Mistletoe, Moussaka and Murder by Tina Kashian is the fifth book in the “Kebab Kitchen” cozy mystery series, coming September 29, 2020.

Not even her impending nuptials can keep Lucy Berberian, manager of her family-owned Kebab Kitchen, from the Jersey Shore’s annual Polar Bear Plunge. But her dive into the icy ocean is especially chilling when she finds a fellow swimmer doing the dead man’s float—for real . . .

Who would kill a man in cold blood during Ocean Crest, New Jersey’s most popular winter event? When Lucy learns the victim is Deacon Spooner, the reception hall owner who turned up his nose—and his price—at her wedding plans, she can’t help wondering who wouldn’t kill the pompous caterer . . .

Perhaps the culprit is the wedding cake baker whose career Deacon nearly destroyed? Or the angry bride whose reception he ruined? With her maid of honor, Katie, busily planning Lucy’s wedding without her, Lucy will have to get to the bottom of this cold-hearted business in time for Kebab Kitchen’s mouthwatering Christmas celebration—and before her hometown’s holiday spirit washes out to sea . . .

Recipes included!

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Dru’s Musing:
Like fine wine, this series gets better with each book written. The author maintains a light and fresh whodunit that caters to everything I like in a mystery: a well-written drama, a solid multi-plot story line, a great cast of characters, appetizing delights, a bit of romance and a small-town atmosphere, this one set along the Jersey shore.

Once again, Lucy is on the case when their friend becomes the prime suspects. With plenty of suspects here and there and an assortment of clues, it was fun watching it all play out alongside Lucy. The author did a great job in setting this up with enough suspense and intrigue that kept me immersed in all aspects. When I thought I had a handle on what was happening, much to my joy, the author changed directions, all to enhance my reading entertainment. I really love the camaraderie between Lucy and her friends. This is a character-driven tale that boasts engaging dialogue, a lovable cast of characters and a perfect setting, that the author described vividly, for the story that is being told. Another great read and I look forward to the next book in this delightfully enjoyable series.

FTC Full Disclosure – I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.