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Kebab Kitchen Mystery #3
One Feta in the Grave
As summer comes to an end in her Jersey Shore town, Lucy Berberian continues to manage her family's Mediterranean restaurant. The Kebab Kitchen also has a food tent at this year's beach festival. But now a local businessman is under the boardwalk--dead by the sea ...
With a sand castle contest and live music, Ocean Crest bids a bittersweet farewell to tourist season. Summer will return next year ... but Archie Kincaid won't. The full-of-himself store owner has been fatally shot, soon after a screaming match with Lucy's best friend. Katie's far from the only suspect, though, since Archie had some bitter rivals--as well as some relationships no one knew about. It's up to Lucy to look into some seedy characters and solve the case before the wrong person gets skewered ...
Recipes included!
"Clever and charming ... A culinary delight that will have readers salivating over the food and hungry for literary answers."
--RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars, on Hummus and Homicide
"A series that will prove delightful for cozy fans."
--Parkersburg News & Sentinel
With a sand castle contest and live music, Ocean Crest bids a bittersweet farewell to tourist season. Summer will return next year ... but Archie Kincaid won't. The full-of-himself store owner has been fatally shot, soon after a screaming match with Lucy's best friend. Katie's far from the only suspect, though, since Archie had some bitter rivals--as well as some relationships no one knew about. It's up to Lucy to look into some seedy characters and solve the case before the wrong person gets skewered ...
Recipes included!
"Clever and charming ... A culinary delight that will have readers salivating over the food and hungry for literary answers."
--RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars, on Hummus and Homicide
"A series that will prove delightful for cozy fans."
--Parkersburg News & Sentinel
344 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 26, 2019
75 people are currently reading
484 people want to read
About the author
Tina Kashian
11 books414 followersTina Kashian spent her childhood summers at the New Jersey shore, building sandcastles, boogie boarding, and riding the boardwalk Ferris wheel. She also grew up in the restaurant business where her Armenian parents owned a restaurant for thirty years. She worked almost every job—rolling silverware and wiping down tables as a tween, to hosting and waitressing as a teenager.
After college, Tina worked as a NJ Deputy Attorney General, a patent attorney, and a mechanical engineer. Her love of reading fiction for pleasure helped her get through years of academia. Her law cases inspired an inquiring mind of crime, and since then, Tina has been hooked on mysteries. The Kebab Kitchen Cozy Mystery series launches with Hummus and Homicide (3/18), followed by Stabbed in the Baklava and One Feta in the Grave by Kensington Books. Tina still lives in New Jersey with her supportive husband and two young daughters. Please visit www.tinakashian.com and join her Newsletter to enter free contests to win books, get delicious recipes, and to learn when her books will be released.
Tina is also an Amazon best-selling historical romance author and writes under the pseudonym Tina Gabrielle. Visit tinagabrielle.com to learn about her romances.
After college, Tina worked as a NJ Deputy Attorney General, a patent attorney, and a mechanical engineer. Her love of reading fiction for pleasure helped her get through years of academia. Her law cases inspired an inquiring mind of crime, and since then, Tina has been hooked on mysteries. The Kebab Kitchen Cozy Mystery series launches with Hummus and Homicide (3/18), followed by Stabbed in the Baklava and One Feta in the Grave by Kensington Books. Tina still lives in New Jersey with her supportive husband and two young daughters. Please visit www.tinakashian.com and join her Newsletter to enter free contests to win books, get delicious recipes, and to learn when her books will be released.
Tina is also an Amazon best-selling historical romance author and writes under the pseudonym Tina Gabrielle. Visit tinagabrielle.com to learn about her romances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
February 15, 2019
One Feta in the Grave by Tina Kashian is the third book in the cozy Kebab Kitchen Mystery series. Each book of this series centers around a different mystery so they can be read as a standalone. However, some of the character building carries over from book to book so it’s best to start at the beginning to enjoy their whole story.
At the center of this series is Lucy Berberian who returned to her hometown along the Jersey shore and has taken over the family business of running their Mediterranean restaurant. Things have been going well at the restaurant so the Kebab Kitchen is going to have a tent at the local beach festival this year keeping Lucy even busier.
Lucy and her friend Katie both have events going at the festival keeping them very busy but when Lucy gets the chance she decides to take a break and stroll the beach. Heading under the boardwalk all Lucy wanted was a bit of quiet downtime but instead she again finds another dead body. Archie Kincaid was a fellow businessman and just so happens someone Katie had an argument with so to get her off the suspect list Lucy and Katie again try to solve a murder.
While the Kebab Kitchen Mystery series isn’t quite as over the top quirky as I am normally drawn to it still had likable characters and a charming setting that has brought me back book after book. In the second book I was a bit disappointed with the romantic angle of the plot but that has thankfully calmed down a bit in book 3 making this one a bit more enjoyable. Lucy and Katie are becoming quite the fun pair to follow so I’ll definitely come back for book 4 to see what happens next.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
At the center of this series is Lucy Berberian who returned to her hometown along the Jersey shore and has taken over the family business of running their Mediterranean restaurant. Things have been going well at the restaurant so the Kebab Kitchen is going to have a tent at the local beach festival this year keeping Lucy even busier.
Lucy and her friend Katie both have events going at the festival keeping them very busy but when Lucy gets the chance she decides to take a break and stroll the beach. Heading under the boardwalk all Lucy wanted was a bit of quiet downtime but instead she again finds another dead body. Archie Kincaid was a fellow businessman and just so happens someone Katie had an argument with so to get her off the suspect list Lucy and Katie again try to solve a murder.
While the Kebab Kitchen Mystery series isn’t quite as over the top quirky as I am normally drawn to it still had likable characters and a charming setting that has brought me back book after book. In the second book I was a bit disappointed with the romantic angle of the plot but that has thankfully calmed down a bit in book 3 making this one a bit more enjoyable. Lucy and Katie are becoming quite the fun pair to follow so I’ll definitely come back for book 4 to see what happens next.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
March 9, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Tourist season is wrapping up in Ocean Crest and the beach festival is underway with music, contests, and plenty of food. Things get a little heated when Archie Kincaid was forced to step down as a judge of the sand castles because his nephew was participating in the contest. After Lucy finishes her judging duties and makes sure all the food vendors have everything they need she takes a walk on the beach. She notices something under the boardwalk. That something turns out to be a dead Archie Kincaid. The man wasn’t well liked and have public arguments with several people, including the one with her best friend Katie, when she eliminated him as a judge.
Detective Clemmons arrives on the scene and is not surprised that Lucy has found another body, but everyone is surprised when Katie lands on his list of suspects. This means her husband, Officer Bill Watson is unable to be part of the case. He knows Lucy’s reputation for solving cases and asks her to keep her ears open and ask a few questions to help clear Katie’s name. Lucy takes the request and runs with it, sometimes with Katie by her side, going much further than Bill intended. Now they just need to catch the killer before anyone else ends up dead.
Lucy Berberian is a fun protagonist and I like it when Katie tags along. This time Katie’s is the one who needs to be cleared. These ladies go to some dangerous lengths to do just that. Lucy is also learning to cook traditional Armenian dishes while taking over managing duties at the restaurant. At the same time, she is trying to rekindle her romance with chef Azad Zakarian while having a friendship with Michael, who runs the bike shop next to the restaurant. Michael and Lucy seem to make a better pair right now, at least in my opinion. With each story, the characters become more fleshed out and relatable.
Ms. Kashian has cooked up a great mystery. A first I thought the arguments between Archie and others were typical business things but as we get deeper in the story we see that isn’t the case. The author sets a nice pace and I enjoyed the way Lucy didn’t give up. There was a point where any amateur sleuth would have quit but not Lucy. It is pointed out to her more than once that she is not a cop and needs to back off, but she will run herself ragged to catch the killer. I had honed in the right party a bit before Lucy but the ending was both exciting and funny. I wish I had half of Lucy’s energy.
I do love the Jersey shore setting. The boardwalk, shops, and restaurants. All the touristy places and food. Yes, the food, again my mouth was watering.
Another fun and entertaining story from Tina Kashian. I look forward to visiting Ocean Crest again soon!
Tourist season is wrapping up in Ocean Crest and the beach festival is underway with music, contests, and plenty of food. Things get a little heated when Archie Kincaid was forced to step down as a judge of the sand castles because his nephew was participating in the contest. After Lucy finishes her judging duties and makes sure all the food vendors have everything they need she takes a walk on the beach. She notices something under the boardwalk. That something turns out to be a dead Archie Kincaid. The man wasn’t well liked and have public arguments with several people, including the one with her best friend Katie, when she eliminated him as a judge.
Detective Clemmons arrives on the scene and is not surprised that Lucy has found another body, but everyone is surprised when Katie lands on his list of suspects. This means her husband, Officer Bill Watson is unable to be part of the case. He knows Lucy’s reputation for solving cases and asks her to keep her ears open and ask a few questions to help clear Katie’s name. Lucy takes the request and runs with it, sometimes with Katie by her side, going much further than Bill intended. Now they just need to catch the killer before anyone else ends up dead.
Lucy Berberian is a fun protagonist and I like it when Katie tags along. This time Katie’s is the one who needs to be cleared. These ladies go to some dangerous lengths to do just that. Lucy is also learning to cook traditional Armenian dishes while taking over managing duties at the restaurant. At the same time, she is trying to rekindle her romance with chef Azad Zakarian while having a friendship with Michael, who runs the bike shop next to the restaurant. Michael and Lucy seem to make a better pair right now, at least in my opinion. With each story, the characters become more fleshed out and relatable.
Ms. Kashian has cooked up a great mystery. A first I thought the arguments between Archie and others were typical business things but as we get deeper in the story we see that isn’t the case. The author sets a nice pace and I enjoyed the way Lucy didn’t give up. There was a point where any amateur sleuth would have quit but not Lucy. It is pointed out to her more than once that she is not a cop and needs to back off, but she will run herself ragged to catch the killer. I had honed in the right party a bit before Lucy but the ending was both exciting and funny. I wish I had half of Lucy’s energy.
I do love the Jersey shore setting. The boardwalk, shops, and restaurants. All the touristy places and food. Yes, the food, again my mouth was watering.
Another fun and entertaining story from Tina Kashian. I look forward to visiting Ocean Crest again soon!
March 4, 2019
Murder comes back to the Jersey shore in this third installment of the Kabob Kitchen Mysteries.
I so enjoyed the first two books in this series, I could only hope to enjoy ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE half as much. Well, it turned out to be twice as much! I should have known, because author Tina Kashian has a way of pulling me into her stories that keeps my butt firmly planted in my seat as I absorb page after page.
I adore the characters in this series. I’ve enjoyed watching them and their relationships grow as the author fleshes them out. The feel of family and friendship rings true to me. There is a warmth I feel when reading them that makes me smile every time.
As for the mystery in, ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE, it was top notch! There were plenty of suspects to keep me twisted like a boardwalk funnel cake in my guessing. When I finally had it figured out and was giving myself a pat on the back for being brilliant (that never lasts long), I read the reveal. What a slap to the forehead that was. I was way off! LOL Well, played Ms. Kashian.
Fans of this series are going to love this addition. Culinary mystery fans, you’ll delight in the delicious recipes included. And fans of mysteries in general, you’re going to want to add ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE to your reading list!
I so enjoyed the first two books in this series, I could only hope to enjoy ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE half as much. Well, it turned out to be twice as much! I should have known, because author Tina Kashian has a way of pulling me into her stories that keeps my butt firmly planted in my seat as I absorb page after page.
I adore the characters in this series. I’ve enjoyed watching them and their relationships grow as the author fleshes them out. The feel of family and friendship rings true to me. There is a warmth I feel when reading them that makes me smile every time.
As for the mystery in, ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE, it was top notch! There were plenty of suspects to keep me twisted like a boardwalk funnel cake in my guessing. When I finally had it figured out and was giving myself a pat on the back for being brilliant (that never lasts long), I read the reveal. What a slap to the forehead that was. I was way off! LOL Well, played Ms. Kashian.
Fans of this series are going to love this addition. Culinary mystery fans, you’ll delight in the delicious recipes included. And fans of mysteries in general, you’re going to want to add ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE to your reading list!
February 27, 2019
It’s mid-August in Ocean Crest, New Jersey, and Lucy Berberian is on the planning committee for this year’s beach festival. Unfortunately, Archie Kincaide is proving to be a pain during the week. He owns a shop on the boardwalk, and he and his neighbor have been feuding since Archie moved to town. He’s also been causing problems for Lucy’s friend Katie, not only at the festival but also at her job at city hall. Taking a break one afternoon, Lucy is walking on the beach when she discovers Archie’s body under the boardwalk. It’s clear he’s been shot, but who did it? With Katie among Detective Clemmons’s suspects, Lucy jumps in to figure out what really happened.
This is another fun mystery. While we have two obvious suspects before Lucy finds Archie’s body, we quickly get more, and I enjoyed how the plot unfolded. The climax was a lot of fun. I do wish the supporting cast of the series were better developed; I like them, but I feel like most are still not as developed as they could be. That isn’t true for Lucy or the suspects, who manage to keep us guessing. And I loved the location. I can easily picture myself enjoying an annual vacation in Ocean Crest, and the added fun of the beach festival made me long to go stick my feet in some warm sand myself. There are 3 delicious sounding recipes to be enjoyed once you’ve finished the book.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This is another fun mystery. While we have two obvious suspects before Lucy finds Archie’s body, we quickly get more, and I enjoyed how the plot unfolded. The climax was a lot of fun. I do wish the supporting cast of the series were better developed; I like them, but I feel like most are still not as developed as they could be. That isn’t true for Lucy or the suspects, who manage to keep us guessing. And I loved the location. I can easily picture myself enjoying an annual vacation in Ocean Crest, and the added fun of the beach festival made me long to go stick my feet in some warm sand myself. There are 3 delicious sounding recipes to be enjoyed once you’ve finished the book.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
March 9, 2019
It’s another trip to the Jersey Shore for me in the third Kebab Kitchen Mystery series. I so enjoy escaping and re-visiting old friends from my favorite cozy mystery series. The Kebab Kitchen series has quickly become one of my favorites.
Lucy Berberian is doing well managing her family’s restaurant, the Kebab Kitchen. The annual beach festival is about to begin. Lucy plans for her restaurant to have their own food tent. She has high hopes for the event. Then, she takes a walk under the boardwalk and discovers one of the other business owners, Archie Kincaid, dead. Unfortunately, her best friend Katie was seen arguing with the man. She quickly becomes the prime suspect.
Lucy has no intention of seeing her friend go to jail for a crime she didn’t commit. She soon learns that Archie had quite a number of enemies. Since the police are only focused on Katie, it’s up to Lucy to find the real killer.
The author paints a vivid picture of the beach, boardwalk and summer festivities. She brings the reader right into the setting. It’s a cold winter here, so this was a nice way to “get away” from it all even if it's just for a few hours. I was able to imagine myself walking along the boardwalk on a sunny day.
The story is fast-paced with a mix of romance, humor and mystery intertwined. Lucy has two men vying for her attention. It makes for an interesting sidebar to the mystery. The author took the ending in a direction I wasn’t expecting which made it all the more fun for me. I’m already looking for the fourth book in this series. I hope it will be soon.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Lucy Berberian is doing well managing her family’s restaurant, the Kebab Kitchen. The annual beach festival is about to begin. Lucy plans for her restaurant to have their own food tent. She has high hopes for the event. Then, she takes a walk under the boardwalk and discovers one of the other business owners, Archie Kincaid, dead. Unfortunately, her best friend Katie was seen arguing with the man. She quickly becomes the prime suspect.
Lucy has no intention of seeing her friend go to jail for a crime she didn’t commit. She soon learns that Archie had quite a number of enemies. Since the police are only focused on Katie, it’s up to Lucy to find the real killer.
The author paints a vivid picture of the beach, boardwalk and summer festivities. She brings the reader right into the setting. It’s a cold winter here, so this was a nice way to “get away” from it all even if it's just for a few hours. I was able to imagine myself walking along the boardwalk on a sunny day.
The story is fast-paced with a mix of romance, humor and mystery intertwined. Lucy has two men vying for her attention. It makes for an interesting sidebar to the mystery. The author took the ending in a direction I wasn’t expecting which made it all the more fun for me. I’m already looking for the fourth book in this series. I hope it will be soon.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 20, 2019
I really enjoyed this book I received via Netgalley. It is the first book I've read by this author. The story is set in Southern New Jersey, about 1 1/2 hrs outside Philadelphia. I know this type of town. The author really set the story well, and I loved the MC Lucy. She gets into trouble but also is quick to help friends out. Fun recipes in the back too.
January 22, 2019
One Feta in the Grave is fun, enjoyable and engrossing. Lucy runs her family’s Mediterranean restaurant on the Jersey Shore. The tourist season is winding down and the Ocean Crest sand sculpture contest is in full swing. When a body of a local business owner is found under the boardwalk during the festivities suspicion falls on Lucy’s best friend Kate, who was seen arguing with the surly merchant before his demise. Although he had many enemies, the police seem intent to zero in on Kate, causing Lucy and Kate to engage in some crafty sleuthing to catch the real culprit. The Kebab Kitchen mystery series is a clever culinary cozy mystery. The cast of characters feel like old friends. The recipes are mouthwatering. Bring on the next in the series!
March 8, 2019
One Feta In The Grave
Kebab Kitchen Mystery, Book #3
Tina Kashian
5 Stars
Synopsis:
As summer comes to an end in her Jersey Shore town, Lucy Berberian continues to manage her family's Mediterranean restaurant. The Kebab Kitchen also has a food tent at this year's beach festival. But now a local businessman is under the boardwalk--dead by the sea ...
With a sand castle contest and live music, Ocean Crest bids a bittersweet farewell to tourist season. Summer will return next year ... but Archie Kincaid won't. The full-of-himself store owner has been fatally shot, soon after a screaming match with Lucy's best friend. Katie's far from the only suspect, though, since Archie had some bitter rivals--as well as some relationships no one knew about. It's up to Lucy to look into some seedy characters and solve the case before the wrong person gets skewered ...
Recipes included!
"Clever and charming ... A culinary delight that will have readers salivating over the food and hungry for literary answers."
--RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars, on Hummus and Homicide
"A series that will prove delightful for cozy fans."
--Parkersburg News & Sentinel (Goodreads)
Review:
The writing style flowed smoothly and the book is an easy enjoyable read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there in The Kebab Kitchen, smelling all of the delicious aromas and getting hungrier by the minute.
The characters are well rounded, well developed and three dimensional. I really like the emphasis on family in this series, it is heartwarming. I am also happy that it appears that Lucy has made a decision concerning her love interest, so I think the love triangle is over.
The mystery was well plotted and carried on well throughout the book. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through that my interest was held throughout the entire book. Thrown in some red herrings and it was not an easy one to solve. I did not figure it out until the reveal at the end, but that is okay.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I have read all three of the books in this series and they are all great.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
Kebab Kitchen Mystery, Book #3
Tina Kashian
5 Stars
Synopsis:
As summer comes to an end in her Jersey Shore town, Lucy Berberian continues to manage her family's Mediterranean restaurant. The Kebab Kitchen also has a food tent at this year's beach festival. But now a local businessman is under the boardwalk--dead by the sea ...
With a sand castle contest and live music, Ocean Crest bids a bittersweet farewell to tourist season. Summer will return next year ... but Archie Kincaid won't. The full-of-himself store owner has been fatally shot, soon after a screaming match with Lucy's best friend. Katie's far from the only suspect, though, since Archie had some bitter rivals--as well as some relationships no one knew about. It's up to Lucy to look into some seedy characters and solve the case before the wrong person gets skewered ...
Recipes included!
"Clever and charming ... A culinary delight that will have readers salivating over the food and hungry for literary answers."
--RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars, on Hummus and Homicide
"A series that will prove delightful for cozy fans."
--Parkersburg News & Sentinel (Goodreads)
Review:
The writing style flowed smoothly and the book is an easy enjoyable read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there in The Kebab Kitchen, smelling all of the delicious aromas and getting hungrier by the minute.
The characters are well rounded, well developed and three dimensional. I really like the emphasis on family in this series, it is heartwarming. I am also happy that it appears that Lucy has made a decision concerning her love interest, so I think the love triangle is over.
The mystery was well plotted and carried on well throughout the book. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through that my interest was held throughout the entire book. Thrown in some red herrings and it was not an easy one to solve. I did not figure it out until the reveal at the end, but that is okay.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I have read all three of the books in this series and they are all great.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
January 9, 2019
This is the third book in the series but my first. I was able to keep up with the mystery. I did wish that I had read the others books, though, for the relationships.
I was drawn to the book by the fun cover. Reading a book set on the boardwalk was as fun as I imagined. It was cold and a bit snowy where I lived so the summertime reminder was especially sweet. I live in a tourist town so relating was easy. I liked Lucy and Katie, as well as the other characters. Madame Vega was a super interesting character to me. Who doesn’t enjoy getting their fortune told? I enjoyed the way the author weaved the characters together. I knew I was behind on some relationships and characters but I was able to quickly catch on. I liked that part. I thought the author did well writing characters that were clear as well as some who were questionable. There is a romance in the works with the current possible interest not in law enforcement.
I don’t want to go into the mystery because I hate spoilers and even innocent things have the potential to ruin the fun for some. I was kept guessing until the reveal. There were plenty of suspects; some I liked and some I was hoping it was them instead of one I liked.
There are recipes at the end of the story. I usually try to make a couple before writing up a review but I was sick while reading this. For a few days it was up to the guy who thinks a meal is complete if it has meat and bread. He knows, though, that I want soups when I’m sick so he attempted to make Azad’s Lentil Soup. It was a success so you know that one of the recipes is easy peasey and delicious.
My illness did include an eye infection which forced me to put aside the book about halfway through. This almost killed me. I was enjoying it so much that I kept trying to push it.
I really enjoyed reading One Feta In The Grave. I won an advanced reader copy so it is possible there may be minor changes when the book is released. I would definitely suggest, if you like cozies, put this one on your TBR. I believe it is scheduled for a February release. Perfect time to enjoy some book sunshine.
I was drawn to the book by the fun cover. Reading a book set on the boardwalk was as fun as I imagined. It was cold and a bit snowy where I lived so the summertime reminder was especially sweet. I live in a tourist town so relating was easy. I liked Lucy and Katie, as well as the other characters. Madame Vega was a super interesting character to me. Who doesn’t enjoy getting their fortune told? I enjoyed the way the author weaved the characters together. I knew I was behind on some relationships and characters but I was able to quickly catch on. I liked that part. I thought the author did well writing characters that were clear as well as some who were questionable. There is a romance in the works with the current possible interest not in law enforcement.
I don’t want to go into the mystery because I hate spoilers and even innocent things have the potential to ruin the fun for some. I was kept guessing until the reveal. There were plenty of suspects; some I liked and some I was hoping it was them instead of one I liked.
There are recipes at the end of the story. I usually try to make a couple before writing up a review but I was sick while reading this. For a few days it was up to the guy who thinks a meal is complete if it has meat and bread. He knows, though, that I want soups when I’m sick so he attempted to make Azad’s Lentil Soup. It was a success so you know that one of the recipes is easy peasey and delicious.
My illness did include an eye infection which forced me to put aside the book about halfway through. This almost killed me. I was enjoying it so much that I kept trying to push it.
I really enjoyed reading One Feta In The Grave. I won an advanced reader copy so it is possible there may be minor changes when the book is released. I would definitely suggest, if you like cozies, put this one on your TBR. I believe it is scheduled for a February release. Perfect time to enjoy some book sunshine.
March 5, 2019
One Feta in the Grave will have you craving the Berberian family recipes so make sure you have a Mediterranean restaurant close by. The plot is well-layered and it’s not readily apparent whodunit. The dash of romance for Lucy made me swoon & the setting and supporting cast of characters kept me engaged throughout. I love getting a peek into another culture – actually, the blending of several – in this cozy mystery series. The cultural insight fits smoothly in with the mystery plot – enhancing it rather than distracting. Another great read in this series – looking forward to more!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
See my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
See my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
February 6, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
This is the third book in the Kebab Kitchen mystery series, but I haven't read the others. I always say one of the marks of a good cozy series is the ability to pick up any book and not feel like you've been left behind, as is the case here. Some books add too many characters or situations, but this one felt just right and struck the right tone. The mystery was interesting and the cast of characters under suspicion was varied and each rang true until the real murderer was revealed. I particularly like the romantic lead Azad. He makes a comment at one point that made me dislike him, but he turned it around in the end. Plus, although I love my detective/sleuth romances, it's nice to see a cozy heading in a different direction.
Just one of what appears to be a great series. Four stars.
This is the third book in the Kebab Kitchen mystery series, but I haven't read the others. I always say one of the marks of a good cozy series is the ability to pick up any book and not feel like you've been left behind, as is the case here. Some books add too many characters or situations, but this one felt just right and struck the right tone. The mystery was interesting and the cast of characters under suspicion was varied and each rang true until the real murderer was revealed. I particularly like the romantic lead Azad. He makes a comment at one point that made me dislike him, but he turned it around in the end. Plus, although I love my detective/sleuth romances, it's nice to see a cozy heading in a different direction.
Just one of what appears to be a great series. Four stars.
January 25, 2019
The third book in the series starts with the opening day for the beach festival and Lucy Berberian has volunteered her help for several chores. Her best friend has a couple of loud arguments with one of the vendors who is shot to death. This closed the festival early causing the town business financial problems. Best friend, Katie Watson heads the lists of the suspects in the murder. Lucy with the aid of Katie explore the suspects and uncovers several unknowns. Lucy's romance with Azad continues. Will Lucy finally find the answer so the festivities can continue. I highly recommend this book and series.
Recipes from Kebab Kitchen are included.
Disclosure: Thanks to Kensington Books for a copy through NetGalley.The opinions expressed are my own.
Recipes from Kebab Kitchen are included.
Disclosure: Thanks to Kensington Books for a copy through NetGalley.The opinions expressed are my own.
May 20, 2019
At the end of the summer Ocean Crest is having a festival to celebrate the end of the tourist season. Lucy is still managing her parents restaurant and learning to cook. She is also doing several things for the festival. Archie is told by Lucy’s best friend that he can’t be a judge of a contest that his nephew is in and they have a shouting match, followed by more shouting when she has to turn Archie down for a store he wants to open. When Archie is found dead, Katie is the first suspect. Lucy is warned not to get involved but of course she does and puts herself in danger before learning the truth.
February 26, 2019
OH MY WORD!! This is a brilliant edition to the Kebab Kitchen series, 6 stars out of 5 rating grin
Ocean Crest has a last chance to salt some money away from the tourists with a beach festival, this year Lucy is in charge of setting up for food and drink tasting afternoon into evening, but the day before she agrees to be a judge of the sand sculpture competition, this IS a competition with a rather nice $5k prize and so Lucy's friend Katie is determined there will be no problems, unfortunately she isn't lucky with that as another two judges get into a heated argument with the outcome being that one of them has broken the judging rules and has to be removed. Katie ends up in another argument with the ousted judge later on over a business licence, none of which would be bad news, only the argumentative businessman ends up dead, with Katie looking like the murderer. With Katie's husband Ben off the case and the Detective not really looking at anyone else (or so Lucy thinks) she starts to investigate, taking time out to go out on a date, a proper date with Azad, her ex (now apparently current again) boyfriend, oh and as well as this she needs to run the restaurant, so multi-tasking has become her daily routine, helped by some friends and, surprisingly, the local fortune teller!
Ocean Crest has a last chance to salt some money away from the tourists with a beach festival, this year Lucy is in charge of setting up for food and drink tasting afternoon into evening, but the day before she agrees to be a judge of the sand sculpture competition, this IS a competition with a rather nice $5k prize and so Lucy's friend Katie is determined there will be no problems, unfortunately she isn't lucky with that as another two judges get into a heated argument with the outcome being that one of them has broken the judging rules and has to be removed. Katie ends up in another argument with the ousted judge later on over a business licence, none of which would be bad news, only the argumentative businessman ends up dead, with Katie looking like the murderer. With Katie's husband Ben off the case and the Detective not really looking at anyone else (or so Lucy thinks) she starts to investigate, taking time out to go out on a date, a proper date with Azad, her ex (now apparently current again) boyfriend, oh and as well as this she needs to run the restaurant, so multi-tasking has become her daily routine, helped by some friends and, surprisingly, the local fortune teller!
February 11, 2019
I'm Greek. My body produces feta cheese. - Zach Galifianakis
I love Feta Cheese in Greek Salad and Spanakopita (Spinach Pie). I love most Mediterranean food because of the vibrant flavors that mix together like it is the United Nations. Likewise, I enjoy Tina Kashian's cozy mystery series, A Kebab Kitchen Mystery, for its vibrant characters who offer no apology for their honest approach to life. Most cozy mystery series feature an accidental sleuth ... and Lucy Berberian embraces this role in ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE. She left her family, its Mediterranean restaurant, and beach life in Ocean Crest, NJ, when she took a "high flying" job as an attorney in Philadelphia. Several years later, Lucy returned home to find her parents wanting to retire and her college boyfriend, Azaz, ready to buy them out (Book 1). As she embraced her new role as restaurant manager, working alongside head chef Azaz, Lucy found she has a knack for solving mysteries (Book 2). Three times a charm as Lucy is now settled into her "new" life that includes a daily jog on the boardwalk and networking with other small businesses. She even volunteered to judge the sandcastle creations during the beach festival. Alas, Lucy learns the competition is cut throat ... and so is politics in a small town. But there is nothing Lucy won't do to ensure her family and friends are safe from the murderer.
ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE follows the cozy mystery blue print - quirky characters, red herrings, and the willingness of the amateur sleuth to step outside her comfort zone to solve the mystery. Alas, Kashian adds her own touch by exploring the relationships within a beach town - not surprising, even business competitors are dependent upon each other. Despite the unseen violence that kicks off the mystery, ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE is a feel good book, celebrating the diverse characters that add flavor to the community.
I should note I read this in January 2019 during the bitter cold weather that engulfed the country. Kashian's vivid descriptions of a sunny summer spent on the Jersey shore was a warm comfort!
I have read the books in the series in order. Kashian provides enough details for a new reader to jump into the series with ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE. But why stop with one book? Like the pita chips topped with feta, you can't just consume one.
I received an ARC from the author for review.
I love Feta Cheese in Greek Salad and Spanakopita (Spinach Pie). I love most Mediterranean food because of the vibrant flavors that mix together like it is the United Nations. Likewise, I enjoy Tina Kashian's cozy mystery series, A Kebab Kitchen Mystery, for its vibrant characters who offer no apology for their honest approach to life. Most cozy mystery series feature an accidental sleuth ... and Lucy Berberian embraces this role in ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE. She left her family, its Mediterranean restaurant, and beach life in Ocean Crest, NJ, when she took a "high flying" job as an attorney in Philadelphia. Several years later, Lucy returned home to find her parents wanting to retire and her college boyfriend, Azaz, ready to buy them out (Book 1). As she embraced her new role as restaurant manager, working alongside head chef Azaz, Lucy found she has a knack for solving mysteries (Book 2). Three times a charm as Lucy is now settled into her "new" life that includes a daily jog on the boardwalk and networking with other small businesses. She even volunteered to judge the sandcastle creations during the beach festival. Alas, Lucy learns the competition is cut throat ... and so is politics in a small town. But there is nothing Lucy won't do to ensure her family and friends are safe from the murderer.
ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE follows the cozy mystery blue print - quirky characters, red herrings, and the willingness of the amateur sleuth to step outside her comfort zone to solve the mystery. Alas, Kashian adds her own touch by exploring the relationships within a beach town - not surprising, even business competitors are dependent upon each other. Despite the unseen violence that kicks off the mystery, ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE is a feel good book, celebrating the diverse characters that add flavor to the community.
I should note I read this in January 2019 during the bitter cold weather that engulfed the country. Kashian's vivid descriptions of a sunny summer spent on the Jersey shore was a warm comfort!
I have read the books in the series in order. Kashian provides enough details for a new reader to jump into the series with ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE. But why stop with one book? Like the pita chips topped with feta, you can't just consume one.
I received an ARC from the author for review.
March 8, 2019
If you enjoy Mediterranean food (like I do) and like a good mystery, then this is a series you will want to read. From the characters to the tantalizing dishes, everything falls into place and makes this a fantastic read.
This is the third installment in this series and I have enjoyed watching the characters develop, the family dynamics, and the mysteries being hidden in plain sight. Well, maybe not quite in plain sight because I have yet to figure out the killer. There are twists and turns that I didn’t expect which kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what could possibly happen next.
I enjoy the potential love triangle between Lucy, Azad, and Michael. Granted, Lucy claims that Michael is just a friend but I think if he had his way they could be more.
This series continues to improve so we give it 5 paws up and perhaps one day I’ll try one of the delicious recipes that tease us in the book.
This is the third installment in this series and I have enjoyed watching the characters develop, the family dynamics, and the mysteries being hidden in plain sight. Well, maybe not quite in plain sight because I have yet to figure out the killer. There are twists and turns that I didn’t expect which kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what could possibly happen next.
I enjoy the potential love triangle between Lucy, Azad, and Michael. Granted, Lucy claims that Michael is just a friend but I think if he had his way they could be more.
This series continues to improve so we give it 5 paws up and perhaps one day I’ll try one of the delicious recipes that tease us in the book.
April 1, 2019
Judging the sand sculpture contest for the beach festival in Ocean Crest shouldn't be so stressful, but Archie Kincaid didn't disclose that his nephew had entered. According to the rules, he had to disqualify himself. Just another instance of Archie managing to antagonize everyone. So when he is found dead with a bullet wound, there's no shortage of suspects. Lucy Barbarian having returned to the tourist town to manage her parent's Middle Eastern restaurant finds herself drawn into another murder investigation to protect her best friend. Good mystery with enjoyable characters. My only quibble is when we find Lucy breaking and entering another store in the search for clues....an action I found really unnecessary and kept me from rating the book higher. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2019
ONE FETA IN THE GRAVE, the third book in the Kebab Kitchen Mystery series, by Tina Kashian is a delightful sun-drenched, seaside cozy mystery. The author brings small-town Jersey shore and boardwalk culture to life. The reader will feel like they are immersing themselves in the last hurrah of hot summer days with a sand sculpture contest, a wine and food festival featuring local restaurants, and carnival rides. You can smell the Coppertone, taste the cold ice cream, and hear the laughter, until murder brings the festive atmosphere to a screeching halt… I love the way Ms. Kashian uses words to paint vivid pictures of both her settings and her characters. She wraps the theme of family and friendship into the story with heartwarming results.
Ms. Kashian brings protagonist, Lucy Berberian, and the supporting cast to a tightly-developed plot. Lucy would rather not get involved in murder, especially given her previous close calls with killers. Even though she knows the town is suffering financial distress by the interruption to their last summer tourist event, she’s determined to let the town’s detective (who dislikes Lucy and her family) solve the case. I loved seeing how the author weaves her tale, pulling Lucy into getting involved despite her reluctance. I find it adds to the creativity of the plot and avoids the “just because of curiosity” excuse. It also gives Lucy more of a human connection to the other characters in the book, allowing the reader to relate more. The exciting conclusion wraps the threads of the plot and subplot together for a satisfying and entertaining read!
Lucy is a first generation American with an Armenian, Greek, and Lebanese heritage. When her parents immigrated to the Jersey shore, they opened their Kebab Kitchen restaurant which Lucy now manages. While Lucy isn’t much of a cook, her mother is inspiring her to learn. Thankfully, Lucy isn’t the chef and instead, the mouthwatering food coming from the kitchen belongs to Lucy’s romantic interest, Azad. Fortunately for the reader, Ms. Kashian includes several recipes at the back of the book. They all sound fantastic!
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ms. Kashian brings protagonist, Lucy Berberian, and the supporting cast to a tightly-developed plot. Lucy would rather not get involved in murder, especially given her previous close calls with killers. Even though she knows the town is suffering financial distress by the interruption to their last summer tourist event, she’s determined to let the town’s detective (who dislikes Lucy and her family) solve the case. I loved seeing how the author weaves her tale, pulling Lucy into getting involved despite her reluctance. I find it adds to the creativity of the plot and avoids the “just because of curiosity” excuse. It also gives Lucy more of a human connection to the other characters in the book, allowing the reader to relate more. The exciting conclusion wraps the threads of the plot and subplot together for a satisfying and entertaining read!
Lucy is a first generation American with an Armenian, Greek, and Lebanese heritage. When her parents immigrated to the Jersey shore, they opened their Kebab Kitchen restaurant which Lucy now manages. While Lucy isn’t much of a cook, her mother is inspiring her to learn. Thankfully, Lucy isn’t the chef and instead, the mouthwatering food coming from the kitchen belongs to Lucy’s romantic interest, Azad. Fortunately for the reader, Ms. Kashian includes several recipes at the back of the book. They all sound fantastic!
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 26, 2019
I love finding new to me authors and I enjoyed this one very much. I enjoyed the characters and the storyline. I love small towns and the people in them. Ocean Crest is a town that relies on tourist. When one of their biggest money-making festivals is shut down it makes for some unhappy business owners. See how they work through this dilemma. Lucy has a problem that a lot of women would like to have. What will her decision be? I can’t wait to see what will happen the next time I visit with the good folks in Ocean Crest. I received this book from NetGalley, but my opinion is my own.
July 6, 2019
4 stelle e mezza
La storia mi è piaciuta, un po' meno come agisce a volte la protagonista perché prende dei rischi eccessivi. Non sono neanche tanto contenta su come sta evolvendo la sua vita amorosa, ma mi rendo conto che è un aspetto secondario in una serie cozy mystery.
La storia mi è piaciuta, un po' meno come agisce a volte la protagonista perché prende dei rischi eccessivi. Non sono neanche tanto contenta su come sta evolvendo la sua vita amorosa, ma mi rendo conto che è un aspetto secondario in una serie cozy mystery.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2019
One Feta in the Grave is the third book in the Kebab Kitchen Mystery Series. The story starts with the the beach festival and Lucy Berberian is helping out. One of the vendors is murdered and her best friend is high on the list of top suspects.
Lucy's romance with Azad continues in this third book.
I love this series so much. The characters are fun and the mystery is well thought out.
I was guessing until the very end.
There are fun recipes from Kebab Kitchen included in the book, I am going to try one out myself!
Lucy's romance with Azad continues in this third book.
I love this series so much. The characters are fun and the mystery is well thought out.
I was guessing until the very end.
There are fun recipes from Kebab Kitchen included in the book, I am going to try one out myself!
February 13, 2019
One Feta in the Grave is a another hit in the Kebab Kitchen series set in Ocean Crest on the Jersey shore. But be warned, do not read on an empty stomach! From the great sounding food from the Kebab Kitchen comes a array of hummus, baklava, date cookies, kebabs, soup and more and then from Cutie's Cupcakes, lemon meringue pie and more...then the Coffee Shop. You get the drift. Food is just a part of the series. Lucy Berberian manages her family's Mediterranean restaurant, Kebab's Kitchen, after a time of working in a Philadelphia law firm. Lucy seems to have a way of finding dead bodies but with the help of her best friend, Katie, she also finds a way to solve the cases. Unfortunately, Detective Clemmons doesn't appreciate her skills.
At the start of this story, there is a beach festival going on at the boardwalk. Lucy is overseeing the vendors selling food and wine. Katie is overseeing the judging of the sand sculpture contest, in which Lucy is a judge. While Lucy is taking a break, she discovers the murdered body of local businessman, Archie Kincaid. Katie is also taking a break, unbeknownst to Lucy nor is Katie aware of Lucy taking a break on the beach. Because of a dispute between Katie and Archie, she is a suspect in the murder. Lucy sets out to prove she is innocent with the blessing of Katie's husband and police officer, Bill. Of course, the investigation shows that Archie is not liked by a lot of people and there are surprises that pop out about his personal life that no one knew. Their undercover work brings on danger and stress but it is always fun to see what they turn up.
Poor Lucy has two tall, dark and handsome fellows interested in her. Azad is head chef in the restaurant and an old flame of Lucy's. Can the flame be rekindled or can she trust him not to hurt her again? Michael manages his father's bicycle shop next door and is a great friend in a bad boy motorcycle riding guy. Either one gets my vote. Mystery and romance make this another great read by Tina Kashian.
I received a complimentary ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley. All thoughts expressed are mine only.
At the start of this story, there is a beach festival going on at the boardwalk. Lucy is overseeing the vendors selling food and wine. Katie is overseeing the judging of the sand sculpture contest, in which Lucy is a judge. While Lucy is taking a break, she discovers the murdered body of local businessman, Archie Kincaid. Katie is also taking a break, unbeknownst to Lucy nor is Katie aware of Lucy taking a break on the beach. Because of a dispute between Katie and Archie, she is a suspect in the murder. Lucy sets out to prove she is innocent with the blessing of Katie's husband and police officer, Bill. Of course, the investigation shows that Archie is not liked by a lot of people and there are surprises that pop out about his personal life that no one knew. Their undercover work brings on danger and stress but it is always fun to see what they turn up.
Poor Lucy has two tall, dark and handsome fellows interested in her. Azad is head chef in the restaurant and an old flame of Lucy's. Can the flame be rekindled or can she trust him not to hurt her again? Michael manages his father's bicycle shop next door and is a great friend in a bad boy motorcycle riding guy. Either one gets my vote. Mystery and romance make this another great read by Tina Kashian.
I received a complimentary ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley. All thoughts expressed are mine only.
February 23, 2019
One Feta in the Grave by Tina Kashian takes us back to Ocean Crest, New Jersey on a hot August day. Lucy Berberian is the manager of her family’s Mediterranean restaurant, Kebab Kitchen. It is the opening day of a weeklong beach festival which begins with the sand sculpture contest. Unfortunately, Archie Kincaid, owner of Seaside Gifts, is not playing by the rules and Katie Watson must ask him to step down from his judging duties. Lucy is the organizer for the food and wine event in which Kebab Kitchen has a tent with mouthwatering delicacies from their head chef, Azad Zakarian. Lucy decides to cool off in the afternoon with a walk on the beach where she discovers Archie shot dead under the boardwalk. Detective Calvin Clemmons is in charge of the investigation and Officer Bill Watson, Katie’s husband, finds himself booted off the case. Katie is at the top of Detective Clemmons suspect list after a loud altercation with the victim at city hall over a denied business license. Lucy is not about to let her best friend be railroaded by the antagonistic detective. Plus, Clemmons has shut down the beach festival and store owners are losing much needed income. Archie managed to anger several townspeople and was known for the shouting matches with rival store owner, Harold Harper. Lucy delves into the victim’s life in the hopes of uncovering the killer. Lucy narrows her sights onto her target, but can she catch him.
One Feta in the Grave is the third installment in A Kebab Kitchen Mystery series and each book can stand on its own. I thought One Feta in the Grave contained good writing with steady pacing. Lucy finds herself roped into helping at the beach festival courtesy of her best friend, Katie Watson who is responsible for the event. Unfortunately, Archie Kincaid and his rival, Harold Harper manage to cause trouble right from the beginning. Tina Kashian gives readers lovely descriptions of the town, the beach, and the various shops which brings the setting alive. Lucy has left behind her career as an attorney to run Kebab Kitchen and she has rekindled her romance with head chef, Azad Zakarian. Michael, who manages the bicycle rental shop for his uncle, is interested in Lucy and takes her out for long rides on his motorcycle. I must admit that I am partial to Michael over the hot-headed, jealous Azad. I like the various characters in the series as I find them likeable and relatable. I am especially fond of Lucy’s cute niece. There are luscious descriptions of the food cooked and served at Kebab Kitchen. Readers get to learn more about the food related to the Armenian culture. The mystery intrigued me since it could not be solved immediately (I love a good puzzle). There are multiple suspects who have good motive for harming Archie (at least in their eyes). There are recipes at the end of the book for lentil soup, date stuffed cookies, and Greek salad with feta cheese. One Feta in the Grave is a fun, light cozy mystery that will have you longing for a sunny day at the beach. Join Lucy at the Jersey shore in One Feta in the Grave.
One Feta in the Grave is the third installment in A Kebab Kitchen Mystery series and each book can stand on its own. I thought One Feta in the Grave contained good writing with steady pacing. Lucy finds herself roped into helping at the beach festival courtesy of her best friend, Katie Watson who is responsible for the event. Unfortunately, Archie Kincaid and his rival, Harold Harper manage to cause trouble right from the beginning. Tina Kashian gives readers lovely descriptions of the town, the beach, and the various shops which brings the setting alive. Lucy has left behind her career as an attorney to run Kebab Kitchen and she has rekindled her romance with head chef, Azad Zakarian. Michael, who manages the bicycle rental shop for his uncle, is interested in Lucy and takes her out for long rides on his motorcycle. I must admit that I am partial to Michael over the hot-headed, jealous Azad. I like the various characters in the series as I find them likeable and relatable. I am especially fond of Lucy’s cute niece. There are luscious descriptions of the food cooked and served at Kebab Kitchen. Readers get to learn more about the food related to the Armenian culture. The mystery intrigued me since it could not be solved immediately (I love a good puzzle). There are multiple suspects who have good motive for harming Archie (at least in their eyes). There are recipes at the end of the book for lentil soup, date stuffed cookies, and Greek salad with feta cheese. One Feta in the Grave is a fun, light cozy mystery that will have you longing for a sunny day at the beach. Join Lucy at the Jersey shore in One Feta in the Grave.
January 19, 2019
One Feta in the Grave is the third book in Tina Kashian’s Kebab Kitchen Mystery series. The mystery is solid and well plotted, the storyline is engaging, and the characters are well developed and affable. This book moves at a steady pace with plenty of suspects, twists and turns, and red herrings. I was kept guessing the whole time and quite surprised at the murderer was revealed.
Lucy Berberian recently quit her job as an attorney at a Philadelphia law firm, returned to her hometown of Ocean Crest, New Jersey, and took over the management of Kebab Kitchen, her family’s restaurant, as her parents, Angela and Raffi, ease into retirement. Her dad’s teaching her the ropes of the daily running of the restaurant, her mother is teaching her how to cook, and she hired her ex-boyfriend, Azad Zakarian, as head chef. She’s staying with her best friend, Katie Watson, who works at Ocean Crest’s town hall, her police officer husband, Bill. As summer and tourist season are ending, the town is hosting weeklong beach festival that was the last moneymaking event of the year. Lucy was exhausted, and while taking a break from the food and wine tasting event she was in charge of, she was walking on the beach and found Archie Kincaid’s body under the boardwalk. Archie wasn’t well liked, and there were plenty of people with motives, but Detective Calvin Clemmons, Ocean Crest’s sole investigator, immediately focused his investigation on Katie because not only had she and the victim been involved in a couple of heated confrontations, but she had also taken a break on the beach around the time the murder occurred. Detective Clemmons is the lead investigator, and Bill’s taken off the case due to a conflict of interest. Lucy’s older sister, Emma, has a history with Calvin and since he holds a grudge against their family, Lucy’s concerned that he’ll focus on Katie and won’t give the investigation his best effort. When it looks like Katie might be Detective Clemmons’ prime suspect, Bill asks Lucy to keep her eyes and ears open and ask a few questions, but she gets more involved than she should.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Lucy Berberian recently quit her job as an attorney at a Philadelphia law firm, returned to her hometown of Ocean Crest, New Jersey, and took over the management of Kebab Kitchen, her family’s restaurant, as her parents, Angela and Raffi, ease into retirement. Her dad’s teaching her the ropes of the daily running of the restaurant, her mother is teaching her how to cook, and she hired her ex-boyfriend, Azad Zakarian, as head chef. She’s staying with her best friend, Katie Watson, who works at Ocean Crest’s town hall, her police officer husband, Bill. As summer and tourist season are ending, the town is hosting weeklong beach festival that was the last moneymaking event of the year. Lucy was exhausted, and while taking a break from the food and wine tasting event she was in charge of, she was walking on the beach and found Archie Kincaid’s body under the boardwalk. Archie wasn’t well liked, and there were plenty of people with motives, but Detective Calvin Clemmons, Ocean Crest’s sole investigator, immediately focused his investigation on Katie because not only had she and the victim been involved in a couple of heated confrontations, but she had also taken a break on the beach around the time the murder occurred. Detective Clemmons is the lead investigator, and Bill’s taken off the case due to a conflict of interest. Lucy’s older sister, Emma, has a history with Calvin and since he holds a grudge against their family, Lucy’s concerned that he’ll focus on Katie and won’t give the investigation his best effort. When it looks like Katie might be Detective Clemmons’ prime suspect, Bill asks Lucy to keep her eyes and ears open and ask a few questions, but she gets more involved than she should.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
October 2, 2019
I enjoyed this book and thought it was an entertaining read. Lucy and her family are fun and I really enjoy their dynamic. Lucy is coming into her own managing her family restaurant but still has the uncanny ability to stumble across dead bodies no matter where she goes. The author did a really good job setting up suspects and motives before Lucy find the body of a local store owner who is not well-liked. As the mystery continues to unfold, the true character of the store owner is revealed and he is not a sympathetic victim. The reveal was climatic and once again Lucy has put herself at the center of an investigation. I really enjoy Lucy's family and the secondary characters, but I don't feel like we have really had a chance to get to know them like in other series I have read. I would love to see the author develop them more fully so that they feel like an integral part of the story and mystery.
March 19, 2019
One Feta in the Grave is my favorite of the bunch! I loved the first two cozies in the Kebab Kitchen Mysteries, but the third installment raised the series to a whole new level. Quirky characters, a dead guy with lots of enemies, and a protagonist who knows how to sniff out a killer--and run a restaurant--made this cozy a mouth-watering read from beginning to end. Tina Kashian knows her way around a Mediterranean kitchen, and it shows in this delectable mystery. I’m anxious to gobble up another helping of this charming seaside series.
January 22, 2019
This series is quickly becoming one of my favorites! The characters feel like home, every interaction, and most of all the food! I love how strong but conflicted the main character is. The mystery was full of twists that I couldn’t put it down!
October 15, 2021
The most I would give this one is 2.5 stars.
I'm ONLY continuing this series because it's part of a group read.
I'm ONLY continuing this series because it's part of a group read.
August 11, 2025
Such a fun series. I love the friendship between Lucy and Katie, and how Katie’s husband, Bill, intertwines with them. There are some great characters on the boardwalk, and it’s interesting how the author brings them into her mystery. This mystery was captivating and kept me guessing. Great writing and the story flows well.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
October 1, 2019
I love this cozy series. The characters are fun, the romance light and not really intrusive and our main character investigates but doesn't always put herself in a dangerous situation, at least not knowingly.
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