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A Savannah Reid Mystery #20
Killer Gourmet
Plus-sized P.I. Savannah Reid and her pals at the Moonlight Magnolia Detective Agency know a thing or two about fine dining. But when murder shows up on the menu, it's time to go back to the kitchen. . .
When the Moonlight Magnolia gang learns their friends Ryan Stone and John Gibson are planning to open a chic new restaurant, they eagerly offer their input on everything. But all Ryan and John can think about is how excited they are to have hired the temperamental but talented chef Baldwin Norwood. Too bad the only thing being sliced and diced in the kitchen is the chef himself. . .
As Savannah turns her attention from munchies to murder, she quickly realizes the cantankerous chef left a bad taste in everyone's mouth. Now, Savannah has her work cut out for her, and just when she thinks there couldn't be any more suspects, she uncovers a plot more precarious than a perfect soufflé. . .
When the Moonlight Magnolia gang learns their friends Ryan Stone and John Gibson are planning to open a chic new restaurant, they eagerly offer their input on everything. But all Ryan and John can think about is how excited they are to have hired the temperamental but talented chef Baldwin Norwood. Too bad the only thing being sliced and diced in the kitchen is the chef himself. . .
As Savannah turns her attention from munchies to murder, she quickly realizes the cantankerous chef left a bad taste in everyone's mouth. Now, Savannah has her work cut out for her, and just when she thinks there couldn't be any more suspects, she uncovers a plot more precarious than a perfect soufflé. . .
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 31, 2015
142 people are currently reading
635 people want to read
About the author
G.A. McKevett
34 books728 followersSince publication of her first novel in 1986, Sonja Massie has authored over sixty published works, including the highly popular and critically acclaimed SAVANNAH REID MYSTERIES under the pseudonym G. A. McKevett.
Sonja's novels range from Irish historicals to contemporary thrillers. Her earthy humor and fast-paced plots delight her fans, while critics applaud her offbeat characterizations and incisive observations on human nature.
Irish by ancestry, Sonja has authored two non-fiction books on the history of Ireland: THE COMPLETE IDIOT'S GUIDE TO IRISH HISTORY AND CULTURE and IRISH PRIDE: 101 REASONS TO BE PROUD YOU'RE IRISH. Both books impart detailed knowledge of the complex and controversial Irish story with a light hand and plenty of humor. Her Irish novels include: DREAM CARVER, CAROUSEL, DAUGHTER OF IRELAND and the bestselling FAR AND AWAY - the novelization of the Ron Howard movie starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman.
On nationwide tours, Sonja lectures to published and "pre-published" authors in her workshop, "The Novel Approach," a seminar which covers such topics as: story structure, characterization, plotting, pacing, and marketing manuscripts.
Sonja has taught numerous courses at university and adult continuing education facilities including: general fiction, historical research, and mystery writing. She was managing editor at "Single Living" magazine and has functioned as a manuscript doctor and storyline editor for major publishers. Earlier in her career, she was a prolific ghostwriter, authoring both fictional and non-fictional books for celebrities and professionals.
Having lived in Los Angeles, Toronto, and County Kerry, Ireland, she now resides in New York.
Sonja's novels range from Irish historicals to contemporary thrillers. Her earthy humor and fast-paced plots delight her fans, while critics applaud her offbeat characterizations and incisive observations on human nature.
Irish by ancestry, Sonja has authored two non-fiction books on the history of Ireland: THE COMPLETE IDIOT'S GUIDE TO IRISH HISTORY AND CULTURE and IRISH PRIDE: 101 REASONS TO BE PROUD YOU'RE IRISH. Both books impart detailed knowledge of the complex and controversial Irish story with a light hand and plenty of humor. Her Irish novels include: DREAM CARVER, CAROUSEL, DAUGHTER OF IRELAND and the bestselling FAR AND AWAY - the novelization of the Ron Howard movie starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman.
On nationwide tours, Sonja lectures to published and "pre-published" authors in her workshop, "The Novel Approach," a seminar which covers such topics as: story structure, characterization, plotting, pacing, and marketing manuscripts.
Sonja has taught numerous courses at university and adult continuing education facilities including: general fiction, historical research, and mystery writing. She was managing editor at "Single Living" magazine and has functioned as a manuscript doctor and storyline editor for major publishers. Earlier in her career, she was a prolific ghostwriter, authoring both fictional and non-fictional books for celebrities and professionals.
Having lived in Los Angeles, Toronto, and County Kerry, Ireland, she now resides in New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
December 30, 2020
I like this series and it is well read at any point you start with but definitely no fivers here.
This one was John and Ryan opening up an elegant restaurant in the sketchy part of town. On opening day the head Chef is found dead in the kitchen. While investigating the Magnolia Detective Agency finds that he has many enemies but there was only the kitchen crew at the time of his demise.
Good for an in between read.
This one was John and Ryan opening up an elegant restaurant in the sketchy part of town. On opening day the head Chef is found dead in the kitchen. While investigating the Magnolia Detective Agency finds that he has many enemies but there was only the kitchen crew at the time of his demise.
Good for an in between read.
March 7, 2016
Killer Gourmet by G.A. McKevett is the 20th book in the Savannah Reid mystery series. Savannah is helping her friends Ryan and John celebrate the opening of their new restaurant when the chef is found murdered. Another terrific book in the series with Dirk and Savannah making a great team with the help of the other members of the Magnolia Moonlight detective agency and Granny Reid. It was nice to catch up with the various characters and to see Dirks and Savannahs marriage making their partnership stronger. I thought it odd though that Ryan and John would open a restaurant. One of my favourite series.
August 28, 2021
"I want you to know, boy...it's about all I can do to gag down this fine supper you bought me."
Savannah's friends, John and Ryan, have finally realized their dream of opening a restaurant with a well known chef. Unfortunately, the chef is a pain in the patootie. Savannah and crew go full steam to find the murderer when said chef is killed in the kitchen on opening night.
I must admit that I have skipped around a bit in this series. I seriously need to go back and read about Savannah and Dirk's wedding. That being said, I was still able to catch up with the Moonlight Magnolia gang in their latest adventure.
I love Savannah. She is upfront, loud and very self assured. Dirk irritated me a bit in earlier books but I have come to like him as well. I think reading the Granny Reid series gave me a new appreciation for this series.
The characters feel like old friends. The mystery is well crafted and the murderer completely threw me off balance.
I know that Savannah's 'Southernisms' tend to be off putting for some folks. They don't bother me as I am a Southerner.
This series is like a homecoming. I know who will be there and what to expect from them. I need to go back a few books to catch up. Of course the next one I have ready to read is the next one in the series.(I need it for a challenge) Then I will back up and catch up with the crew.
Savannah's friends, John and Ryan, have finally realized their dream of opening a restaurant with a well known chef. Unfortunately, the chef is a pain in the patootie. Savannah and crew go full steam to find the murderer when said chef is killed in the kitchen on opening night.
I must admit that I have skipped around a bit in this series. I seriously need to go back and read about Savannah and Dirk's wedding. That being said, I was still able to catch up with the Moonlight Magnolia gang in their latest adventure.
I love Savannah. She is upfront, loud and very self assured. Dirk irritated me a bit in earlier books but I have come to like him as well. I think reading the Granny Reid series gave me a new appreciation for this series.
The characters feel like old friends. The mystery is well crafted and the murderer completely threw me off balance.
I know that Savannah's 'Southernisms' tend to be off putting for some folks. They don't bother me as I am a Southerner.
This series is like a homecoming. I know who will be there and what to expect from them. I need to go back a few books to catch up. Of course the next one I have ready to read is the next one in the series.(I need it for a challenge) Then I will back up and catch up with the crew.
March 31, 2015
Every time I pick up one of GA McKevett's wonderful series about Savannah Reid and her amazing group of family and friends, it feels like I've come home.
After 20 books in a series, you can often expect a series to lose its lustre, but this is certainly not the case here. What starts as a pleasant opening for John's and Ryan's new restaurant turns into mayhem when the head chef is found murdered in the kitchen. In a very well-written and intriguing mystery, I actually felt a little heart broken in regard to the killer. That's how well this book is written; if you're led to feel more than animosity towards the "bad guy".
For me, though, the mystery is only secondary to the ongoing loves and relationships between the characters we have come to know and adore. There is really nothing I don't love about the Moonlight Magnolia gang, and I can not wait for the next installment.
After 20 books in a series, you can often expect a series to lose its lustre, but this is certainly not the case here. What starts as a pleasant opening for John's and Ryan's new restaurant turns into mayhem when the head chef is found murdered in the kitchen. In a very well-written and intriguing mystery, I actually felt a little heart broken in regard to the killer. That's how well this book is written; if you're led to feel more than animosity towards the "bad guy".
For me, though, the mystery is only secondary to the ongoing loves and relationships between the characters we have come to know and adore. There is really nothing I don't love about the Moonlight Magnolia gang, and I can not wait for the next installment.
April 23, 2025
Nice to read about Savannah and the gang again!!
January 15, 2015
“What a Sinister Stew in San Carmelita!”
What a delight to travel back to sunny San Carmelita and see what the “Spitfire from Georgia”, Private Investigator Savannah Reid and her much-loved, often embarrassing, Detective Sgt./ Husband, Dirk Coulter are up to. We find them undercover as a pair of oldsters, hoping to nab the perpetrators that have been attacking unsuspecting Senior Citizens. As much as Savannah loves a good stake-out and possible arrest, her mind (and stomach) are focused on the sampling menu of their friends, John Gibson and Ryan Stone’s new restaurant, “ReJuvene”. Alas, by the time the determined duo is finished with their bookings, the Chef’s Audition was over and the restaurant dark. But don’t feel bad, for they soon had another chance to sample the obese, arrogant, nasty, famous Chef Baldwin Norwood’s gourmet fare—and it would be a night to remember! While nibbling their way through some extraordinary dishes, the peaceful atmosphere was abruptly penetrated by the sounds of breaking glass and angry shouts—so much so, that it forced Dirk and Savannah to peek in the kitchen while John tried to restore peace. While resuming the enjoyment of the dessert offerings, the peaceful atmosphere was short-lived, as blood-curdling screams emanated from the kitchen. What now? Just the discovery of the lifeless body of Chef Norwood sprawled out in a pool of blood in front of the stove. Savannah and Dirk had both seen their share of murder scenes, but this one seemed especially vicious. Chef Norwood was noted as a demanding, overbearing lout, but who could hold such hatred that they would commit this heinous crime? Or, should the real question be—Who had the most to gain by his death? Perhaps, his girlfriend Perla Viola? Or maybe, his overworked Sous-Chef Francia Fortun? Maybe blackmail was involved somehow? It was definitely time for the “Moonlight Magnolia Detective Agency” to don their sleuthing caps and come to the aid of their friends. As per the norm, the path to discovery is not a bumpless one for Savannah, Dirk, Tammy and Waycross, even when Granny Reid arrives to assist in the investigation. The Author leads us (Willingly) down many a wisteria-strewn path, both investigatively and within the lives of the Reid Family. I’ve previously enjoyed Savannah’s adventures, but I believe this is, by far, my favorite ( with the exception of Savannah getting the best of her Sister-“Killer Honeymoon”), —perhaps because I can identify with Savannah or, just because the Reid clan never fails to make me chuckle, cry and ultimately sigh with relief. Cozy Lovers, make room on your shelf for this one, you won’t be disappointed and it will leave you wanting more, more, more.
Nancy Narma
What a delight to travel back to sunny San Carmelita and see what the “Spitfire from Georgia”, Private Investigator Savannah Reid and her much-loved, often embarrassing, Detective Sgt./ Husband, Dirk Coulter are up to. We find them undercover as a pair of oldsters, hoping to nab the perpetrators that have been attacking unsuspecting Senior Citizens. As much as Savannah loves a good stake-out and possible arrest, her mind (and stomach) are focused on the sampling menu of their friends, John Gibson and Ryan Stone’s new restaurant, “ReJuvene”. Alas, by the time the determined duo is finished with their bookings, the Chef’s Audition was over and the restaurant dark. But don’t feel bad, for they soon had another chance to sample the obese, arrogant, nasty, famous Chef Baldwin Norwood’s gourmet fare—and it would be a night to remember! While nibbling their way through some extraordinary dishes, the peaceful atmosphere was abruptly penetrated by the sounds of breaking glass and angry shouts—so much so, that it forced Dirk and Savannah to peek in the kitchen while John tried to restore peace. While resuming the enjoyment of the dessert offerings, the peaceful atmosphere was short-lived, as blood-curdling screams emanated from the kitchen. What now? Just the discovery of the lifeless body of Chef Norwood sprawled out in a pool of blood in front of the stove. Savannah and Dirk had both seen their share of murder scenes, but this one seemed especially vicious. Chef Norwood was noted as a demanding, overbearing lout, but who could hold such hatred that they would commit this heinous crime? Or, should the real question be—Who had the most to gain by his death? Perhaps, his girlfriend Perla Viola? Or maybe, his overworked Sous-Chef Francia Fortun? Maybe blackmail was involved somehow? It was definitely time for the “Moonlight Magnolia Detective Agency” to don their sleuthing caps and come to the aid of their friends. As per the norm, the path to discovery is not a bumpless one for Savannah, Dirk, Tammy and Waycross, even when Granny Reid arrives to assist in the investigation. The Author leads us (Willingly) down many a wisteria-strewn path, both investigatively and within the lives of the Reid Family. I’ve previously enjoyed Savannah’s adventures, but I believe this is, by far, my favorite ( with the exception of Savannah getting the best of her Sister-“Killer Honeymoon”), —perhaps because I can identify with Savannah or, just because the Reid clan never fails to make me chuckle, cry and ultimately sigh with relief. Cozy Lovers, make room on your shelf for this one, you won’t be disappointed and it will leave you wanting more, more, more.
Nancy Narma
July 5, 2015
There may be minor spoilers if you haven't read previous books in this series but nothing regarding the actual mystery plot in this novel...
I read or have read around 12 cozy mystery series and generally when they get to the 20th book in the series, or earlier really, I am just reading out of curiousity and loyalty, not because I truly enjoy the books anymore. This is not true for this series. The characters continue to be developed, the mysteries remain fresh and exciting and hard to solve. I was a little concerned when Savannah and Dirk got married that the series would go downhill. It has not and maybe that's because their romance grew out of their friendship and never a central plot, it was just part of the series. I am not sure how else to describe it. It shows great character building and development on the author's part that this occurred in just the right way.
The clue to the killer in this novel is presented to us in a few clues that I didn't catch on to. Which I always like. I hate it when I know who the killer is halfway through or is very obvious. This book gives you just enough clues so you aren't blown out of the water and asking where the heck this character come from but you aren't positive you know who it is 5 pages after the body is discovered either.
I highly recommend this series as it seems to keep getting better.
I read or have read around 12 cozy mystery series and generally when they get to the 20th book in the series, or earlier really, I am just reading out of curiousity and loyalty, not because I truly enjoy the books anymore. This is not true for this series. The characters continue to be developed, the mysteries remain fresh and exciting and hard to solve. I was a little concerned when Savannah and Dirk got married that the series would go downhill. It has not and maybe that's because their romance grew out of their friendship and never a central plot, it was just part of the series. I am not sure how else to describe it. It shows great character building and development on the author's part that this occurred in just the right way.
The clue to the killer in this novel is presented to us in a few clues that I didn't catch on to. Which I always like. I hate it when I know who the killer is halfway through or is very obvious. This book gives you just enough clues so you aren't blown out of the water and asking where the heck this character come from but you aren't positive you know who it is 5 pages after the body is discovered either.
I highly recommend this series as it seems to keep getting better.
May 5, 2015
Killer Gourmet is another entry in the Savannah Reid detective series. This time, she and husband/police detective sergeant Dirk Coulter are in their friends' new restaurant when the chef is discovered dead in the kitchen. The mystery is well constructed, with just enough suspects and just enough information to keep readers guessing. And the personal lives of the characters is further developed to provide breaks from the case and to make the characters more engaging.
Would a detective sergeant really be allowed to involve his wife so much in an investigation? Savannah tags along on witness and suspect interviews, as well as trips to the morgue. She sneaks into the police station to sit in on an interrogation, sneaking because the brass doesn't like her. At least she's not riding around in a police department car.
Would a detective sergeant really be allowed to involve his wife so much in an investigation? Savannah tags along on witness and suspect interviews, as well as trips to the morgue. She sneaks into the police station to sit in on an interrogation, sneaking because the brass doesn't like her. At least she's not riding around in a police department car.
October 10, 2016
This took me forever to get through! These books are the definition of formulaic. And the cheesy over the top goodie two shoes characters are really old. Also: what's with the blatant ass kissing of certain careers and jobs in this book? Specifically military vets, maids, and the unnatural library volunteer ass kissing scene? It's so patronizing! It's like the author is going way overboard to prove how kind her characters are.
I also really wish she'd stop having Tammy call Dirk "pee-pee head." Tammy must be in her late twenties or early thirties by now. Even if she's doing it ironically, it's still really immature.
I also really wish she'd stop having Tammy call Dirk "pee-pee head." Tammy must be in her late twenties or early thirties by now. Even if she's doing it ironically, it's still really immature.
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July 7, 2015Intrigued , I tried this book, really, I did but DNF.
The main character, part foodie, part crime solver sounded delightful. Em, not so much.
What am I missing? This is the 20th book in the series so people must enjoy the characters/writing/dialogue.
Between ridiculous conversations, plots and silly plot lines .....I had to stop. The main things that kept me interested were the gourmet food descriptions! Couldn't get past one more reiteration of the damned Chambord raspberry tart with cream.
The main character, part foodie, part crime solver sounded delightful. Em, not so much.
What am I missing? This is the 20th book in the series so people must enjoy the characters/writing/dialogue.
Between ridiculous conversations, plots and silly plot lines .....I had to stop. The main things that kept me interested were the gourmet food descriptions! Couldn't get past one more reiteration of the damned Chambord raspberry tart with cream.
March 27, 2016
Two words! Emotionally Captivating!
After 20 books you would think that the story lines would get old or boring! So not the case with this series.
I love the mystery of the story but the ways the characters develop more and more each book is what brings me back. This one is my favorite by far! I say that everytime tho :-)
After 20 books you would think that the story lines would get old or boring! So not the case with this series.
I love the mystery of the story but the ways the characters develop more and more each book is what brings me back. This one is my favorite by far! I say that everytime tho :-)
May 16, 2015
I've read quite a few of the Savannah Reid mysteries and have found them all enjoyable. This newest on was fun to read, fast paced and full of zany characters. I love the fact that Savannah is a curvy gal who enjoys eating and that her now husband, Dirk, who is rough around the edges, loves her dearly. A good plot makes this one a winner.
June 7, 2015
This book started a little slowly, but was a good read (no pun intended). It's almost like a grown-up Nancy Drew mystery -- very wholesome and chaste, G-rated, and entertaining. I will be reading more of her books.
April 23, 2015
Wow---nothing like I expected; hard to review this without telling tales, just I guessed ALOT wrong!! very glad to see Granny back...can she stay?
August 13, 2015
This is the 20th book in the Savannah Reid series!! This series seems to be getting better the older it gets. I can't wait till the next one comes out in March!!
January 12, 2018
I wanted a cozy mystery as a bit of a palate cleanser after reading several lengthy fantasy books. I looked for something light and themed at the library and came up with this. I was pleasantly surprised. I haven't read any of the other novels in the series but was able to pick up the characters easily. I liked the easy relationship between the main pair and a depiction of marriage that acknowledges the minor irritations and dismisses them in favour of the overall greatness. The plot was fine and I enjoyed the book.
October 17, 2018
This cozy mystery is about a couple of the Moonlight Mystery Club members opening a new posh restaurant and on the opening night when friends and family members are gathered and enjoying the food, the chef is found bludgeoned to death. Then they must try to find who did it and why they did it. Savannah's challenges to solve this mystery include Granny Reid coming to visit and adding clarity to the investigation. The team works so well together and the characters are friends and close in their interactions.
March 12, 2019
Savannah is struggling with something going on with her health. She's being very secretive about it but Dirk isn't fooled. Ryan and John decide to open a restaurant and on opening night the head chef is killed. The list of enemies he had is endless. Dirk and Savannah must pick thru each suspect to see who wanted him dead more.
May 3, 2019
Good parts but also not good parts. Savannah dumping on Dirk is really bothering me. Why marry the guy if your just gonna dump on him? Loved that Granny 👵 came back for a visit. Sad 😢 for John and Ryan. Not thrilled 😐 by Waycross and Tammy's announcements. Not sure if I will continue the series.
July 4, 2017
Good addition to a strong series.
August 27, 2017
Not one of Savannah Reed's better stories for me. Just OK, nothing special or particularly funny.
November 1, 2017
Great book with fun characters. Plot has interesting twists and turns.
April 8, 2019
Love this series.
October 13, 2019
This one was a real tear-jerker! Some sad, sweet, bittersweet things happen. If you're as invested in the characters as I've become, get ready to get a little choked up!
June 28, 2020
A fun one to lighten my reading.
February 9, 2021
Another great Savannah Reid read
I, once again, thoroughly enjoyed another Savannah and Dirk adventure with plenty of twists and turns and an unexpected ending.
I, once again, thoroughly enjoyed another Savannah and Dirk adventure with plenty of twists and turns and an unexpected ending.
March 4, 2022
Cute book
July 14, 2024
This book was enjoyable and a pretty good mystery, but nothing overly special.
November 6, 2024
I figured out who the killers were. And there were two!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2024
This is a simple read if you're looking for a book to test your brain. I would recommend you reading this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews