Last Bite: A Novel

by Amy S. Peele

A mouth-watering home run of a beach read, this lighthearted romantic comedy featuring a newly widowed fortysomething takes the reader on a joyful romp through-out some of Chicago’s finest eateries—with a dash of Cubs baseball on the side.

In the heart of Chicago, forty-five-year-old Angie Sortino finds herself at a crossroads. Recently widowed, she discovers that her deceased husband, Vinnie, has left her penniless, and she is forced to take a job at Chicago City Hall as a cleaning woman until Vinnie’s City pension can be cleared up. Then her spirited twenty-two-year-old niece, Gina Paloni, and her best friend Kim Yang, approach her with a dream of starting a catering company targeting funeral parlors—and Angie sees a chance to reawaken her own culinary aspirations.

As the three women embark on this new venture, they face the challenges of the catering business, from securing clients to perfecting their menu. Angie and Gina’s love for the Chicago Cubs adds a playful twist to their journey, as they often find inspiration in the vibrant atmosphere of Wrigley Field. Gina’s youthful enthusiasm contrasts with Angie’s cautious nature, leading to hilarious mishaps, unexpected romantic encounters, and heartfelt moments.

Through late-night brainstorming sessions and spontaneous cooking experiments, Angie begins to find her voice, both in the kitchen and in her life. With the support of a respected funeral director, Gina and Kim, and an unexpected new love interest, Angie learns to embrace her worth and pursue happiness. 

Genres: Contemporary, Romance

312 pages, Paperback

Expected publication February 24, 2026

About the author

Amy S. Peele has been an RN since 1974 and enjoyed a 35-year career in organ transplantation, retiring from the University of California San Francisco, one of the largest and most successful transplant programs in the U.S. In addition to killing people and using their organs in her murder mysteries, Amy enjoys meditating, teaching yoga,swimming and pursuing her spirituality by studying the teachings of Deepak Chopra. She also enjoys comedy and studied at Second City in Chicago for a year.

Reviews

[cate · Rating 2 out of 5]

this is one of those books that would feel better as a movie. nothing wrong with that; the pacing of the book felt odd at times, slow for a while and then lightning fast, and the writing just didn't work. this is not to say the writing was bad; it just didn't feel like it matched the medium. the funeral scene at the start, with the interruption, would look great on a screen, and the dialogue throughout the book would translate a million times better into spoken dialogue instead of words on a page.

overall, this had such a great premise, and i'm sad it didn't quite deliver.

thank you to netgalley and the publisher for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review

[Amee · Rating 1 out of 5]

Unable to finish. DNF @ 34% due to slow pacing in story, and I had a hard time connecting with the characters. Some of the dialog was immature for being adults.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this arc!Last Bite by Amy S. Peele was such a fun and clever read with a really cute premise. I especially enjoyed the playful references to Bill Murray—they added such a quirky, lighthearted touch that made me grin throughout the story.

One of the highlights for me was seeing Angie gain her confidence and independence back. Watching her growth added a heartwarming layer that balanced nicely with the mystery.

That said, I do wish the ending had wrapped things up a little more fully. I was left wondering what really happened with Mario and the missing bank documents—those loose ends felt like they could have given the conclusion more impact.

Even so, this was an engaging and entertaining mystery that felt fresh, fun, and memorable. A great pick if you’re looking for something different with both charm and heart.

[Strzykar · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unfortunately, this one wasn't for me. I read it on NetGalley. The way it was written was almost like an old film noir movie. I wanted to read because it had a woman starting over from scratch who was well into her life. The plot was interesting and I like that the story was well rounded with an extended cast of characters that you got to know. I just didn't enjoy the style of writing (which is my issue) so I kept putting it down.

[Mynxiemel olson · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley for the book in exchange for my honest review!

I wanted to love this book so badly however it just wasn’t for me. While I did love the premise of it , the writing style was just not my thing. I did like the relationship between Mc Angie and her niece and how Angie grew through the story.
While it wasn’t my cup of tea it isn’t a bad book ❤️

[Juju · Rating 2 out of 5]

Amy S. Peele's Last Bite has an appealing premise: Angie, a 45-year-old widow, finds herself again through reclaiming what is rightfully hers, a catering business for funeral parlors started with her niece. It's the kind of comeback story about reinvention after tragedy that should work beautifully. The Chicago setting adds real charm—the Cubs fandom, the food scene, even a delightful Bill Murray cameo that feels both inevitable and perfect for a novel steeped in Chicago culture. When the book leans into these elements, it genuinely shines.

But the execution doesn't quite match the ambition. The writing feels uneven, with flat dialogue and pacing that stutters. The constant POV shifts create confusion rather than depth, and the characters remain frustratingly one-dimensional. Angie's besties should crackle with personality but read more like placeholders. For a novel about food and friendship, the prose itself lacks the flavor and wit the story desperately needs.

Still, Peele's affection for her setting and subject matter comes through on every page. There's genuine heart in this story about second chances and female solidarity. For readers seeking easy, feel-good comfort, particularly Chicago locals or Cubs fans, Last Bite will satisfy. It's not sophisticated, but it's warm and well-intentioned. Sometimes that's exactly enough.

[Robyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

The synopsis was of this book sounded so good but I just could not get into the story. The writing felt scattered and drug out. It had some funny moments but overall was hard to finish for me. I would like to thank the publisher, author and Netgalley for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Tiffany · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had high hopes for this book because of the plot description. I loved the idea of a funeral catering company called Last Bite, and the idea of a widow rediscovering who she was as she healed after her husband's unexpected death. However, the writing style was not for me. The characters were not well developed through dialogue. There was a lot of "telling" as a shortcut, instead of describing the scene to show what was happening. The dialogue was awkward, and none of the romances or friemdships evolved naturally -- they just happened. Several times I had to ask myself "how did that happen?!" There was also alot of brand name dropping that would only cater to a specific audience. These things made it difficult to make it through the book, but it was not all bad. I liked the thoughts about where the plot should go and believe this could be a good book with a refresh. I also loved that the pesto recipe was included at the back (I plan to make it) and that the cookbook is real! There were some comedic gems, and the Bill Murray cameos were fun.

Thank you to Amy Peele, Netgalley and She Writes Press for an ARC of this book.

[Carolina Bastos · Rating 3 out of 5]

First, I'd like to thank Netgalley for the opportunity to read this arc.
Overall, I really liked the story.
Initially I thought it was about Angie rebuilding her life, but after some chapters, I felt that Gina and Ralph were as important as Angie.
This book felt more like a script for a rom drama movie than actual a novel. The conflicts were presented and resolved really fast, without a proper development. Some dialogs seemed that were written more to the reader understand the background story than what an actual conversation would sound like.
It felt a bit rushed the way Angie went back to the dating scene and it felt a little bit disconnected the way she transform herself into a independent woman. In the beginning she seemed more like a teenager orphan that needed being taken care of than a 45 yo woman. And when the book reaches 40% she sort of stormed out saying she was independent in a way that felt disconnected.
The way she treated Ralph was overreacted and there were some loose ends like what happened to Beatrice and why Vinnie lied about her death or what happened to the huge debts Vinnie had with the mob?

[Mark Schatz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so lucky that I was able to be a beta reader for this entertaining new page turner! This book is a lot of fun, especially if you enjoy baseball, good food, historic funeral parlors, and the great city of Chicago. It's the story of a newly widowed 45 year old, Angie Sortino, who has to rediscover herself and set a new path for her life. Parallel to this, we get to go for a great ride with her niece Gina and best friend Kim, as they embark on a new career in the funeral catering business.

The book is funny, suspenseful, and jam-packed with fascinating characters, some of whom you might even recognize. And you can't miss with the great times at Wrigley Field.

Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fun read.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️

Angie is suddenly facing a life she never expected. She is recently widowed. Their money is gone and she doesn’t know why. She’s alone, that is until her niece brings her an idea. What if they partnered in a catering company for funerals?

I really had high hopes for this story. The premise was cute. It had potential to be very funny. Unfortunately I had such a tough time getting into this one. Ultimately I just don’t think this one was for me.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

[Meghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing Book!!! It had be hooked from beginning to end and I didn’t want to put it down.

I can’t wait to see what else this Author writes next.

I got this book as an arc in exchange for an honest review.

[BookishJibberJabber · Rating 3 out of 5]

A catering company for funeral parlors? Genius. A Cubs-loving, wine-sipping, late-blooming heroine? I’m in. But while Last Bite serves up a charming premise and a buffet of Chicago flavor, the execution is more lukewarm casserole than sizzling entrée.

Angie Sortino is a fortysomething widow with grit, heart, and a knack for culinary reinvention. Her journey from cleaning lady to funeral caterer is peppered with quirky sidekicks, romantic detours, and enough Cubs references to fill a stadium. The setup promises a delicious rom-com romp—but the pacing drags in places, and some emotional beats feel undercooked.

Still, the friendship dynamics sparkle, and the food descriptions are mouthwatering. If you’re craving a lighthearted read with a side of second chances and a sprinkle of sports fandom, this one might hit the spot. Just don’t expect a five-course emotional feast—it’s more comfort food than haute cuisine.

[vlm · Rating 3 out of 5]

Last Bite has an interesting premise and a lot of heart, following Angie Sortino as she tries to rebuild her life after the death of her husband and the financial mess he leaves behind. The idea of Angie teaming up with her niece, Gina, and her friend Kim to launch a catering business for funeral homes is unique and definitely grabbed my attention. I also enjoyed the Chicago setting and the sprinkle of Cubs pride that adds personality to the story.

While I appreciated the themes of second chances, friendship, and finding confidence later in life, the pacing and character development didn’t always work for me. Some moments were charming and humorous, but others felt a bit uneven or predictable. Angie’s journey is uplifting, but the story as a whole didn’t fully draw me in the way I’d hoped.

Overall, it was an okay read with a creative premise and a few warm, engaging moments, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me.

[Ifeanyi Omoike · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and She Writes Press for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

Last Bite has an intriguing premise, and I genuinely felt for Angie Sortino. Her grief, the overwhelming financial trouble she inherits from Vinnie, and the people actively working against her were truly heartbreaking. I also appreciated the creativity behind the Last Bite catering business and the way the women came together to build something meaningful.

However, the execution ultimately didn’t work for me. The story often felt scattered, with several scenes reading more like filler than forward movement. I also struggled with the writing style and found myself skimming large portions. I almost DNF’d, but I pressed on because I wanted to see how Angie’s story concluded — and because I’d received the book as an ARC.

Overall, the concept had real potential, but the delivery just wasn’t a good fit for me.

[JANELLE · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the concept for what I thought this book was about. The Last Bite is an awesome name for a funeral catering business. And I thought the book would revolve mainly around that - it's part of the story, but the majority of the story is about Angie, who's unemployed and a bit clueless in life after losing her Cubs-fanatic fan husband. And it turns out he's in trouble with bookies for betting and now they're after Angie - and his pension. It's a strange story with a lot of mini-stories going on and a lot of characters.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.

[Melody N · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

Such a cute plot! I loved seeing Angie evolve throughout the story. Great seeing her find her voice, community and passion through so many opportunities throughout the course of this story. The moments she stood up for herself had me so proud and her ability to tap in Gina and the rest of her community to help her in each step of the journey. Gina’s self discovery also had me cheering for her success — from launching their business to taking a chance on her romantic feelings. And of course, I loved some of the classic Chicago tie-ins and lore in this book too!

I did struggle with the pace early in the book, feeling it was a little repetitive — especially with three POVs in the story. I wanted a few more bread crumbs to tie the mystery pieces together throughout, missing a little of the build up.

Overall a very cute and Chicago read (even including a Bill Murray sighting or two).

[Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

The premise of this book looked really good. Angie is recently widowed and has money trouble so she starts a catering business with her niece to cater funerals. The book takes place in Chicago and her late-husband was a huge Cubs fan, all touches that drew me to the book.

Unfortunately, the book started slowly. The funeral happens and the niece caters terrible food. Angie doesn't know she has money problems and the POV changes to several different people before we really get into the meat of the story. All of this made it difficult for me to get into the book and enjoy it while I was reading.

Thank you Amy Peele and NetGalley for the ARC, this is my honest review.

[Marie-Claude · Rating 3 out of 5]

First, I'd like to thank Netgalley for this book. I didn't know the author and even though I'm not really sure that the book was for me, I will definitively read other stories from the author.
I give it 3/5 stars. I feel like this book had a lot of potential, however the fact that the POVs shift a lot made it a bit confusing for me. I liked the writing even though it was not exactly was I was expecting. The story is original and the premise is unique. I have to say that the characters were great and I liked the story overall.

[Nicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are several things I liked about this story. When her husband dies she takes a job cleaning a city building. Not everyone would do that. She helps a relative start a new business. She finds a backbone to fight injustice. But she is hesitant on forming a new love interest. Low on trust. But am I the only one that drooled over the bites recipes. And who would think of catering at a funeral home.

I liked this book. It is clever and entertaining. It was well worth the time spent reading it.

[Stacy · Rating 1 out of 5]

I am always looking for good stories about middle aged or older women, but this was unfortunately not one. I should say, though, that I wouldn’t have picked it up if I had known that the mob would be a plot point in this story, as I personally don’t care for books featuring the mafia. The characters were one-dimensional, and I questioned why a lot of people made some of the decisions they did. I prefer my stories to have more realistic people.

Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an audio ARC of this book.

[Mary C · Rating 3 out of 5]

Widow Angie Sortino is forced to take a job as a cleaning woman at Chicago City Hall unit her deceased husband Vinnie's City pension is settled. Not only has he left her penniless, she learns that he was involved in some shady dealings while working for the City. She is helped by family and friends, and is happy to get involved with the catering company her niece Gina and close friend Kim are starting. Angie proves she is willing to fight for what is rightfully hers. Entertaining read.
#TheLastBite #SheWritesPress #NetGalley

[Karly Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this feel-good novel, Angie is forced to reinvent her life after her husband’s death. Along with many friends and family members, she is able to help others do the same. You watch her transform from a meek lady to someone who can stand her ground. I found all the characters (minus a few of course) very endearing which added to the story. Also, the catering business is so clever and even comical. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy a feel-good book and need a comforting story.

[ly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and She Writes Press for the opportunity to review Last Bite by Amy S. Peele to exchange for my honest review:

Overall, I think this book is nice for readers searching for something warm, cozy and easy read.

Good parts:
- I love Angie's journey from a widow to a stronger woman and no longer believed she needs to depend on a man.
- Love the dynamic between Angie and her niece
- The story is straight forward and no-brainer
- The food is amazingly described

[Meghan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't want to bad mouth a book but the early copy I read felt like it was written by AI at times. The chapters don't flow chronologically as they should & the writing was a bit juvenile. I'm someone who can't not finish a book, so I took a break and then powered through. The overall message in the book was good, female empowerment & standing up for yourself but could use more rigorous editing to get it in shape. I appreciate that Net Galley gave me the chance to read it early.

[Gözde · Rating 2 out of 5]

Last Bite had a funny and intriguing premise, which is why I picked it up in the first place. I liked the idea behind the story, but it didn’t fully work for me in execution.
The pacing felt uneven. The friendships and romantic dynamics happened very quickly, and I wish they had developed more gradually. Because of that, I found it a bit hard to really connect with the characters.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC.

[Islam · Rating 1 out of 5]

**Based on an ARC from Net Galley**

Okay, loved the Chicago vibes, but just the cheating in general really gave me the ick. I sped through this with a pounding headache because of how confusing the storyline was. Never thought a book would be this boring and confusing at the same time with Italian mafia vibes?? Like how does that correlate in the story!?

[LP · Rating 1 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.

DNF at 25%. This didn't seem to be anything like the description,. If I knew there was going to be a mafia-related main plot line, I wouldn't have requested it. I didn't like the writing style at all and didn't care about a single character.

[Eva · Rating 4 out of 5]

great story with Chicago and its characters center stage! It's an ode to them all and even the Chicago Cubs and wrigleyville! It's a read for those of us that love Chicago, the cubs and a very political machine oriented story.

[Ellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is first book I've read by this author. It is brilliant and I can't wait to read more of her books. A widow has to become strong to get her life on track. It's funny, sad, and little mystery. You will not want to put it down after you start it. Highly recommend reading this story.