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Catering Hall Mystery #4
Four Parties and a Funeral
Agatha Award-winning author Maria DiRico returns with the fourth book in the Catering Hall Mystery Series, starring Mia Carina who is coming to grips with being back in Astoria, Queens, and running her Italian-American family's catering hall, Belle View Banquet Manor but a TV casting call is about to put murder in the spotlight . . .
The June events schedule at Belle View is busting out all over--proms, graduations, and of course, weddings. There are unexpected bookings too, including a casting call for the pilot of Dons of Ditmars Boulevard. But soon, Mia's fears about the cheesy reality show are confirmed . . .
Belle View quickly becomes the site of a sea of wanna-be goombahs and phony girlfriends, and some of Mia's friends insist on getting in on the action. The production company owner and his executive producer ex-wife--who's also very minor British royalty--have assembled a motley crew that does as much infighting and backstabbing as the on-screen "talent." Even so, it's a shock when a dead body is found in the pool house of a local mansion rented by the show . . .
Murder might boost the ratings. But Mia intends to make sure the killer gets jail time, not airtime . . .
The June events schedule at Belle View is busting out all over--proms, graduations, and of course, weddings. There are unexpected bookings too, including a casting call for the pilot of Dons of Ditmars Boulevard. But soon, Mia's fears about the cheesy reality show are confirmed . . .
Belle View quickly becomes the site of a sea of wanna-be goombahs and phony girlfriends, and some of Mia's friends insist on getting in on the action. The production company owner and his executive producer ex-wife--who's also very minor British royalty--have assembled a motley crew that does as much infighting and backstabbing as the on-screen "talent." Even so, it's a shock when a dead body is found in the pool house of a local mansion rented by the show . . .
Murder might boost the ratings. But Mia intends to make sure the killer gets jail time, not airtime . . .
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2023
92 people are currently reading
3008 people want to read
About the author
Maria DiRico
5 books444 followersMaria DiRico (the pen name of award-winning author Ellen Byron) was born in Queens, New York, and raised in Queens and Westchester County. She is first-generation Italian American on her mother’s side. On her father’s side, her grandfather was a low-level Jewish mobster who disappeared in 1933 under mysterious circumstances. While growing up in Queens, Maria/Ellen's cousins ran the Astoria Manor and Grand Bay Marina catering halls.
As Ellen Byron, her Cajun Country Mysteries have won multiple Agatha award and Lefty awards. BAYOU BOOK THIEF, the first book in her Vintage Cookbook Mysteries, has been nominated for Agatha and Lefty awards as well. Ellen is an award-winning playwright, and non-award-winning TV writer of comedies like WINGS, JUST SHOOT ME, and FAIRLY ODD PARENTS. She has written over two hundred articles for national magazines but considers her most impressive credit working as a cater-waiter for Martha Stewart.
As Ellen Byron, her Cajun Country Mysteries have won multiple Agatha award and Lefty awards. BAYOU BOOK THIEF, the first book in her Vintage Cookbook Mysteries, has been nominated for Agatha and Lefty awards as well. Ellen is an award-winning playwright, and non-award-winning TV writer of comedies like WINGS, JUST SHOOT ME, and FAIRLY ODD PARENTS. She has written over two hundred articles for national magazines but considers her most impressive credit working as a cater-waiter for Martha Stewart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
March 21, 2025
Four Parties and a Funeral is the latest release in the Catering Hall Mysteries written by Maria DiRico, a pseudonym for Ellen Byron whose Cajun Country Mysteries are one of my favorites. This 2023 release focuses on a ~30ish woman in Queens, New York who runs a catering hall for her father, who received it as payment for a debt in the mob he was once associated with. Now, her family is trying to come clean but all the connections make it difficult, especially when a tv show all about the Dons of Ditmar Boulevard will fill at the catering hall. Mia's hunky new boyfriend keeps her sane in this installment, but her close family friends try to get on to the show where a divorced British couple amp up the drama. One of Mia's friends falls for the British woman (a low-ranking royal) and when her ex-husband is found dead, all eyes point on Mia's friend. Then the man's secret new wife shows up and creates tons of hilarity. Enjoyed this release, as DiRico truly knows how to make her readers laugh with all the crazy antics of a NY mob family. Definitely a series to add to your list!
February 22, 2023
I jumped into this series at book four and this may have been a mistake. There were a huge number of characters and it took me quite a while to sort them all out.
Anyway it was a good story with an interesting mystery. The characters were quirky if a little bit too stereotypical from time to time. I liked the main character, Mia, who was organised and smart, but I reserved judgement on Cammie who was entertaining on the page of a book, but you certainly would not want to know her in real life.
There were murders and attempted murders, lots of red herrings and an effective conclusion. A nice way to spend a few reading hours.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Anyway it was a good story with an interesting mystery. The characters were quirky if a little bit too stereotypical from time to time. I liked the main character, Mia, who was organised and smart, but I reserved judgement on Cammie who was entertaining on the page of a book, but you certainly would not want to know her in real life.
There were murders and attempted murders, lots of red herrings and an effective conclusion. A nice way to spend a few reading hours.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 13, 2024
Very entertaining! I like the main cast (the family) who have good hearts and care for each other’s welfare. The mystery was really good, and I didn’t figure out the murderer until the author reveal! She had me going in circles! LOL!
April 2, 2023
A casting call for a reality show about the Dons of Ditmars Boulevard gets booked at the Bellw View Banquet Hall whicj Mia Carina and her father are running as a legitimate business, not a Family business. The cast of characters waiting to be cast is only outdone by those in the production company. A rollicking fun cozy with characters you can care about and a plot that will keep you guessing. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2023
"Four Parties and a Funeral” the 4th instalment in the A Catering Hall Mystery series by Maria DiRico. Mia Carina who is coming to grips with being back in Astoria, Queens, and running her Italian-American family’s catering hall, Belle View Banquet Manor but a TV casting call is about to put murder in the spotlight . . .
I love Mia, her Nonna, Cammie, Shane and the rest of the side characters. I like where things are heading with Mia and Shane’s romance too!
I felt like I was at a big fat Greek wedding but the Italian version with the Don’s and Donette’s, I laughed lots during this story. The author is one of my favorite as she knows how to keep the reader entertained as well as cate about the main characters and what happens to them.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, I found myself guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. I couldn’t put the book down, read it in a day .
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends and I can’t wait for book five!
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love Mia, her Nonna, Cammie, Shane and the rest of the side characters. I like where things are heading with Mia and Shane’s romance too!
I felt like I was at a big fat Greek wedding but the Italian version with the Don’s and Donette’s, I laughed lots during this story. The author is one of my favorite as she knows how to keep the reader entertained as well as cate about the main characters and what happens to them.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, I found myself guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. I couldn’t put the book down, read it in a day .
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends and I can’t wait for book five!
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 29, 2023
Four Parties and a Funeral is another great addition to this series that has become one of my favorite cozy mystery series. What Maria DiRico does so well here is making sure to keep a fun cast of characters.
This installment pokes fun at reality shows like Mob Wives . One of Mia's friends is on a new reality show for the children of mobsters and the people who date them called "The Don's of Ditmar Boulevard". Mia's family catering business gets contracted to supply food on set. When a murder happens Mia is on the case to ensure her friend doesn't end up in jail.
In the meantime Mia uncovers some secrets about Shane and has to deal with a bridal party fiasco in New Orleans.
Can't wait to see what mess is going down in the next one!
This installment pokes fun at reality shows like Mob Wives . One of Mia's friends is on a new reality show for the children of mobsters and the people who date them called "The Don's of Ditmar Boulevard". Mia's family catering business gets contracted to supply food on set. When a murder happens Mia is on the case to ensure her friend doesn't end up in jail.
In the meantime Mia uncovers some secrets about Shane and has to deal with a bridal party fiasco in New Orleans.
Can't wait to see what mess is going down in the next one!
November 3, 2022
Mia Carina certainly has her hands full in Four Parties and a Funeral.
I've come to love this series, Mia, Cammie, Pete, Shane, Ravello, and the rest of the family always give me a good laugh.
A new reality show featuring the different family dons is about to turn Mia's world upside-down, and not in a good way.
Something strange is going on with Shane, and Mia finds herself questioning their relationship when she finds out the truth.
I was glued to the pages of this book and read it straight through.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book
#FourPartiesandaFuneral #NetGalley
I've come to love this series, Mia, Cammie, Pete, Shane, Ravello, and the rest of the family always give me a good laugh.
A new reality show featuring the different family dons is about to turn Mia's world upside-down, and not in a good way.
Something strange is going on with Shane, and Mia finds herself questioning their relationship when she finds out the truth.
I was glued to the pages of this book and read it straight through.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book
#FourPartiesandaFuneral #NetGalley
March 27, 2023
This series definitely stretches the boundaries of what is typically found in cozies. I love the references (on the fringes, of course) to the Family, which adds a little more drama to the series. The addition of the reality show in this one made this funny with all the stereotypical characters. The mystery is well plotted and I had no idea who the guilty party was until the very end. I enjoyed the progressing relationship between Mia and Shane and the cliffhanger at the end. I look forward to seeing what they get up to next.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
April 15, 2023
Dollycas's Thoughts
Reality t.v. comes to Belle View Catering Hall with a casting call for the new show The Dons of Ditmars Boulevard. That along with weddings, proms, graduations, and a very special funeral keep Mia Carina and her staff very busy.
But it is the reality show that takes most of her time especially when one of her new employees/relatives gets cast in the show and finds romance with an executive producer who happens to be the production company owner's ex-wife and also a minor British royal. There is more drama offscreen than onscreen with the cast and crew on a daily basis so it wasn't really a surprise that someone ended up dead . . . and there are plenty of suspects.
While the show must go on Mia plans to produce a killer while trying still catering to the masses.
______
All our favorites return in this new Catering Hall Mystery. Mia and Shane's relationship has risen to a new level but hits a big bump. Grandmother Elisabetta is on a crafting binge that had me truly wondering if the woman is now color-blind or at least needs a fashion refresher. Mia was a trooper wearing whatever the woman came up with. Ravello is on a health kick that kicks back. And Cammie has come up with another way to spend Detective Pete Dianopolis's money.
They are joined by a bunch of "Dons and Donettes", and a wacky production crew. There is also a Boldano wedding and all the pre-wedding gatherings that bring many new characters to the story including the bride's Connecticut family. While there was plenty of drama among the characters there was also a lot of comedy. The author had me in stitches throughout most of these stories with all these characters' antics.
In between all the laughter, there was a mystery to solve and with so many suspects it was not easy. There were twists on top of twists and some very interesting turns. Just when I thought I had it figured out a few pages later I saw I was all wrong. I truly was still guessing when all was revealed. Ms. DiRico did an excellent job of plotting and misdirection.
Of course, there was a lot of food involved whenever people gathered. The rehearsal dinner in Connecticut almost had me on the floor laughing, one recipe is included in the back of the book. While tasty, not your usual party fare. There was some seriously delectable Italian cooking done as well and the author has included recipes for a few of those treats as well including Pasta Puttanesca.
Four Parties and a Funeral is a hilarious mystery. I was captivated from beginning to end. I am excited for this series to continue. I am fully invested in these characters and can't wait to see what Ms. DiRico dreams up for them next.
As always for maximum enjoyment, I recommend reading the books in order.
Reality t.v. comes to Belle View Catering Hall with a casting call for the new show The Dons of Ditmars Boulevard. That along with weddings, proms, graduations, and a very special funeral keep Mia Carina and her staff very busy.
But it is the reality show that takes most of her time especially when one of her new employees/relatives gets cast in the show and finds romance with an executive producer who happens to be the production company owner's ex-wife and also a minor British royal. There is more drama offscreen than onscreen with the cast and crew on a daily basis so it wasn't really a surprise that someone ended up dead . . . and there are plenty of suspects.
While the show must go on Mia plans to produce a killer while trying still catering to the masses.
______
All our favorites return in this new Catering Hall Mystery. Mia and Shane's relationship has risen to a new level but hits a big bump. Grandmother Elisabetta is on a crafting binge that had me truly wondering if the woman is now color-blind or at least needs a fashion refresher. Mia was a trooper wearing whatever the woman came up with. Ravello is on a health kick that kicks back. And Cammie has come up with another way to spend Detective Pete Dianopolis's money.
They are joined by a bunch of "Dons and Donettes", and a wacky production crew. There is also a Boldano wedding and all the pre-wedding gatherings that bring many new characters to the story including the bride's Connecticut family. While there was plenty of drama among the characters there was also a lot of comedy. The author had me in stitches throughout most of these stories with all these characters' antics.
In between all the laughter, there was a mystery to solve and with so many suspects it was not easy. There were twists on top of twists and some very interesting turns. Just when I thought I had it figured out a few pages later I saw I was all wrong. I truly was still guessing when all was revealed. Ms. DiRico did an excellent job of plotting and misdirection.
Of course, there was a lot of food involved whenever people gathered. The rehearsal dinner in Connecticut almost had me on the floor laughing, one recipe is included in the back of the book. While tasty, not your usual party fare. There was some seriously delectable Italian cooking done as well and the author has included recipes for a few of those treats as well including Pasta Puttanesca.
Four Parties and a Funeral is a hilarious mystery. I was captivated from beginning to end. I am excited for this series to continue. I am fully invested in these characters and can't wait to see what Ms. DiRico dreams up for them next.
As always for maximum enjoyment, I recommend reading the books in order.
April 4, 2023
I always have the best time reading this series! Mia makes me think of an Italian Fran Fine, well voice-wise anyway, lol. She had her hands full helping to babysit bridesmaids when Madison's maid of honor went into rehab, then she had to deal with a film crew doing a reality show of what else, wannabe dons of course! And their ladies, but one of the crew or someone had it in for the CEO so now Mia had a murder she couldn't resist snooping into as well.
There were so many funny scenes, you just gotta read it to appreciate everything! The showdown was a good one, and I hadn't really suspected the whodunit. The side story of Shane having something to hide was resolved nicely for him and Mia, and now I just have to wait (im)patiently for the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
There were so many funny scenes, you just gotta read it to appreciate everything! The showdown was a good one, and I hadn't really suspected the whodunit. The side story of Shane having something to hide was resolved nicely for him and Mia, and now I just have to wait (im)patiently for the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
November 28, 2022
June is usually the time of year when Mia Carina's head is full of weddings, prom nights, and outdoor events in the early New York summer sunshine. Belle View Banquet Manor, the legitimate business she runs with her ex-mobster father, Ravello, is busy but always has room for one more function. This time however, Mia and boyfriend, Shane might have cause to regret their latest booking!
The pilot for new reality show Dons of Ditmars Boulevard needs a base along with an event planner and has Mia’s friends and wanna-be starlets alike crawling out of the woodwork and they aren't quiet about it! With no-one prepared to fade into the background it's no surprise when tempers flare and accusations fly but the discovery of a body puts everyone involved in the production on the NYPD's suspect list. Mia knows she has to intervene before the wrong person is arrested but with everything else going on does she really have enough time to undertake her own investigation?
In book four of Maria DiRico's Catering Hall Mystery Series the main protagonists are all familiar but still have the ability to surprise. From Mia’s grandmother Elizabetta's new hobby, via Mia and Shane's relationship, to Ravello's energy regime, the main storyline is aided and abetted by a great set of secondary issues to make this an entertaining read from start to finish. There was a bit more of the reality 'star's' dubious behaviour than I wanted but the surprising and satisfying ending was a definite plus. I was nowhere near guessing whodunnit!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this installment and happily recommend it.
The pilot for new reality show Dons of Ditmars Boulevard needs a base along with an event planner and has Mia’s friends and wanna-be starlets alike crawling out of the woodwork and they aren't quiet about it! With no-one prepared to fade into the background it's no surprise when tempers flare and accusations fly but the discovery of a body puts everyone involved in the production on the NYPD's suspect list. Mia knows she has to intervene before the wrong person is arrested but with everything else going on does she really have enough time to undertake her own investigation?
In book four of Maria DiRico's Catering Hall Mystery Series the main protagonists are all familiar but still have the ability to surprise. From Mia’s grandmother Elizabetta's new hobby, via Mia and Shane's relationship, to Ravello's energy regime, the main storyline is aided and abetted by a great set of secondary issues to make this an entertaining read from start to finish. There was a bit more of the reality 'star's' dubious behaviour than I wanted but the surprising and satisfying ending was a definite plus. I was nowhere near guessing whodunnit!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this installment and happily recommend it.
November 1, 2022
Things are busy at Belle View and Mia Carina is just hoping to get through all the June wedding, graduations, and proms. With a casting call for a reality show booked at the hall, things suddenly take a shift from the same old routine. Not only does it bring in some colorful characters, it also brings murder to the door of the Belle View.
The fourth entry in this series is another good one. Maria DiRico has yet another hit series on her hands and it’s all thanks to her talented writing and development of a great whodunit with each new book. The characters are well developed and brought to life with each and every word. You can hear the accent and see the hair as you read…it’s like a taste of home for me each and every time.
The fourth entry in this series is another good one. Maria DiRico has yet another hit series on her hands and it’s all thanks to her talented writing and development of a great whodunit with each new book. The characters are well developed and brought to life with each and every word. You can hear the accent and see the hair as you read…it’s like a taste of home for me each and every time.
November 23, 2022
Four parties and a funeral is the fourth book in the Catering Hall Mystery Series. A reality show films at Belle View Manor, and murder and mayhem soon follow. This book had me hooked from page one! There were lots of suspects, red herrings, a little romance, a solid plot, and many laugh out loud moments. The characters are well fleshed out. I especially enjoyed the antics of Mia's grandma Elisabetta and her knitting projects. I read this book in one sitting. Thank you to kensington books and netgalley for providing me with an advance readers copy.
March 25, 2023
If you are looking for a really funny cozy mystery book, look no further. Author Maria DiRico, which is the pen name for Ellen Byron, knows comedy. She has been a writer/producer for several television comedies and that talent shines through in her mysteres. Four Parties and a Funeral is the fourth book in the Catering Hall Mystery series featuring Mia Carina. This book has some added fun because the Queens, New York venue that Mia manages becomes the setting for a reality tv show, The Dons of Ditmars Boulevard. Mia already had some concerns about the event, and then a murder occurs.
In addition to the humor which occurs during the reality show, the murder mystery itself is an interesting one. Mia is a likable character and a capable amateur sleuth. I was also interested in the new developments in Mia's romance with her coworker, Shane. Other series regulars appear and I was surprised at how much I enjoyed "Little Donny" in this book. The mystery itself stands alone but there are a lot of characters in this one, once you add in everyone involved in the reality show. It might be better for new readers to start with an earlier book to at least get to know the regular characters first. I enjoyed how things were wrapped up in the long epilogue and will definitely read the next one to see what's in store for Mia and her family and the "Family." I recommend this series to cozy lovers looking for something a little different and a lot of fun.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Kensington Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
In addition to the humor which occurs during the reality show, the murder mystery itself is an interesting one. Mia is a likable character and a capable amateur sleuth. I was also interested in the new developments in Mia's romance with her coworker, Shane. Other series regulars appear and I was surprised at how much I enjoyed "Little Donny" in this book. The mystery itself stands alone but there are a lot of characters in this one, once you add in everyone involved in the reality show. It might be better for new readers to start with an earlier book to at least get to know the regular characters first. I enjoyed how things were wrapped up in the long epilogue and will definitely read the next one to see what's in store for Mia and her family and the "Family." I recommend this series to cozy lovers looking for something a little different and a lot of fun.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Kensington Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
March 21, 2023
3.5 stars
Pro:
* Writing is as solid as always.
* Standing characters are welcomed friends at this point.
* Strong finish
Con:
* My least favorite of the series so far
* The premise of a reality show is contemporary but just doesn’t captivate me.
* The cast of suspects are not all that engaging or likable.
* Some unbelievable “coincidences”
Thank you to Maria DiRico, Kensington Books, and NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Pro:
* Writing is as solid as always.
* Standing characters are welcomed friends at this point.
* Strong finish
Con:
* My least favorite of the series so far
* The premise of a reality show is contemporary but just doesn’t captivate me.
* The cast of suspects are not all that engaging or likable.
* Some unbelievable “coincidences”
Thank you to Maria DiRico, Kensington Books, and NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2023
Four Parties and a Funeral by Maria DiRico is the fourth book in the Catering Hall Mysteries, and it continues to be a well written and fun cozy mystery series.
Lots of things are happening in this one; lively scenes for the reality TV show that includes lots of fights, pre-wedding celebrations, a wedding, Cami trying to start a podcast, Grandma knitting up a storm, and a lot more.
With all the craziness happening Mia and her gorgeous model boyfriend have some issues of their own, but nothing stops Mia from figuring out the killer… one that I didn't see coming… which doesn’t happen too often any more with cozy mysteries, so that was fantastic!
Between all the fun scenes, f(F)amily togetherness, fun parties/events, fabulous food throughout the book, and the recipes at the end, The Catering Hall Mysteries is a cozy series you need to read.
Lots of things are happening in this one; lively scenes for the reality TV show that includes lots of fights, pre-wedding celebrations, a wedding, Cami trying to start a podcast, Grandma knitting up a storm, and a lot more.
With all the craziness happening Mia and her gorgeous model boyfriend have some issues of their own, but nothing stops Mia from figuring out the killer… one that I didn't see coming… which doesn’t happen too often any more with cozy mysteries, so that was fantastic!
Between all the fun scenes, f(F)amily togetherness, fun parties/events, fabulous food throughout the book, and the recipes at the end, The Catering Hall Mysteries is a cozy series you need to read.
January 23, 2023
More hilarity and goofy characters who rarely meet the norm for their stated type from a favorite author! The whole story and backstory are clear and well crafted as well, but it's the characters and the humor that I love. It's more than just about solving the murder, but the whole Family thing combined with the lifestyles involved. Loved it!
I requested and received an EARC from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received an EARC from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
March 30, 2023
OHHHHHHHH how I love this series. I miss NY so much on a regular basis, but even more so when I listen to one of these books. Because, truly, IMHO, you N E E D to listen to this book. The narrator does an excellent job with the Queens accent and the Italian and all. of. it. Her narration really makes the book come alive and makes you think you are right there, in the thick of it all.
This book had so much going on that IMO, it is better to just go in blind and enjoy the whole ride, unencumbered by preconceived notions [though I will say, as someone who LOVED her trip to NOLA, the trip to that amazing city was absolutely glorious sidebar I never expected we needed AND, never trust that your beloved Nonna is going to make you things that you will actually WANT to wear. You will see. ;-) ]. I found I like Mia more and more with each book [and would love to be friends with her IRL] and her staff/friends are just fantastic; even Terri is growing on me. WHO knew?? I will never be a fan of Cammi, but even she doesn't rub me the wrong way in this one. Everyone does their job and THEN sleuths, Mia takes care of her family and respects and loves her Nonna deeply and there is a real respect for Pete [the cop] and the job he has to do.
This is one of the best cozies I have read in awhile [WOW, the last really good one I read was back at the beginning of February!!!] and I will admit I CANNOT wait for the next one. I can only hope she writes faster [joke. kind of]!!! Well done.
Thank you to NetGalley, Maria DiRico, and Kensington Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book had so much going on that IMO, it is better to just go in blind and enjoy the whole ride, unencumbered by preconceived notions [though I will say, as someone who LOVED her trip to NOLA, the trip to that amazing city was absolutely glorious sidebar I never expected we needed AND, never trust that your beloved Nonna is going to make you things that you will actually WANT to wear. You will see. ;-) ]. I found I like Mia more and more with each book [and would love to be friends with her IRL] and her staff/friends are just fantastic; even Terri is growing on me. WHO knew?? I will never be a fan of Cammi, but even she doesn't rub me the wrong way in this one. Everyone does their job and THEN sleuths, Mia takes care of her family and respects and loves her Nonna deeply and there is a real respect for Pete [the cop] and the job he has to do.
This is one of the best cozies I have read in awhile [WOW, the last really good one I read was back at the beginning of February!!!] and I will admit I CANNOT wait for the next one. I can only hope she writes faster [joke. kind of]!!! Well done.
Thank you to NetGalley, Maria DiRico, and Kensington Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 5, 2022
Four Parties and a Funeral is the fourth installment in the Catering Hall Mystery series set in Queens, New York and featuring Belle View Banquet Manager, Mia Carina. It's June and the catering hall is busy with with brides, graduations and proms but Mia finds herself tasked with the job of watching out for Little Donny Boldano who has joined the cast of the latest reality show - the Dons of Ditmars Boulevard - which follows the lives of wannabe mobsters and their girlfriends.
Little D hooks up with Ariadne St. James, ex wife to Giles St. James, the producer and quickly finds himself the prime suspect when Giles turns up dead. Mia promises Big Donny that she'll clear his sons name and internally hopes that the real culprit might be Little D's cousin Nicky since the two don't get along and tend to fight over the same women.
It was fun to connect with Mia again but this addition to the series fell short for me. There really wasn't much of a mystery/storyline that surrounded the reality show, just a lot of cast and crew who really didn't do much other than despise Giles and each other. A few laugh out loud moments provided by Mia's grandmother, Elisabetta but even those were somewhat overshadowed by Mia's drama with boyfriend Shane, and her concerns about her Dad's health. Things end on a positive note so I'll look forward to the next adventures at Belle View.
I received an advanced copy of Four Parties and a Funeral from NetGalley via Kensington Books. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
Little D hooks up with Ariadne St. James, ex wife to Giles St. James, the producer and quickly finds himself the prime suspect when Giles turns up dead. Mia promises Big Donny that she'll clear his sons name and internally hopes that the real culprit might be Little D's cousin Nicky since the two don't get along and tend to fight over the same women.
It was fun to connect with Mia again but this addition to the series fell short for me. There really wasn't much of a mystery/storyline that surrounded the reality show, just a lot of cast and crew who really didn't do much other than despise Giles and each other. A few laugh out loud moments provided by Mia's grandmother, Elisabetta but even those were somewhat overshadowed by Mia's drama with boyfriend Shane, and her concerns about her Dad's health. Things end on a positive note so I'll look forward to the next adventures at Belle View.
I received an advanced copy of Four Parties and a Funeral from NetGalley via Kensington Books. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
February 17, 2024
That was so much fun. I remember a lot of years ago, there was a movie called “Married to the Mob”. The energy of this story reminds me so much of that movie. A little bit of “Oscar”, too. Apparently, slapstick mafia humor is right up my alley. I was watching all the clues that Mia was picking up, but at no point was I able to put them together to come up with the right answer. The author kept me successfully distracted with all the shiny red herrings to chase. Then there was the added complication of Mia’s relationship drama that also kept me guessing. I love where this book leaves us, and I can’t wait to see where the series goes next.
October 24, 2022
Fourth in the Catering Hall Mystery series. Mia Carina is running her family's catering business in Astoria, Queens. June is a very busy time with all kinds of parties, graduations and weddings. Then a reality show books and things go awry! You're not going to want to put this one down! Awesome read with great characters, excellent plot, and is very well written. Thanks #netgalley and #Kensington for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
March 28, 2023
My goodness I love this series! Well, to be honest, I love anything that Ellen Byron/Maria DiRico writes, and Four Parties and a Funeral was another fun cozy that kept me laughing and guessing right up until the very end! I read it in one sitting, and absolutely recommend it - a fun trip to Queens and beyond as Mia takes part in her pal Jamie's wedding prep all while trying to figure out who killed a reality show producer at one of her events. A+++
February 24, 2024
Four Parties and a Funeral is the fourth book in the Catering Hall Mystery series. This is a fun series with shades of the New Jersey mafia in the past. Each book can be read as a standalone story, but I have enjoyed reading them all and meeting Mia Carina, her family and her friends. Mia runs her family's catering hall, Belle View Banquet Manor and is surprised to find the newest event, a TV casting call for the pilot of Dons of Ditmars Boulevard. Soon there are wanna-be goombahs and phony girlfriends, some of them, Mia's friends hanging around the Belle View. With this group, there is constant infighting, jealousy and more, but the final straw leading to an investigation is the death/murder of the show's producer. Can Mia help find the killer before someone else ends up dead?
This was a fun story, with a lot of the stereotypes of Italian wannabe mafia types and their girlfriends flitting around. With one of Mia's friends falling for the new producer, Mia's boyfriend dropping a bombshell and her brother sneaking off from a work excursion organized by the local prison, there is a lot to keep her on her toes. This is a quickly moving story, with clues, red herrings and misdirection sprinkled into the story. I do enjoy the characters and the humor in these books, but I think this was my least favourite of the series so far. If you enjoy a humorous, cozy mystery, set in New York, then you might want to pick up the first book in this series and check it out, or start with this one. I listened to this story, narrated by Devon Sorvari. She has narrated all 4 of the books in this series and I enjoy the voices she has given the various characters. An enjoyable way to enjoy this book.
This was a fun story, with a lot of the stereotypes of Italian wannabe mafia types and their girlfriends flitting around. With one of Mia's friends falling for the new producer, Mia's boyfriend dropping a bombshell and her brother sneaking off from a work excursion organized by the local prison, there is a lot to keep her on her toes. This is a quickly moving story, with clues, red herrings and misdirection sprinkled into the story. I do enjoy the characters and the humor in these books, but I think this was my least favourite of the series so far. If you enjoy a humorous, cozy mystery, set in New York, then you might want to pick up the first book in this series and check it out, or start with this one. I listened to this story, narrated by Devon Sorvari. She has narrated all 4 of the books in this series and I enjoy the voices she has given the various characters. An enjoyable way to enjoy this book.
May 28, 2023
This is the fourth book in the Catering Hall Mystery series and I always enjoy these shenanigan-rich tales. It was great to be back in bustling Astoria, Queens, New York City for a few hours, to meet the residents there and solve a perplexing mystery.
The primary amateur detective in this one is manager and events organiser Mia Carina. Belle View Banquet Manor is the catering hall that her father has created. This novel in the series is another super one. Maria DiRico is a talented writer and is always able to develop a great whodunit. The characters are brought to life with each and every word. I was really engaged in the mystery from the start. There is a lot happening and a lot of layers and clues to sift through. I continued to warm to Mia, finding her ebullience, confidence and intuitiveness very refreshing. This was a story that held my attention well and I loved that things came together for a clear resolution. Being a culinary cozy, there are some delicious sounding culinary treats within. The interesting growth for the series regulars cements my enthusiasm in anticipating what Maria DiRico has in store for Mia and her family and acquaintances next.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my own request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
The primary amateur detective in this one is manager and events organiser Mia Carina. Belle View Banquet Manor is the catering hall that her father has created. This novel in the series is another super one. Maria DiRico is a talented writer and is always able to develop a great whodunit. The characters are brought to life with each and every word. I was really engaged in the mystery from the start. There is a lot happening and a lot of layers and clues to sift through. I continued to warm to Mia, finding her ebullience, confidence and intuitiveness very refreshing. This was a story that held my attention well and I loved that things came together for a clear resolution. Being a culinary cozy, there are some delicious sounding culinary treats within. The interesting growth for the series regulars cements my enthusiasm in anticipating what Maria DiRico has in store for Mia and her family and acquaintances next.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my own request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
February 7, 2023
FOUR PARTIES AND A FUNERAL is the fourth book in the Catering Hall Mystery series. You can always count on the author, Maria DiRico, to deliver an intriguing mystery, captivating characters, and her trademark humor, and in this newest release, she’s delivered in spades! With the laugh-out-loud set up of a casting call and filming of the reality show, Dons of Ditmars Boulevard, at Belle View catering hall, protagonist Mia Carina has her hands full. Ms. DiRico’s strong descriptive voice brought the characters and the setting to life, so it felt like I was there, experiencing all the zany chaos brought by the cast and crew. Mia is a compelling protagonist: strong and capable of handling any situation… like keeping her recovering mobster father on the straight and narrow. I also enjoyed the strong family relationships (both blood family and THE family) Mia has. Her crocheting-crazy grandmother is a hoot and THE family boss has Mia trying to manage his son and keep him out of trouble. Did I mention the humor?
While the reader might want to be sidetracked with all the comedy and goings on, Ms. DiRico deftly stays on track with the murder mystery. With such a large cast and crew on scene, there are more than enough suspects for Mia to question. The author pens twists, turns, and subplots to keep the reader on their toes. In the end, I still hadn’t figured out the culprit, and it came as a surprise, although with hindsight, the clues all made sense. This captivating book kept me turning pages late into the night to find out what happens next, all the while trying to keep my laughing quiet enough to not wake up the household. I, for one, can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Running a catering hall means there’s always food around… lots and lots of food. Ms. DiRico provides some recipes at the back of the book for home cooks to try out. I couldn’t wait to try out her recipe for Tricolor (Tre Colore) Cookies, aka Rainbow Cookies. More cake-like, these almond-flavored cookies hosts colorful layers with flavorful raspberry jam sandwiched between. A thin layer of chocolate provides the finishing touch, making these an elegant addition to any cookie platter or dessert try.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
While the reader might want to be sidetracked with all the comedy and goings on, Ms. DiRico deftly stays on track with the murder mystery. With such a large cast and crew on scene, there are more than enough suspects for Mia to question. The author pens twists, turns, and subplots to keep the reader on their toes. In the end, I still hadn’t figured out the culprit, and it came as a surprise, although with hindsight, the clues all made sense. This captivating book kept me turning pages late into the night to find out what happens next, all the while trying to keep my laughing quiet enough to not wake up the household. I, for one, can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Running a catering hall means there’s always food around… lots and lots of food. Ms. DiRico provides some recipes at the back of the book for home cooks to try out. I couldn’t wait to try out her recipe for Tricolor (Tre Colore) Cookies, aka Rainbow Cookies. More cake-like, these almond-flavored cookies hosts colorful layers with flavorful raspberry jam sandwiched between. A thin layer of chocolate provides the finishing touch, making these an elegant addition to any cookie platter or dessert try.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 25, 2023
Mia wants to keep the family catering hall solvent, since it's an effort for her father to keep straight, while keeping in with The Family. Big Don wants her to hire his listless son Little Don, knowing the young man doesn't have the chops to succeed him as Capo. When a reality tv show wants to film a wanna-be gangster show at the catering hall, Little Don falls in love with the cougar producer, though Mia senses the woman is bad news.. To make things more complicated, Little Don's brother is getting married to a Connecticut society beauty, and Mia must wrangle the bachelorette party in the Big Easy. A murder, several attacks, a health crisis, and add in romantic problems and the wedding itself keep Mia almost too busy to figure out what's going on and who will benefit.
July 15, 2023
Another fun entry in this cozy series. Mia Carina runs her family's catering business which is hired to host a reality show called the Dons of Ditmars Boulevard and it is just as cheesy as it sounds. The cast and crew are constantly at each other, vying for the spotlight. When the production company owner turns up dead, everyone is a suspect, and Mia investigates. There's also a wacky bachelorette party in New Orleans, a groom's dinner (complete with cheese wiz on ritz crackers), a wedding and a complication in Mia's relationship with her new boyfriend. I really enjoy this series. There are quite a few quirky characters and Mia is a likable main character.
January 16, 2023
Four Parties and a Funeral by Maria DiRico is book #4 in the Catering Hall Mysteries series. Mia Carina is working with her father to run Belle View, a catering hall. Her father works for the Boldano crime family but he and this business are legitimate. Mia somehow manages to get involved in helping the police solve murders. In this book the main suspect is Donny Boldano Junior, son of crime boss Donny Boldano Senior. Boldano Senior has asked Mia to help prove Junior's innocence. There's plenty of action and suspense. I really like the characters in this series. They make me wish they were real people and I could get to know them.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
March 29, 2023
Mia Carina runs Belle View, a catering hall in Astoria, Queens. The Belle View is the sight of the casting call for a new reality show. Some of Mia's friends go on the casting call. While the show is filming, Mia's childhood friend, Jamie, is getting married to his girlfriend, Madison. Mia ends up taking over the bridesmaid's duties. Due to Jamie's brother being in the show, cameramen and producers are following the whole bridal party around. The owner of the production company is murdered and Jamie's brother is the presumed culprit. Mia now has to prove his innocence.
I love this series. It gets better with each book. I liked the character development we saw in both Mia and Shane in this book. Mia's Nonna is great as always, as is the rest of the side characters we have come to know. The mystery was good. I was not expecting that ending at all. I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
I love this series. It gets better with each book. I liked the character development we saw in both Mia and Shane in this book. Mia's Nonna is great as always, as is the rest of the side characters we have come to know. The mystery was good. I was not expecting that ending at all. I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
March 23, 2026
I am pretty sure I love everything Ellen writes, at least all of her cozies. This series is so fun, also a good one on audio. Mia is helping with a friend's wedding, while also keeping her dad & brother on the straight and narrow from the Family. There is a tv crew filming a "reality" pilot, which is where the murder drama begins. She finally has a boyfriend and it is fun to see that dynamic amidst the chaos. A lot of what I love would reveal too much, but I highly recommend this whole series. I have one more book to go.
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