A Side of Murder by Amy Pershing
Series Name: Cape Cod Foodie #1
Genre: Cozy
Release: February 23, 2021
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Samantha Barnes was always a foodie. And when the CIA (that’s the Culinary Institute of America) came calling, she happily traded in Cape Cod for the Big Apple. But then the rising young chef’s clash with another chef (her ex!) boils over and goes viral. So when Sam inherits a house on the Cape and lands a job writing restaurant reviews, it seems like the perfect pairing. What could go wrong? Well, as it turns out, a lot.
The dilapidated house comes with an enormous puppy. Her new boss is, well, bossy. And the town’s harbor master is none other than her first love. Nonetheless, Sam’s looking forward to reviewing the Bayview Grill—and indeed the seafood chowder is divine. But the body in the pond outside the eatery was not on the menu. Sam is certain this is murder. But as she begins to stir the pot, is she creating a recipe for her own untimely demise?
Dru’s Musing:
What an amazing tale. We are introduced to Sam Barnes who arrives back home to Cape Code and finds the body of a woman who the police deemed an accidental drowning. Hmm, not our Sam, who saw what she saw and feels this woman’s death was murder.
In this well-written, fast-paced, and action-packed drama, I was completely immersed in that was happening. From meeting the eclectic cast of characters that includes Sam, Miles, Jennie, Jason, Krista, Helene and Diogi. The author did a great job in setting this mystery up with intrigue, suspense and some humor which help set the tone for how well this story was being told. The suspect pool was plentiful, and I liked how clues were planted throughout that kept me engrossed in every detail. It was fun following along with what the author intended and when I thought I had a handle on the who, what, where and why, the author changed directions which increased my appreciation of where this tale was headed. There were a few surprises along the way that enhanced my reading pleasure and I relished seeing the outcome of this delightfully engaging series. When all said and done, this was a terrific and fun book to read and I can’t wait to see what Sam and her friends encounter on their next adventure.
FTC Full Disclosure – I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.