor get into!
I really liked Marissa and how she helped her cousin find a place to buy and call her own. The two men in Carolina’s life (prep cook Levi and sorta ex Billy, the sheriff), well it kinda remains to be seen whose team I’m on for any interest she shows. I need more books to tell me more about what they’re like, although I do like Levi so far lol. Can’t wait to borrow and read the next book and see what kinds of catering wars Carolina and her competitor get into!
August 19, 2024
Enjoyable! Entertaining!!
Although this is the first book in this series, I started with book 13, and am now working my way back to the beginning. I have to admit I almost stopped reading due to the character of Jocelyn, an obnoxious piece of work if ever there was one. She only appeared briefly near the end of book 13, but here in book 1 she made my blood boil! And I wasn't a fan of Levi either. But since he and Carolina whom I liked immediately were on good terms in the only book I read it must mean he turns out to be ok. (that's what I get by starting at the end instead of the beginning) 😀
I'm glad I decided to finish this book, the story flows easily from one chapter to the next. Mouth watering food descriptions and now I'm curious about Levi and what makes him who and what he is. On to book 2!
Although this is the first book in this series, I started with book 13, and am now working my way back to the beginning. I have to admit I almost stopped reading due to the character of Jocelyn, an obnoxious piece of work if ever there was one. She only appeared briefly near the end of book 13, but here in book 1 she made my blood boil! And I wasn't a fan of Levi either. But since he and Carolina whom I liked immediately were on good terms in the only book I read it must mean he turns out to be ok. (that's what I get by starting at the end instead of the beginning) 😀
I'm glad I decided to finish this book, the story flows easily from one chapter to the next. Mouth watering food descriptions and now I'm curious about Levi and what makes him who and what he is. On to book 2!
May 30, 2023
Kindle Copy for Review
Recently fired Carolyn gets a letter from her uncle to revive the family restaurant. So ends up in New Mexico to start over.
Things are off to a peachy start when a les than friendly encounter with a caterer. Soon the rival assistance is found murder. Nothing says a warm homecoming than a cold body.
She decides that the less than friendly person did not do in her assistant as she tries ro solve the case. But things are not always what it seems, as she becomes the next target.
A fun new food cozy to savour.
Recently fired Carolyn gets a letter from her uncle to revive the family restaurant. So ends up in New Mexico to start over.
Things are off to a peachy start when a les than friendly encounter with a caterer. Soon the rival assistance is found murder. Nothing says a warm homecoming than a cold body.
She decides that the less than friendly person did not do in her assistant as she tries ro solve the case. But things are not always what it seems, as she becomes the next target.
A fun new food cozy to savour.
February 18, 2024
I like the title of this mystery--High Steaks Murder! Although it's much shorter than the mysteries I usually read, it was a fun quick read. Forty year old Carolina Hart leaves Jackson Hole, Wyoming and returns to Sycamore Ridge, New Mexico to help out in the Hart Family Restaurant. She ends up agreeing to cater an event even though she has no experience. Her competition's assistant is found dead and the sheriff is her ex-husband Billy Sanchez. This first book in the series sets the tone for more adventures to come!
April 24, 2024
Promising start
3.75 stars
The focus of this cozy was more about setting up the series than the actual mystery. The series seems to be promising. There was plenty of potential between the characters and the relationship complications. I really enjoyed that aspect of the story and looking forward to seeing how it plays if the future.
The mystery was decent. There weren’t a lot of twists and turns. It was more straight forward, but it wasn’t bad. I just wanted a little more of it. It was almost an afterthought in the grand scheme of things.
3.75 stars
The focus of this cozy was more about setting up the series than the actual mystery. The series seems to be promising. There was plenty of potential between the characters and the relationship complications. I really enjoyed that aspect of the story and looking forward to seeing how it plays if the future.
The mystery was decent. There weren’t a lot of twists and turns. It was more straight forward, but it wasn’t bad. I just wanted a little more of it. It was almost an afterthought in the grand scheme of things.
December 11, 2023
This is the first in the series. The main character is Carolina. She left her home town 15 years ago and has returned after she was fired, to help run the family diner. The first few hours there she suddenly decides they need to start a catering business. She is almost broke after getting most of what she need s to start the side business. There is also a murder and she may be of some help there. This is a quick little story but I loved it.
June 2, 2023
Great start to a new series. This book has all the ingredients to become a delicious morsel of murder. The story was well written and the mystery while not overly complicated kept me guessing. I loved the characters and the interactions between those I’m pretty sure will be regulars. You won’t be sorry if you give this book a try!
August 26, 2023
The first book in a promising series
Carolina returns home from Jackson Hole to help her family restaurant and falls into a fight with a local caterer. She takes on an awards banquet job feeding 200 people and then must scramble to pull it off. Lots of twists and turns with a surprise ending. A fun read.
Carolina returns home from Jackson Hole to help her family restaurant and falls into a fight with a local caterer. She takes on an awards banquet job feeding 200 people and then must scramble to pull it off. Lots of twists and turns with a surprise ending. A fun read.
May 30, 2023
Enjoyable
Good first book in a new series. A light, fun & fast paced cozy mystery. Original background for the main character & a beautiful desert setting. Looking forward to seeing how this series progresses.
Good first book in a new series. A light, fun & fast paced cozy mystery. Original background for the main character & a beautiful desert setting. Looking forward to seeing how this series progresses.
July 16, 2023
High Steaks Murder (1)
I just began reading another series! This one is called Hart Times Cozy Mysteries! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. It has great characters and the ambiance to boot!
I just began reading another series! This one is called Hart Times Cozy Mysteries! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. It has great characters and the ambiance to boot!
November 30, 2023
HIGH STEAKS MURDER has nothing to do with steaks, but it’s a nice, clean murder mystery. The mystery is buried in the story of a woman who comes home to help her family with their restaurant and ends up starting a catering business. Gently entertaining.
February 8, 2024
Entertaining
Sometimes one must reach an end to be motivated to start something new. Being pink-slipped after a successful career and a plea for help from the family motivates this woman to return to her home town. This is her adventurous story.
Sometimes one must reach an end to be motivated to start something new. Being pink-slipped after a successful career and a plea for help from the family motivates this woman to return to her home town. This is her adventurous story.
June 20, 2024
A fun Whodunit read
The title says it all. A light small town mystery with the cast to go with it. An easy to fall in read that keeps you interested until it's over too fast. And you're hooked. Ready for the next one!
The title says it all. A light small town mystery with the cast to go with it. An easy to fall in read that keeps you interested until it's over too fast. And you're hooked. Ready for the next one!
December 12, 2025
Loose one job get another better job
What a great reason to have to go back home. Even better her family needs her. Now if she can just not get too involved with her ex and the competition in the catering industry, all should be well. Ok on to the next mystery story..
What a great reason to have to go back home. Even better her family needs her. Now if she can just not get too involved with her ex and the competition in the catering industry, all should be well. Ok on to the next mystery story..
May 30, 2023
Great book
This is a great start to a new series by Emma Ainsley. I love all of the characters so far and can't wait for the next book.
This is a great start to a new series by Emma Ainsley. I love all of the characters so far and can't wait for the next book.
June 29, 2023
Great new series. Characters are interesting and likable. This is a fast paced cozy mystery with all the right elements. I look forward to reading the next book.
July 4, 2023
Great new series. I am enjoying the characters very much.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
August 17, 2023
like the new series very much
I like this new series. Not so long that you forget the original plot ( like so many other books). Highly recommend!
I like this new series. Not so long that you forget the original plot ( like so many other books). Highly recommend!
October 29, 2023
Good first book
It would have been good if the author included recipes in the book. The main character Carolina was good yes.
It would have been good if the author included recipes in the book. The main character Carolina was good yes.
November 21, 2023
Too short!
December 28, 2023
Sizzling mystery
I absolutely enjoyed all the small town squabbling, bickering, and sizzling food talk in this restaurant cozy mystery. Good fun!
I absolutely enjoyed all the small town squabbling, bickering, and sizzling food talk in this restaurant cozy mystery. Good fun!
January 18, 2024
Good story! Interesting .
I enjoyed the story .it was short and not a lot of extra fluff to take away from the story.
I enjoyed the story .it was short and not a lot of extra fluff to take away from the story.
April 22, 2024
i’m finna DEVOUR this series (kinda sad that i started with the last book but it’s ok🫠)
May 11, 2024
Cute little quick read! I didn’t even see it coming! Super glad I took a chance and spent the afternoon with this story!
August 15, 2024
Who killed Paul and why??? Cameras really help, don't they??? I enjoyed this story and recommended the book.
August 23, 2024
Cute storyline.
This is a fast read with a cute storyline. I enjoyed it. I am already starting on the second book in this series.
This is a fast read with a cute storyline. I enjoyed it. I am already starting on the second book in this series.
November 21, 2024
A good clean book!
I enjoyed it completely. I recommend it to anyone who especially likes good clean reading. Now on to the next one in this series.
I enjoyed it completely. I recommend it to anyone who especially likes good clean reading. Now on to the next one in this series.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews