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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2579 KP) rated Catering to the Dead in Books

Nov 19, 2025

Who Took the Day of the Dead Literally?

Emory Martinez is providing the cupcakes for a Dia de los Muertos party. She’s also helping out her sister, who is providing the rest of the food. But as Emory is cleaning up after the event, she finds a member of the Mariachi band under the dessert table. She doesn’t consider this a case she needs to get involved in until the hosts keep trying to point the finger at her. Can she find another killer?

When I saw we were getting a new entry in this series, I jumped at a chance to read it. While the setting may not be traditionally cozy, I really enjoy it. And the characters help pull us in. I enjoyed spending time with Emory and her family and friends as always. The pacing was a little off early, and the end left me with a minor question, but overall, the mystery was enjoyable. Plus we get nine recipes and two craft ideas. Whether new to the series or a longtime fan, you’ll be glad you picked up this book.

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Finding Me In The Storm

Hazel Belle

(0 Ratings) Rate It

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A snowstorm leaves me stranded at a cozy, remote ski lodge, and the charming owner might just be the...

Whine and Dine

Marc Jedel

5.0 (1 Ratings) Rate It

Book

A reclusive innkeeper. A murder in wine country. Can his nitpicky eye for detail uncork the truth...

Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2579 KP) rated Big F@!king Deal in Books

Apr 13, 2026 (Updated Apr 13, 2026)

A Kidnapping is Always a Big Deal

This book picks up exactly where the previous one ended. Jimmy has just made headlines for the right reason - successfully solving a case. The headlines bring someone from his past back into his life - his father, who just vanished over a decade ago. But Jimmy has no time to worry about what his father wants since one of the wealthiest families in LA has hired him to find their college age son who has been kidnapped. The kidnappers have given them until Friday to put the ransom together. Can Jimmy find the young man before time runs out?

I loved the first book in the series, and I enjoyed this one, too. The plot wasn’t quite as strong, but it kept me turning the pages the entire way through. The cast is good, but Jimmy really shines. I loved the humor, especially Jimmy’s observations in the first-person narration. As the title implies, this isn’t a cozy, but the language and violence are used well and aren’t excessive. I’m hoping to get to the third soon.