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Key West Food Critic Mystery #6
Fatal Reservations
In the latest Key West Food Critic mystery, Hayley Snow’s beat is reviewing restaurants for Key Zest magazine. But she sets aside her knife and fork when a dear friend is accused of murder…
Hayley Snow looks forward to reviewing For Goodness Sake, a new floating restaurant that promises a fresh take on Japanese delicacies like flambéed grouper with locally sourced seaweed. But nearby land-based restaurateurs would rather see their buoyant competition sink.
Sent to a City Commission meeting to cover the controversy, Hayley witnesses another uproar. The quirky performers of the daily Sunset Celebration are struggling to hold onto their performance space. The fight for Mallory Square has renewed old rivalries between Hayley’s Tarot-card reading friend Lorenzo and a flaming-fork-juggling nemesis, Bart Frontgate—but things take a deadly turn when Bart is found murdered.
If Lorenzo could read his own cards, he might draw The Hanged Man. He can only hope that Hayley draws Justice as she tries to clear him of murder…
INCLUDES RECIPES
Hayley Snow looks forward to reviewing For Goodness Sake, a new floating restaurant that promises a fresh take on Japanese delicacies like flambéed grouper with locally sourced seaweed. But nearby land-based restaurateurs would rather see their buoyant competition sink.
Sent to a City Commission meeting to cover the controversy, Hayley witnesses another uproar. The quirky performers of the daily Sunset Celebration are struggling to hold onto their performance space. The fight for Mallory Square has renewed old rivalries between Hayley’s Tarot-card reading friend Lorenzo and a flaming-fork-juggling nemesis, Bart Frontgate—but things take a deadly turn when Bart is found murdered.
If Lorenzo could read his own cards, he might draw The Hanged Man. He can only hope that Hayley draws Justice as she tries to clear him of murder…
INCLUDES RECIPES
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 7, 2015
139 people are currently reading
1145 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Burdette
23 books831 followersLucy Burdette is the author of the Key West food critic mysteries. Her first thriller, UNSAFE HAVEN, is out from Severn House this month. As Roberta Isleib, she has also written the golf lovers mystery series and the advice column mysteries. Her books and stories have been nominated for Agatha, Anthony, and Macavity awards. She is the president of the Friends of the Key West Library.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
May 13, 2024
This was another great mystery in an entertaining cozy mystery series. Hayley once again defies the authorities by getting involved in a murder investigation, but she has good reason, as her friend Lorenzo has been arrested for the crime. The charming Miss Gloria tags along also and is a delight, as always. A fun and recommended series with great characters and a wonderful setting.
September 4, 2021
Another great trip to Key West
I really like Hayley. She is a great MC and she had a lot going on in this book. The mystery was good and kept me guessing. The ending was exciting in more ways than one. Looking forward to seeing what happens next.
I really like Hayley. She is a great MC and she had a lot going on in this book. The mystery was good and kept me guessing. The ending was exciting in more ways than one. Looking forward to seeing what happens next.
June 19, 2015
Fatal Reservations is the sixth book in the Key West Food Critic Mystery series, and, my vicarious sixth vacation to Key West via Lucy Burdette's spot-on description of this favorite dream vacation of mine. I read a lot of cozy mysteries and I enjoy a majority of them. There are a small number of mysteries that when the sequel is read you immediately recognize that you’ve missed that series and the adventures captured within the written pages. The Key West Food Critic Mystery books are a part of one of those series. I can visualize being a tourist visiting Key West from the descriptions, a vibrant city that “never sleeps”, similar to New York only with an amazing climate! Haley Snow, the main character, makes Ms. Burdette’s love of Key West shine brightly. Like other tropical paradise locals, Key West, also, has its share of challenges. The current challenge revolves around a new floating restaurant in Key West. It appears this floating food venue, For Goodness Sake, is not bound to the same laws and regulations the govern land based establishments. This discrepancy causes an uproar at a city commission meeting. Couple that injustice with a group of rowdy, disruptive street performers and you face a volatile situation.
Haley Snow is the food critic for the Key West publication, Key Zest. Miss Gloria, Hayley’s roommate, and Haley comprise a unique, quirky crime fighting/solving duo. Lorenzo, a tarot card reader, is one of Haley’s trusted friends, failed to see misfortune lurking becomes the primary suspect when one of the street performers, Bart Frontgate, is killed. As Lorenzo’s story continues to change, will Haley and Ms. Gloria continue to trust and believe him? It is impossible for Haley and Ms. Gloria to obey the KWPD warning and “stay out of their investigation”. Regardless of the warning of the local KWPD, Hayley and Miss Gloria work diligently to prove Lorenzo’s innocence. Unfortunately, there are a several roadblocks in which all of the evidence points to Lorenzo. There are personal stories woven through the well plotted tale of murder and mayhem that keeps the reader guessing. Ms. Burdette graciously integrates Haley’s attempts to establish her independence despite the curve balls thrown by her family, friends, employer and her ability to stumble upon murder victims. I am also aware of the subtle reminders about Haley’s love of food, both eating it and reviewing it, it is refreshingly not a major factor in the stories or a vehicle to get sympathy for, or a laugh at Haley’s expense. . Friendship is of utmost importance to Haley, as are sharing good meals, caring for pets and sharing tidbits of hard earned wisdom. I would love to visit Key West and share a meal with Haley.
The more I read this series, the more I love it. This book exemplifies Ms. Burdette's laid back Key West classic style. I enjoy being back in Key West with Hayley and her friends...and the food. The food descriptions and recipes are all sound delicious. I especially love all the quotes that start every chapter. The book inspired me to do some baking today. I tried the recipe for Nocciolata Fudge which my family enjoyed. This book is a great addition to the series. Even though there is no need to read the first five books in this series to enjoy this one, after you read this one, you will want to read the others. I look forward to the next installment in this charming, delightful cozy mystery series.
I received a complimentary advanced review copy of this book (won in a drawing) in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this review are my own
Haley Snow is the food critic for the Key West publication, Key Zest. Miss Gloria, Hayley’s roommate, and Haley comprise a unique, quirky crime fighting/solving duo. Lorenzo, a tarot card reader, is one of Haley’s trusted friends, failed to see misfortune lurking becomes the primary suspect when one of the street performers, Bart Frontgate, is killed. As Lorenzo’s story continues to change, will Haley and Ms. Gloria continue to trust and believe him? It is impossible for Haley and Ms. Gloria to obey the KWPD warning and “stay out of their investigation”. Regardless of the warning of the local KWPD, Hayley and Miss Gloria work diligently to prove Lorenzo’s innocence. Unfortunately, there are a several roadblocks in which all of the evidence points to Lorenzo. There are personal stories woven through the well plotted tale of murder and mayhem that keeps the reader guessing. Ms. Burdette graciously integrates Haley’s attempts to establish her independence despite the curve balls thrown by her family, friends, employer and her ability to stumble upon murder victims. I am also aware of the subtle reminders about Haley’s love of food, both eating it and reviewing it, it is refreshingly not a major factor in the stories or a vehicle to get sympathy for, or a laugh at Haley’s expense. . Friendship is of utmost importance to Haley, as are sharing good meals, caring for pets and sharing tidbits of hard earned wisdom. I would love to visit Key West and share a meal with Haley.
The more I read this series, the more I love it. This book exemplifies Ms. Burdette's laid back Key West classic style. I enjoy being back in Key West with Hayley and her friends...and the food. The food descriptions and recipes are all sound delicious. I especially love all the quotes that start every chapter. The book inspired me to do some baking today. I tried the recipe for Nocciolata Fudge which my family enjoyed. This book is a great addition to the series. Even though there is no need to read the first five books in this series to enjoy this one, after you read this one, you will want to read the others. I look forward to the next installment in this charming, delightful cozy mystery series.
I received a complimentary advanced review copy of this book (won in a drawing) in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this review are my own
July 6, 2015
If the Key West Food Critic Mystery series was food, it would be Key Lime Cake prepared by the chef at Firefly Restaurant in Key West, a dessert that just happens to be the most delicious, refreshing piece of eating that one's mouth could savor. I truly come close to squealing with delight when each new book in this series deals with a different part of Key West that I have personally visited. But, you needn't have visited Key West to enjoy these tasty morsels, because author Lucy Burdette creates a vivid picture that ensconces you into the atmosphere and geography of this island paradise, a paradise full of colorful people/characters and a bit of murder on the side.
In Fatal Reservations, Haley Snow, the food critic at Key Zest magazine and character who seems to always find herself in the middle of police business, is getting used to a new boss, Palamina Wells, at the online magazine, while dating her other boss, Wally, there. Never a dull or uncomplicated moment with Haley, she is in the midst of gearing up to review Key West's new restaurant, a floating restaurant named For Goodness Sake, and she's keeping a watchful eye on her boathouse roommate, eighty-year-old Miss Gloria, who is a new volunteer at the Key West Cemetery. Attending a city commission meeting over the controversy of the new restaurant bypassing certain regulations to which other land restaurants had to adhere. The meeting also brings up another issue, the problem of allotting spaces to the Mallory Square Sunset Celebration performers. It's a heated situation, and with the identification of a body that just washed up in brackish water as one of the Mallory Square performers, everyone is on edge. When Haley's good friend whom she frequently consults, Lorenzo the tarot card-reader of Sunset Celebration fame, becomes the prime suspect in the murder, Haley must once again take matters into her own hands to try and help him. If only so much evidence didn't point to him as guilty.
Lucy Burdette has created a series that I have come to depend on as a guaranteed great read. The characters, the plots, the setting, the witty dialogue, and the food. Oh, the food! I consider these books my guide to eating in Key West, and I haven't been disappointed. And, then there is Haley's fabulous cooking, for which Lucy so generously provides recipes at the end of the story. It's with anticipation I open each new book, and with great joy I read each page. The latest adventurous mystery with the great title of Fatal Reservations will charm you and thrill you with the best Key West has to offer.
In Fatal Reservations, Haley Snow, the food critic at Key Zest magazine and character who seems to always find herself in the middle of police business, is getting used to a new boss, Palamina Wells, at the online magazine, while dating her other boss, Wally, there. Never a dull or uncomplicated moment with Haley, she is in the midst of gearing up to review Key West's new restaurant, a floating restaurant named For Goodness Sake, and she's keeping a watchful eye on her boathouse roommate, eighty-year-old Miss Gloria, who is a new volunteer at the Key West Cemetery. Attending a city commission meeting over the controversy of the new restaurant bypassing certain regulations to which other land restaurants had to adhere. The meeting also brings up another issue, the problem of allotting spaces to the Mallory Square Sunset Celebration performers. It's a heated situation, and with the identification of a body that just washed up in brackish water as one of the Mallory Square performers, everyone is on edge. When Haley's good friend whom she frequently consults, Lorenzo the tarot card-reader of Sunset Celebration fame, becomes the prime suspect in the murder, Haley must once again take matters into her own hands to try and help him. If only so much evidence didn't point to him as guilty.
Lucy Burdette has created a series that I have come to depend on as a guaranteed great read. The characters, the plots, the setting, the witty dialogue, and the food. Oh, the food! I consider these books my guide to eating in Key West, and I haven't been disappointed. And, then there is Haley's fabulous cooking, for which Lucy so generously provides recipes at the end of the story. It's with anticipation I open each new book, and with great joy I read each page. The latest adventurous mystery with the great title of Fatal Reservations will charm you and thrill you with the best Key West has to offer.
November 17, 2021
Fatal Reservations is the 6th installment in the Key West Food Critic mystery series. Like earlier books in this series, this one got of to a slow start. Once it picked up the story moved along smoothly. The Key Zest is under new management. Palomina Wells is the new boss and she is turning out to be more hands on than Hayley likes. In between sleuthing, Hayley manages to turn in her assignments on time.
I have to confess that I love the recipes at the end of the books. Also this series has the best cover art!
I have to confess that I love the recipes at the end of the books. Also this series has the best cover art!
July 6, 2015
In “Fatal Reservations,” Lucy Burdette’s latest, fast-paced addition to the Key West Food Critic Mysteries, Hayley Snow is preparing another tasty restaurant review. But when her tarot card-reading friend Lorenzo finds himself accused of murder, Hayley must find a way to prove his innocence, and fast.
Scrappy food critic for local publication Key Zest, Hayley is struggling to make her romantic relationship succeed, prove her worth to the new boss, and keep dear Miss Gloria out of trouble. As Hayley works to prove Lorenzo’s innocence—and avoid becoming the real murderer’s the next victim!—readers are treated to delicious descriptions of local cuisine, a fresh-off-the-boat plot, and a full plate of colorful characters.
“Fatal Reservations” is the best Key West Food Critic Mystery yet, and each is amazing. Burdette provides another heaping helping of Key West color woven expertly into a menu of bitter rivalries, tangled relationships, and murder. Witty, tightly written, and deliciously twisted, “Fatal Reservations” will leave readers completely satisfied. (Release date: July 7, 2015)
Scrappy food critic for local publication Key Zest, Hayley is struggling to make her romantic relationship succeed, prove her worth to the new boss, and keep dear Miss Gloria out of trouble. As Hayley works to prove Lorenzo’s innocence—and avoid becoming the real murderer’s the next victim!—readers are treated to delicious descriptions of local cuisine, a fresh-off-the-boat plot, and a full plate of colorful characters.
“Fatal Reservations” is the best Key West Food Critic Mystery yet, and each is amazing. Burdette provides another heaping helping of Key West color woven expertly into a menu of bitter rivalries, tangled relationships, and murder. Witty, tightly written, and deliciously twisted, “Fatal Reservations” will leave readers completely satisfied. (Release date: July 7, 2015)
July 6, 2015
It's time for me to head back on my annual trip to my favorite foodie paradise, a place called Key West for a visit with my favorite Key West Food Critic, Hayley Snow, Lorenzo, the tarot card reader, a gentle soul in Hayley's opinion. Of coarse the local police are not far behind. There's tension in the air over a opening of a new floating restaurant, with a charming name, For Goodness Sake serving Japanese fare. A restaurant on the water. It has another restaurant owner of Bistro on the Bight on the island, up in arms in fear of a little competition.
At the city commission meeting where they debated the new floating restaurant debacle a different kind of problem was discussed and witnessed by Hayley and the whole of Key West and this problem had residents, the preformers of the Sunset Celebration are fighting to keep their preformance space and the struggle becomes so bad that a murder of the fork juggling preformer and another Key West resident sends the people of Key West in a tail spin. When Hayley's friend the tarot card reader is arrested for the murder is nothing but misery in the cards for Lorenzo but Haley must have the power of the cards on her side when seeking justice for one of her dear friends that has been her spirit guide through life.
Hayley is one of my all time favorite characters, her passion for food, eating and reviewing it for Key Zest Magazine. You can't help but love Hayley's passion and determination. There's trouble in paradise for Hayley and the magazine owner, Wally when their relationship starts to deteriorate before Hayley's eyes. It may be time for Hayley and Wally to put their romance on the preferable back burner. But all is not lost for her when something happens that I found myself rooting for from the very beginning. Complete with delectable food descriptions, my favorite moments are always when Hayley is cooking or in a restaurant eating and reviewing.
Author Lucy Burdette's love for food and mystery shows through her writing. With a dash of murder Hayley's life wouldn't be complete with out a little mayhem mixed in. Imagine yourself sitting down in one of your favorite restaurants and your mouth is watering as you scan the menu to find your very favorite meal, you order it and time seems to drag by while waiting for it but when it's set down in front of you, Fatal Reservations is a feast for your senses just like your very favorite meal at a restaurant . I cannot continue to come up with enough adjectives that describe how much I loved this book and this series and I can't wait for my next to trip to Key West to be with Hayley once again.
FTC Disclosure: Thank you to the publisher for providing me a copy of this book for review.This did not influence my thoughts in any way. All the opinions of the book and review are my own and my reviews are honest.
At the city commission meeting where they debated the new floating restaurant debacle a different kind of problem was discussed and witnessed by Hayley and the whole of Key West and this problem had residents, the preformers of the Sunset Celebration are fighting to keep their preformance space and the struggle becomes so bad that a murder of the fork juggling preformer and another Key West resident sends the people of Key West in a tail spin. When Hayley's friend the tarot card reader is arrested for the murder is nothing but misery in the cards for Lorenzo but Haley must have the power of the cards on her side when seeking justice for one of her dear friends that has been her spirit guide through life.
Hayley is one of my all time favorite characters, her passion for food, eating and reviewing it for Key Zest Magazine. You can't help but love Hayley's passion and determination. There's trouble in paradise for Hayley and the magazine owner, Wally when their relationship starts to deteriorate before Hayley's eyes. It may be time for Hayley and Wally to put their romance on the preferable back burner. But all is not lost for her when something happens that I found myself rooting for from the very beginning. Complete with delectable food descriptions, my favorite moments are always when Hayley is cooking or in a restaurant eating and reviewing.
Author Lucy Burdette's love for food and mystery shows through her writing. With a dash of murder Hayley's life wouldn't be complete with out a little mayhem mixed in. Imagine yourself sitting down in one of your favorite restaurants and your mouth is watering as you scan the menu to find your very favorite meal, you order it and time seems to drag by while waiting for it but when it's set down in front of you, Fatal Reservations is a feast for your senses just like your very favorite meal at a restaurant . I cannot continue to come up with enough adjectives that describe how much I loved this book and this series and I can't wait for my next to trip to Key West to be with Hayley once again.
FTC Disclosure: Thank you to the publisher for providing me a copy of this book for review.This did not influence my thoughts in any way. All the opinions of the book and review are my own and my reviews are honest.
July 5, 2015
Fatal Reservations by Lucy Burdette
The 6th book in the Key West Food Critic Mystery series
There's a new floating restaurant in Key West, but it's causing a commotion at the city commission meeting, as it seems not to be bound to the same constraints as its on land competition. Add an unruly group of street performers to a volatile meeting and you have a recipe for disaster. Hayley's friend and confidant, the tarot reader Lorenzo, didn't see bad fortune lurking and when a fellow street performer winds up dead Lorenzo becomes the main suspect and flees town. Is Hayley right to believe in him? Even when his story keeps changing?
Truths will come out.
The life of a psychic: able to see and read others, but unable to foretell his own future. Hayley has always relied on Lorenzo to guide her when faced with a crisis. In Fatal Reservations, however, Lorenzo is the one facing a crisis. Although Hayley wants to believe in him, and help him, Lorenzo's actions belie his innocence. Why run? As hard evidence begins to stack up against him, even Hayley has to wonder if her trust could possibly be misplaced. As Hayley discovers she really doesn't know much about Lorenzo, is she right to stand up for him?
With her mother back in wintry New Jersey caring for Sam, Wally acting more like a non-boyfriend, and her roomie, Miss Gloria, caught up with her own friends and new hobby, Hayley finds herself more alone than ever.
I enjoy being back in Key West with Hayley and her friends...and the food. Fatal Reservations is a wonderful addition to the series. Lucy Burdette brings the charm of Key West, but doesn't hide its dark side and faults as well. The popular fun tourist attractions can have a seedy underbelly. The author also has us question what we know. Are people really what they seem? Should we stay with the comfortable or reach for something better. What is worth the risk? Lucy Burdette combines cozy fun with the gritty details of life, past and present, with a hopeful look to the future showing us that how we deal with past crises can color our world, either positively or negatively. How will you see your world?
Recipes included.
The 6th book in the Key West Food Critic Mystery series
There's a new floating restaurant in Key West, but it's causing a commotion at the city commission meeting, as it seems not to be bound to the same constraints as its on land competition. Add an unruly group of street performers to a volatile meeting and you have a recipe for disaster. Hayley's friend and confidant, the tarot reader Lorenzo, didn't see bad fortune lurking and when a fellow street performer winds up dead Lorenzo becomes the main suspect and flees town. Is Hayley right to believe in him? Even when his story keeps changing?
Truths will come out.
The life of a psychic: able to see and read others, but unable to foretell his own future. Hayley has always relied on Lorenzo to guide her when faced with a crisis. In Fatal Reservations, however, Lorenzo is the one facing a crisis. Although Hayley wants to believe in him, and help him, Lorenzo's actions belie his innocence. Why run? As hard evidence begins to stack up against him, even Hayley has to wonder if her trust could possibly be misplaced. As Hayley discovers she really doesn't know much about Lorenzo, is she right to stand up for him?
With her mother back in wintry New Jersey caring for Sam, Wally acting more like a non-boyfriend, and her roomie, Miss Gloria, caught up with her own friends and new hobby, Hayley finds herself more alone than ever.
I enjoy being back in Key West with Hayley and her friends...and the food. Fatal Reservations is a wonderful addition to the series. Lucy Burdette brings the charm of Key West, but doesn't hide its dark side and faults as well. The popular fun tourist attractions can have a seedy underbelly. The author also has us question what we know. Are people really what they seem? Should we stay with the comfortable or reach for something better. What is worth the risk? Lucy Burdette combines cozy fun with the gritty details of life, past and present, with a hopeful look to the future showing us that how we deal with past crises can color our world, either positively or negatively. How will you see your world?
Recipes included.
June 19, 2015
Fatal Reservations by Lucy Burdette
Fun, food, friends!
So sad to finish reading the latest Key West adventure, I don’t want to leave . . . but my mind is still full of the mad whirl and my appetite is whetted by the food. I deliberately finished reading before going to bed, and even with the last page read, I found myself awake, re-playing the inter-laced dramas of the deceivers’ tangled webs, and the myriad connections that helped sort through the lies. Ah, a satisfying mystery!
I could picture Key West from the lush descriptions, which made me want to visit. I want to hear Miss Gloria’s lecture on cemetery history and watch cats at the Sunset Celebration. The beautiful cover art pulls one right into the beauty of that sunset and the promise of an excellent restaurant meal.
Hayley Snow’s livelihood is writing restaurant reviews, and her love of food extends to skilled cooking to fill so many needs . . .
“. . .would it send the message of love and care, without appearing needy . . . a lot to ask of any cake.”
“oatmeal cookies simply couldn’t . . . shoulder the same emotional load as organic hazelnut fudge sprinkled with pink sea salt.” (I want some, and the recipe is included).
Most important in her life is friendship. If I’m ever in a serious situation, I want a friend like Hayley to . . .
“understand . . . how important it was to stand up for your friends . . . “
despite doubts, “Did I know who anyone really was?”
True friends help however they can, stepping around technical difficulties like, “I’m sure he’s not supposed to tell me anything about his customers,” if the welfare of a friend is involved.
These are real friends, sharing meals, caring for pets, and imparting bits of wisdom: “Don’t you know life is a series of adaptations?”
“I’d only waste more time if I obsessed about it . . .”
I can hardly wait for the next book!
Fun, food, friends!
So sad to finish reading the latest Key West adventure, I don’t want to leave . . . but my mind is still full of the mad whirl and my appetite is whetted by the food. I deliberately finished reading before going to bed, and even with the last page read, I found myself awake, re-playing the inter-laced dramas of the deceivers’ tangled webs, and the myriad connections that helped sort through the lies. Ah, a satisfying mystery!
I could picture Key West from the lush descriptions, which made me want to visit. I want to hear Miss Gloria’s lecture on cemetery history and watch cats at the Sunset Celebration. The beautiful cover art pulls one right into the beauty of that sunset and the promise of an excellent restaurant meal.
Hayley Snow’s livelihood is writing restaurant reviews, and her love of food extends to skilled cooking to fill so many needs . . .
“. . .would it send the message of love and care, without appearing needy . . . a lot to ask of any cake.”
“oatmeal cookies simply couldn’t . . . shoulder the same emotional load as organic hazelnut fudge sprinkled with pink sea salt.” (I want some, and the recipe is included).
Most important in her life is friendship. If I’m ever in a serious situation, I want a friend like Hayley to . . .
“understand . . . how important it was to stand up for your friends . . . “
despite doubts, “Did I know who anyone really was?”
True friends help however they can, stepping around technical difficulties like, “I’m sure he’s not supposed to tell me anything about his customers,” if the welfare of a friend is involved.
These are real friends, sharing meals, caring for pets, and imparting bits of wisdom: “Don’t you know life is a series of adaptations?”
“I’d only waste more time if I obsessed about it . . .”
I can hardly wait for the next book!
July 9, 2015
This is Book#6 in the series and I have read Book#1 which gave me the background for this book, and the others are in my TBR stack. Hayley writes for a food magazine in Key West, Florida and lives on a houseboat with her 80 something roommate, Miss Gloria and two cats. This book focuses on her friendship with Tarot Card reader, Lorenzo, and the street performers on the island. You get to meet and mingle with the local food places and owners, while traveling over the scenic island. Lorenzo is accused of murdering a fellow street performer which puts Hayley in the position of pushing her friends on the local police force to find the right killer. Miss Gloria is training to be a history guide at the local cemetery which leads to Hayley finding a second body that connects to the first murder. I like how well developed and realistic all the characters and the scenic background descriptions pull you in and make you feel like you live right there, right now. Now to the murder plot. This is one of the very best that I have read. It is well developed, fleshed out with plenty of clues and so twisted that every time I thought I might know who done it, I got surprised again by the next twist. The ending shows how well a murder can be complicated, just like Hayley's romantic entanglements. I am definitely reading the prior books and can't wait for the next installment. This is a must read for any cozy or murder fan.
I won this book as a prize in a giveaway and this is my fair and honest review of it.
I won this book as a prize in a giveaway and this is my fair and honest review of it.
July 1, 2015
Author Lucy Burdette has cooked up a delectable new course in the delicious Key West Food Critic series that made me hungry for more! Readers are going to be thrilled with this latest installment.
It was so good to be back in Key West with food critic Hayley Snow. I think being a food critic would be so great. Unfortunately I’m a picky eater, so my career would be short lived, but that just makes it even more fun to live it through Hayley! Um, just hold the dead bodies please.
I just love it when authors start off their chapters with quotes or tidbits of information. Ms. Burdette has done so, with the most fun food related quotes. Anticipating each new quote was a lot of fun. It was hard not to peek ahead and read them.
Fatal Reservations was a fantastic addition to this series. One of the best so far. This story moved along at a great pace, never leaving a dull moment. Just the opposite . . . I didn’t want to miss one word! Every chapter brought more excitement, and more questions because there were so many misleads to keep me guessing. And it all led up to a scrumptious reveal that I never saw coming.
Don’t stop reading once the story is over or you’ll miss a lot of yummy recipes and a sneak peek of Book 7, KILLER TAKOUT.
It was so good to be back in Key West with food critic Hayley Snow. I think being a food critic would be so great. Unfortunately I’m a picky eater, so my career would be short lived, but that just makes it even more fun to live it through Hayley! Um, just hold the dead bodies please.
I just love it when authors start off their chapters with quotes or tidbits of information. Ms. Burdette has done so, with the most fun food related quotes. Anticipating each new quote was a lot of fun. It was hard not to peek ahead and read them.
Fatal Reservations was a fantastic addition to this series. One of the best so far. This story moved along at a great pace, never leaving a dull moment. Just the opposite . . . I didn’t want to miss one word! Every chapter brought more excitement, and more questions because there were so many misleads to keep me guessing. And it all led up to a scrumptious reveal that I never saw coming.
Don’t stop reading once the story is over or you’ll miss a lot of yummy recipes and a sneak peek of Book 7, KILLER TAKOUT.
June 27, 2015
I received an advance copy to read and give an honest review.
I really enjoyed the book. Lucy does a great job describing Key West and the other settings, you really feel like you are there.
Great set of characters; fun and quirky mixed with complex friendships and relationships. Though her current love interest in lukewarm at best.
Hayley Snow is a food critic for Key Zest, and describes all the food that she's sampling, and cooking, in great detail----maybe too great--- it made me hungry every time....and nothing I had in the house could compare!!!
This is the 6th in the series, but you don't have to read the previous books to know what's going on in the book. I had the 1st previously, now I want to read the rest that I've missed in between.
This is a good read, I think you will enjoy. But, if you are a muncher like me, get some snacks ready!
I also enjoy the recipes in the back of the book. I will be trying some of them soon.
I really enjoyed the book. Lucy does a great job describing Key West and the other settings, you really feel like you are there.
Great set of characters; fun and quirky mixed with complex friendships and relationships. Though her current love interest in lukewarm at best.
Hayley Snow is a food critic for Key Zest, and describes all the food that she's sampling, and cooking, in great detail----maybe too great--- it made me hungry every time....and nothing I had in the house could compare!!!
This is the 6th in the series, but you don't have to read the previous books to know what's going on in the book. I had the 1st previously, now I want to read the rest that I've missed in between.
This is a good read, I think you will enjoy. But, if you are a muncher like me, get some snacks ready!
I also enjoy the recipes in the back of the book. I will be trying some of them soon.
June 17, 2015
I won an advanced copy of Fatal Reservations in exchange for an honest review. I have been a fan of the Key West Food Critic Mysteries since the first book and the latest installment does not disappoint. I like that the books are set in Key West and have an island theme that is paired so well with the food theme. Lucy Burdette has written such wonderful quirky characters who feel like they have become old friends over the course of the series. In this installment we find Hayley along with the rest of her friends trying to prove here friend Lorenzo innocent of the murder of his nemesis. The question is can she believe him when his story keeps changing? I enjoyed returning to the island to visit with Hayley and her friends (especially Miss Gloria) and who knows, maybe one day I will get around to trying a recipe or two from these books.
November 2, 2018
’m so glad I’ve stuck with this series, it gets better with each book! The characters are really coming to life and connecting to the readers! The story’s have always been good, but the author has really hit her stride with well developed plots that have enough layers to keep you interested and enough twists to keep you intrigued! This book was entertainment and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
September 1, 2023
Probably my favorite of the series so far because I really thought the suspect for most of the book might have done it given what we had. Well done 🫡
July 7, 2015
Hello, Hayley!
Only seven pages in and I feel like I’m home again with Hayley. I’ve laughed out loud, marveled over and reread a turn of phrase that I particularly liked, and started to worry about Miss Gloria. I realize how much I have missed being in Key West and knowing what’s happening with Hayley, her mom, Miss Gloria, Eric, Lorenzo, Connie, Wally – well, everybody.
Fatal Reservations is the 6th book in the Key West Food Critic Mystery series. You could read it as a standalone, but why on earth would you want to? This series is so much fun and knowing the backstory and history of all these quirky characters is part of the fun. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, but the next Hayley book is always on my to buy list.
Hayley’s life has settled down after all the excitement – and murder – over the holidays. Things aren’t really boring for Hayley, they never are, but she does have to deal with the fact that some things have changed. Her mom isn’t around; she’s back in New Jersey temporarily taking care of Sam. So Hayley gets a little breather, but her mom’s not there. Miss Gloria is pretty busy with her new volunteer job as a cemetery guide, and Wally is not quite measuring up in the boyfriend department like Hayley hoped he would. In fact, he is kind of boring. Hayley is still at Key Zest and loving her job, but there is new management and Hayley isn’t totally comfortable with things. For starters, she is assigned to cover a City Commission meeting where there is sure to be controversy over a new floating restaurant. She attends, it’s pretty chaotic and she’s all set to follow up with the politics sure to come, but her new her boss Palamina tells her to stick to the food; Palamina and Wally will handle this type of story from now on.
Well, we know Hayley well enough by now to know this isn’t going to happen, especially once Lorenzo becomes a person of interest in a murder and is nowhere to be found. Besides being so cute that I want her to be one of my granddaughters (“I knew how to eat and write a review.”), Hayley is devoted to her friends and loyal to the point of often ignoring danger to herself. Plus she is pretty nosy. So she’s going to find out where Lorenzo is and what is happening no matter who tries to stop her.
I really enjoyed this story. Lucy Burdette did a great job of blending Hayley’s everyday life and job and emotions with the changes in the lives of everyone around her, and with the excitement and suspense of the murder. As always, Key West comes to life as much as any of the characters in these books. I feel as if I’ve just been there and experienced the sights and sounds – and weirdness – of life there. And no spoiler, but the ending is perfect!
The recipes are a given to be as yummy as ever, but I always forget until I start the latest book about the terrific quotes at the beginning of each chapter. They are all over the place with no particular theme (unless I missed it ;-)) but they are great and I love them. For this story, given that Wally is kind of a blah, one particular quote is perfect: “Wally flashed a smile, tight as the rubber band around a bouquet of broccoli.” – Lucy Burdette, Death with All the Trimmings.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait for Hayley’s next adventure.
Only seven pages in and I feel like I’m home again with Hayley. I’ve laughed out loud, marveled over and reread a turn of phrase that I particularly liked, and started to worry about Miss Gloria. I realize how much I have missed being in Key West and knowing what’s happening with Hayley, her mom, Miss Gloria, Eric, Lorenzo, Connie, Wally – well, everybody.
Fatal Reservations is the 6th book in the Key West Food Critic Mystery series. You could read it as a standalone, but why on earth would you want to? This series is so much fun and knowing the backstory and history of all these quirky characters is part of the fun. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, but the next Hayley book is always on my to buy list.
Hayley’s life has settled down after all the excitement – and murder – over the holidays. Things aren’t really boring for Hayley, they never are, but she does have to deal with the fact that some things have changed. Her mom isn’t around; she’s back in New Jersey temporarily taking care of Sam. So Hayley gets a little breather, but her mom’s not there. Miss Gloria is pretty busy with her new volunteer job as a cemetery guide, and Wally is not quite measuring up in the boyfriend department like Hayley hoped he would. In fact, he is kind of boring. Hayley is still at Key Zest and loving her job, but there is new management and Hayley isn’t totally comfortable with things. For starters, she is assigned to cover a City Commission meeting where there is sure to be controversy over a new floating restaurant. She attends, it’s pretty chaotic and she’s all set to follow up with the politics sure to come, but her new her boss Palamina tells her to stick to the food; Palamina and Wally will handle this type of story from now on.
Well, we know Hayley well enough by now to know this isn’t going to happen, especially once Lorenzo becomes a person of interest in a murder and is nowhere to be found. Besides being so cute that I want her to be one of my granddaughters (“I knew how to eat and write a review.”), Hayley is devoted to her friends and loyal to the point of often ignoring danger to herself. Plus she is pretty nosy. So she’s going to find out where Lorenzo is and what is happening no matter who tries to stop her.
I really enjoyed this story. Lucy Burdette did a great job of blending Hayley’s everyday life and job and emotions with the changes in the lives of everyone around her, and with the excitement and suspense of the murder. As always, Key West comes to life as much as any of the characters in these books. I feel as if I’ve just been there and experienced the sights and sounds – and weirdness – of life there. And no spoiler, but the ending is perfect!
The recipes are a given to be as yummy as ever, but I always forget until I start the latest book about the terrific quotes at the beginning of each chapter. They are all over the place with no particular theme (unless I missed it ;-)) but they are great and I love them. For this story, given that Wally is kind of a blah, one particular quote is perfect: “Wally flashed a smile, tight as the rubber band around a bouquet of broccoli.” – Lucy Burdette, Death with All the Trimmings.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait for Hayley’s next adventure.
October 27, 2015
Fatal Reservations is the sixth installment in the Key West Food Critic series. The heroine, Hayley Snow, is investigating the murder of a street performer, in which her dear friend and tarot card reader is the prime suspect. This time, Hayley’s senior citizen housemate, Miss Gloria, joins the adventure as Hayley’s sidekick sleuth, with much hilarity.
Part of the charm of this book is the description of the island scenery. Hayley zips all around town and to neighboring islands in her quest to uncover the murderer. The lush descriptions of the locales give the reader a very clear visual of Key West. I feel as if I have been transported to the island. The mentions of real restaurants and tourist attractions such as the Hemingway House and the cemetery set this series apart from others. Before now, I had never understood the appeal of the Florida Keys. Now, I am ready to hop on a plane to visit paradise.
Another aspect of this book I enjoyed was Hayley’s indepth food descriptions. As part of her job as the food critic for the magazine Key Zest , a major part of the plot is Hayley’s many and various forays into a variety of eateries. I would love to sample the cafe con leche that keeps Hayley energized throughout the book. Her description of the pimento cheese served on spicy crackers at one of the restaurants made my mouth water. I don’t even like pimento cheese! It’s writing like this that keeps me hooked, even when I don’t care for the direction in which the plot is moving. Several recipes from the story are included at the end. I have not attempted any, since I frequently set the smoke alarm off, but I would be more than willing to sample them should anyone want to make me any.
At the center of the plot is the famous Sunset Celebration. This piqued my interest in earlier books, and I was glad we got to read more about it. Lorenzo is my favorite minor character and it was interesting to delve into his world. In this book we spend more time at the event and get to experience it more. We learn about Bart Frontgate, who juggled flaming forks of meat, Snorkel the Pig, and more about Dominique and his amazing performing cats. It’s neat to have a front row seat to such an amazing attraction. It really showcases the island’s flair.
For fans of this series, Fatal Reservations is a must read. It is fast paced and engaging. The characters are likeable and developing. Overall, it’s an enjoyable read. I’m looking forward to the next one.
I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 5, 2016
FATAL RESERVATIONS is the sixth book in the series in which Hayley Snow is a food critic for style magazine, Key Zest, in Key West, Florida. Putting up with a new boss who bought half interest in the magazine, juggling her “sort-of” relationship with her other boss, Wally, and keeping her elderly roommate, Miss Gloria, out of trouble keeps her more than busy. When Miss Gloria points out the police fishing a body out of the harbor, Hayley is glad she didn’t find it and isn’t involved in anyone’s death this time. That evening she attends the City Council’s meeting on behalf of her magazine to cover the controversy over the application to open a Japanese floating restaurant, For Goodness Sake. She puts the gruesome police activity out of her mind especially as tensions mount when several other restaurant owners in the area speak out against the proposed restaurant. As the agenda moves on to working out a solution for lease renewals for the street performers for the Sunset Celebration, the meeting turns violent when one of the street vendors tries to strangle Hayley’s tarot card reading friend, Lorenzo.
Not long after the meeting adjourns, Lorenzo calls Hayley and tells her that the police suspect he is the murderer of the flaming fork juggling performer, Bart Frontgate, the man pulled from the harbor that afternoon. Apparently Bart was involved in the controversial Sunset Celebration lease renewal issue, on the opposite side of Lorenzo, and they had been feuding for over a year. Hayley is certain that her friend is innocent and starts asking questions to clear his name. But when he disappears and she finds he’s been hiding secrets, Hayley’s loyalty is put to the test, especially when another murder takes place.
Lucy manages to capture the sights, sounds and flavors unique to Key West and makes you feel like you’re on a long vacation with Hayley. Her characters are quirky yet charming and I love to see how they grow and develop with each subsequent book. In addition to a great story, I thoroughly enjoyed the quotes beginning each chapter… with the one contributed by the author from her book, DEATH WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS, being my favorite: “Wally flashed a smile, tight as the rubber band around a bouquet of broccoli.” Lucy creates vivid pictures using words as her paint! And as always, the author provides several tempting recipes at the back of the book and my family can attest that her Raspberry Cake is stupendous!!!
Not long after the meeting adjourns, Lorenzo calls Hayley and tells her that the police suspect he is the murderer of the flaming fork juggling performer, Bart Frontgate, the man pulled from the harbor that afternoon. Apparently Bart was involved in the controversial Sunset Celebration lease renewal issue, on the opposite side of Lorenzo, and they had been feuding for over a year. Hayley is certain that her friend is innocent and starts asking questions to clear his name. But when he disappears and she finds he’s been hiding secrets, Hayley’s loyalty is put to the test, especially when another murder takes place.
Lucy manages to capture the sights, sounds and flavors unique to Key West and makes you feel like you’re on a long vacation with Hayley. Her characters are quirky yet charming and I love to see how they grow and develop with each subsequent book. In addition to a great story, I thoroughly enjoyed the quotes beginning each chapter… with the one contributed by the author from her book, DEATH WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS, being my favorite: “Wally flashed a smile, tight as the rubber band around a bouquet of broccoli.” Lucy creates vivid pictures using words as her paint! And as always, the author provides several tempting recipes at the back of the book and my family can attest that her Raspberry Cake is stupendous!!!
July 7, 2015
Key West Food Critic Hayley Snow has a new assignment, rating the food and atmosphere at For Goodness' Sake, Key West's new floating restaurant. But the review takes the back seat when trouble brews at the city council meeting, not only about For Goodness' Sake, whom land-based restaurants fear won't have to follow the rules, but about the Sunset Celebration.
It seems performers at Sunset Celebration, one of Key West's main attractions, are not happy about what is going on at the nightly event. Some want better placement, and a scuffle at the meeting shows how passionate they are about Celebration. When one of the performers, Bart Frontgate is murdered, Hayley's friend Lorenzo becomes the number one suspect.
As the police search for the answers, Hayley promises not to wade into the investigation, but she is determined not to let her friend take the rap for something he didn't do. That means Hayley and her roomie, Miss Gloria, poke around until they figure out whodunit.
If you haven't read any of Lucy Burdette's Key West Food Critic mysteries, what are you waiting for? Each one is a delight that showcases the wonderful place that is Key West and provides an intriguing puzzle that readers follow from beginning to end.
The characters in Fatal Reservations are fun and quirky, and reading about them is like visiting with old friends. Adding to the enjoyment is the description of food that will make your mouth water. When she let the restaurant with a doggy bag, I wanted Hayley to slip by my house so I could sample the food.
Ms. Burdette's Key West Series has been one of my favorites since I read the first book many years ago. I'm always happy to return to the scene of the crime with Hayley and watch her eat, and investigate a murder.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I am looking forward to another trip to Florida with Lucy and the gang.
It seems performers at Sunset Celebration, one of Key West's main attractions, are not happy about what is going on at the nightly event. Some want better placement, and a scuffle at the meeting shows how passionate they are about Celebration. When one of the performers, Bart Frontgate is murdered, Hayley's friend Lorenzo becomes the number one suspect.
As the police search for the answers, Hayley promises not to wade into the investigation, but she is determined not to let her friend take the rap for something he didn't do. That means Hayley and her roomie, Miss Gloria, poke around until they figure out whodunit.
If you haven't read any of Lucy Burdette's Key West Food Critic mysteries, what are you waiting for? Each one is a delight that showcases the wonderful place that is Key West and provides an intriguing puzzle that readers follow from beginning to end.
The characters in Fatal Reservations are fun and quirky, and reading about them is like visiting with old friends. Adding to the enjoyment is the description of food that will make your mouth water. When she let the restaurant with a doggy bag, I wanted Hayley to slip by my house so I could sample the food.
Ms. Burdette's Key West Series has been one of my favorites since I read the first book many years ago. I'm always happy to return to the scene of the crime with Hayley and watch her eat, and investigate a murder.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I am looking forward to another trip to Florida with Lucy and the gang.
July 6, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Fatal Reservations is the 6th book in the Key West Food Critic Mysteries. I admit I have not read any of the previous books in this series, although I'd really like to. This book can function as a stand-alone mystery, although I did feel like I was probably missing some small details about the characters by having not read any of the previous books. I did not feel that there was anything major missing and it didn't inhibit my enjoyment of this book in any way though.
Haley Snow is the main character and food critic and she lives in Key West, FL. I've never been there (and it'd probably be way too hot for me) but from the descriptions in this book it sounds like an amazing place! Haley's roommate is Miss Gloria, who is an older woman but is still very feisty and humorous. I absolutely love Miss Gloria and her relationship and the dynamic between her and Haley. I generally do not like massive amounts of detail, but I feel like this book struck a good balance of providing enough detail to make you really feel like you are in the story, while not going too overboard with it. I did feel that the beginning was a bit slow and it took me about 40 pages to really get into it. A little longer than I'd like but within reason considering how many characters were introduced in that time.
There are some really great characters in this book, as well as plenty of mouth-watering descriptions of all kinds of food! I was very pleased to discover that there are recipes included in the back of the book :) Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I'd say it's a perfect read if you're looking to escape reality for a while and fully immerse yourself into the book, its scenery, and its characters. Just looking at the beautiful sunrise on the cover makes me feel relaxed. I give this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars and would absolutely recommend it!
Fatal Reservations is the 6th book in the Key West Food Critic Mysteries. I admit I have not read any of the previous books in this series, although I'd really like to. This book can function as a stand-alone mystery, although I did feel like I was probably missing some small details about the characters by having not read any of the previous books. I did not feel that there was anything major missing and it didn't inhibit my enjoyment of this book in any way though.
Haley Snow is the main character and food critic and she lives in Key West, FL. I've never been there (and it'd probably be way too hot for me) but from the descriptions in this book it sounds like an amazing place! Haley's roommate is Miss Gloria, who is an older woman but is still very feisty and humorous. I absolutely love Miss Gloria and her relationship and the dynamic between her and Haley. I generally do not like massive amounts of detail, but I feel like this book struck a good balance of providing enough detail to make you really feel like you are in the story, while not going too overboard with it. I did feel that the beginning was a bit slow and it took me about 40 pages to really get into it. A little longer than I'd like but within reason considering how many characters were introduced in that time.
There are some really great characters in this book, as well as plenty of mouth-watering descriptions of all kinds of food! I was very pleased to discover that there are recipes included in the back of the book :) Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I'd say it's a perfect read if you're looking to escape reality for a while and fully immerse yourself into the book, its scenery, and its characters. Just looking at the beautiful sunrise on the cover makes me feel relaxed. I give this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars and would absolutely recommend it!
July 10, 2015
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Hayley, Miss Gloria, Lorenzo and all the other characters we have grown to love are back in this 6th installment of the Key West Food Critic Mysteries.
This time Lorenzo lands in the soup when one of the performers from the Sunset Celebration is murdered. Seems they were not the best of friends. There is also a bit of a shake up at Key Zest as Palamina tries to put her own touches into both the office and the e-zine. Miss Gloria becomes a tour guide at the cemetery, there is a thief police are trying to catch and a new floating restaurant has many locals all in a tizzy. There is so much packed into 320 pages and it all flows together perfectly.
Lucy Burdette writes a story that not only includes a mystery or two but shines a beautiful light on Key West and its delicious food. The author’s passion for food is clear with all the yummy descriptions sprinkled throughout the book. Yes, she does include recipes too.
Friendship also is a key theme. Hayley will do anything for her friends. She does her best to keep them safe and puts herself in peril to find the truth when one of them is wrongly accused. Her romantic life has been a little rocky but this time the author took the step in that department I was hoping and praying she would take.
What more can I say, I loved this story. Burdette has served up another delightful feast of mayhem and mystery for us readers to enjoy. I really can’t wait for my next escape to Key West with Hayley and all her friends.
Hayley, Miss Gloria, Lorenzo and all the other characters we have grown to love are back in this 6th installment of the Key West Food Critic Mysteries.
This time Lorenzo lands in the soup when one of the performers from the Sunset Celebration is murdered. Seems they were not the best of friends. There is also a bit of a shake up at Key Zest as Palamina tries to put her own touches into both the office and the e-zine. Miss Gloria becomes a tour guide at the cemetery, there is a thief police are trying to catch and a new floating restaurant has many locals all in a tizzy. There is so much packed into 320 pages and it all flows together perfectly.
Lucy Burdette writes a story that not only includes a mystery or two but shines a beautiful light on Key West and its delicious food. The author’s passion for food is clear with all the yummy descriptions sprinkled throughout the book. Yes, she does include recipes too.
Friendship also is a key theme. Hayley will do anything for her friends. She does her best to keep them safe and puts herself in peril to find the truth when one of them is wrongly accused. Her romantic life has been a little rocky but this time the author took the step in that department I was hoping and praying she would take.
What more can I say, I loved this story. Burdette has served up another delightful feast of mayhem and mystery for us readers to enjoy. I really can’t wait for my next escape to Key West with Hayley and all her friends.
July 7, 2015
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through an author Facebook giveaway in exchange for an honest review.*
In this 6th installment of Lucy Burdette's Key West Food Critic mystery series, our protagonist Hayley Snow must contend with relationship and work issues while fighting to clear the name of everyone's favorite tarot card reader, Lorenzo, after he is accused of murder. The usual, colorful cast of characters is along for the ride, especially Ms. Gloria (who is training to work as a graveyard guide). Burdette has loaded this book with enough food descriptions and references to make anyone salivate, regardless of taste preferences.
Con: Hayley's persistence in the face of naysayers is admirable (and I can only hope I have such dedicated friends), but sometimes she can be a bit foolhardy and frustrating. I also found it a bit hard to believe that she wouldn't immediately realize that it would be a bad idea to tell a restaurant owner about the contents of her review.
Overall, I enjoyed this book as I have enjoyed the previous ones in the series--it's a good beach or pool-side cozy. However, there are enough call-backs to prior books that those new to the series may want to start at the beginning with An Appetite for Murder and work their way forward.
In this 6th installment of Lucy Burdette's Key West Food Critic mystery series, our protagonist Hayley Snow must contend with relationship and work issues while fighting to clear the name of everyone's favorite tarot card reader, Lorenzo, after he is accused of murder. The usual, colorful cast of characters is along for the ride, especially Ms. Gloria (who is training to work as a graveyard guide). Burdette has loaded this book with enough food descriptions and references to make anyone salivate, regardless of taste preferences.
Con: Hayley's persistence in the face of naysayers is admirable (and I can only hope I have such dedicated friends), but sometimes she can be a bit foolhardy and frustrating. I also found it a bit hard to believe that she wouldn't immediately realize that it would be a bad idea to tell a restaurant owner about the contents of her review.
Overall, I enjoyed this book as I have enjoyed the previous ones in the series--it's a good beach or pool-side cozy. However, there are enough call-backs to prior books that those new to the series may want to start at the beginning with An Appetite for Murder and work their way forward.
April 5, 2016
4.25 Stars
Sexual Content: None
Language (Profanity/Slang) Content: None
Violent Content: Minimal
Hayley found herself embroiled in the middle of a criminal investigation. Her tarot reading, good friend Lorenzo was accused of murder. Hayley, and this reader is 99% sure he’s innocent.
With the action taking us around Key West, we’re given and insider’s view of the culture and atmosphere, which is nice. It’s helpful to the reading experience to feel and see what Hayley loves about her relatively new home.
The support system Hayley has is all unique and brings the plot to life. Her career seems to be going in fits and starts. As for her love life, that situation is up in the air right now. It’s a matter of frustration for Hayley as well as the reader, though I have confidence she will soon be on the track to love.
I always have a fun time visiting Hayley and her friends, acting as an unseen sidekick and trying to put the clues together into a cohesive picture. This time, however, I knew who the perp was early on, but as to the motive, well it came as a surprise.
This is, for me, satisfying and intriguing series.
-- CONNIE
July 9, 2015
Tensions are building all over Key West with restaurant wars and a string of burglaries. However, it’s the fight over the Sunset Celebration lease that erupts in murder when Bart Frontgate is found dead. The police are looking at Hayley Snow’s friend Lorenzo, a man she knows couldn’t have committed the crime. But Lorenzo is hiding something. Can Hayley clear him, or will his secret convict him for murder?
I have completely fallen in love with Key West thanks to these books, and it was wonderful to visit again. The characters are strong, with Hayley showing some growth and Miss Gloria as delightful as ever. The plot is strong, combining several storylines into a cohesive and entertaining whole, although I do wish we didn’t have the constant Hayley is afraid for her job sub-plot.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I have completely fallen in love with Key West thanks to these books, and it was wonderful to visit again. The characters are strong, with Hayley showing some growth and Miss Gloria as delightful as ever. The plot is strong, combining several storylines into a cohesive and entertaining whole, although I do wish we didn’t have the constant Hayley is afraid for her job sub-plot.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
September 3, 2015
My Review: This is the sixth installment of the Key West Food Critic series and once again Hayley finds a mystery to solve. This time she aims to clear the name of her friend Lorenzo from a murder charge. Also in tow are the gaggle of quirky characters - with Miss Gloria, Hayley's octogenarian house mate being one of my favourites in the series.
I have to admit that this book wasn't my favourite in the series. It was still an easy to read cozy mystery but there seemed to be a little less suspense. Hayley also occasionally made foolhardy decisions which didn't endear her to me.
Delicious descriptions of food, of course, are a mainstay in this series. Readers will enjoy the chance to whip up some of the dishes from the recipes at the back of the book.
My Rating: 3/5 stars
Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Group Berkeley and Lucy Burdette for providing me with a complimentary e-book copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I have to admit that this book wasn't my favourite in the series. It was still an easy to read cozy mystery but there seemed to be a little less suspense. Hayley also occasionally made foolhardy decisions which didn't endear her to me.
Delicious descriptions of food, of course, are a mainstay in this series. Readers will enjoy the chance to whip up some of the dishes from the recipes at the back of the book.
My Rating: 3/5 stars
Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Group Berkeley and Lucy Burdette for providing me with a complimentary e-book copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 25, 2016
Hayley Snow is a Food Critic for Key Zest magazine. She is looking forward to reviewing the New Floating Restaurant for Goodness' Sake that promises a fresh take on some Japanese delicacies. But nearby land based restaurant owners would rather see their competition sink. Hayley is sent to attend the city commission meeting in order to report on the controversy. But it seems the quirky people who perform at the daily Sunset celebration might lose their performance space! The fight for Mallory Sq has renewed old rivalries between Lorenzo her Tarot card reading friend and Bart Front gate his flaming fork juggling nemesis. So when Bart is found murdered Lorenzo becomes the prime suspect. It is up to Hayley to prove him innocent and catch the real killer.
June 16, 2015
Food critic for the Key West publication, Key Zest, Hayley Snow and her roommate, Miss Gloria, are a crime solving duo. They are also fiercely loyal to their friends. A perfect example is when their tarot card-friend, Lorenzo, is accused of murder. Regardless of the warning of the local KWPD, Hayley and Miss Gloria work diligently to prove Lorenzo’s innocence. However, they run into a few roadblocks when all of the evidence points to Lorenzo. Also, he isn’t being completely honest with them. Thanks to Lucy Burdette for giving me the opportunity to read and review this latest installment of A Key West Food Critic Mystery. A great read!
July 24, 2015
I could not put this book down...loved it in fact I have loved the whole series. These books make you feel like you live in Key West and become a part of the book. I love all the characters and it is nice to see how Hayley Snow has grown. I read a lot of cozy mysteries and this is one of my favorites. I won't ruin this review with telling you anything about the story except it was wonderful and it had one of the best endings I have read in a very long time. Thank you for such a great read.
October 2, 2015
I loved this next installment in Burdette's food critic series. Haley gets in and out of trouble again, and manages to help her Tarot card reader friend Lorenzo out of a jam, but just barely. The spunky elderly Gloria is on main stage again, and the cooking is fabulous, as always. If, like me, you can't manage to travel to Key West, Burdette brings you right into the middle of it just by reading her books. Highly recommend.
October 4, 2015
A fun read with enough crime, romance and food to keep me happy. Not to mention the well-drawn setting of Key West which itself comes over as one of the characters in the book. The tension between the old and new residents offers plenty of scope for crime, as it does in English cozy mysteries. yet another reason why I liked it. The recipes are great to read as food porn, too.
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