Spawning Suspicion by Maggie Toussaint is the second book in the “Seafood Caper” cozy mystery series, coming November 9, 2020.
The death of island playboy Curtis Marlin doesn’t register on busy caterer River Holloway’s radar. . .that is, until her brother and his girlfriend are arrested for the former athlete’s murder. Certain of the pair’s innocence, the amateur sleuth sets out to investigate. Suspicion on the island spreads like chocolate sauce when River questions the victim’s teammates. The suspects don’t appreciate her stirring up trouble, but she won’t let an election-hungry sheriff make her brother a sacrificial lamb.
But there’s more than murder on River’s to-do list. A missing groom, catered banquets, and River’s own wedding plans keep her hopping like a short order cook. And as the cherry on the sundae, she has a wild kitty to tame. Under mossy oaks and rustling palmettoes, fact and fiction blend in a mouthwatering romp of good eatin’ and yummy recipes.
Dru’s Musing:
This fast-paced and well-written drama quickly became a page turner as I had to know who was behind all the mischief and mayhem. I’m so happy to see River is back and her catering business is on the rise. The only thing that marred her happiness is when her brother and his girlfriend are the prime suspects in a local murder. For a problem solver like River, there’s nothing left to do but investigate and clear their names.
The author knows how to tell a story that filled me with intrigue and suspense. From the first page until the last, I was immersed in all aspect as we are introduced to potential suspects who have a stronger motive to want the victim dead. With unsavory characters abound, River has her hand full dissecting the evidence while maintaining both her business and her personal life. When things hit a bit closer to home, the pacing quickened, and I could not wait to see the outcome of the flavorful tale with delectable creations to tease the story along. Boasting a solid tightly woven plot, great cast of characters and a feel-good atmosphere, this was a delight to read.
FTC Full Disclosure – I received a digital ARC of this book from the author