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Key West Food Critic Mystery #7
Killer Takeout
It’s Fantasy Fest at Key West, and food critic Hayley Snow is ready to celebrate. But a killer seems intent on crashing the party in this mystery from the national bestselling author of Death with All the Trimmings.
Every year, Key West’s week long Mardi Gras–style festival has tourists and locals alike lining up for costumed revelry and delicious eats. Key Zest magazine has assigned Hayley to write a piece on the fest’s grab-and-go food, so she’s planning on hitting up the mobile eateries while checking out the party preparations.
Hayley’s office mate, Danielle, recently elected Queen of Fantasy Fest, is also buzzing between festivities and fundraisers. But when a former royal rival gets taken out, Hayley needs to put down her party hat and her pen and figure out who served up a side of murder—before Danielle gets crowned a killer...
Every year, Key West’s week long Mardi Gras–style festival has tourists and locals alike lining up for costumed revelry and delicious eats. Key Zest magazine has assigned Hayley to write a piece on the fest’s grab-and-go food, so she’s planning on hitting up the mobile eateries while checking out the party preparations.
Hayley’s office mate, Danielle, recently elected Queen of Fantasy Fest, is also buzzing between festivities and fundraisers. But when a former royal rival gets taken out, Hayley needs to put down her party hat and her pen and figure out who served up a side of murder—before Danielle gets crowned a killer...
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 5, 2016
137 people are currently reading
1253 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Burdette
24 books830 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 170 reviews
April 28, 2016
Hayley Snow (Key West food critic) is getting ready for Fantasy Fest---a week long festival taking place during the ten days leading up to Halloween. But during the fun festivities a murder occurs and one of Hayley's friends becomes a suspect in the murder. It's up to Hayley to try and help her out.
This was a really entertaining read! I loved the setting of Key West, it was lovely. And I liked reading about the fun festivities that took place, like the zombie bike parade and a pet masquerade contest. Plus there's the possible threat of a hurricane hitting the island. There was also a lot of delicious descriptions of food throughout the book, (the book even includes recipes). I found the characters interesting and I was wondering who the murderer could be. A fast-paced and enjoyable read.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and I was sent a free copy by the author for an honest review.
This was a really entertaining read! I loved the setting of Key West, it was lovely. And I liked reading about the fun festivities that took place, like the zombie bike parade and a pet masquerade contest. Plus there's the possible threat of a hurricane hitting the island. There was also a lot of delicious descriptions of food throughout the book, (the book even includes recipes). I found the characters interesting and I was wondering who the murderer could be. A fast-paced and enjoyable read.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and I was sent a free copy by the author for an honest review.
April 27, 2016
I really wanted to love this book. I loved the rest of the series and this one was just really hard to get through. I read a lot of cozy mysteries, and actually enjoy that fact that they can be repetitive and predictable, however, that wasn't my issue with this book.
The author has created one of the most hated cozy-mystery characters (for me, at least) in detective Bransford. He's a genuinely crappy person. The other characters even mention how awful he is and yet, he's still in the runnings as a love interest for Hayley. Which, truthfully, makes her a little insufferable. In most of these series, the inevitable cop romance has a man with some redeeming qualities but Bransford has less than 0. The whole thing bothers me because most people read this type of book to escape the bad decisions of life, or at the very least, distract them, yet, here, we're stuck reading about someone making them and it's just irritating.
That, and this book was painfully slow moving. The hurricane element had nothing to do with anything and I almost felt like it was just there to fill space. Did we ever find out why Danielle was in the hospital? How many times was Instagram referenced? It had to be at least 7 which is entirely too many.
I just have so many complaints. I was really excited for this book and completely let down.
The author has created one of the most hated cozy-mystery characters (for me, at least) in detective Bransford. He's a genuinely crappy person. The other characters even mention how awful he is and yet, he's still in the runnings as a love interest for Hayley. Which, truthfully, makes her a little insufferable. In most of these series, the inevitable cop romance has a man with some redeeming qualities but Bransford has less than 0. The whole thing bothers me because most people read this type of book to escape the bad decisions of life, or at the very least, distract them, yet, here, we're stuck reading about someone making them and it's just irritating.
That, and this book was painfully slow moving. The hurricane element had nothing to do with anything and I almost felt like it was just there to fill space. Did we ever find out why Danielle was in the hospital? How many times was Instagram referenced? It had to be at least 7 which is entirely too many.
I just have so many complaints. I was really excited for this book and completely let down.
March 27, 2016
Hayley Snow is back with zombie cyclists, body painted tourists, a threatening hurricane, and (of course) a murder. Killer Takeout is the 7th book in Lucy Burdette's Key West Food Critic mystery series. This book centers around a murder during Fantasy Fest, an October staple in the Key West festivals. The descriptions are vivid and made me feel like I was there with Hayley. The plot was excellent and well thought out. All the details were there, and I figured out the solution around when Hayley did, which is always a bonus. Ms. Burdette continues to develop Hayley into a wonderful character. She is a smart woman with a logical, journalistic approach to figuring out the latest mystery that she and her friends and family get embroiled in. I feel like I'm watching Hayley mature through each book. The combination of plot, character, and setting keep me coming back for each new book in the series. Keep them coming!
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review.
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review.
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August 16, 2016Another fabulous entry by Lucy Burdette. A Florida Keys festival, a hurricane, and upcoming nuptials all combine for a fabulous story. As always, Lucy makes the Keys come alive in her writing. Highly recommended!
April 5, 2016
This a long running series but the book was new for me. I had problems keeping the characters separate. I found the descriptions of the characters fully developed and of the area easy to imagine yourself there. The zombies were very detailed and I good feel myself in the zany crowd. Hayley has been assigned to write stories about 'grab and go' eateries. We find ourselves eating some special meals. There wasn't much of a mystery, the cause of death being a problem. Hayley's friend Danielle is Queen of the Festival and her opponent dies in the parade. Danielle is a 'person of interest', Hayley inquiry about the case to clear Danielle's name.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Berkley Publishing Group through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Berkley Publishing Group through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions are my own.
April 5, 2016
Its Fantasy Fest time, a week and a half long party for adults on Key West leading up to Halloween. Hayley Snow is busy covering the event for the magazine where she works. Meanwhile, her mom is in Key West to get remarried. Then a woman dies and Hayley’s co-worker Danielle becomes the prime suspect. Oh yeah, and there’s a hurricane that might be heading to the island as well.
As you can see, there’s plenty to keep your interest. That kept the pages turning although I did feel it weakened the ending of the actual mystery a bit. That’s a minor complaint overall with the wonderful characters and the festive atmosphere of the island. If you need an arm chair vacation, this is the book for you.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
As you can see, there’s plenty to keep your interest. That kept the pages turning although I did feel it weakened the ending of the actual mystery a bit. That’s a minor complaint overall with the wonderful characters and the festive atmosphere of the island. If you need an arm chair vacation, this is the book for you.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
March 3, 2018
Key West is experiencing Fantasy Fest week.
Parades, contests, food, drinks, daily events,
Risqué body paintings, costumes plus influxes
of people from all over descend on the island
inhabitants.
Hayley Snow is the food critic for a Key Zest
newspaper who is to write an article on reliable
takeout food for the next edition which include
restaurants and food trucks. Hayley is also
to cover the Zombie parade, the pet costume
parade, help with her Mother’s upcoming wedding
plans plus visit museum housing Robert, the island
curse.
While riding in the zombie parade one of the
participants falls from their bicycle. Hayley gets
the fallen zombie aide. The person dies on the way
to the hospital. Did the zombie die from a medical
condition or was foul play involved??
While trying to clear her friend’s name, a hurricane
hits the island!!! Will Hayley and her family and friends
survive? Will Hayley and Miss Gloria lose the houseboat?
Lots of delicious food descriptions plus recipes included and
at the end.
The story is enriched by Sparky ( Miss Gloria’s black cat),
Hayley’s cat- Evinrude, the neighbor’s cats Dinkels & Jack
plus their schnauzer, Schnootie, Bradford’s Ziggy Stardust,
a mini Doberman pinscher mix, Lola the white kitten and
Chucky Cheese, a enormous yellow tiger cat.
This quick moving culinary murder mystery with interesting,
colorful characters plus delicious eating with a food critic’s
opinions blending together with murder and a hurricane
for an entertaining read. Whether you plan to visit or live in
Key West, this book # 7 in the Key West Food Critic Mystery
series will give you a unbelievable Key West experience.
Parades, contests, food, drinks, daily events,
Risqué body paintings, costumes plus influxes
of people from all over descend on the island
inhabitants.
Hayley Snow is the food critic for a Key Zest
newspaper who is to write an article on reliable
takeout food for the next edition which include
restaurants and food trucks. Hayley is also
to cover the Zombie parade, the pet costume
parade, help with her Mother’s upcoming wedding
plans plus visit museum housing Robert, the island
curse.
While riding in the zombie parade one of the
participants falls from their bicycle. Hayley gets
the fallen zombie aide. The person dies on the way
to the hospital. Did the zombie die from a medical
condition or was foul play involved??
While trying to clear her friend’s name, a hurricane
hits the island!!! Will Hayley and her family and friends
survive? Will Hayley and Miss Gloria lose the houseboat?
Lots of delicious food descriptions plus recipes included and
at the end.
The story is enriched by Sparky ( Miss Gloria’s black cat),
Hayley’s cat- Evinrude, the neighbor’s cats Dinkels & Jack
plus their schnauzer, Schnootie, Bradford’s Ziggy Stardust,
a mini Doberman pinscher mix, Lola the white kitten and
Chucky Cheese, a enormous yellow tiger cat.
This quick moving culinary murder mystery with interesting,
colorful characters plus delicious eating with a food critic’s
opinions blending together with murder and a hurricane
for an entertaining read. Whether you plan to visit or live in
Key West, this book # 7 in the Key West Food Critic Mystery
series will give you a unbelievable Key West experience.
June 8, 2023
This is another of those series that I had put aside because the next book was only available in mass market paperback and, with my vision issues, I just can’t read those anymore. Now, thank goodness, ebook versions are available, so I’m able to return to the series.
I’ve never been to Key West, but it’s near the top of my travel bucket list. I’d like to get there before the rising oceans flood the islands and they become a thing of the past. This series almost makes me feel like I’m there, and every book leaves me more determined to get there for an actual visit – although probably not during Fantasy Fest Week. The primary characters in these books feel like old friends, especially Miss Gloria, and I like the way relationships have grown and changed over the course of the series.
The murder victim in this book was not very well-liked by much of anyone, so there were plenty of suspects on my initial list, but as the story progressed, that list was culled and rearranged several times. The actual killer was on my list, but not as close to the top as they should have been, and the confrontation scene, as usual in this series, made it hard to put the book down. We all know how it will work out, but it’s still a relief when it’s finally over :)
I’ve never been to Key West, but it’s near the top of my travel bucket list. I’d like to get there before the rising oceans flood the islands and they become a thing of the past. This series almost makes me feel like I’m there, and every book leaves me more determined to get there for an actual visit – although probably not during Fantasy Fest Week. The primary characters in these books feel like old friends, especially Miss Gloria, and I like the way relationships have grown and changed over the course of the series.
The murder victim in this book was not very well-liked by much of anyone, so there were plenty of suspects on my initial list, but as the story progressed, that list was culled and rearranged several times. The actual killer was on my list, but not as close to the top as they should have been, and the confrontation scene, as usual in this series, made it hard to put the book down. We all know how it will work out, but it’s still a relief when it’s finally over :)
November 6, 2018
Oh boy, this series is getting better by the book! I absolutely love seeing the main character, Haley, growing a backbone and coming into her own. The mysteries are well plotted and the character development is fantastic, but the growth of the main character is the heartbeat of the book. Not only is she gaining strength as an amateur investigator, but in her professional and personal life as well. Kudo's to the author for keeping Haley real, but showing her growth as a professional and a woman! Side note, eat before reading or you'll find yourself noshing on everything as the food is so vivid and tastily described that I swear you can smell it as you read. I can't wait to see what happens to Haley and her merry band in the next book!
June 10, 2021
Another worthy entry in the Key West Food Critic mystery series. This novel is set during Fantasy Fest, the week long party held in October. This was not my favorite in the series, I never cared about the murder victim. There are several less likeable characters and some of the are over the top. The denouement takes place in the ex-boyfriend's closet during a hurricane, which fit this story. Despite not being my favorite, these novels are great breaks for me in between more serious literature/nonfiction.
May 11, 2023
What a book! These always make me want to visit Key West, just without the hurricane and I don’t need to go for fantasy fest. It it does make a good back drop for a mystery. The characters are fun and the mystery well written.
March 22, 2024
This was not my favorite in the series. The food all sounded excellent, however! There was a lot of repetition and the impulsive decision at the very end of the book caught me off guard (IYKYK).
I’m still going to see what happens next!
P.S. Miss Gloria is easily my favorite character!
I’m still going to see what happens next!
P.S. Miss Gloria is easily my favorite character!
January 1, 2023
Excellent series, although it started out a bit wobbly.
March 22, 2025
I really enjoy the series. The mysteries are good and you really feel like you’re in Key West.
April 5, 2016
Hold onto your floppy hats, fans of Lucy Burdette's Key West Food Critic mysteries. It's Fantasy Fest week on our favorite island, where the wackiest of the wacky celebrations includes events such as the Zombie Bike Ride, the Tighty Whitey Party, the Pet Masquerade, the Tutu Party, and the Duval Street Parade where body paint is often a substitute for clothing. Key West is practically bursting at the seams with wall to wall people visiting for this wildest adult extravaganza, and crowds of uninhibited revelers aren't the only ones swirling. A possible hurricane is waiting off the coast of Cuba to join the party. And, Killer Takeout gives readers a front row seat to all the festivities.
While Haley Snow, food critic for the online Key Zest magazine is currently writing a lower key piece for the magazine on takeout food, due to the impossibility of doing restaurant dining-in during Fantasy Fest, she has plenty on her plate. Her mother has decided to marry her sweetheart Sam during this craziest of weeks in Key West, which has Haley dealing with arrangements that are challenging to say the least. Miss Gloria, Haley's adorable octogenarian houseboat roomie, has signed her and Haley up for the ending Duval Street Parade as parade ambassadors. Haley's co-worker at Key Zest, Danielle, is the Fantasy Fest Queen, so there are activities to attend supporting Danielle. And, she is covering some of the events for Key Zest, including the Zombie Bike Ride. All the while, Key West televisions are set on the weather station tracking the impending storm/hurricane.
With all the churning and twirling of celebration and storm, a murder is served, and, of course, Haley has her hands in the pie. Being observant and apparently blessed with good hearing, Haley hears a strange call from behind her in the Zombie Bike Ride. "Zombie down." The downed zombie isn't just down, but dead, and the victim, Caryn Druckman, is a runner-up to the Fantasy Fest Queen crown and the person Haley's friend Danielle recently had an altercation with. Haley rushes to Caryn lying in the street, but there is nothing she can do and nothing the victim tells her that can help before the paramedics take her away. Haley's boyfriend on the Key West Police Force, Detective Nathan Bransford, focuses on Danielle as the guilty party in the demise of the unpopular Ms. Druckman, but Haley knows that there's more to the story than a beauty queen gone bad. So, Haley does what Haley does best, starts asking questions and taking notes to clear her friend and find out who really had it in for the victim. So much is up in the air and out of control, and Haley is on a deadline to find answers before they're all blown away.
Every time I read a book in this series, I think it is the best one yet. They are all so much fun and full of the most animated, interesting characters that ever graced the paradise known as Key West. The author takes great care with all of her characters, whether they be a regular or performing a guest role. The dialogue is always fresh and lively, and shows that Haley maintains a sense of humor throughout her ups and downs. The food is always to die for. Well, it is. Even in the takeout menu items, there is no dearth of drooling over the meals. Lucy Burdette has a magical way of making this beautiful island come alive to readers, and I'm convinced that she is responsible for increased tourism. It's really hard to believe that Killer Takeout is the seventh book already in this series, but time does fly when you're having fun.
I was given a copy of this book by the author for review, and I guarantee an unbiased review has been given.
While Haley Snow, food critic for the online Key Zest magazine is currently writing a lower key piece for the magazine on takeout food, due to the impossibility of doing restaurant dining-in during Fantasy Fest, she has plenty on her plate. Her mother has decided to marry her sweetheart Sam during this craziest of weeks in Key West, which has Haley dealing with arrangements that are challenging to say the least. Miss Gloria, Haley's adorable octogenarian houseboat roomie, has signed her and Haley up for the ending Duval Street Parade as parade ambassadors. Haley's co-worker at Key Zest, Danielle, is the Fantasy Fest Queen, so there are activities to attend supporting Danielle. And, she is covering some of the events for Key Zest, including the Zombie Bike Ride. All the while, Key West televisions are set on the weather station tracking the impending storm/hurricane.
With all the churning and twirling of celebration and storm, a murder is served, and, of course, Haley has her hands in the pie. Being observant and apparently blessed with good hearing, Haley hears a strange call from behind her in the Zombie Bike Ride. "Zombie down." The downed zombie isn't just down, but dead, and the victim, Caryn Druckman, is a runner-up to the Fantasy Fest Queen crown and the person Haley's friend Danielle recently had an altercation with. Haley rushes to Caryn lying in the street, but there is nothing she can do and nothing the victim tells her that can help before the paramedics take her away. Haley's boyfriend on the Key West Police Force, Detective Nathan Bransford, focuses on Danielle as the guilty party in the demise of the unpopular Ms. Druckman, but Haley knows that there's more to the story than a beauty queen gone bad. So, Haley does what Haley does best, starts asking questions and taking notes to clear her friend and find out who really had it in for the victim. So much is up in the air and out of control, and Haley is on a deadline to find answers before they're all blown away.
Every time I read a book in this series, I think it is the best one yet. They are all so much fun and full of the most animated, interesting characters that ever graced the paradise known as Key West. The author takes great care with all of her characters, whether they be a regular or performing a guest role. The dialogue is always fresh and lively, and shows that Haley maintains a sense of humor throughout her ups and downs. The food is always to die for. Well, it is. Even in the takeout menu items, there is no dearth of drooling over the meals. Lucy Burdette has a magical way of making this beautiful island come alive to readers, and I'm convinced that she is responsible for increased tourism. It's really hard to believe that Killer Takeout is the seventh book already in this series, but time does fly when you're having fun.
I was given a copy of this book by the author for review, and I guarantee an unbiased review has been given.
May 3, 2016
Killer Takeout-1
Killer Takeout A Key West Food Critic Mystery by Lucy Burdette has a festival with a zombie parade then mix in a hurricane and a murder and what more could you ask for in a cozy mystery. This is a fun fast paced mystery that keeps you guessing and wanting more as you read it. It also includes recipes.
Key West is having it's annual Fantasy Fest with good food, fun parades, crazy tourists and a King and Queen. When one of the royal court is murdered Hayley the food critic who writes for Key Zest tries to find out what happened and to keep her friend Danielle out of jail as the lead suspect in the murder. On top of all the festivities there is a hurricane headed right for Key West to add to the confusion and troubles. Will Hayley be able to help her friend Danielle out of trouble and find the real reason for the murder and the person who committed the murder while trying to stay safe during the festival and storm?
Lucy Burdette gets you wrapped up in the festival fun with her descriptions of the parades, zombies, food and all that makes up the festival. She helps paint a picture of all of it and then throws you into a mystery that keeps you guessing on who the murderer is with twists and turns and plenty of suspects. She then adds the extra tension of a hurricane bearing down on all the activities and island and it just adds to the suspense of the whole story. You get swept up in all the hub bub of the festival and it just adds a dimesion to the whole mystery. I could just imagine all the fun and confusion that goes along with the whole atomsphere of the festival then to have a murder committed in the middle of the zombie ride where everyone is moving and dressed as zombies adds an element that is unusual to the plot. This is a really good book that I found kept me guessing and wanting more. I can not wait for the next installment in the Key West Food Critic Mysteries. Oh and the recipes at the end of the book are yummy and a plus.
I recommend if you like a good culinary unique cozy mystery then you will want to read this one for sure.
If you want to buy this book you can at
http://www.amazon.com/Killer-Takeout-...
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/kille...
If you want to learn more about the author and her books check her out at
http://lucyburdette.com/
Until Next Time:
GRAB A CUP OF COFFEE OR TEA, SOME CHOCOLATE, A GOOD BOOK AND KEEP ON READING!
March 26, 2018
I mostly enjoyed this book, as I have the last six in the series, but I have a couple of things that just rubbed me the wrong way. First, and relatively minor, were the quotes used to introduce each chapter. In the past books, I remember these as mildly entertaining and occasionally even cleverly foreshadowing the events of that chapter. In this book, they were neither. I imagine that Ms. Burdette keeps a treasury of such quotes for use in her books, but if so, her options are really running dry. I would recommend that she stop using them altogether if there aren't any better ones that these. They were obscure and in no way connected to the book.
My other gripe is more substantial -- at least in my Florida-raised mind. Burdette's description of the hurricane in this book borders on totally bogus! A mandatory evacuation notice does not come the same day the storm is slated to arrive! It happens days in advance because it takes days for tens of thousands of people to drive the 2 lane highway north -- the only way out! And no one in a flat-bottomed house boat is going to "ride out" a hurricane on the lee side of Big Pine Key nor will they be able to toddle on home in the short time that elapses in this novel. And while the lead up to the storm can be eerily quiet, the aftermath seldom is. It is usually windy, gusty, squally, suffocatingly humid and along the shoreline, storm surge would have left the streets full of saltwater or rain water, at the very least. And what about the sensations during the storm? The sound of the wind like a freight train overhead, obstacles large and small smashing into the building, the rain blown sideways against windows and walls, the pressure variations that make the doors and windows flex with a corresponding effect on the eardrums. And 7 wet and sweaty people [and a handful of cats] crammed into a closet without ventilation for what would realistically have been hours and hours would yield a stench almost unbearable. Not a Kumbaya moment, trust me!
The book makes it seems like a couple of hours in a closet is all it takes to weather a storm like this. I've been through a half dozen hurricanes, some hit-and-run, some major sources of devastation, and none of them resembled the experience in this book. I assume Ms. Burdette lives in Key West, so she has to know how silly her description sounds to anyone with any experience at all riding out a hurricane. I just wonder why she'd spread that kind of misconception to the broader audience of readers who've never lived through one.
My other gripe is more substantial -- at least in my Florida-raised mind. Burdette's description of the hurricane in this book borders on totally bogus! A mandatory evacuation notice does not come the same day the storm is slated to arrive! It happens days in advance because it takes days for tens of thousands of people to drive the 2 lane highway north -- the only way out! And no one in a flat-bottomed house boat is going to "ride out" a hurricane on the lee side of Big Pine Key nor will they be able to toddle on home in the short time that elapses in this novel. And while the lead up to the storm can be eerily quiet, the aftermath seldom is. It is usually windy, gusty, squally, suffocatingly humid and along the shoreline, storm surge would have left the streets full of saltwater or rain water, at the very least. And what about the sensations during the storm? The sound of the wind like a freight train overhead, obstacles large and small smashing into the building, the rain blown sideways against windows and walls, the pressure variations that make the doors and windows flex with a corresponding effect on the eardrums. And 7 wet and sweaty people [and a handful of cats] crammed into a closet without ventilation for what would realistically have been hours and hours would yield a stench almost unbearable. Not a Kumbaya moment, trust me!
The book makes it seems like a couple of hours in a closet is all it takes to weather a storm like this. I've been through a half dozen hurricanes, some hit-and-run, some major sources of devastation, and none of them resembled the experience in this book. I assume Ms. Burdette lives in Key West, so she has to know how silly her description sounds to anyone with any experience at all riding out a hurricane. I just wonder why she'd spread that kind of misconception to the broader audience of readers who've never lived through one.
April 6, 2016
"Killer Takeout" is a cozy mystery. It's the seventh book in a series. You don't need to read the previous novels to understand this one, and this book didn't spoil the previous mysteries.
Frankly, the book was mostly about Fantasy Fest and the incoming hurricane. Hayley did ask a lot of case-related questions, but they weren't very good questions and so she got nowhere. About halfway through, I realized it wasn't going to be a very hard mystery (thus the bad questions) and was able to quickly pin down whodunit and why from the few clues.
For all that, I enjoyed the book until it hit on my pet peeves. Hayley and a friend did The Stupidest Thing A Cozy Mystery Heroine Has Ever Done in the last few pages. And despite this, despite yelling at her boss for expecting her to do actual work, and despite mentally criticizing everything about her boyfriend and dismissing his every wish about their future, she comes off with everyone admiring her. So, yeah, fantasy.
There was no sex. There was a minor amount of bad language.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
Frankly, the book was mostly about Fantasy Fest and the incoming hurricane. Hayley did ask a lot of case-related questions, but they weren't very good questions and so she got nowhere. About halfway through, I realized it wasn't going to be a very hard mystery (thus the bad questions) and was able to quickly pin down whodunit and why from the few clues.
For all that, I enjoyed the book until it hit on my pet peeves. Hayley and a friend did The Stupidest Thing A Cozy Mystery Heroine Has Ever Done in the last few pages. And despite this, despite yelling at her boss for expecting her to do actual work, and despite mentally criticizing everything about her boyfriend and dismissing his every wish about their future, she comes off with everyone admiring her. So, yeah, fantasy.
There was no sex. There was a minor amount of bad language.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
September 24, 2016
How I love a good cozy! And I adore a fab one, like the Key West Food Critic cozy series. I love being introduced to each character as the series goes along and admire Hayley's fortitude and pluck. She has proven that it is possible to pull stakes, move to a new location and do what one loves as a career choice. She has the neatest friends, she lives on a boat, has a super job that she holds onto with her entire being even with bosses who aren't too keen on her being in the picture.
The amateur sleuth becoming involved in the investigation can be tricky, but it has yet to feel forced in this series. Here it's because Hayley's friend and co-worker is the suspect and Hayley knows it just can't be possible.
And the atmosphere is heated up with Mardi Gras antics from tourists and locals alike. I liked the sense of the local's almost animosity tempered with resignation. Tourism was good for the economy but at what cost. The locals just want their home back to normal. It adds to the suspense.
Definitely recommend
The amateur sleuth becoming involved in the investigation can be tricky, but it has yet to feel forced in this series. Here it's because Hayley's friend and co-worker is the suspect and Hayley knows it just can't be possible.
And the atmosphere is heated up with Mardi Gras antics from tourists and locals alike. I liked the sense of the local's almost animosity tempered with resignation. Tourism was good for the economy but at what cost. The locals just want their home back to normal. It adds to the suspense.
Definitely recommend
April 2, 2016
Killer Takeout by Lucy Burdette is the 7th installment in the Key West Food Critic mystery series, and quite possibly my favorite so far! Haley and her pals are back, and this week not only is it Fantasy Fest in sunny Key West, but Hurricane Margaret is about to bear down on the island. There's a wedding, naked people (body paint only!) running around town, a zombie bike race, Danielle as the Queen of Fantasy Fest, plenty of fabulous recipes, a little bit of romance and you guessed it - murder! I love the fact that we continue to see the development of the background characters/residents of the island, and really enjoy that our heroine, Haley, has an octogenarian sidekick! I did receive a copy of this book from the author for my honest review, which I've posted. I've read all 7 books in this series, and recommend that you do, too. 5 stars for Killer Takeout, I highly recommend it!
April 5, 2016
Hayley Snow is juggling her job, her mother's upcoming wedding, her relationship with cop Nathan Bransford, an incoming storm and the island's Fantasy Fest, filled with painted bodies and zombies. Then the woman who lost the festival queen role to Hayley's friend Danielle collapses and dies during a zombie bike parade. Hayley has to find the killer before Danielle is the next victim - or charged with murder.
This book, the 7th in the Key West Food Critic series, is highly entertaining. The reader can feel the humidity, taste the island cuisine and see the palm leaves swaying. The characters are described efficiently and effectively, and each of them is memorable. I read this book out of order - I have not read the previous six in this series. But I will read all of them now! I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and I honestly loved this book.
This book, the 7th in the Key West Food Critic series, is highly entertaining. The reader can feel the humidity, taste the island cuisine and see the palm leaves swaying. The characters are described efficiently and effectively, and each of them is memorable. I read this book out of order - I have not read the previous six in this series. But I will read all of them now! I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and I honestly loved this book.
March 30, 2016
I loved this book. I could almost feel myself in Key West with all of its wonderfully quirky inhabitants. Harley Snow (what a name in the heat of Florida!), is smart, dedicated to those around her regardless of circumstance, and a wee bit nosy, but in a good way. Key West wears its party hat that in this entry in the series. While the visitors come and shed most if not all of their inhibitions one never expected that murder would also pay visit. The story is tightly woven with periodic meanders about Hayley's family, Miss Gloria (who sounds like a great roommate!), her Key Zest co-workers, and let us not forget her drop dead handsome but he of few words policeman. Add in the Fantasy Fest, a hurricane, cats, her mother's beachfront wedding and you have a recipe for mayhem. Speaking recipes,there are several I want to try! Grab this book before they sell out! It is a great way to visit Key West without leaving the comfort of your home.
April 2, 2016
I received a copy from the author for my honest review.
And, honestly, this was the best of the series, I think! It has been a while since I have read the others, but the story just flowed so well. I wanted to just keep reading because I felt like I was there with Hayley. Although I am glad I didn't actually feel all of the heat and humidity.
Hayley was very busy trying to do her job with takeout foods from the local restaurants. Then someone is murdered and her friend and coworker is the accused. So Hayley adds sleuthing to her duties. And then there is her mother and future stepfather to think about. And then, the weather needed to be watched!
This was definitely quite the wild ride! I am sad I finished it but happy to have had such fun!
And, honestly, this was the best of the series, I think! It has been a while since I have read the others, but the story just flowed so well. I wanted to just keep reading because I felt like I was there with Hayley. Although I am glad I didn't actually feel all of the heat and humidity.
Hayley was very busy trying to do her job with takeout foods from the local restaurants. Then someone is murdered and her friend and coworker is the accused. So Hayley adds sleuthing to her duties. And then there is her mother and future stepfather to think about. And then, the weather needed to be watched!
This was definitely quite the wild ride! I am sad I finished it but happy to have had such fun!
March 29, 2016
This is an enjoyable addition to the Key West Food Critic Mystery Series. I was quickly drawn in to this fast paced story and held me attention throughout. I've enjoyed watching the main character, Hayley grow of the course of the series. The mystery is well thought out and kept me guessing at who the culprit was. One of the things I enjoy most is the author's descriptions of the people, places and things. I feel as though I'm right there along with the characters. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2016
Loved Key West when I visited it ??? years ago as a barely teenager. Not so sure I would want to visit during any of the activities held today. A little too uninhibited for me to participate in and what's the fun of only being a spectator. I will get my thrills by reading Killer Takeout. Lucy Burdette writes an interesting and charming mystery. The author provided my copy in exchange for my honest review. I really enjoy this series and hope it continues for many more books. I enjoy each and every visit to Key West.
April 5, 2016
I love this series and this book was amazingly good!
I loved reading about the fantasy festival and the upcoming hurricane.
There were great character moments and I can't wait to see what happens next!
I loved reading about the fantasy festival and the upcoming hurricane.
There were great character moments and I can't wait to see what happens next!
March 16, 2016
Review to come closer to publication.
Quick thoughts: I love Hayley Snow. She's a foodie. A busy-body. She stands up for her friends and she is hoping one day to be loved like she deserves.
Cute mystery- enjoyable!
Quick thoughts: I love Hayley Snow. She's a foodie. A busy-body. She stands up for her friends and she is hoping one day to be loved like she deserves.
Cute mystery- enjoyable!
May 18, 2016
love the ending - so many possibilities - can't wait for the next one!
March 13, 2019
Another "Meh" for this series. These books are losing the focus on the mystery, which are taking back seat to everything else that happens in the books. There is a lot of happenings going on, very little that have to do with someone dying. While the pieces fit together in the end, it feels like they are mashed together in a way that a toddler does when putting together a puzzle. While everything is joined, it is rather haphazard and not really lining up.
It felt like this was an attempt to squeeze another book out of a series that had run its course. The characters really have never developed, they are still dealing with the same problems they have been dealing with since the first book. There is little to no growth for anyone. There is yet another reason for Hayley's mom (and now, soon to be step father) to come to Key West, so they can be in this book as well. I'm not sure how Hayley manages to support herself on the small amount of work she does for an e-zine (even with free rent), because she barely writes any stories. The hurricane felt out of place in this book as well, it didn't build the tension that I think it was supposed to add, and it was quite anti-climatic.
It felt like this was an attempt to squeeze another book out of a series that had run its course. The characters really have never developed, they are still dealing with the same problems they have been dealing with since the first book. There is little to no growth for anyone. There is yet another reason for Hayley's mom (and now, soon to be step father) to come to Key West, so they can be in this book as well. I'm not sure how Hayley manages to support herself on the small amount of work she does for an e-zine (even with free rent), because she barely writes any stories. The hurricane felt out of place in this book as well, it didn't build the tension that I think it was supposed to add, and it was quite anti-climatic.
February 7, 2021
In Lucy Burdette's Killer Takeout, the 7th installment in the Key West Food Critic Culinary Cozy Mystery series, this new caper is twisted like a hurricane to leave you guessing. It all started when Hayley Snow witnessed a catfight between two women before the annual Fantasy Fest. After it had broken up, they had a Zombie Apocalypse Parade when one of the zombies got sick and died. Now it was up to Hayley to find out what caused Caryn Bruckman's death and who did it and why. And she had to clear her friend and fellow coworker Danielle's name and getting a closer look on who Caryn was, and what type of person she was outside the royal court. While this is happening, Hayley's uncertain with her relationship with Nathan, a hurricane to steamroll through the Key West area, and her mother and future FIL plan to tie the knot. When she gets closer to the ice-cold truth, it's after the eye of the storm and learns whodunit before it might be too late.
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