What do you think?
Rate this book
Undercover Dish Mystery #3
Pudding Up With Murder
Secret chef Lilah Drake has a killer casserole to deal with in the latest Undercover Dish mystery from the author of Cheddar Off Dead....
Customers trust Lilah Drake to keep her mouthwatering meals under wraps, but when a millionaire meets his untimely end, some sinister secrets become the main course. . . .
Spring is right around the corner, and with the warmer temperatures come plenty of food requests from Lilah Drake's covered-dish clients. Lilah pulls out all the stops with a sweet new casserole for the birthday party of Marcus Cantwell, a wealthy curmudgeon who has some angry ex-wives and more than a few enemies.
When he's found facedown in Lilah's casserole, it's anyone's guess as to who might have wanted the old man dead. A possible new heir to Marcus’s fortune adds some unexpected spice to the investigation, but Lilah fears that the old adage is true, and "the proof is in the pudding."
INCLUDES RECIPES!
Customers trust Lilah Drake to keep her mouthwatering meals under wraps, but when a millionaire meets his untimely end, some sinister secrets become the main course. . . .
Spring is right around the corner, and with the warmer temperatures come plenty of food requests from Lilah Drake's covered-dish clients. Lilah pulls out all the stops with a sweet new casserole for the birthday party of Marcus Cantwell, a wealthy curmudgeon who has some angry ex-wives and more than a few enemies.
When he's found facedown in Lilah's casserole, it's anyone's guess as to who might have wanted the old man dead. A possible new heir to Marcus’s fortune adds some unexpected spice to the investigation, but Lilah fears that the old adage is true, and "the proof is in the pudding."
INCLUDES RECIPES!
293 pages, Paperback
First published September 5, 2017
88 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
About the author
Julia Buckley
31 books803 followersJulia Buckley is a Chicago-area writer. She has written three mystery series with Berkley Prime Crime, including the best-selling Writer's Apprentice Series, which Mystery Scene calls "engaging, enjoyable, and surprising," while Kirkus dubs it "pleasantly old-fashioned." The Library Journal called Buckley "a writer to watch."
Buckley is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and the Chicago Writers Association. She blogs about writing and mysteries at Mysterious Musings, where she has interviewed almost 200 other mystery writers about their work.
She teaches high school English and enjoys reading, playing Words With Friends, and spending time with her husband and two sons, along with their menagerie of animals.
Buckley is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and the Chicago Writers Association. She blogs about writing and mysteries at Mysterious Musings, where she has interviewed almost 200 other mystery writers about their work.
She teaches high school English and enjoys reading, playing Words With Friends, and spending time with her husband and two sons, along with their menagerie of animals.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
February 25, 2021
My first read in this series was very enjoyable. A cozy mystery with a little romance and recipes too; a winning combination! I enjoyed the varied characters and the depth that their storylines and relationships brought to the overall story. I'm eager to pick up the first 2 books in the series.
November 2, 2017
Pudding up with Murder by Julia Buckley is a 2017 Berkley publication.
A wonderful combination of mystery and romance-
Lilah makes a ‘covered dish’ for her friend to serve at a birthday party for millionaire, Marcus Cantwell. Lilah attends the party with her adorable dog and meets the large, unusual, and the complicated Cantwell family.
But, when Marcus keels over at his own party, it wasn’t from natural causes. Someone murdered him, and Lilah is afraid her pudding might have been the murder weapon.
This is the third installment in the ‘An Undercover Dish’ series, but it’s my first. However, the book can be read as a stand alone, although, I do want to read the first two books in the series now that I see how enjoyable it is.
While cozy mysteries can often feature a slight romantic side story, this one has a much stronger romantic element, which took up equal space with the mystery.
But, the two elements blend well with each other beautifully. I enjoyed getting to know Lilah and Jay, as well as the secondary characters.
The mystery is very puzzling, with plenty of suspects that kept me guessing all the way to the very end.
This cozy mystery has everything in it, I enjoy about this genre. Pets, food, great characters I can grow to care about and think of as old friends, and a good old fashioned whodunit.
I am definitely going to read the first two books in the series as well as eagerly anticipating the next installment.
4 stars
A wonderful combination of mystery and romance-
Lilah makes a ‘covered dish’ for her friend to serve at a birthday party for millionaire, Marcus Cantwell. Lilah attends the party with her adorable dog and meets the large, unusual, and the complicated Cantwell family.
But, when Marcus keels over at his own party, it wasn’t from natural causes. Someone murdered him, and Lilah is afraid her pudding might have been the murder weapon.
This is the third installment in the ‘An Undercover Dish’ series, but it’s my first. However, the book can be read as a stand alone, although, I do want to read the first two books in the series now that I see how enjoyable it is.
While cozy mysteries can often feature a slight romantic side story, this one has a much stronger romantic element, which took up equal space with the mystery.
But, the two elements blend well with each other beautifully. I enjoyed getting to know Lilah and Jay, as well as the secondary characters.
The mystery is very puzzling, with plenty of suspects that kept me guessing all the way to the very end.
This cozy mystery has everything in it, I enjoy about this genre. Pets, food, great characters I can grow to care about and think of as old friends, and a good old fashioned whodunit.
I am definitely going to read the first two books in the series as well as eagerly anticipating the next installment.
4 stars
May 13, 2024
Sometimes I need a light book to fill in an evening and Julia Buckley's novels are perfect for that purpose. I found this one slightly less enjoyable than the first two and I'm trying to figure out why that is.
As usual, there is a fair amount of kitchen time, although less than previous books, I think. There was much less emphasis on clandestine food delivery, which I missed. There seemed to be a great deal of attention to romantic relationships around Lilah. Her best friend got engaged, as did her landlord. She admonishes a couple of young men in her circle to quit messing around and court their women. I think that may be the crux of my discontent—too much romance, not enough mystery.
Only one book left in the series, so Jay must seal the deal in that installment. He and Lilah certainly have their differences in this one, both of them being unreasonable at times. But Jay shows up when it counts! So I think I can be persuaded to read the final volume.
As usual, there is a fair amount of kitchen time, although less than previous books, I think. There was much less emphasis on clandestine food delivery, which I missed. There seemed to be a great deal of attention to romantic relationships around Lilah. Her best friend got engaged, as did her landlord. She admonishes a couple of young men in her circle to quit messing around and court their women. I think that may be the crux of my discontent—too much romance, not enough mystery.
Only one book left in the series, so Jay must seal the deal in that installment. He and Lilah certainly have their differences in this one, both of them being unreasonable at times. But Jay shows up when it counts! So I think I can be persuaded to read the final volume.
October 11, 2022
Lilah Drake has an undercover business . She is a chef, who secretly delivers home made food that her clients claim to others they have made. Lilah has made a sweet rice pudding that her friend and neighbour Ellie will present at the birthday party of Marcus Cantwell. Marcus gets along better with animals, particularly dogs far better than he does with people. It is because of her expressive and empathetic dog Mick that Lilah is invited his birthday party. with. When he collapses face first into the rice dish at his birthday party, it soon becomes obvious it is murder. But why would anyone want to kill him? Detective Maria Grimaldi is at the party and Jay Parker, Ellie’s son and Lilah’s boyfriend are called on to investigate. Lilah’s curiosity is also piqued. It is not the first murder she has found herself involved in. Maybe she can help the police solve the murder.
This is, as the title suggests, a playful cosy murder mystery. Lilah and Jay and Ellie are all likeable characters. There are also a number of interesting characters among Marcus Cantwell’s family. Did one of them kill Marcus?
This is a light, fun book, easy to read. I enjoyed the characters, the mystery of the murderer and the why, and the romance between Lilah and Jay. I seem to be in a pattern lately of books that centre around food. For those so inclined there are four recipes at the back including Lilah’s rice pudding casserole. An enjoyable read although at time it did seem to be somewhat repetitive.
This is, as the title suggests, a playful cosy murder mystery. Lilah and Jay and Ellie are all likeable characters. There are also a number of interesting characters among Marcus Cantwell’s family. Did one of them kill Marcus?
This is a light, fun book, easy to read. I enjoyed the characters, the mystery of the murderer and the why, and the romance between Lilah and Jay. I seem to be in a pattern lately of books that centre around food. For those so inclined there are four recipes at the back including Lilah’s rice pudding casserole. An enjoyable read although at time it did seem to be somewhat repetitive.
September 8, 2017
I would pud up with anything, even murder, to read a book written by author Julia Buckley!
I once heard it said that “There is such a thing as too much of a good thing”. Okay, I don’t know who came up with that, but they never would have said it if they were readers if Julia Buckley. I’m here to tell you, when it comes to this author’s books, the phrase should have been “There’s no such thing as too much of a good thing”!
The best of the batch so far, PUDDING UP WITH MURDER is a fantastic story that held me captive from beginning to end. I simply adore the characters in this series, and that makes any book so much more of a joy to read. Hanging out with Lilah and her dog, Mick is always a great way to spend a day. Even when we come across those ever present, pesky dead bodies. ;-)
The fun in an Undercover Dish Mystery always starts on page one, and PUDDING UP WITH MURDER was no different. From the moment I opened this book, I was on a rollercoaster ride of emotion. Honestly, I spent 293 pages, laughing, gasping, blurting out, “No way!” and “Get out of here”, with the occasional “Nah-uh” thrown in for good measure.
When trying to figure out the who in the dunit, I always come close but second guess myself, which is exactly what author Buckley wants. She has a real skill for plotting the perfect crime. Good thing she uses her power for good, as a writer, or the law would have their hands full with her!
As always with this fantastic series, the whipped cream on the pudding if you will, there are some amazing recipes at the back of the book that just beg the reader to make them!
If you are a fan of tried and true cozy mysteries, look no further. PUDDING UP WITH MURDER is the book for you!
I once heard it said that “There is such a thing as too much of a good thing”. Okay, I don’t know who came up with that, but they never would have said it if they were readers if Julia Buckley. I’m here to tell you, when it comes to this author’s books, the phrase should have been “There’s no such thing as too much of a good thing”!
The best of the batch so far, PUDDING UP WITH MURDER is a fantastic story that held me captive from beginning to end. I simply adore the characters in this series, and that makes any book so much more of a joy to read. Hanging out with Lilah and her dog, Mick is always a great way to spend a day. Even when we come across those ever present, pesky dead bodies. ;-)
The fun in an Undercover Dish Mystery always starts on page one, and PUDDING UP WITH MURDER was no different. From the moment I opened this book, I was on a rollercoaster ride of emotion. Honestly, I spent 293 pages, laughing, gasping, blurting out, “No way!” and “Get out of here”, with the occasional “Nah-uh” thrown in for good measure.
When trying to figure out the who in the dunit, I always come close but second guess myself, which is exactly what author Buckley wants. She has a real skill for plotting the perfect crime. Good thing she uses her power for good, as a writer, or the law would have their hands full with her!
As always with this fantastic series, the whipped cream on the pudding if you will, there are some amazing recipes at the back of the book that just beg the reader to make them!
If you are a fan of tried and true cozy mysteries, look no further. PUDDING UP WITH MURDER is the book for you!
September 3, 2017
Pudding Up With Murder is the third book in the An Undercover Dish Mystery.
This was another exciting visit to the community of Pine Haven. It’s always an enjoyable visit with Lilah, her boyfriend, Jay Parker, Jay’s mother Ellie and their friends and neighbors
One of Lilah’s first customers for gourmet meals that hostesses can pass off as their own creations, was Ellie. Once again Ellie has called upon Lilah to make her fabulous rice casserole to take to her neighbor, Marcus Cantwell’s birthday party. Cantwell is a dog lover and has heard quite a bit about Mick, Lilah’s Chocolate Lab and would like to see her incredible dog. Between the family squabbles, she has seen at the party and Cantwell’s not wanting to talk about much other than Mick and Lilah can’t wait to leave.
Cantwell has been married three times and has five children. If one was to look up the definition of dysfunctional, there would probably be a picture of one of the infrequent family gatherings. As Lilah is mingling with the guests she sees Owen, a son, take a punch at Prue’s, a daughter, boyfriend Damen. This all took place in front of Maria Grimaldi, a police detective, and partner of Jay Parker. But even with all the family infighting, Lilah finds Cantwell’s youngest son, Cash, pretty level headed. As Lilah is going into the kitchen to offer birthday wishes and to say goodbye, Cantwell falls face first into the rice casserole and later dies at the hospital.
With Ellie being somewhat close with Cantwell, Lilah feels the need for this murder to have a quick resolution and begins a little investigating of her own. As is often said: money is the root of all evil and money seem to be the main focal point with the family’s bickering
In addition to solving the murder, Lilah has a couple of romances that needs a kick start, which she does. In addition, her own romance with Jay is traveling down a bumpy stretch.
Another well-plotted and told story and an exciting addition to this enjoyable series and with an interesting and believable cast of characters.
Delicious recipes are also included with the book.
I would love to read more books in this series.
This was another exciting visit to the community of Pine Haven. It’s always an enjoyable visit with Lilah, her boyfriend, Jay Parker, Jay’s mother Ellie and their friends and neighbors
One of Lilah’s first customers for gourmet meals that hostesses can pass off as their own creations, was Ellie. Once again Ellie has called upon Lilah to make her fabulous rice casserole to take to her neighbor, Marcus Cantwell’s birthday party. Cantwell is a dog lover and has heard quite a bit about Mick, Lilah’s Chocolate Lab and would like to see her incredible dog. Between the family squabbles, she has seen at the party and Cantwell’s not wanting to talk about much other than Mick and Lilah can’t wait to leave.
Cantwell has been married three times and has five children. If one was to look up the definition of dysfunctional, there would probably be a picture of one of the infrequent family gatherings. As Lilah is mingling with the guests she sees Owen, a son, take a punch at Prue’s, a daughter, boyfriend Damen. This all took place in front of Maria Grimaldi, a police detective, and partner of Jay Parker. But even with all the family infighting, Lilah finds Cantwell’s youngest son, Cash, pretty level headed. As Lilah is going into the kitchen to offer birthday wishes and to say goodbye, Cantwell falls face first into the rice casserole and later dies at the hospital.
With Ellie being somewhat close with Cantwell, Lilah feels the need for this murder to have a quick resolution and begins a little investigating of her own. As is often said: money is the root of all evil and money seem to be the main focal point with the family’s bickering
In addition to solving the murder, Lilah has a couple of romances that needs a kick start, which she does. In addition, her own romance with Jay is traveling down a bumpy stretch.
Another well-plotted and told story and an exciting addition to this enjoyable series and with an interesting and believable cast of characters.
Delicious recipes are also included with the book.
I would love to read more books in this series.
September 5, 2017
I love this series and I am so excited to review this one! Love this book!
Pudding Up With Murder is book three in a series about a young, head strong chef who has a handful of food based part time jobs, a large loveable dog and a new relationship. In this story it is almost Spring and love is in the air, but so is family drama. Being invited to a backyard party Lilah and her dog Mick find themselves mixed up in another murder, but is everything as it seems? Families are complicated, love proves to be complicated and so does murder! I did not figure this one out until the end of the book, even though I thought I had! I think this is a brilliant series and Pudding Up with Murder was a great read!
Pudding Up With Murder is book three in a series about a young, head strong chef who has a handful of food based part time jobs, a large loveable dog and a new relationship. In this story it is almost Spring and love is in the air, but so is family drama. Being invited to a backyard party Lilah and her dog Mick find themselves mixed up in another murder, but is everything as it seems? Families are complicated, love proves to be complicated and so does murder! I did not figure this one out until the end of the book, even though I thought I had! I think this is a brilliant series and Pudding Up with Murder was a great read!
September 5, 2017
Lilah Drake provides private catering to people in the town of Pine Haven who want to take credit for cooking a particular dish themselves, but either don’t have the time or the talent to do so. Discrete is Lilah’s middle name but that’s gotten her in trouble in the past and may cause potential problems in this new book. I love, love the premise of series. How clever to have someone cook a dish so that someone else can take credit?!?! And so many mentions of delicious dishes! It also gives the protagonist an “in” with a variety of townspeople who she otherwise wouldn’t come in contact with.
While this is the third book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone. A new reader won’t be lost as there is a bit of backstory mentioned. However, previous books sets up the scenes for Lilah’s blossoming romance with Detective Jay Parker. It’s very entertaining that Lilah met him via his mother, Ellie, who uses her catering service and claims the dishes as her own. Even her grown children think she’s an amazing cook. There is an undercurrent of romance throughout the book that is cute at times and also sweet but perhaps that’s because the season is spring and everyone is twitterpated. It does not detract from the plot and instead, provides a nice backdrop to the murder mystery.
When Lilah accompanies Ellie to a 65th birthday party for Ellie’s next door neighbor, little did she know that the birthday “boy” would drop face first into her dish of rice pudding during the party, poisoned to death. Lilah feels a bit responsible since the man just ate her pudding and starts asking some questions and listening to the gossip going around town. The author provides plenty of suspects via the victim’s many adult children and the book deftly explores the theme of parent/child relationships, especially as they age. The threads of the plot and subplots are skillfully interwoven to provide a very surprising and suspenseful ending… one that I didn’t see coming at all! And as I read the last page, wondered just how long I have to wait for the next book to release!
Being a caterer, Lilah prepares many yummy dishes and the descriptions will make you hungry! Fortunately, Julia has provided several recipes at the back of the book and they all sound delicious!
I was provided an advance copy of this book with the hope I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
While this is the third book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone. A new reader won’t be lost as there is a bit of backstory mentioned. However, previous books sets up the scenes for Lilah’s blossoming romance with Detective Jay Parker. It’s very entertaining that Lilah met him via his mother, Ellie, who uses her catering service and claims the dishes as her own. Even her grown children think she’s an amazing cook. There is an undercurrent of romance throughout the book that is cute at times and also sweet but perhaps that’s because the season is spring and everyone is twitterpated. It does not detract from the plot and instead, provides a nice backdrop to the murder mystery.
When Lilah accompanies Ellie to a 65th birthday party for Ellie’s next door neighbor, little did she know that the birthday “boy” would drop face first into her dish of rice pudding during the party, poisoned to death. Lilah feels a bit responsible since the man just ate her pudding and starts asking some questions and listening to the gossip going around town. The author provides plenty of suspects via the victim’s many adult children and the book deftly explores the theme of parent/child relationships, especially as they age. The threads of the plot and subplots are skillfully interwoven to provide a very surprising and suspenseful ending… one that I didn’t see coming at all! And as I read the last page, wondered just how long I have to wait for the next book to release!
Being a caterer, Lilah prepares many yummy dishes and the descriptions will make you hungry! Fortunately, Julia has provided several recipes at the back of the book and they all sound delicious!
I was provided an advance copy of this book with the hope I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 28, 2017
I am a fan of this author's Writer's Apprentice series and have heard good things about this series, so when Berkley surprisingly approved me for an ARC, I jumped at the chance to read this installment. While I normally like to start a series from the beginning, I didn't feel like I was missing out on too much by starting with the third book. I found this to be a well plotted story with a solid mystery that did not turn out as I expected. I enjoyed the characters and found them to be well rounded and dimensional. I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
A full review will be posted to my blog closer to the release date.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy provided to me by Berkley through Netgalley.
A full review will be posted to my blog closer to the release date.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy provided to me by Berkley through Netgalley.
June 20, 2017
This is the first book I've read in this series. I love the titles of the books and the covers are always so vibrant and fun to look at.
Lilah Drake is a character that I can relate to. As the creator of undercover dishes, Lilah prepares mouthwatering food and others take the credit.
When Lilah creates a spectacular dish for a party, it's all fun and games until someone gets hurt, or killed.
Lilah has an uncanny ability to sniff out the truth, and having her canine companion by her side makes it even better.
I'm looking forward to becoming familiar with the other books in this series.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Lilah Drake is a character that I can relate to. As the creator of undercover dishes, Lilah prepares mouthwatering food and others take the credit.
When Lilah creates a spectacular dish for a party, it's all fun and games until someone gets hurt, or killed.
Lilah has an uncanny ability to sniff out the truth, and having her canine companion by her side makes it even better.
I'm looking forward to becoming familiar with the other books in this series.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
February 15, 2022
I have been enjoying this series however my only thoughts are that maybe the romance between Lilah and Jake feel a little rushed. I am glad they are together but I would have liked to see a little bit of cat mouse. Otherwise I'm looking forward to reading the next in series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2019
Love this series! I couldn't put this book down.
September 26, 2025
This is a fun series, although I think I prefer the author's other two series - Writer's Apprentice and Hungarian Tea House - a bit more.
I like the recurring characters in this series, but struggle with the idea of someone being able to earn a living by being a *secret chef. If your clients take credit for the food you prepare, how on earth do you get referrals and grow your business? Three books in and I'm still stumped by this.
I wasn't surprised by the identity of the murder victim in this story, nor by all the possible suspects. I can't explain why, but one character jumped to the top of my personal list relatively early in the book, so I wasn't surprised when that person turned out to be the culprit. Hints at the motive were dropped throughout the story, but I didn't start to put it all together until just before the reveal.
I thought this was the last book of the series, but am happy to learn that there is one more book to read. It's part of my audio library, but I'm not sure when I'll get back to this series.
I like the recurring characters in this series, but struggle with the idea of someone being able to earn a living by being a *secret chef. If your clients take credit for the food you prepare, how on earth do you get referrals and grow your business? Three books in and I'm still stumped by this.
I wasn't surprised by the identity of the murder victim in this story, nor by all the possible suspects. I can't explain why, but one character jumped to the top of my personal list relatively early in the book, so I wasn't surprised when that person turned out to be the culprit. Hints at the motive were dropped throughout the story, but I didn't start to put it all together until just before the reveal.
I thought this was the last book of the series, but am happy to learn that there is one more book to read. It's part of my audio library, but I'm not sure when I'll get back to this series.
September 2, 2017
Lilah Drake creates delectable meals and allows her clients to call them their own. The fact that she cooks them is kept strictly confidential. When she and her furry companion, Mick are invited to the birthday party of a millionaire who ends up in her rice pudding, she is stunned.
Lilah cooks up a sweet new cinnamon rice pudding casserole for the birthday party of Marcus Cantwell, a wealthy man with three ex-wives and five grown kids. When he's found face down in her casserole, Lilah can’t believe it is happening, again. She along with her boyfriend, Detective Jay Parker set out to locate the killer.
--
Series: An Undercover Dish Mystery - Book 3
Author: Julia Buckley
Genre: Culinary Cozy
Publisher: Berkley
Julia Buckley’s third addition to her “An Undercover Dish Mystery” series, Pudding Up with Murder is a wonderful happy adventure with delicious ideas. It fits in well with the other books in the series, The Big Chili, and Cheddar Off Dead but can easily stand alone. The writing is smooth, the plot executed with flair and polish. The story is fast-paced and keeps the reader guessing until the last minute. There are plenty of clues along the way but finding them may be a bit of a challenge.
The character of Lilah is enchanting. She is stubborn and nosy but also loving and kind. Her love interest, Jay is a fine specimen of a man, but like Lilah, a bit hard headed with trust issues. They are perfect for each other but take their time revealing their feelings to one another.
Love is in the air, and many of the supporting characters are getting engaged and planning a wedding. Lilah helps things along with two of the couples by interfering, which is something she is almost as good at as she is cooking. All the characters are well rounded with individual personalities that are easily relatable. The Victim is not as likable as the other characters, but the reader will find that they feel sorry for him and his family, but also for the killer in the end.
Lilah’s furry companion Mick is adorable and seems almost like another human character. There are times when she speaks to him that the reader truly expects Mick to answer her. But Mick is more than just a quiet companion, he is also a protective friend and shows his true colors when Lilah needs him the most.
Pudding Up with Murder is a wonderful read and is highly recommended. If the reader enjoys fantastic food, unparalleled mystery with suspects that could be your next-door neighbors; children that are beyond delightful, and twists and turns until the very end, they will appreciate the nuances of this book and the entire series.
Lilah cooks up a sweet new cinnamon rice pudding casserole for the birthday party of Marcus Cantwell, a wealthy man with three ex-wives and five grown kids. When he's found face down in her casserole, Lilah can’t believe it is happening, again. She along with her boyfriend, Detective Jay Parker set out to locate the killer.
--
Series: An Undercover Dish Mystery - Book 3
Author: Julia Buckley
Genre: Culinary Cozy
Publisher: Berkley
Julia Buckley’s third addition to her “An Undercover Dish Mystery” series, Pudding Up with Murder is a wonderful happy adventure with delicious ideas. It fits in well with the other books in the series, The Big Chili, and Cheddar Off Dead but can easily stand alone. The writing is smooth, the plot executed with flair and polish. The story is fast-paced and keeps the reader guessing until the last minute. There are plenty of clues along the way but finding them may be a bit of a challenge.
The character of Lilah is enchanting. She is stubborn and nosy but also loving and kind. Her love interest, Jay is a fine specimen of a man, but like Lilah, a bit hard headed with trust issues. They are perfect for each other but take their time revealing their feelings to one another.
Love is in the air, and many of the supporting characters are getting engaged and planning a wedding. Lilah helps things along with two of the couples by interfering, which is something she is almost as good at as she is cooking. All the characters are well rounded with individual personalities that are easily relatable. The Victim is not as likable as the other characters, but the reader will find that they feel sorry for him and his family, but also for the killer in the end.
Lilah’s furry companion Mick is adorable and seems almost like another human character. There are times when she speaks to him that the reader truly expects Mick to answer her. But Mick is more than just a quiet companion, he is also a protective friend and shows his true colors when Lilah needs him the most.
Pudding Up with Murder is a wonderful read and is highly recommended. If the reader enjoys fantastic food, unparalleled mystery with suspects that could be your next-door neighbors; children that are beyond delightful, and twists and turns until the very end, they will appreciate the nuances of this book and the entire series.
December 26, 2022
I'm enjoying this new-to-me mystery series. It has a really nice balance between the cozy aspects and the mystery. Lilah's undercover dish business is a fresh approach to the the culinary cozy. Solid mystery, great characters and -- yay -- a romance free of that dreaded love triangle trope! Plus, the good descriptions are mouth watering and recipes are included. Looking forward to diving into the next book sometime early in the New Year.
July 27, 2018
Altro piacevole libro, peccato che questa serie sia stata chiusa, come molte altre, dalla casa editrice... Come nei precedenti, anche in questo occupa molto spazio la vita privata della protagonista, cosa che non mi è dispiaciuta affatto. Inoltre, non avevo azzeccato il colpevole, anzi, non sapevo proprio dove battere la testa...
September 7, 2017
Couldn't finish
To be honest, I don't buy the whole undercover dish concept. You don't cook-- big deal. That is not a shameful character flaw.
I found the main character to be judgemental, using the words strange and weird to describe the characters of a family she just met. Off putting for me.
The dog was cute, but that was all.
To be honest, I don't buy the whole undercover dish concept. You don't cook-- big deal. That is not a shameful character flaw.
I found the main character to be judgemental, using the words strange and weird to describe the characters of a family she just met. Off putting for me.
The dog was cute, but that was all.
September 15, 2017
Pudding Up with Murder by Julia Buckley is the third cozy mystery in An Undercover Dish Mystery series. Lilah Drake works as a secret chef in her spare time (when not working at Pine Haven Caterer’s). Lilah along with her dog, Mick are attending the birthday party of Marcus Cantwell. She prepared a rice pudding for her client, Ellie Parker to take to the event. After speaking with Marcus, Lilah is given a tour and the dish on the family by Cash Cantwell. When Lilah goes back to the kitchen, people are enjoying the rice pudding. Marcus enters the kitchen with an empty bowl of rice pudding and collapses. Thankfully, Detective Maria Grimaldi was on hand to secure the scene and quickly gather evidence. Who disliked Marcus enough to murder him? When Cash ends up being a prime suspect, Lilah starts looking at the extended family to find the real killer.
I found Pudding Up with Murder to be easy to read and it had a decent pace. The mystery was straightforward and one detail gives away the identity of the murderer. I could pinpoint the killer early in the story. I felt the romance dominated the book (I like a little romance, but I this was over-the-top). I quickly tired of Lilah mooning over Jay and Jay’s jealousy over Angelo Cardelini (it was ridiculous). I wanted more investigation and less day-to-day activities. There is cooking, walking the dog, dates, friends, and work. These elements make up a significant portion of the book. My rating for Pudding Up with Murder is 3 out of 5 stars. I do not quite buy into concept of a secret chef. Why would anyone be ashamed about not cooking or not wanting to cook? What am I missing? I was not enthralled with Lilah, but I did enjoy Mick, the dog (a cutie). Pudding Up with Murder can be a standalone. For cozy mystery readers who prefer the emphasis on cozy, then you will appreciate Pudding Up with Murder.
I found Pudding Up with Murder to be easy to read and it had a decent pace. The mystery was straightforward and one detail gives away the identity of the murderer. I could pinpoint the killer early in the story. I felt the romance dominated the book (I like a little romance, but I this was over-the-top). I quickly tired of Lilah mooning over Jay and Jay’s jealousy over Angelo Cardelini (it was ridiculous). I wanted more investigation and less day-to-day activities. There is cooking, walking the dog, dates, friends, and work. These elements make up a significant portion of the book. My rating for Pudding Up with Murder is 3 out of 5 stars. I do not quite buy into concept of a secret chef. Why would anyone be ashamed about not cooking or not wanting to cook? What am I missing? I was not enthralled with Lilah, but I did enjoy Mick, the dog (a cutie). Pudding Up with Murder can be a standalone. For cozy mystery readers who prefer the emphasis on cozy, then you will appreciate Pudding Up with Murder.
July 18, 2017
A romantic mystery, the third one in the Undercover mystery series and the second book by this author that I have read. I like this author 's writing very much. I become friends with the characters immediately and the felt that I was there. It can be read as a standalone and found the story complete. The backstory caught my attention and both books are high on my TBR pile. Lilah Drake and is a gourmet chef. One of the jobs is supplying mouth watering casseroles to hostesses who take the credit for the dish. Another job is demonstrating her dishes on a TV show with the credit going to the host of the show. She works for a catering company. Lilah has an on going and off relationship with a homicide detective. In this book, it is active. There are other romances in the book. Lilah has a dog named Mike.
Lola received an invitation to a Marcus Cantrell birthday party. A wealthy gentleman who had five children and three ex- wives. Before the end of the party falls face down in Lilah' s dish of to rice pudding. The dynamics of the family will keep you guessing and the ending will surprise you.Delicious sounding recipes included. I highly recommend this series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy Berkeley Publishing through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Lola received an invitation to a Marcus Cantrell birthday party. A wealthy gentleman who had five children and three ex- wives. Before the end of the party falls face down in Lilah' s dish of to rice pudding. The dynamics of the family will keep you guessing and the ending will surprise you.Delicious sounding recipes included. I highly recommend this series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy Berkeley Publishing through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 5, 2017
Lilah Concocts a Drop Dead Pudding
Lilah would love to have a full time catering business, but right now her catering consists of making dishes for customers who want to pass the dishes off as their own. One of her first customers, and the mother of her boyfriend, Jay, Ellie loves to get dishes from Lilah and pass them off as her creations. This time, she takes a rice pudding casserole to Marcus Cantwell’s 65th birthday party.
All is going well. Marcus and the children love the pudding until Marcus slumps over, face first in the remains of the pudding. Fearing that she may be suspected of murder, Lilah decides to unravel the murder. There are plenty of suspects. Marcus was married three times and has five children. Distributing the money via his will provides a reason for any of the beneficiaries to commit murder.
The author does a good job of making the suspects and their motivations real. I had suspicions about the murderer, but it took until the end to see the whole picture. One of the delightful benefits of this book is the plethora of delicious dishes Lilah concocts. It will make you hungry just reading about them.
Romance is in the air. Lilah and Jay are going over a rough patch and with three ex-wives people wonder about Marcus’ relationship with Ellie.
I enjoyed this cozy mystery. If you like murder mixed with delicious food and a helping of romance, you’ll love this book.
I received this book from Berkley Publishing Group for this review.
Lilah would love to have a full time catering business, but right now her catering consists of making dishes for customers who want to pass the dishes off as their own. One of her first customers, and the mother of her boyfriend, Jay, Ellie loves to get dishes from Lilah and pass them off as her creations. This time, she takes a rice pudding casserole to Marcus Cantwell’s 65th birthday party.
All is going well. Marcus and the children love the pudding until Marcus slumps over, face first in the remains of the pudding. Fearing that she may be suspected of murder, Lilah decides to unravel the murder. There are plenty of suspects. Marcus was married three times and has five children. Distributing the money via his will provides a reason for any of the beneficiaries to commit murder.
The author does a good job of making the suspects and their motivations real. I had suspicions about the murderer, but it took until the end to see the whole picture. One of the delightful benefits of this book is the plethora of delicious dishes Lilah concocts. It will make you hungry just reading about them.
Romance is in the air. Lilah and Jay are going over a rough patch and with three ex-wives people wonder about Marcus’ relationship with Ellie.
I enjoyed this cozy mystery. If you like murder mixed with delicious food and a helping of romance, you’ll love this book.
I received this book from Berkley Publishing Group for this review.
September 22, 2017
Murder & Romance!
It's Spring & love is in the air, but so is murder. Lilah is a very talented chef. She has several different jobs. One as a chef for a catering company, another partners her with an ex-boyfriend on a cable cooking show, & the most interesting as a secret chef. It is that last job that brings her into contact with another murder. While Lilah is trying to figure out the killer, she is also dealing with several other issues, the biggest one a very jealous boyfriend. Lilah is not the only one trying to negotiate love's mysterious & confusing path. Quite a few other characters are dealing with similar issues as Lilah, while some others seem to have already captured their true love. I found this to be an intriguing & enjoyable cozy mystery with some very delicious recipes at the end as an extra sweet bonus!
It's Spring & love is in the air, but so is murder. Lilah is a very talented chef. She has several different jobs. One as a chef for a catering company, another partners her with an ex-boyfriend on a cable cooking show, & the most interesting as a secret chef. It is that last job that brings her into contact with another murder. While Lilah is trying to figure out the killer, she is also dealing with several other issues, the biggest one a very jealous boyfriend. Lilah is not the only one trying to negotiate love's mysterious & confusing path. Quite a few other characters are dealing with similar issues as Lilah, while some others seem to have already captured their true love. I found this to be an intriguing & enjoyable cozy mystery with some very delicious recipes at the end as an extra sweet bonus!
January 9, 2019
Good mystery but maybe too much relationship drama
What I enjoyed:
* The mystery was good
* Getting to know the Cantwell family - plenty of drama there
* Lilah shares information with the police
What could have been better:
* too much relationship drama with Lilah and Jake
* not sure if there is going to be another book
What I enjoyed:
* The mystery was good
* Getting to know the Cantwell family - plenty of drama there
* Lilah shares information with the police
What could have been better:
* too much relationship drama with Lilah and Jake
* not sure if there is going to be another book
August 23, 2017
Pudding Up With Murder
An Undercover Dish Mystery, Book #3
Julia Buckley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Secret chef Lilah Drake has a killer casserole to deal with in the latest Undercover Dish mystery from the author of Cheddar Off Dead....
Customers trust Lilah Drake to keep her mouthwatering meals under wraps, but when a millionaire meets his untimely end, some sinister secrets become the main course. . . .
Spring is right around the corner, and with the warmer temperatures come plenty of food requests from Lilah Drake's covered-dish clients. Lilah pulls out all the stops with a sweet new casserole for the birthday party of Marcus Cantwell, a wealthy curmudgeon who has some angry ex-wives and more than a few enemies.
When he's found face down in Lilah's casserole, it's anyone's guess as to who might have wanted the old man dead. A possible new heir to Marcus’s fortune adds some unexpected spice to the investigation, but Lilah fears that the old adage is true, and "the proof is in the pudding."
INCLUDES RECIPES! (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I really enjoyed spending time with Lilah and her family and friends. They are people that I would like to get to know better and hang out with. But I am still not sure about Jay, I just do not think that he is right for Lilah. He is not one of my favorite book boyfriends. And it really bothered me how Lilah would call him Jay or Parker or even Jay Parker, it was confusing and irritating. At the beginning of the book I had to go back and make sure she was talking about the same person. That is only my opinion and others may not agree with me, but for me it was irritating.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there, watching all of the action taking place around me. I felt like I could smell the aromas of some of the food the Lilah made and it made me hungry. The writing style flows smoothly and the book was an easy quick read.
The mystery was well plotted and carried on well throughout the book. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through that it was nearly impossible to figure out who the culprit was. In fact, I was surprised when I found out. And that is a good thing in my book.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With great characters, a perplexing mystery, a unique premise and a homey small town atmosphere, what’s not to like? I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review this book.
An Undercover Dish Mystery, Book #3
Julia Buckley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Secret chef Lilah Drake has a killer casserole to deal with in the latest Undercover Dish mystery from the author of Cheddar Off Dead....
Customers trust Lilah Drake to keep her mouthwatering meals under wraps, but when a millionaire meets his untimely end, some sinister secrets become the main course. . . .
Spring is right around the corner, and with the warmer temperatures come plenty of food requests from Lilah Drake's covered-dish clients. Lilah pulls out all the stops with a sweet new casserole for the birthday party of Marcus Cantwell, a wealthy curmudgeon who has some angry ex-wives and more than a few enemies.
When he's found face down in Lilah's casserole, it's anyone's guess as to who might have wanted the old man dead. A possible new heir to Marcus’s fortune adds some unexpected spice to the investigation, but Lilah fears that the old adage is true, and "the proof is in the pudding."
INCLUDES RECIPES! (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I really enjoyed spending time with Lilah and her family and friends. They are people that I would like to get to know better and hang out with. But I am still not sure about Jay, I just do not think that he is right for Lilah. He is not one of my favorite book boyfriends. And it really bothered me how Lilah would call him Jay or Parker or even Jay Parker, it was confusing and irritating. At the beginning of the book I had to go back and make sure she was talking about the same person. That is only my opinion and others may not agree with me, but for me it was irritating.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there, watching all of the action taking place around me. I felt like I could smell the aromas of some of the food the Lilah made and it made me hungry. The writing style flows smoothly and the book was an easy quick read.
The mystery was well plotted and carried on well throughout the book. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through that it was nearly impossible to figure out who the culprit was. In fact, I was surprised when I found out. And that is a good thing in my book.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With great characters, a perplexing mystery, a unique premise and a homey small town atmosphere, what’s not to like? I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review this book.
July 12, 2019
At first I was going to give this three stars. It was just an average cozy mystery and a fast read, nothing Life changing, not the best not the worst... BUT then I started thinking about a lot of the plot points and got irritated. There was just way to many convenient things happening, to many conclusions that were made (by someone who wasn't overly smart) that turned out to be right, the boyfriend is an ass and everyone just has on rose colored glasses talking about how great he is, and she is so immature for her age when it comes to relationships I want to scream!
I am trying to come up with an example I can give without spoilers. I can't think of any good ones,, so dont read the following if you don't want to be somewhat spoiled.
I read this for a challenge... so I can say one good thing,, the cover had all the things I needed on it to win my challenge! (Trees, something spotted, a drink.. and something big and brown! )
I am trying to come up with an example I can give without spoilers. I can't think of any good ones,, so dont read the following if you don't want to be somewhat spoiled.
I read this for a challenge... so I can say one good thing,, the cover had all the things I needed on it to win my challenge! (Trees, something spotted, a drink.. and something big and brown! )
April 6, 2020
Another great story from Julia Buckley with Lilah Drake up to her elbows in ingredients and murder! This time Lilah along with her chocolate lab Mick has been invited to a birthday party and she has made a rice pudding for her good friend Ellie to claim as her own (Ellie finds it hard to cook these days because of arthritis), what Lilah doesn't expect is the birthday celebrant to keel over shortly after eating the pudding! Luckily a detective is on hand (sadly NOT Jay Parker, Ellie's son and Lilah's boyfriend), and so things move on apace (well apart from one of the dead man's sons being huffy and obstructive). When Jay arrives back from a training course he has to jump in and take over and now he and Lilah need to find out who killed Marcus Cantwell, why he was killed and even more importantly discover things about themselves and their relationship!
August 29, 2020
2020 bk 279. There are not that many author's of contemporary (set in today's world) mysteries that I read beyond the first mystery. While one of Julia Buckley's other series left me cold, I fell in love with the characters in Julia Buckley's Lilah Drake mysteries. In this one, a chance visit to a neighbor's birthday party finds a murder by allergies, peanut allergies. In the chaos that follows, Lilah's boyfriend, Pete, has to take over the case, Pete's mother asks Lilah to help discover who killed her neighbor, and love is in the air at home, at the bakery, at the television show - and Lilah gets to help everyone. She dishes out delicious casserole's and solves mysteries with the tiniest of clues. (I've made 2 from the earlier titles - and have my eye on Lilah's egg-and-dill delight, even if it does have spinach in it.)
November 7, 2024
Each book in this 4-book series featuring undercover dish creator Lilah Drake has individual characteristics. The mysteries are very well written and they do not have obvious solutions.
Here Lilah and her boyfriend, police detective Jay Parker, are still feeling their way around in their relationship.
Murder soon occurs when Lilah is present at a birthday party. After Jay is assigned to the case, conflict ensues between the new lovers.
As usual, it is Lilah who solves the crime, but it his her sweet chocolate Labrador retriever, Mick, who assists in the final arrest.
Wonderful series!
Here Lilah and her boyfriend, police detective Jay Parker, are still feeling their way around in their relationship.
Murder soon occurs when Lilah is present at a birthday party. After Jay is assigned to the case, conflict ensues between the new lovers.
As usual, it is Lilah who solves the crime, but it his her sweet chocolate Labrador retriever, Mick, who assists in the final arrest.
Wonderful series!
May 24, 2021
This is a fun series about Lilah Drake who runs an "undercover" home catering service that lets her clients claim credit for her creative dishes. This book was a bit of a disappointment, primarily because the main character behavior was really annoying (to me), i.e. really illogical thinking/reasoning and hyper emotional ... it was just a bit too much.
January 3, 2022
I love this series! The characters are like friends that you are cheering for and mystery draws you in. I love the recipes involved. The idea of someone baking for you, so you don't have to bake at events is brilliant. These books will have you laughing and wanting more, luckily we thought this series had come to an end but one more was just released.
September 7, 2017
Registered on Bookcrossing - http://www.bookcrossing.com/journal/1...
I love this author and series! Lilah Drake is a fun, likeable, smart, sassy character. The other characters are interesting too. I can't wait to read the next one to see what happens with Lilah, her boyfriend Jay and her sweet dog Mick.
I love this author and series! Lilah Drake is a fun, likeable, smart, sassy character. The other characters are interesting too. I can't wait to read the next one to see what happens with Lilah, her boyfriend Jay and her sweet dog Mick.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews