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Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery #14
Death of an Italian Chef
The charming coastal town of Bar Harbor, Maine, has a fancy new Italian restaurant--and a nasty new murder...
As the food and cocktails columnist for the Island Times, it's Hayley Powell's job to stay on top of the latest eateries in town. Just in time for the summer tourist season, Chef Romeo, a successful restaurateur from New York City, has opened an establishment called--naturally--Romeo's. But between his over-the-top temperament and his no-holds-barred diet, Chef Romeo may not live through the grand opening.
When the chef actually does suffer a mild heart attack, he ends up sharing a hospital room with Hayley's brother Randy, who's there for gall bladder surgery. Chef Romeo has tasted Hayley's cooking and asks her to take over his restaurant while he's laid up. But this temporary gig may turn permanent, after the chef dies from complications. Only thing is, Randy tells a different story. He might have been sedated, but Hayley's bro swears he saw someone come into their room and put Romeo out of his misery. Now it's up to Hayley to find the person who had no reservations about killing the chef...
As the food and cocktails columnist for the Island Times, it's Hayley Powell's job to stay on top of the latest eateries in town. Just in time for the summer tourist season, Chef Romeo, a successful restaurateur from New York City, has opened an establishment called--naturally--Romeo's. But between his over-the-top temperament and his no-holds-barred diet, Chef Romeo may not live through the grand opening.
When the chef actually does suffer a mild heart attack, he ends up sharing a hospital room with Hayley's brother Randy, who's there for gall bladder surgery. Chef Romeo has tasted Hayley's cooking and asks her to take over his restaurant while he's laid up. But this temporary gig may turn permanent, after the chef dies from complications. Only thing is, Randy tells a different story. He might have been sedated, but Hayley's bro swears he saw someone come into their room and put Romeo out of his misery. Now it's up to Hayley to find the person who had no reservations about killing the chef...
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published June 29, 2021
66 people are currently reading
526 people want to read
About the author
Lee Hollis
52 books821 followersLee Hollis is the pen name for Rick Copp and his sister Holly Simason.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
April 18, 2025
Death of an Italian Chef is the 14th book in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mysteries, written by author Lee Hollis. I've read all the previous books and received a copy from NetGalley for this installment. Now that I'm caught up and ready for the 2022 release, I did a bit of research on the author and her other series... since I only began reading this one because it appeared in a collection of novellas that all took place in Maine, a state I want to eventually live in one day. Imagine my surprise when I learned Lee Hollis is not a real person, rather a brother and sister writing duo. Wow! I hadn't expected to learn that, but it doesn't change much about the books for me. It might explain why occasionally I see a bit of repetition in a tale, i.e. someone introduced a character in one chapter and then introduced them again in another. Nonetheless, it was a great book in the series... possibly my favorite and the funniest to date. At the same time, it ruined a character for me because it turned him into a pampered baby. It was meant to be funny but was the wrong person to apply the logic to in my opinion. It was better off for Hayley's son, not her brother who is supposed to be a role model. Features great Italian recipes, and some cocktails that I really want to try. Ends with a fun surprise too. Looking forward to the next one!
July 13, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- Enjoyable cozy mystery!
I thought for sure I had read a book(s) by this author before, but apparently it was just a short story and um...I rather disliked Hayley. 🙈 However, I am happy to say that I had no such issue with her in this one. In fact, I found this entire book to be enjoyable from beginning to end. It was well written. The plot was intriguing and kept me guessing. Given this is book number 14, and I have read none of the other books in this series and wasn't the least bit lost. I can safely say this works well as a standalone.
I only really had one issue with this book. In every "cozy" I have read until this point the recipes are found at the end of the book. That was not the case here. The author sprinkled the recipes (and the short stories that went along with them) between chapters throughout. I found this a little annoying as it interrupted the pace of the story. Especially when the previous chaptered ended on a cliffhanger and then BOOM there are several pages of antidotes/recipes that really had nothing to do with the story itself. I honestly skipped them the farther along I got. 🤷🏻♀️
Overall, though, this was a quite an entertaining read and I look forward to the next book in the series.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
I thought for sure I had read a book(s) by this author before, but apparently it was just a short story and um...I rather disliked Hayley. 🙈 However, I am happy to say that I had no such issue with her in this one. In fact, I found this entire book to be enjoyable from beginning to end. It was well written. The plot was intriguing and kept me guessing. Given this is book number 14, and I have read none of the other books in this series and wasn't the least bit lost. I can safely say this works well as a standalone.
I only really had one issue with this book. In every "cozy" I have read until this point the recipes are found at the end of the book. That was not the case here. The author sprinkled the recipes (and the short stories that went along with them) between chapters throughout. I found this a little annoying as it interrupted the pace of the story. Especially when the previous chaptered ended on a cliffhanger and then BOOM there are several pages of antidotes/recipes that really had nothing to do with the story itself. I honestly skipped them the farther along I got. 🤷🏻♀️
Overall, though, this was a quite an entertaining read and I look forward to the next book in the series.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
April 17, 2021
Death of An Italian Chef starts off with Haley eating at a new restaurant with her husband, Bruce, and brother, Randy. Haley tells the chef that her spaghetti carbonara is better than his. He challenges her to make the dish for him. The chef suffers a heart attack on the same day as Randy goes into the hospital for his gallbladder. Chef Romeo later dies and Randy while under sedation after his surgery swears he saw someone kill the chef. I loved this installment of this series. Haley has to juggle taking over the chef's restaurant temporarily, caring for Randy after his surgery, and finding Chef Romeo's killer. Haley's friends provide such a comic relief. I think Mona is my favorite. The banter between the friends is always a highlight of the books. I liked that we still got enough of Bruce even though he was in New York for work most of the book. The mystery was great. I completely didn't see that ending coming. I am so looking forward to what happens in the next book. And as always I love Haley's food and drinks column and the recipes that accompany it. I received this ARC from netgalley and Kensington publishing in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2021
Death of an Italian Chef is a solid, fun, cozy mystery! If you love a food themed mystery (especially with Italian fare, delicious but easy to prepare authentic recipes, then toss that into a new restaurant setting, one dead chef, a food writer who takes on a chef role, some sweet and not-so-sweet employees, family dynamics, seasoned with a dash of some definitely crazy characters, then THIS great dish is on the menu!
The story has a good pace, and the colorful characters make for some interesting clues. I had several suspects from the beginning, but don’t count out some final surprises and twists!
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
And PS - I’m totally going to make a couple of those amazing recipes! Thank you!
The story has a good pace, and the colorful characters make for some interesting clues. I had several suspects from the beginning, but don’t count out some final surprises and twists!
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
And PS - I’m totally going to make a couple of those amazing recipes! Thank you!
April 27, 2021
“Death of an Italian Chef” by Lee Hollis the 14th instalment in the Haley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery series which releases on June 29, 2021. The charming coastal town of Bar Harbor, Maine, has a fancy new Italian restaurant--and a nasty new murder...
I love this series, I have only read the last 5 but have purchased the previous 10 and hope to catch up. The stories always catch my attention and pull me in right away. This instalment was no different I read over a few hours.
Plus the recipes ! They make me want to cook pasta! Linguine is a favourite as is bacon carbonara and I told hubby we needed to order in Italian as craving so much after reading this story. I’m definitely going to try at least one recipe from the book.
I suspected the murderer but didn’t fully guess until Haley did. This was a great mystery filled with lots of twists and turns. I love how Haley, Liddy and Mona and their long friendship with all the stories, we meet a few new characters that I hope to see on future books. Haley also might make one of her dreams come true ...
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends !
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Kensington Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love this series, I have only read the last 5 but have purchased the previous 10 and hope to catch up. The stories always catch my attention and pull me in right away. This instalment was no different I read over a few hours.
Plus the recipes ! They make me want to cook pasta! Linguine is a favourite as is bacon carbonara and I told hubby we needed to order in Italian as craving so much after reading this story. I’m definitely going to try at least one recipe from the book.
I suspected the murderer but didn’t fully guess until Haley did. This was a great mystery filled with lots of twists and turns. I love how Haley, Liddy and Mona and their long friendship with all the stories, we meet a few new characters that I hope to see on future books. Haley also might make one of her dreams come true ...
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends !
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Kensington Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 1, 2021
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Fresh Fiction
With fourteen books in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktail series, Lee Hollis pens another fun and exciting story about an Italian chef who meets his demise far too early. When Chef Romeo suffers from a mild heart attack, he spends a few days in the hospital with Hayley’s brother who is also recovering from gall bladder surgery. However, when Romeo suddenly dies from complications, Randy believes that he saw someone sneak into their room and do something to Romeo. Now it’s time for Hayley to get to the bottom of this, but with this much at stake, what will happen if she doesn’t find the killer?
This series is definitely my favorite series by Lee Hollis. I love the writing style as well as all of the characters. There’s a good sense of pacing and tone, as well as plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged.
I would highly recommend this series to any seasoned mystery reader or even newbies looking to try something new. DEATH OF AN ITALIAN CHEF is nothing short of amazing!
With fourteen books in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktail series, Lee Hollis pens another fun and exciting story about an Italian chef who meets his demise far too early. When Chef Romeo suffers from a mild heart attack, he spends a few days in the hospital with Hayley’s brother who is also recovering from gall bladder surgery. However, when Romeo suddenly dies from complications, Randy believes that he saw someone sneak into their room and do something to Romeo. Now it’s time for Hayley to get to the bottom of this, but with this much at stake, what will happen if she doesn’t find the killer?
This series is definitely my favorite series by Lee Hollis. I love the writing style as well as all of the characters. There’s a good sense of pacing and tone, as well as plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged.
I would highly recommend this series to any seasoned mystery reader or even newbies looking to try something new. DEATH OF AN ITALIAN CHEF is nothing short of amazing!
June 27, 2021
Oh boy, the trouble a brother and sister can get into when their loved ones are out of town, lol. Hayley and Randy were on their own, and since crazy stuff always follows our awesome Hayley, she found herself involved in a murder investigation of a chef who she'd been helping with his restaurant while he was in the hospital. The worst part was that Sergio was in Brazil, and a no-nonsense skeptical-of- anything-Hayley-told-her sergeant was in charge.
One hilarious part was Donnie and Earl following her around like lovesick puppies. Bruce was on a story in New York, but he still helped with the investigation by researching for Hayley, while she saw herself coming and going with the restaurant and a very demanding Randy recovering from surgery. That led to another funny scene when Mona babysat him. Mona was also a hoot as a waitress at the Italian restaurant, kind of a similar performance to when she subbed in a play last Christmas.
I love this series so much because we're always presented with a fun rollercoaster of an investigation with so many madcap situations Hayley and crew find themselves in. From wild side stories about the mob and someone's affair to the actual heart and reason of the murder, I know I'm always guaranteed a good exciting showdown. And there was a pretty awesome twist to this one which led to a great ending and new adventure coming for Hayley and her friends and family. Don't miss this when it comes out next Tuesday!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington, and my opinions are my own.
One hilarious part was Donnie and Earl following her around like lovesick puppies. Bruce was on a story in New York, but he still helped with the investigation by researching for Hayley, while she saw herself coming and going with the restaurant and a very demanding Randy recovering from surgery. That led to another funny scene when Mona babysat him. Mona was also a hoot as a waitress at the Italian restaurant, kind of a similar performance to when she subbed in a play last Christmas.
I love this series so much because we're always presented with a fun rollercoaster of an investigation with so many madcap situations Hayley and crew find themselves in. From wild side stories about the mob and someone's affair to the actual heart and reason of the murder, I know I'm always guaranteed a good exciting showdown. And there was a pretty awesome twist to this one which led to a great ending and new adventure coming for Hayley and her friends and family. Don't miss this when it comes out next Tuesday!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington, and my opinions are my own.
October 24, 2021
Summer - Bar Harbor, ME
A large portion of this story takes place in a hospital. The restaurant is the second most visited location in this book. Both play a large part in the story. The story involves attempted murder and murder, lying, exes and spouses, and revenge. The mystery was interesting. I was expecting a different ending. I don't like Mona, and she was in this a lot. Haley's husband is out of town, and she makes a career decision.
A large portion of this story takes place in a hospital. The restaurant is the second most visited location in this book. Both play a large part in the story. The story involves attempted murder and murder, lying, exes and spouses, and revenge. The mystery was interesting. I was expecting a different ending. I don't like Mona, and she was in this a lot. Haley's husband is out of town, and she makes a career decision.
June 30, 2021
A great addition to the series. I enjoy visiting with Hayley and her quirky, loveable family and friends. The mystery itself was front and center and the twists and turns had me guessing for most of the book. Even when you knew who the killer was, the why was still surprising. I loved the direction this book is taking and can't wait for the next one with Hayley's new endeavors.
#DeathofanItalianChef #NetGalley
I received a copy from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#DeathofanItalianChef #NetGalley
I received a copy from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2021
i enjoy this series about food columnist , Hayley Powell. She and her friends are always up to something that makes me laugh. She manages to get herself involved in so many dangerous situations. This book is no different as she tries to solve the murder of a chef. I could not have guessed the culprit, but I like being surprised. I liked the ending, and eagerly await the next book in this series.
August 6, 2021
Another excellent book in this series! It was a little obvious that I missed something in a past book so I have a novella that I'm reading to catch up. While not 100% necessary, I do advise to reading these in order. I was a little surprised when I read the "spoiler". However, it didn't ruin THIS book. I love the way Hayley and Mona work together. There was a big change for Hayley with her career so I hope we get a ton more books following her!
June 29, 2021
Two of my favorite things about this series: the setting (coastal Maine) and the characters! Protagonist Hayley, her brother Randy, and her best friends Mona and Liddy. The characters are all so different from one another, yet are a great combination for this mystery series. Hayley writes a food column for her newspaper, and I love how her articles are added throughout the book, providing humor, personal anecdotes, and tasty recipes.
In Death of an Italian Chef, Hayley is tasked with temporarily taking over a hot, new Italian eatery while its proprietor is incapacitated. When the chef unexpectedly dies, Hayley feels compelled to get to the bottom of his suspicious death. This mystery really kept me guessing, and I enjoyed following Hayley in her sleuthing.
I somehow missed the book previous to this in the series, but I had no problems with spoilers or feeling like I had missed something important, so I think this could easily be read as a stand-alone.
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
In Death of an Italian Chef, Hayley is tasked with temporarily taking over a hot, new Italian eatery while its proprietor is incapacitated. When the chef unexpectedly dies, Hayley feels compelled to get to the bottom of his suspicious death. This mystery really kept me guessing, and I enjoyed following Hayley in her sleuthing.
I somehow missed the book previous to this in the series, but I had no problems with spoilers or feeling like I had missed something important, so I think this could easily be read as a stand-alone.
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 30, 2021
DEATH OF AN ITALIAN CHEF is the fourteenth Hayley Powell Mystery by Lee Hollis. I think this series gets better and better and this newest release does not disappoint. Protagonist Hayley Powell is extremely likeable and quite relatable. She’s older than most typical cozy mystery amateur sleuths, which I like, and Hayley has found her stride. With her best friends (and sidekicks) Mona and Liddy, there are plenty of antics and laugh-out-loud moments whether they be investigating or trying to keep the murdered chef’s restaurant open. The humor interjected along with memorable characters and a well-plotted mystery, is what makes this series so well-loved.
With a fast, non-stop pace, the story had me turning pages faster and faster to see what happens next. There are also plenty of twists and turns to the plot and the reveal includes quite a zinger that had me gasping. With Hayley’s police chief brother-in-law out of the country, she doesn’t have the “safety net” she generally has regarding her investigations. This gives the book an added layer of urgency since Hayley must contend with unsupportive law enforcement. An exciting reveal, and to be honest I didn’t have a clue it was coming, wrapped up the story and left me waiting impatiently for the next book!
With Hayley writing the food and cocktails column for the Island Times, there are plenty of mouthwatering dishes and drinks mentioned throughout the book. I adore the interjection of the columns throughout the story which brings a personal touch to getting to know Hayley, her family, and her friends. She includes entertaining stories from her current day life and/or from her past, plus offers both a food and drink recipe with each column. They all sound delectable and can easily be made by the home cook.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
With a fast, non-stop pace, the story had me turning pages faster and faster to see what happens next. There are also plenty of twists and turns to the plot and the reveal includes quite a zinger that had me gasping. With Hayley’s police chief brother-in-law out of the country, she doesn’t have the “safety net” she generally has regarding her investigations. This gives the book an added layer of urgency since Hayley must contend with unsupportive law enforcement. An exciting reveal, and to be honest I didn’t have a clue it was coming, wrapped up the story and left me waiting impatiently for the next book!
With Hayley writing the food and cocktails column for the Island Times, there are plenty of mouthwatering dishes and drinks mentioned throughout the book. I adore the interjection of the columns throughout the story which brings a personal touch to getting to know Hayley, her family, and her friends. She includes entertaining stories from her current day life and/or from her past, plus offers both a food and drink recipe with each column. They all sound delectable and can easily be made by the home cook.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 10, 2021
Death of an Italian Chef by Lee Hollis is an awesome cozy mystery that is the newest book ( 14th) in the fabulous series: Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery series. I have to say, this series gets better and better with time, and it is one of my favorite books yet.
I have always enjoyed the Hayley Powell series by this formidable author duo. I have faithfully read every installment and the seasonal novellas. I always love visiting Bar Harbor, Maine. It honestly just keeps improving with age. While this series can obviously be best savored with reading the previous books, one can easily jump in at any time and follow along nicely.
This time Hayley has to truly run it all while Bruce is with Gemma in NYC while he reports on a high profile court case ajd Sergio is out of the country visiting his family in Brazil, Hayley has to put even more faith in herself while she takes care of Randy s/p surgery, work at the Newspaper, and to top it off, becomes embroiled in a new murder/mystery and temporarily running a newly opened and popular Italian restaurant. With her plate full, Hayley has to juggle her jobs, “home nursing”, and save the day the only way she know how: with wit, style, sass, and humor. Add her backup posse: Mona and Liddy, and hijinks, drama, and laughs are sure to be on the menu.
As always, I loved the characters, the sarcasm, the drama, the plot, the twists and turns ( I honestly did not figure it all out!), the one-liners, the banter, and the end! I knew there was a reason why this was one of my favorite series. With an ending like that, I can’t wait to see what is in store for Hayley next.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 6/29/21.
I have always enjoyed the Hayley Powell series by this formidable author duo. I have faithfully read every installment and the seasonal novellas. I always love visiting Bar Harbor, Maine. It honestly just keeps improving with age. While this series can obviously be best savored with reading the previous books, one can easily jump in at any time and follow along nicely.
This time Hayley has to truly run it all while Bruce is with Gemma in NYC while he reports on a high profile court case ajd Sergio is out of the country visiting his family in Brazil, Hayley has to put even more faith in herself while she takes care of Randy s/p surgery, work at the Newspaper, and to top it off, becomes embroiled in a new murder/mystery and temporarily running a newly opened and popular Italian restaurant. With her plate full, Hayley has to juggle her jobs, “home nursing”, and save the day the only way she know how: with wit, style, sass, and humor. Add her backup posse: Mona and Liddy, and hijinks, drama, and laughs are sure to be on the menu.
As always, I loved the characters, the sarcasm, the drama, the plot, the twists and turns ( I honestly did not figure it all out!), the one-liners, the banter, and the end! I knew there was a reason why this was one of my favorite series. With an ending like that, I can’t wait to see what is in store for Hayley next.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 6/29/21.
April 17, 2021
A well crafted mystery with interesting characters and a nice sense of place.
The book is interspersed with Hayleys column entries as well as her recipes such as Hayley’s Spaghetti Carbonara, 🍝 Mom’s Favorite Brandy Coffee, Antipasto Tortellini Salad, Italian Dressing.
Thank you to Lee Hollis, NetGalley and Kensington for the ARC of this book
The book is interspersed with Hayleys column entries as well as her recipes such as Hayley’s Spaghetti Carbonara, 🍝 Mom’s Favorite Brandy Coffee, Antipasto Tortellini Salad, Italian Dressing.
Thank you to Lee Hollis, NetGalley and Kensington for the ARC of this book
June 27, 2021
Death of an Italian Chef is a fun, cozy mystery and the fourteenth instalment in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery Series written by Lee Hollis. I have only read one other instalment in the series (book 12 - Death of a Blueberry Tart). I'm not how I missed book thirteen, but there you go.
If you love a food-themed mystery with plenty of delicious sounding Italian fayre, and add to the mix a new restaurant setting, one dead chef, a food and drinks columnist who takes on a chefs role, some sweet and slightly more tart employees, family dynamics, all seasoned with a generous splash of colourful, well fleshed out characters, then this is a good choice for you. The pacing is good, the mystery is absorbing and there are clues aplenty. I had several suspects in mind throughout but was still caught by the terrific twists and surprises.
There are lots of comedic moments and although I arrived extremely late to the party with this particular series, I thoroughly enjoyed Death of an Italian Chef. For me, the book worked extremely well as an individual read as the mystery within was self-contained, though I appreciate that I have probably missed out on some of the backstories and nuances, coming in so late. Even so, I certainly have not been deterred from reading the other instalments, and I look forward to finding out what Lee Hollis has in store for Hayley, next!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
If you love a food-themed mystery with plenty of delicious sounding Italian fayre, and add to the mix a new restaurant setting, one dead chef, a food and drinks columnist who takes on a chefs role, some sweet and slightly more tart employees, family dynamics, all seasoned with a generous splash of colourful, well fleshed out characters, then this is a good choice for you. The pacing is good, the mystery is absorbing and there are clues aplenty. I had several suspects in mind throughout but was still caught by the terrific twists and surprises.
There are lots of comedic moments and although I arrived extremely late to the party with this particular series, I thoroughly enjoyed Death of an Italian Chef. For me, the book worked extremely well as an individual read as the mystery within was self-contained, though I appreciate that I have probably missed out on some of the backstories and nuances, coming in so late. Even so, I certainly have not been deterred from reading the other instalments, and I look forward to finding out what Lee Hollis has in store for Hayley, next!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
October 15, 2021
I liked this book. Like-able characters and an enjoyable story. It did drive me nuts that Fredy’s niece was referred to as his sister in one chapter. And I felt the story was a bit long winded. But looking forward to the next book in this series.
October 16, 2021
Hayley is a columnist for a local newspaper, she agrees to run a restaurant while the Chef is laid up. When he dies at the hospital from complications, her brother sees him and says it was murder. Hayley has to decide who to believe and if she wants to start running a restaurant full time.
April 23, 2021
Death of an Italian Chef is the fourteenth installment in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails mystery series set in Bar Harbor, Maine and featuring newspaper columnist Hayley Powell. Hayley, her husband Bruce and her brother Randy are all enjoying dinner at the island's newest Italian restaurant, Romeo's when Chef Romeo suspects that Hayley is actually there to write a review for her column. The Chef asks her honest opinion and when Hayley claims that she likes her spaghetti carbonara better, he challenges her to a cookoff. The result - he agrees that hers is better and asks her to quit her job at the paper and come work with him. While tempting, Hayley declines his offer.
Bruce leaves for New York City to cover the criminal trial of an island resident and Randy's husband Police Chief Sergio is in Brazil visiting his family. Bored, Hayley and Randy set out for the movies but before the film ends Randy suffers a medical emergency and is rushed to the hospital. Recovering from surgery in his hospital room, Randy gets a new roommate - Chef Romeo. The Chef has suffered a heart attack and begs Hayley to cover the restaurant for him while he's hospitalized.
When the Chef dies, the doctors claim it was his heart. Randy, however, thinks he saw a man come into the room and inject something into the Chef's IV. Sergeant Vanessa Herrold who is covering for Sergio says the drugs were playing tricks on Randy's mind and she doesn't believe him. But when the duty nurse suddenly goes missing, Hayley knows her brother obviously saw something and sets out with the help of her best friends Mona and Liddy to flush out a killer.
Laugh out loud moments, a twisted plot and tasty recipes make for a delightful addition to the series. An unexpected development at the finish will have readers salivating for Hayley's next adventure.
I received an advanced copy of Death of an Italian Chef from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
Bruce leaves for New York City to cover the criminal trial of an island resident and Randy's husband Police Chief Sergio is in Brazil visiting his family. Bored, Hayley and Randy set out for the movies but before the film ends Randy suffers a medical emergency and is rushed to the hospital. Recovering from surgery in his hospital room, Randy gets a new roommate - Chef Romeo. The Chef has suffered a heart attack and begs Hayley to cover the restaurant for him while he's hospitalized.
When the Chef dies, the doctors claim it was his heart. Randy, however, thinks he saw a man come into the room and inject something into the Chef's IV. Sergeant Vanessa Herrold who is covering for Sergio says the drugs were playing tricks on Randy's mind and she doesn't believe him. But when the duty nurse suddenly goes missing, Hayley knows her brother obviously saw something and sets out with the help of her best friends Mona and Liddy to flush out a killer.
Laugh out loud moments, a twisted plot and tasty recipes make for a delightful addition to the series. An unexpected development at the finish will have readers salivating for Hayley's next adventure.
I received an advanced copy of Death of an Italian Chef from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
April 22, 2021
Chef Romeo arrives in Bar Harbor and opens an Italian restaurant, with cuisine to die for... literally. When Chef Romeo ends up in the hospital after a mild heart attack no one, least of all his hospital roommate, Hayley's brother Randy, expects him to leave in a body bag. When Randy says he saw a masked man giving Romeo some kind of drug shortly before his death, everyone blows him off except Hayley.
This series is one of my very favorites. Hayley is awesome and I love Liddy and Mona, the three most unlikely friends you could imagine. I missed Sergio, who was in Brazil visiting family, but his job was being covered by another interesting character, a new officer, Vanessa Herrold. Hayley is, of course, knee deep in investigating the crime but she's taking it to a whole new level this time and handling her investigation during what little time she has off now that she's taken over running Chef Romeo's restaurant so his employees can continue getting a paycheck.
Though this book could be read as a standalone I think readers would miss out on some of the best parts of the story not knowing the background, especially the evolution of Hayley's relationship with Bruce and meeting the charming police chief, Randy's husband, Sergio, not to mention time spent noshing at Drinks Like a Fish with a healthier and less trying Randy.
Any fan of cozy mysteries should absolutely read this entire series. It's humorous and heartwarming and a boatload of fun!
Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC.
This series is one of my very favorites. Hayley is awesome and I love Liddy and Mona, the three most unlikely friends you could imagine. I missed Sergio, who was in Brazil visiting family, but his job was being covered by another interesting character, a new officer, Vanessa Herrold. Hayley is, of course, knee deep in investigating the crime but she's taking it to a whole new level this time and handling her investigation during what little time she has off now that she's taken over running Chef Romeo's restaurant so his employees can continue getting a paycheck.
Though this book could be read as a standalone I think readers would miss out on some of the best parts of the story not knowing the background, especially the evolution of Hayley's relationship with Bruce and meeting the charming police chief, Randy's husband, Sergio, not to mention time spent noshing at Drinks Like a Fish with a healthier and less trying Randy.
Any fan of cozy mysteries should absolutely read this entire series. It's humorous and heartwarming and a boatload of fun!
Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC.
March 1, 2023
I love the Hayley Powell mysteries and eagerly look forward to each one's release. I hope there are many more to come.
Hayley has some time on her hands now that her husband Bruce is in NYC covering the flashy trial of an island summer resident. Except her brother Randy becomes ill and the chef of a new Italian restaurant in town, Chef Romeo, wants Hayley to run things while he recuperates. However, when the man winds up dead and Randy is a witness, things begin to unravel as Chef Romeo winds up dead and his shady past comes to Bar Harbor. Can Hayley solve the crime before she winds up six feet under?
I love the character dynamic throughout every plot come up with by the brother and sister duo of Lee Hollis. Their ear for dialogue and Hayley's BFFs, Mona and Liddy, make every book a pleasure to get lost in. I was sad when this one ended. However, I did start putting plot pieces together early and while I thought the whodunit was clever, if you read enough cozies this one was not too hard to figure out. I also missed Randy's husband Sergio in this book.
Another winner in the series, more please! My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions in this review are my own.
Hayley has some time on her hands now that her husband Bruce is in NYC covering the flashy trial of an island summer resident. Except her brother Randy becomes ill and the chef of a new Italian restaurant in town, Chef Romeo, wants Hayley to run things while he recuperates. However, when the man winds up dead and Randy is a witness, things begin to unravel as Chef Romeo winds up dead and his shady past comes to Bar Harbor. Can Hayley solve the crime before she winds up six feet under?
I love the character dynamic throughout every plot come up with by the brother and sister duo of Lee Hollis. Their ear for dialogue and Hayley's BFFs, Mona and Liddy, make every book a pleasure to get lost in. I was sad when this one ended. However, I did start putting plot pieces together early and while I thought the whodunit was clever, if you read enough cozies this one was not too hard to figure out. I also missed Randy's husband Sergio in this book.
Another winner in the series, more please! My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions in this review are my own.
March 29, 2021
Hayley Powell is on her own while her new husband Bruce is away on business.
Her brother Randy is on his own too, and when a health crisis happens, Hayley finds herself not only worried about her brother, but worried about the man who was murdered in the bed next to him.
This is one of my favorite series and Hayley is just a great character.
I liked the outcome of the story, and I think the next book in the series is going to be fantastic!
I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
#DeathofanItalianChef #NetGalley
Her brother Randy is on his own too, and when a health crisis happens, Hayley finds herself not only worried about her brother, but worried about the man who was murdered in the bed next to him.
This is one of my favorite series and Hayley is just a great character.
I liked the outcome of the story, and I think the next book in the series is going to be fantastic!
I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
#DeathofanItalianChef #NetGalley
April 7, 2021
This impressive Italian recipe book is hiding a fantastic and funny murder mystery! It's a really good cozy mystery complete with interesting characters, plot twists, red herrings and misdirection, good laughs. The publisher's blurb is a good hook and no recap or spoilers here. I loved it!
I requested and received a free temporary ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free temporary ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
July 12, 2021
4.5 Stars
This is the fourteenth book in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails series by Lee Hollis.
This series is already on book fourteen and it feels as fresh as it did in the beginning. I was gobsmacked after reading this and realizing it was the fourtteenth book. Wow, what a great writer with a similarly great vision for her series.
Hayley’s job has been one of a food reporter and columnist with a pretty popular foodie column in the Island Times. She goes to review a new restaurant and meets Chef Romeo. He discovers what a great cook Hayley is and on the eve of his grand opening the Chef has a heart attack and lands in the hospital in the same room as Hayley’s brother, Randy, who had a gallbladder attack. In the night, Randy sees someone murder Chef. And while Hayley is trying to takeover for Chef Romeo while he is in the hospital, she does some digging into who could have killed the new Chef in town.
Great mystery. I was hooked from the very beginning. Love the characters and the community in this one. The mysteries in Lee Hollis’ books are always intricate and fun to follow since there are red herrings all over the place. The plotting and pacing were bang on and the idea that this book is taking the series in a new direction really excites me. Looking forward to more from Hollis!
Great series to follow. Must read series for me!
If you love a cozy mystery, definitely check this one out. Great new must read book great series too!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title. Opinions are completely my own.
This is the fourteenth book in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails series by Lee Hollis.
This series is already on book fourteen and it feels as fresh as it did in the beginning. I was gobsmacked after reading this and realizing it was the fourtteenth book. Wow, what a great writer with a similarly great vision for her series.
Hayley’s job has been one of a food reporter and columnist with a pretty popular foodie column in the Island Times. She goes to review a new restaurant and meets Chef Romeo. He discovers what a great cook Hayley is and on the eve of his grand opening the Chef has a heart attack and lands in the hospital in the same room as Hayley’s brother, Randy, who had a gallbladder attack. In the night, Randy sees someone murder Chef. And while Hayley is trying to takeover for Chef Romeo while he is in the hospital, she does some digging into who could have killed the new Chef in town.
Great mystery. I was hooked from the very beginning. Love the characters and the community in this one. The mysteries in Lee Hollis’ books are always intricate and fun to follow since there are red herrings all over the place. The plotting and pacing were bang on and the idea that this book is taking the series in a new direction really excites me. Looking forward to more from Hollis!
Great series to follow. Must read series for me!
If you love a cozy mystery, definitely check this one out. Great new must read book great series too!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title. Opinions are completely my own.
January 14, 2024
OH HOW WONDERFUL IT WAS TO BE BACK IN HAYLEY'S WORLD!
PREMISE: As the food and cocktails columnist for the Island Times, it's Hayley Powell's job to stay on top of the latest eateries in town. Chef Romeo, a successful restaurateur from New York City, has opened an establishment called--naturally--Romeo's. When the chef actually does suffer a mild heart attack, he ends up sharing a hospital room with Hayley's brother Randy, who's there for gall bladder surgery. Chef Romeo has tasted Hayley's cooking and asks her to take over his restaurant while he's laid up. But this temporary gig may turn permanent, after the chef dies from complications. Only thing is, Randy tells a different story. He might have been sedated, but Hayley's bro swears he saw someone come into their room and put Romeo out of his misery.
THOUGHTS: This was a pleasure and a joy to read. I am so so SO happy this series was recommended to me once upon a time and am only sad that I am so very close now to being up to date with the series! I loved the Italian Resturant Cozy side of this book, as well as the Italian themed food in Hayley's Column. The mystery was intriguing, especially given Randy's involvement. One con was the Sergio (Randy's boyfriend) was not in this one. But he should be back in the next one. Bruce (Hayley's Partner) wasn't with Hayley in this one, but I didn't really miss him. Was a great book and while I don't want to be up to date (as I'd need to wait for the next book to be published) I am very much looking forward to book #15.
An overwhelming 5 Stars!
xoxo.
PREMISE: As the food and cocktails columnist for the Island Times, it's Hayley Powell's job to stay on top of the latest eateries in town. Chef Romeo, a successful restaurateur from New York City, has opened an establishment called--naturally--Romeo's. When the chef actually does suffer a mild heart attack, he ends up sharing a hospital room with Hayley's brother Randy, who's there for gall bladder surgery. Chef Romeo has tasted Hayley's cooking and asks her to take over his restaurant while he's laid up. But this temporary gig may turn permanent, after the chef dies from complications. Only thing is, Randy tells a different story. He might have been sedated, but Hayley's bro swears he saw someone come into their room and put Romeo out of his misery.
THOUGHTS: This was a pleasure and a joy to read. I am so so SO happy this series was recommended to me once upon a time and am only sad that I am so very close now to being up to date with the series! I loved the Italian Resturant Cozy side of this book, as well as the Italian themed food in Hayley's Column. The mystery was intriguing, especially given Randy's involvement. One con was the Sergio (Randy's boyfriend) was not in this one. But he should be back in the next one. Bruce (Hayley's Partner) wasn't with Hayley in this one, but I didn't really miss him. Was a great book and while I don't want to be up to date (as I'd need to wait for the next book to be published) I am very much looking forward to book #15.
An overwhelming 5 Stars!
xoxo.
July 2, 2021
"Death of an Italian Chef" by Lee Hollis is book #14 in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery series.
Hayley, her husband Bruce and her brother Randy are enjoying dinner at the newest restaurant in Bar Harbor. The owner, Chef Romeo begs Hayley for her opinions on the food they ate. She finally admits that one of her recipes is better. He of course is outraged and insists she make the dish for him. Once he tastes it, he wants her to come work for him rather than wasting her time at the Island Times newspaper. Hayley, laughs it off but when Chef suffers a mild heart attack and ends up in the hospital, he insists that she take over for him while he recovers. As it turned out Chef was in the same hospital room as Hayley's brother Randy who needed surgery. While Randy was doped up on post surgery meds, Chef is murdered in the next bed! No one seems to believe Randy though. His husband Sergio is in Brazil visiting family and the Sergeant in charge thinks it was just a heart attack - case closed. Hayley thinks Randy might actually have seen something but has trouble proving it. Can she solve the case before a killer comes after her?
Though I respect Lee Hollis for mixing it up a bit, I really missed Sergio in this book. Granted, the story would not have played out the way it did had he been there but I still missed him. At times I actually felt like I was reading a mediocre screwball comedy cum murder. Mona was her usual boisterous self and Liddy was actually enjoying being a hostess at the restaurant to help out Hayley. Bruce was away in New York working on a story for the paper but his calls/contact was frequent to keep him part of the story. Randy was a needy recovering patient.
I'd actually narrowed in on who done it long before Hayley did but I didn't see a really good twist coming as that was revealed! For me, that reveal and the remainder of the book saved it for me. (I had been leaning to a 2.5 rating till then) I also believe that the way the book ended will bring new life to this series and keep it from going stale.
Hayley, her husband Bruce and her brother Randy are enjoying dinner at the newest restaurant in Bar Harbor. The owner, Chef Romeo begs Hayley for her opinions on the food they ate. She finally admits that one of her recipes is better. He of course is outraged and insists she make the dish for him. Once he tastes it, he wants her to come work for him rather than wasting her time at the Island Times newspaper. Hayley, laughs it off but when Chef suffers a mild heart attack and ends up in the hospital, he insists that she take over for him while he recovers. As it turned out Chef was in the same hospital room as Hayley's brother Randy who needed surgery. While Randy was doped up on post surgery meds, Chef is murdered in the next bed! No one seems to believe Randy though. His husband Sergio is in Brazil visiting family and the Sergeant in charge thinks it was just a heart attack - case closed. Hayley thinks Randy might actually have seen something but has trouble proving it. Can she solve the case before a killer comes after her?
Though I respect Lee Hollis for mixing it up a bit, I really missed Sergio in this book. Granted, the story would not have played out the way it did had he been there but I still missed him. At times I actually felt like I was reading a mediocre screwball comedy cum murder. Mona was her usual boisterous self and Liddy was actually enjoying being a hostess at the restaurant to help out Hayley. Bruce was away in New York working on a story for the paper but his calls/contact was frequent to keep him part of the story. Randy was a needy recovering patient.
I'd actually narrowed in on who done it long before Hayley did but I didn't see a really good twist coming as that was revealed! For me, that reveal and the remainder of the book saved it for me. (I had been leaning to a 2.5 rating till then) I also believe that the way the book ended will bring new life to this series and keep it from going stale.
July 13, 2021
What can I say? Lee Hollis has done it again! With the fourteenth book in the series, you’d think that the series would run out of steam, but there’s a lot to love with this book. The twists and turns are prevalent and there’s a lot of great banter and characters too. I especially love Hayley, who continues to grow and show different sides of her to love.
The writing does show a slight change with the author, but I think that it stays true to what I love about the series. It’s great if you want something simple and entertaining, which a great mystery and cast of characters. This series continues to be one of my very favorites in the genre and I can’t recommend it enough.
So if you’re on the fence about this series, you really should just take the leap. Trust me when I saw that you won’t regret reading this series.
Reviewed by Annie ❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
July 28, 2022
You'll never be disappointed
This is an excellent series and each one does not disappoint! Haley consistently finds herself in the middle of something. She's a little down since Bruce is gone to NY for a trial so Haley has some alone time. Not for long , Randy is sick, a new restaurant owner pleads for her help then gets murdered. Not to mention she does have a job! Lots of craziness, humor and good food just make this so much fun.
This is an excellent series and each one does not disappoint! Haley consistently finds herself in the middle of something. She's a little down since Bruce is gone to NY for a trial so Haley has some alone time. Not for long , Randy is sick, a new restaurant owner pleads for her help then gets murdered. Not to mention she does have a job! Lots of craziness, humor and good food just make this so much fun.
June 12, 2022
This was the first time I have read this series and love the friendship between Haley, Liddy, and Mona..OH I really like MONA. I found that the talking of pasta made me hungry but it was a cool mystery...I didn't see some of the outcomes coming. I am excited for the next read.
July 29, 2021
7/28/2021 Was genuinely surprised by the big twist! Full review tk at CriminalElement.com.
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