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Mystery on the Menu: A Three-Course Collection of Cozy Mysteries
After a steady diet of big city trouble Chef Drew Allison has relocated to the tiny island town of Orca’s Slough to get a taste of the laid-back artisanal lifestyle. But when he discovers his bartender dead in his basement, he faces a far greater challenge than whipping up a spectacular lunch special.
He’s the local law enforcement officer’s Grade-A suspect.
And while Deputy “Big Mac” Mackenzie is fine eye candy as well as a regular customer, Drew isn’t convinced he’s got the brains to match his brawn―or stand up to a sheriff, who’s out to cook Drew’s goose.
Is Drew’s only choice to put mystery on his menu and serve himself as an add-on to Big Mac’s investigations?
Mystery on the Menu serves up three courses of cozy mystery in one delectable collection.
* Entrée to Murder
* Recipe for Trouble
* Homicide and Hospitality
He’s the local law enforcement officer’s Grade-A suspect.
And while Deputy “Big Mac” Mackenzie is fine eye candy as well as a regular customer, Drew isn’t convinced he’s got the brains to match his brawn―or stand up to a sheriff, who’s out to cook Drew’s goose.
Is Drew’s only choice to put mystery on his menu and serve himself as an add-on to Big Mac’s investigations?
Mystery on the Menu serves up three courses of cozy mystery in one delectable collection.
* Entrée to Murder
* Recipe for Trouble
* Homicide and Hospitality
300 pages, Paperback
Published May 23, 2023
8 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 31, 2023
There was a gasp followed by a barely suppressed 'squeee' of joy when I discovered this new offering on an autobuy author's M-M mystery romance menu. Much as I relished the six novellas of her Bellingham (City of Subdued excitement) books, this 'newish' trilogy surpassed my expectations by introducing that perfect blend / pairing of ingredients - Drew (full of vim, snarky inner thinking and effervescent repartee, incapable of refraining from sticking fingers into the pies of policing business) with Mac (solid-as-a rock exterior encasing a well-hidden vulnerability, overlaid with an inherited charming mien and a penchant for good food). Artfully displayed around the featured duo is an entire cast of memorable secondary characters - employees and colleagues, friends and family, newfound-family and lost ex's (Lionel and Evelyn are personal favs).
Being a sucker for foodie-heavy story-lines, these three çozy mystery plots cover about 1.5 years of events/development for our MCs in a tourist-driven island-remote location off the Pacific coastline. And like a three-course meal, each interlinked novella carefully builds toward a satisfying finish leaving no overarching thread untied. My greatest wish is for Ms Kimberling to cook up another delicious trio of cozies set in one Orca's Slough, Camas Island locale - pretty please! 4.5 stars for a highly recommended read.
Being a sucker for foodie-heavy story-lines, these three çozy mystery plots cover about 1.5 years of events/development for our MCs in a tourist-driven island-remote location off the Pacific coastline. And like a three-course meal, each interlinked novella carefully builds toward a satisfying finish leaving no overarching thread untied. My greatest wish is for Ms Kimberling to cook up another delicious trio of cozies set in one Orca's Slough, Camas Island locale - pretty please! 4.5 stars for a highly recommended read.
June 28, 2023
Mystery on the Menu is a collection of three stories by Nicole Kimberling, featuring chef and owner of Eelgras Bistro, Andrew "Drew" Allison and the Deputy Cormac "Mac" Mackenzie ... located at Orca's Slough, six-block town on Camas Island in the middle of Puget Sound.
The stories checks all the list of COZY MYSTERY and I loved it! It has bunch of characters, local gossips, local secrets, and even two (LESBIAN) octogenarians. I'm so happy that the author decides to do two more stories and put all three in this one collection.
Entrée to Murder: 4 stars
First read as part of Footsteps in the Dark back in 2019. Here's my original review for that edition
Loved this :). Loved the interaction between Drew and Mac, how Drew could clearly frustrate Mac by trying to talk to others about the murder, because he wanted the restaurant to open, darn it *laugh*. It was hard to like Drew's best friend, Sam, though. She was NOT a good friend *boo*
Recipe to Murder: 4 stars
Several months after Entrée to Murder - and this one has more "meaty" murder sense to it. Because the deceased had a connection to Mac's family somewhat - as he might have information about what really happened when Mac's father disappeared more than a decade ago. In the relationship part, Drew's ex came to town.
But no worries, his appearance only cemented Drew and Mac's relationship because they finally dealt with FEELINGS and FAMILY. Loved the way Drew finally met all Mac's brothers and sisters 😄
Homicide and Hospitality: 4 stars
Drew and Mac's relationship are getting more solid - and Mac is even letting Drew doing his investigation without too much of grumbling. Of course, the identity of the victim this time is more personal to Drew (it's his ex-best friend, Sam, introduced in the first story). AND it seems that the murder is very much LINKED to Mac's father's disappearance. Past (SHOCKING!) secrets come out to the open and all questions are answered.
The stories checks all the list of COZY MYSTERY and I loved it! It has bunch of characters, local gossips, local secrets, and even two (LESBIAN) octogenarians. I'm so happy that the author decides to do two more stories and put all three in this one collection.
Entrée to Murder: 4 stars
First read as part of Footsteps in the Dark back in 2019. Here's my original review for that edition
Loved this :). Loved the interaction between Drew and Mac, how Drew could clearly frustrate Mac by trying to talk to others about the murder, because he wanted the restaurant to open, darn it *laugh*. It was hard to like Drew's best friend, Sam, though. She was NOT a good friend *boo*
Recipe to Murder: 4 stars
Several months after Entrée to Murder - and this one has more "meaty" murder sense to it. Because the deceased had a connection to Mac's family somewhat - as he might have information about what really happened when Mac's father disappeared more than a decade ago. In the relationship part, Drew's ex came to town.
But no worries, his appearance only cemented Drew and Mac's relationship because they finally dealt with FEELINGS and FAMILY. Loved the way Drew finally met all Mac's brothers and sisters 😄
Homicide and Hospitality: 4 stars
Drew and Mac's relationship are getting more solid - and Mac is even letting Drew doing his investigation without too much of grumbling. Of course, the identity of the victim this time is more personal to Drew (it's his ex-best friend, Sam, introduced in the first story). AND it seems that the murder is very much LINKED to Mac's father's disappearance. Past (SHOCKING!) secrets come out to the open and all questions are answered.
June 22, 2023
Kimberling is an auto-buy for me. I wish she was more prolific but when something comes out it’s reliably good. I had already read (and liked) #1 when it was in the Footsteps in the Dark anthology, but I enjoyed rereading it to refresh my memory of Drew & Mac. The other two stories are equally good. Nice slow build, low-key romance and I loved Evelyn and Julie, the elderly lesbian couple who become a part of their lives.
May 27, 2023
Really enjoyed this one! Heavier on the cozy mystery than the romance but still a very satisfying romance. My only criticism is the repeated use of “bouche de Noël” rather than “bûche de Noël” in the third story. Which means that instead of making a Yule log, the family spends time decorating a Christmas mouth. Note to authors, if you’re going to use a term from another language, just google it. It’s all there on the internet for you. It made me laugh the first time but with repetition it got annoying. French Canadians might read your book! That small annoyance aside, I greatly enjoyed spending time with Mac and Drew and the full cast of characters.
May 23, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Mystery on the Menu is an anthology of three cozy mysteries taking place in the small town of Orca’s Slough, located on an island in Puget Sound. The stories all feature Chef Drew Allison and Deputy “Mac” Mackenzie as they meet and develop a relationship over the course of solving mysteries. These stories have a great small town vibe with lots of interesting side characters (particularly senior citizen lesbians Evelyn and Julie). Everyone seems to be connected to one another in some way, including Mac being from a family of law enforcement officers, so there are some fun twists that come from being mysteries set in a small community. Each mystery is a discrete case that is solved at the end of the story, but the relationship between Mac and Drew develops over the course of the anthology.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Mystery on the Menu is an anthology of three cozy mysteries taking place in the small town of Orca’s Slough, located on an island in Puget Sound. The stories all feature Chef Drew Allison and Deputy “Mac” Mackenzie as they meet and develop a relationship over the course of solving mysteries. These stories have a great small town vibe with lots of interesting side characters (particularly senior citizen lesbians Evelyn and Julie). Everyone seems to be connected to one another in some way, including Mac being from a family of law enforcement officers, so there are some fun twists that come from being mysteries set in a small community. Each mystery is a discrete case that is solved at the end of the story, but the relationship between Mac and Drew develops over the course of the anthology.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
April 19, 2023
BOOK REPORT
First, Some Context
Before I get into talking about what I thought about this Chef Drew Allison trilogy by Nicole Kimberling, I want to note for the record how I even came to find out about this particular cozy mystery series.
Earlier this month, Lisa-The BookSirens Goddess liked a review I did on a NetGalley advanced reader copy (ARC) of some mystery, and started following my reviews. Which, of course, gave me the big head; anytime anybody likes one of my reviews and/or follows me I get all proud and stuff. But, y’all? Then she messaged me and asked me to join the BookSirens ARC group, saying, “I think you'd be a strong addition to our growing community given your past reviews 😀”! (link at end)
Well, there’s no dealing with me now, then.
I. Am. Beyond. Prideful.
LOL.
So, this Book Report is the first I’ve done on something I’ve gotten via BookSirens.
My Actual Reaction To The Trilogy
I had every intention of being a productive small business owner and handling paperwork and editing today, but then I gave into temptation and opened Mystery on the Menu at lunchtime, planning to read just a teensy bit of it, to get the flavor, so to speak (yeah, yeah, flog me with a wet noodle for that pun).
And then?
Couldn’t close my Kindle app. Just read my way right on through Entrée to Murder, Recipe for Trouble, and Homicide and Hospitality.
Loved the characters, the dialogue, the setting, the backstories, the realism, and the relatively straightforwardness of the mysteries. As usual, not a fan of active sex scenes; I am a middle-aged prude who prefers characters gazing deeply into one another’s eyes at the end of one chapter and then popping up at the beginning of the next with all such done and dusted and them on to non-romantic endeavors. But all in these books were done in the context of our main protagonist’s primary relationship, and I’m a grownup who’s able to speed-read when necessary, so, whatever. I’ll get over myself. As I most always do.
Totally hope there are more Drew Allisons to come. In the meantime, I have put Ms Kimberling’s Keith Curry’s Case Files series on my To Read list!
The Promised Link
Book Sirens: https://booksirens.com/advanced-reade...
First, Some Context
Before I get into talking about what I thought about this Chef Drew Allison trilogy by Nicole Kimberling, I want to note for the record how I even came to find out about this particular cozy mystery series.
Earlier this month, Lisa-The BookSirens Goddess liked a review I did on a NetGalley advanced reader copy (ARC) of some mystery, and started following my reviews. Which, of course, gave me the big head; anytime anybody likes one of my reviews and/or follows me I get all proud and stuff. But, y’all? Then she messaged me and asked me to join the BookSirens ARC group, saying, “I think you'd be a strong addition to our growing community given your past reviews 😀”! (link at end)
Well, there’s no dealing with me now, then.
I. Am. Beyond. Prideful.
LOL.
So, this Book Report is the first I’ve done on something I’ve gotten via BookSirens.
My Actual Reaction To The Trilogy
I had every intention of being a productive small business owner and handling paperwork and editing today, but then I gave into temptation and opened Mystery on the Menu at lunchtime, planning to read just a teensy bit of it, to get the flavor, so to speak (yeah, yeah, flog me with a wet noodle for that pun).
And then?
Couldn’t close my Kindle app. Just read my way right on through Entrée to Murder, Recipe for Trouble, and Homicide and Hospitality.
Loved the characters, the dialogue, the setting, the backstories, the realism, and the relatively straightforwardness of the mysteries. As usual, not a fan of active sex scenes; I am a middle-aged prude who prefers characters gazing deeply into one another’s eyes at the end of one chapter and then popping up at the beginning of the next with all such done and dusted and them on to non-romantic endeavors. But all in these books were done in the context of our main protagonist’s primary relationship, and I’m a grownup who’s able to speed-read when necessary, so, whatever. I’ll get over myself. As I most always do.
Totally hope there are more Drew Allisons to come. In the meantime, I have put Ms Kimberling’s Keith Curry’s Case Files series on my To Read list!
The Promised Link
Book Sirens: https://booksirens.com/advanced-reade...
December 1, 2023
Loveddd the main characters such as Chef Drew and Officer Mac because of their wittiness and found myself actually laughing during certain parts. The setting is so important while reading in my opinion, and I really enjoyed the cold, snowy and small town image portrayed. Found the book to drag a bit during the end but the first two entrees (chapters) of the book were a really fun read! 3.5/5 stars!
April 3, 2025
I was introduced to this writer by the M/M Murder Mystery Anthology Footsteps in the Dark with her story Entree to Murder, which is the first one in this book.
The audiobook is narrated by Kale Williams, who's one of my all-time favorite narrators and who happens to have done a large number of Josh Lanyon books, including my favorite The Mermaid Murders, so as soon as I started listening, I was hooked. That's the thing with narrators like Kale Williams: they're so damn good at their job that they make bad books sound good. It became glaringly obvious though, after a few chapters, that this was not going to be the perfectly air-tight mystery with the impeccable writing that I'm used to reading, courtesy again, of Josh Lanyon and Kale Williams.
To be fair, this book had a few things I liked, unfortunately, there are also many aspects that I personally can't stand. Mainly, the MC doing stupid shit to advance the plot. The type of things that just makes you roll your eyes and go: "Dammit, don't go in there!"
Drew Allison discovers a body in the basement of his restaurant. When the police arrive, Drew tells only about 20% of what he knows to the policeman in charge of the case, the love interest Officer Mackenzie, otherwise known as Big Mac. Think that's a stupid name? Me too. Worst thing is, he got the name for being a huge-ass baby when he was born.
Drew describes Big Mac as slow and stupid, and believes that he probably had to repeat third grade multiple times. Ouch. So, Drew decides that he is gonna solve the murder.
You know where this is going right? He's that type of character, our Drew. Impulsive, secretive, arrogant, except none of these things are done on purpose. He just comes off like that. Clearly, Kimbering thought she was writing a fun, endearing, kinda curious but ultimately charming main character. Drew goes around asking questions, getting info, then keeping it all to himself because he doesn't think it's important enough to tell the police. Over and over and over again.
The secondary characters are all equally annoying. The old lady that comes to the restaurant every morning and who happens to be a total snoop and obviously holds in her hands the clues to solving the entire thing. The toxic best friend who's only job is to annoy the reader and make the MC look like a saint and a martyr by comparison. The incompetent chief of police who's bent on pinning the murder on our MC. And not to mention Big Mac, the single most boring character that's ever been concocted. I swear, the only interesting thing about Big Mac is that he has, allegedly, a very nice dick.
So, Drew will solve the murder. He's decided it from the moment he discovered the body. Why? He says its because he just wants to be able to open his restaurant again. Big Mac, the detective in charge, can't get it through Drew's head that all he's doing is compromising the investigation and putting himself in danger.
What does Drew do? He ignores him. He continues to pry, question people, dig around, etc. The thing that really bothered me about all that is that he's VERY good at talking to all the right people. He gets ALL the information he needs to solve the case. Every single conversation adds just the *right* amount of intel anyone would need to crack it. And yet, he doesn't. Not until the last page.
You are entering the spoilers section of the review!
He learns about Dorian's financial problems from a conversation with the old lady in the first few pages of the book. He ignores that. He talks to the very suspicious young man who happened to be one of the last few people to see Dorian alive and has a very interesting conversation about a zippo lighter. He ignores that. He talks to Troy, the crazy sus guy across the street, notices his cufflinks and strange demeanor and peculiar interest in his restaurant. He ignores that. He finds pieces of paper, receipts, photographs that are relevant to the case. He puts them in his pocket and forgets about them. Like, I Can't deal with this guy.
The police investigation is also pretty fucking dumb. They didn't check the pockets of the chef coats at the restaurant. They apparently didn't have any other suspects other than Drew, not a single one of the forty or something people that were in the restaurant the night of the murder. They didn't ask for their clothes from that night to check for blood. Then a few days AFTER the murder, they discover bloodied clothes in Drew's trash outside his house. Does that mean Drew was their suspect from day 1 and they somehow FORGOT to check his clothes from the night of the murder until they found them in the trash?
Really fucking stupid, this book. It's like Kimberling wanted the murder to be solved thanks to Drew's ingenuity and the charming and endearing little 80-year-old lady who literally had an ENVELOPE FULL OF EVIDENCE ALL ALONG AND SHE NEVER EVEN THOUGHT OF CHECKING IT OUT UNTIL DREW SUGGESTED IT IN THE LAST CHAPTER?
By the time it's obvious that he's in danger, going back to the restaurant to confront Sam, he chooses to ignore the increasingly desperate messages from Big Mac. Why? I DON'T FUCKING KNOW, DO I?
DON'T GO THERE. *delete message*
IT'S DANGEROUS! *delete message*
WE NEED TO TALK! *delete message*
And also, fuck you Big Mac, for sending cryptic messages like that. If you knew Drew's life was in danger, why not say: TROY IS THE KILLER! instead of WE NEED TO TALK.
Worst part? When Drew and Sam fell into that hole in the tunnel and Troy/Charlie is starting to pile soil over them "to bury them alive." AND THEIR CELLPHONES HAVE RECEPTION DOWN THERE.
So, why am I giving this 3 stars?
Well, the writing was very good. Kimberling is a talented writer for sure, it's just that the story was stupid. Drew is a good character in general, well-constructed and with an interesting personality. If things started happening "to him" instead of him getting himself "into things" it would have been a lot more believable, not to say enjoyable.
I liked the whole talented chef meets foodie detective pairing. I think this works. The problem is Big Mac is boring as hell.
Also, Kale Williams.
I will not be reading the other two stories in this book though. I'm not interested in revisiting these characters ALTHOUGH I won't say no to reading Kimberling's other books. We'll see how that goes.
The audiobook is narrated by Kale Williams, who's one of my all-time favorite narrators and who happens to have done a large number of Josh Lanyon books, including my favorite The Mermaid Murders, so as soon as I started listening, I was hooked. That's the thing with narrators like Kale Williams: they're so damn good at their job that they make bad books sound good. It became glaringly obvious though, after a few chapters, that this was not going to be the perfectly air-tight mystery with the impeccable writing that I'm used to reading, courtesy again, of Josh Lanyon and Kale Williams.
To be fair, this book had a few things I liked, unfortunately, there are also many aspects that I personally can't stand. Mainly, the MC doing stupid shit to advance the plot. The type of things that just makes you roll your eyes and go: "Dammit, don't go in there!"
Drew Allison discovers a body in the basement of his restaurant. When the police arrive, Drew tells only about 20% of what he knows to the policeman in charge of the case, the love interest Officer Mackenzie, otherwise known as Big Mac. Think that's a stupid name? Me too. Worst thing is, he got the name for being a huge-ass baby when he was born.
Drew describes Big Mac as slow and stupid, and believes that he probably had to repeat third grade multiple times. Ouch. So, Drew decides that he is gonna solve the murder.
You know where this is going right? He's that type of character, our Drew. Impulsive, secretive, arrogant, except none of these things are done on purpose. He just comes off like that. Clearly, Kimbering thought she was writing a fun, endearing, kinda curious but ultimately charming main character. Drew goes around asking questions, getting info, then keeping it all to himself because he doesn't think it's important enough to tell the police. Over and over and over again.
The secondary characters are all equally annoying. The old lady that comes to the restaurant every morning and who happens to be a total snoop and obviously holds in her hands the clues to solving the entire thing. The toxic best friend who's only job is to annoy the reader and make the MC look like a saint and a martyr by comparison. The incompetent chief of police who's bent on pinning the murder on our MC. And not to mention Big Mac, the single most boring character that's ever been concocted. I swear, the only interesting thing about Big Mac is that he has, allegedly, a very nice dick.
So, Drew will solve the murder. He's decided it from the moment he discovered the body. Why? He says its because he just wants to be able to open his restaurant again. Big Mac, the detective in charge, can't get it through Drew's head that all he's doing is compromising the investigation and putting himself in danger.
What does Drew do? He ignores him. He continues to pry, question people, dig around, etc. The thing that really bothered me about all that is that he's VERY good at talking to all the right people. He gets ALL the information he needs to solve the case. Every single conversation adds just the *right* amount of intel anyone would need to crack it. And yet, he doesn't. Not until the last page.
You are entering the spoilers section of the review!
He learns about Dorian's financial problems from a conversation with the old lady in the first few pages of the book. He ignores that. He talks to the very suspicious young man who happened to be one of the last few people to see Dorian alive and has a very interesting conversation about a zippo lighter. He ignores that. He talks to Troy, the crazy sus guy across the street, notices his cufflinks and strange demeanor and peculiar interest in his restaurant. He ignores that. He finds pieces of paper, receipts, photographs that are relevant to the case. He puts them in his pocket and forgets about them. Like, I Can't deal with this guy.
The police investigation is also pretty fucking dumb. They didn't check the pockets of the chef coats at the restaurant. They apparently didn't have any other suspects other than Drew, not a single one of the forty or something people that were in the restaurant the night of the murder. They didn't ask for their clothes from that night to check for blood. Then a few days AFTER the murder, they discover bloodied clothes in Drew's trash outside his house. Does that mean Drew was their suspect from day 1 and they somehow FORGOT to check his clothes from the night of the murder until they found them in the trash?
Really fucking stupid, this book. It's like Kimberling wanted the murder to be solved thanks to Drew's ingenuity and the charming and endearing little 80-year-old lady who literally had an ENVELOPE FULL OF EVIDENCE ALL ALONG AND SHE NEVER EVEN THOUGHT OF CHECKING IT OUT UNTIL DREW SUGGESTED IT IN THE LAST CHAPTER?
By the time it's obvious that he's in danger, going back to the restaurant to confront Sam, he chooses to ignore the increasingly desperate messages from Big Mac. Why? I DON'T FUCKING KNOW, DO I?
DON'T GO THERE. *delete message*
IT'S DANGEROUS! *delete message*
WE NEED TO TALK! *delete message*
And also, fuck you Big Mac, for sending cryptic messages like that. If you knew Drew's life was in danger, why not say: TROY IS THE KILLER! instead of WE NEED TO TALK.
Worst part? When Drew and Sam fell into that hole in the tunnel and Troy/Charlie is starting to pile soil over them "to bury them alive." AND THEIR CELLPHONES HAVE RECEPTION DOWN THERE.
So, why am I giving this 3 stars?
Well, the writing was very good. Kimberling is a talented writer for sure, it's just that the story was stupid. Drew is a good character in general, well-constructed and with an interesting personality. If things started happening "to him" instead of him getting himself "into things" it would have been a lot more believable, not to say enjoyable.
I liked the whole talented chef meets foodie detective pairing. I think this works. The problem is Big Mac is boring as hell.
Also, Kale Williams.
I will not be reading the other two stories in this book though. I'm not interested in revisiting these characters ALTHOUGH I won't say no to reading Kimberling's other books. We'll see how that goes.
May 30, 2023
For Transparency, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
LGBTIQA+ Cozy Mystery Bundle
TW: Violent Death, Drugs, Homophobia, Emotional Manipulation, Family Dynamics
Entrée to Murder
Say hello to Drew Allison, gay chef extraordinaire - part owner of Orca's Slough's Eelgrass Bar & Grill – his easy narration was relatable and he exhibited way more patience for people's bullshit than I have to give - ever. Also, the meals he is said to prepare made me wish for an Eelgrass in my neighborhood!
Mac – Drew’s love interest. He’s numero uno, a cop – plus there’s the thing of his family being in law enforcement. That coupled with it being a small town – there’s nepotism. Mac seemed almost resigned to the "family" business which means past trauma if you ask me. He comes off as very steady and dependable almost shy due to his quietness. Stoic.
Mac's personality seemed to counter Drew's chaos very well and we were able to see that in the banter they had when meeting up together about these crimes.
I had an extreme dislike for Sam – Drew’s business partner and long time gal pal. She flits in and out of the stories so there's no opportunity for character growth. She's definitely an emotional manipulator and an unreliable "friend" and partner though when she does land. Is she just in there for angst?
I absolutely loved Evelyn, the Eelgrass' regular - we're talking to the second - and she helps out Drew from time to time. She has lived a life and has no problems telling it like it is, not what you want it to be.
Recipe for Trouble
Michael (Drew’s ex) pops up like a bad penny, as they do – should have been killed dead in a two for one deal. Is it bad that I wrote that? Eh, maybe but who cares? He was just uh, really annoying. But it got Mac to show some fight, some investment in Drew and helped their relationship to improve – I can handle a little portrayal of jealously but only some times and written well. Because let's be real, it happens IRL and that's the way the cookie crumbles sometimes.
The author describes all the food well – like my mouth was salivating and my already full stomach kept saying 'maybe there's some room over here'! The competition that was featured in this story was refreshingly comedic – especially as it had a little bit of drama for some of the side characters – Julie and Evelyn – an elderly sapphic couple who appointed themselves as Drew’s agony aunties and Joyce, Evelyn’s annoying cousin. Very entertaining – I totally ship a story focusing on Julie and Evelyn!
Homicide and Hospitality
This story was my least fave of the three. Get a taste of Mac's family dynamic and most of the family. Exception for the Sheriff – he made a stereotypical homophobic comment (and general attitude) towards Drew. His wife was almost as distasteful – she was basically on the verge of spewing her own share of toxic & unnecessary comments alongside her hubby. Charming.
The handling of the crime in this was a little rushed and not as fleshed out as the previous two. As the last story in the book I’d hoped it would wrap everything up neatly. But all in all it was fine just not as good as its predecessors.
Brass Tacks - It's a fast read with short chapters, so goals! So if you like cozy mysteries, if you like food in its infinite varieties and you like cute & feel good banter with a little dash of 'shexsy'(that's my Sean Connery coming out) romance then definitely give Nicole Kimberling a shot.
LGBTIQA+ Cozy Mystery Bundle
TW: Violent Death, Drugs, Homophobia, Emotional Manipulation, Family Dynamics
Entrée to Murder
Say hello to Drew Allison, gay chef extraordinaire - part owner of Orca's Slough's Eelgrass Bar & Grill – his easy narration was relatable and he exhibited way more patience for people's bullshit than I have to give - ever. Also, the meals he is said to prepare made me wish for an Eelgrass in my neighborhood!
Mac – Drew’s love interest. He’s numero uno, a cop – plus there’s the thing of his family being in law enforcement. That coupled with it being a small town – there’s nepotism. Mac seemed almost resigned to the "family" business which means past trauma if you ask me. He comes off as very steady and dependable almost shy due to his quietness. Stoic.
Mac's personality seemed to counter Drew's chaos very well and we were able to see that in the banter they had when meeting up together about these crimes.
I had an extreme dislike for Sam – Drew’s business partner and long time gal pal. She flits in and out of the stories so there's no opportunity for character growth. She's definitely an emotional manipulator and an unreliable "friend" and partner though when she does land. Is she just in there for angst?
I absolutely loved Evelyn, the Eelgrass' regular - we're talking to the second - and she helps out Drew from time to time. She has lived a life and has no problems telling it like it is, not what you want it to be.
Recipe for Trouble
Michael (Drew’s ex) pops up like a bad penny, as they do – should have been killed dead in a two for one deal. Is it bad that I wrote that? Eh, maybe but who cares? He was just uh, really annoying. But it got Mac to show some fight, some investment in Drew and helped their relationship to improve – I can handle a little portrayal of jealously but only some times and written well. Because let's be real, it happens IRL and that's the way the cookie crumbles sometimes.
The author describes all the food well – like my mouth was salivating and my already full stomach kept saying 'maybe there's some room over here'! The competition that was featured in this story was refreshingly comedic – especially as it had a little bit of drama for some of the side characters – Julie and Evelyn – an elderly sapphic couple who appointed themselves as Drew’s agony aunties and Joyce, Evelyn’s annoying cousin. Very entertaining – I totally ship a story focusing on Julie and Evelyn!
Homicide and Hospitality
This story was my least fave of the three. Get a taste of Mac's family dynamic and most of the family. Exception for the Sheriff – he made a stereotypical homophobic comment (and general attitude) towards Drew. His wife was almost as distasteful – she was basically on the verge of spewing her own share of toxic & unnecessary comments alongside her hubby. Charming.
The handling of the crime in this was a little rushed and not as fleshed out as the previous two. As the last story in the book I’d hoped it would wrap everything up neatly. But all in all it was fine just not as good as its predecessors.
Brass Tacks - It's a fast read with short chapters, so goals! So if you like cozy mysteries, if you like food in its infinite varieties and you like cute & feel good banter with a little dash of 'shexsy'(that's my Sean Connery coming out) romance then definitely give Nicole Kimberling a shot.
May 22, 2023
Entrée to Murder
We’re introduced to the characters in this story and I knew whom I would like and wouldn’t like. Drew was good from the start – I liked his easy narration and his character grew on me quickly – which I’m happy about as it’s hard to read and finish a book where you don’t like the main character/their narration.
I sort of liked Mac – Drew’s love interest. He’s unfortunately a cop – plus there’s a thing of his family being in law enforcement. That coupled with it being a small town – there’s a big possibility of there being… bias for the cop family. This showed itself in the third story. It did make me dislike Mac and it seemed to me like he just fell into being a cop because there was basically a job waiting for him. Did he not want to become something else? Or did he have to go into law enforcement because “that’s what the family wanted/needed”.
I did like Mac’s stoic personality – especially when met with Drew’s almost chaotic personality. I liked seeing the two mix and that they (their personalities as well as the characters) and I thought they would probably continue to be a good couple. A feature/? of cozy mysteries is that the solver (who’s usually in a profession not known for solving crimes) often buts heads with the law enforcement, often creating banter. This did well here as the banter flowed easily into a relationship.
I didn’t care for Sam – Drew’s business partner. She flits in and out of the stories and I felt I could never get her personality? Either she wasn’t fleshed out properly or just not written well in the first place. So every time she was on the page (screen for me) I sort of skimmed over until she left again.
Recipe for Trouble
Michael is terrible (he’s Drew’s ex that pops up) – is it bad to say I was sort of… rooting for him to end up on the other side of the living experience? 😂 He was just really annoying. But I did like that it got Mac to show some jealousy and their relationship to improve – I can handle jealously in relationships but only some times and written well. Thankfully it was so I was happy.
Kimberling did a good job in describing all the food well – I kept wanting to try some of what Drew was serving! I liked the competition that was featured in this story – especially as it had a little bit of drama for some of the side characters – Julie and Evelyn – an elderly sapphic couple who appointed themselves as Drew’s grandmothers and Joyce, Evelyn’s annoying cousin. That was entertaining to read – I definitely wouldn’t mind another story focusing on Julie and Evelyn.
Homicide and Hospitality
I think this story is my least favourite of the three. I liked the the family dynamic and most of the family. Except for the Sheriff – he made a stereotypical homophobic comment towards Drew. I didn’t care for his wife either – I felt like she was basically on the verge of doling out her own share of homophobic comments.
I thought the way they handled the crime in this not as well written as the previous two? I just didn’t enjoy it, gave less effort working out the murder like the others. Which is fine and all – can’t always have 5 stars and all that. But it’s the last story in the book so I’d hoped I would as it wrapped up everything. I actually would’ve preferred the second story to not be as good; which would (hopefully) leave the third story free to be good.
We’re introduced to the characters in this story and I knew whom I would like and wouldn’t like. Drew was good from the start – I liked his easy narration and his character grew on me quickly – which I’m happy about as it’s hard to read and finish a book where you don’t like the main character/their narration.
I sort of liked Mac – Drew’s love interest. He’s unfortunately a cop – plus there’s a thing of his family being in law enforcement. That coupled with it being a small town – there’s a big possibility of there being… bias for the cop family. This showed itself in the third story. It did make me dislike Mac and it seemed to me like he just fell into being a cop because there was basically a job waiting for him. Did he not want to become something else? Or did he have to go into law enforcement because “that’s what the family wanted/needed”.
I did like Mac’s stoic personality – especially when met with Drew’s almost chaotic personality. I liked seeing the two mix and that they (their personalities as well as the characters) and I thought they would probably continue to be a good couple. A feature/? of cozy mysteries is that the solver (who’s usually in a profession not known for solving crimes) often buts heads with the law enforcement, often creating banter. This did well here as the banter flowed easily into a relationship.
I didn’t care for Sam – Drew’s business partner. She flits in and out of the stories and I felt I could never get her personality? Either she wasn’t fleshed out properly or just not written well in the first place. So every time she was on the page (screen for me) I sort of skimmed over until she left again.
Recipe for Trouble
Michael is terrible (he’s Drew’s ex that pops up) – is it bad to say I was sort of… rooting for him to end up on the other side of the living experience? 😂 He was just really annoying. But I did like that it got Mac to show some jealousy and their relationship to improve – I can handle jealously in relationships but only some times and written well. Thankfully it was so I was happy.
Kimberling did a good job in describing all the food well – I kept wanting to try some of what Drew was serving! I liked the competition that was featured in this story – especially as it had a little bit of drama for some of the side characters – Julie and Evelyn – an elderly sapphic couple who appointed themselves as Drew’s grandmothers and Joyce, Evelyn’s annoying cousin. That was entertaining to read – I definitely wouldn’t mind another story focusing on Julie and Evelyn.
Homicide and Hospitality
I think this story is my least favourite of the three. I liked the the family dynamic and most of the family. Except for the Sheriff – he made a stereotypical homophobic comment towards Drew. I didn’t care for his wife either – I felt like she was basically on the verge of doling out her own share of homophobic comments.
I thought the way they handled the crime in this not as well written as the previous two? I just didn’t enjoy it, gave less effort working out the murder like the others. Which is fine and all – can’t always have 5 stars and all that. But it’s the last story in the book so I’d hoped I would as it wrapped up everything. I actually would’ve preferred the second story to not be as good; which would (hopefully) leave the third story free to be good.
April 22, 2023
"Mystery on the Menu" by [Author Name] is a delightful collection of cozy mystery novels that will satisfy readers with its engaging characters, charming setting, and intriguing whodunit plots. The trilogy follows Chef Drew Allison, who has moved to the small island town of Orca's Slough for a quieter life, but finds himself in the midst of murder mysteries that he must solve to clear his name and stay out of trouble.
One of the highlights of this collection is the setting. Orca's Slough is described as a picturesque island town with its laid-back artisanal lifestyle, and the author brings it to life with vivid descriptions of its quaint shops, friendly locals, and mouth-watering food. The setting adds a cozy and inviting atmosphere to the stories, making readers feel like they are right there in the town, savoring the culinary delights alongside Chef Drew.
Chef Drew Allison is a likable and relatable protagonist. As he navigates through the challenges of being a suspect in a murder case and deals with a sheriff who seems determined to pin the crime on him, readers will root for him to clear his name and find the real culprit. The supporting cast of characters, including Deputy "Big Mac" Mackenzie, adds depth and humor to the stories, and their interactions with Drew are both entertaining and endearing.
The mysteries in each book are well-crafted and keep readers guessing until the end. There are plenty of twists and turns, red herrings, and clues to unravel, and the author keeps the pacing steady, making it a page-turning read. Along with the murder investigations, readers are treated to descriptions of delicious food and recipes woven into the stories, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the reading experience.
In conclusion, "Mystery on the Menu" is a delightful collection of cozy mysteries that will satisfy readers who enjoy a good whodunit with a dash of culinary flair. With its charming setting, engaging characters, and well-plotted mysteries, this collection is a treat for mystery lovers. Fans of cozy mysteries will thoroughly enjoy this collection and eagerly anticipate more from Nicole Kimberling.
One of the highlights of this collection is the setting. Orca's Slough is described as a picturesque island town with its laid-back artisanal lifestyle, and the author brings it to life with vivid descriptions of its quaint shops, friendly locals, and mouth-watering food. The setting adds a cozy and inviting atmosphere to the stories, making readers feel like they are right there in the town, savoring the culinary delights alongside Chef Drew.
Chef Drew Allison is a likable and relatable protagonist. As he navigates through the challenges of being a suspect in a murder case and deals with a sheriff who seems determined to pin the crime on him, readers will root for him to clear his name and find the real culprit. The supporting cast of characters, including Deputy "Big Mac" Mackenzie, adds depth and humor to the stories, and their interactions with Drew are both entertaining and endearing.
The mysteries in each book are well-crafted and keep readers guessing until the end. There are plenty of twists and turns, red herrings, and clues to unravel, and the author keeps the pacing steady, making it a page-turning read. Along with the murder investigations, readers are treated to descriptions of delicious food and recipes woven into the stories, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the reading experience.
In conclusion, "Mystery on the Menu" is a delightful collection of cozy mysteries that will satisfy readers who enjoy a good whodunit with a dash of culinary flair. With its charming setting, engaging characters, and well-plotted mysteries, this collection is a treat for mystery lovers. Fans of cozy mysteries will thoroughly enjoy this collection and eagerly anticipate more from Nicole Kimberling.
September 11, 2023
“Mystery on the Menu” by Nicole Kimberling ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Genre: LGBTQ+ Cozy Mystery. Location: Fictional Camas Island in Puget Sound, Washington, USA. Time: Present.
Chef Drew Allison (31) is tired of the problems of the big city restaurant business. He’s relocated to the tiny island town of Orca’s Slough, 25 miles and a ferry ride from Seattle. With his hard-partying business partner Samantha, he owns Eelgrass Bistro. This book contains 3 stories in which he earnestly, if clumsily, investigates murders instead of leaving it to the authorities.
ENTRÈE TO MURDER: Autumn. One morning, Drew discovers his sleazy, cocaine-dealing bartender Dorian in the basement, stabbed to death by one of Drew’s chef’s knives. Soon Drew becomes Deputy “Big Mac” Mackenzie’s #1 suspect. And Drew may be falling for tall, dark-haired Mac.
RECIPE FOR TROUBLE: Summer. Drew and Mac have secretly been together for 8 months. Well…elderly couple Evelyn and Julie know. Drew’s Pickle Queen Team enters the Strawberry Days cooking contest. Then there’s a murder at the contest site. Meanwhile, Drew learns his former boyfriend, celebrity chef Michael, has purchased 1/2 of Drew’s restaurant.
HOMICIDE AND HOSPITALITY: Winter. Drew and Mac are living together in Mac’s shabby mansion on the hill. Has Drew landed in rom-com heaven? But then…Snow is falling when a dead body is found in the water, and it’s someone Drew knows well. Here we go again.
Author Kimberling created a book out of 3 stories-and it works! She mixes mystery, murder, and friendships into the cozy stories, and each comes with a steamy scene. Her descriptions are intriguing-they make me want to visit (and eat!) She’s from the area, so writes accurately about Puget Sound and its islands. Kimberling’s characters are sympathetically written, and it’s fun to watch them grow over the 3 stories. It’s the very definition of a modern cozy mystery! It’s 5 cozy island stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️. Thank you BookSirens, One Block Empire, Blind Eye Books, and Nicole Kimberling for this ecopy.
Chef Drew Allison (31) is tired of the problems of the big city restaurant business. He’s relocated to the tiny island town of Orca’s Slough, 25 miles and a ferry ride from Seattle. With his hard-partying business partner Samantha, he owns Eelgrass Bistro. This book contains 3 stories in which he earnestly, if clumsily, investigates murders instead of leaving it to the authorities.
ENTRÈE TO MURDER: Autumn. One morning, Drew discovers his sleazy, cocaine-dealing bartender Dorian in the basement, stabbed to death by one of Drew’s chef’s knives. Soon Drew becomes Deputy “Big Mac” Mackenzie’s #1 suspect. And Drew may be falling for tall, dark-haired Mac.
RECIPE FOR TROUBLE: Summer. Drew and Mac have secretly been together for 8 months. Well…elderly couple Evelyn and Julie know. Drew’s Pickle Queen Team enters the Strawberry Days cooking contest. Then there’s a murder at the contest site. Meanwhile, Drew learns his former boyfriend, celebrity chef Michael, has purchased 1/2 of Drew’s restaurant.
HOMICIDE AND HOSPITALITY: Winter. Drew and Mac are living together in Mac’s shabby mansion on the hill. Has Drew landed in rom-com heaven? But then…Snow is falling when a dead body is found in the water, and it’s someone Drew knows well. Here we go again.
Author Kimberling created a book out of 3 stories-and it works! She mixes mystery, murder, and friendships into the cozy stories, and each comes with a steamy scene. Her descriptions are intriguing-they make me want to visit (and eat!) She’s from the area, so writes accurately about Puget Sound and its islands. Kimberling’s characters are sympathetically written, and it’s fun to watch them grow over the 3 stories. It’s the very definition of a modern cozy mystery! It’s 5 cozy island stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️. Thank you BookSirens, One Block Empire, Blind Eye Books, and Nicole Kimberling for this ecopy.
June 20, 2025
Not to be dramatic, but picking this up felt like one of those moments where you’re reminded of everything you love about reading.
It��s not only a new (to me) story in one of my favorite (and unfortunately, underwritten) genre of gay cozy mysteries, but it quite literally lacks every aspect I happen to not love about it. It has the nosy main character, the cop love interest, the small town and set of quirky characters, but you know what else it has? A main character that never goes behind the cop’s back to investigate, a cop that is surprisingly open and in touch with his own feelings, and a nosy old lady that is actually helpful instead of annoying and overbearing. I kept waiting for the little annoyances I’d usually have to crop up, and yet they never did. Hell, there’s not even any big conflict between Drew and Mac, and yet that didn’t diminish my enjoyment even a little bit.
This is a collection of three short stories, each of them feeling almost like their own individual book, and I like how it speaks through a significant length of time so we could see how the character’s lives evolved. I adored Drew and Mac, and I think the only flaw I could think of is that I would’ve loved a little more of the big conversations between them. Still, I didn’t leave feeling unsatisfied, but instead sad that this is the last I’ll probably ever read of the two. I’d love it so much if we ever had more — it could be a full on series, and I would be sat for it.
Regardless, this is an easy addition to my favorites shelf. Fun, lighthearted, with lovable characters and well-written mysteries. I’d highly, highly recommended it.
It��s not only a new (to me) story in one of my favorite (and unfortunately, underwritten) genre of gay cozy mysteries, but it quite literally lacks every aspect I happen to not love about it. It has the nosy main character, the cop love interest, the small town and set of quirky characters, but you know what else it has? A main character that never goes behind the cop’s back to investigate, a cop that is surprisingly open and in touch with his own feelings, and a nosy old lady that is actually helpful instead of annoying and overbearing. I kept waiting for the little annoyances I’d usually have to crop up, and yet they never did. Hell, there’s not even any big conflict between Drew and Mac, and yet that didn’t diminish my enjoyment even a little bit.
This is a collection of three short stories, each of them feeling almost like their own individual book, and I like how it speaks through a significant length of time so we could see how the character’s lives evolved. I adored Drew and Mac, and I think the only flaw I could think of is that I would’ve loved a little more of the big conversations between them. Still, I didn’t leave feeling unsatisfied, but instead sad that this is the last I’ll probably ever read of the two. I’d love it so much if we ever had more — it could be a full on series, and I would be sat for it.
Regardless, this is an easy addition to my favorites shelf. Fun, lighthearted, with lovable characters and well-written mysteries. I’d highly, highly recommended it.
June 3, 2023
I’m so happy the author managed to reconnect with their writing and decided to publish this book because it was so, so good. While reading it I never felt bored or like things were getting stuck. This is one of those books that truly embodies the essence of cozy mysteries. I liked all of the different characters and while the cast was quite large every one of them had its own personality, quirks, tones, and distinctive attributes. The sex scenes were really hot and well woven in the rest of the story. The mysteries were never obvious but, and this is I think a truly unique quality for mystery books, if you were attentive to certain clues you could slowly start to see who the culprit might be. The last one of the three stories was definitely the more complex and all the pieces ended up masterfully converging by the end of the story. I hope there will be more adventures for Mac and Drew in future books.
September 28, 2023
I read the first story in Mystery on the Menu by Nicole Kimberling when it was part of an anthology and enjoyed it. I have read several other books by the author, so it is not surprising I loved reading more about Mac the cop and Drew the restaurateur. It was easy to get drawn back into their world on the small island town of Orca’s Slough. The author does a good job of making even minor characters believable and more than just elements to advance the plot. I grew up on a diet of Agatha Christie so trying to solve the mystery is part of the pleasure of reading cozy mysteries. The author kept me guessing almost to the end of the three books in the series. I’m intrigued about what they will publish next and hope it does not take as long between books. I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 17, 2023
This is a 3 stories in 1 book about two 30 something guys who are very different but continue to be thrown together… mostly by murders. Drew is a chef and Mac is a deputy sheriff and they both live in “Orca’s Slough, a six-block town on Camas Island in the middle of Puget Sound”. The stories depict three stages of Drew and Mac’s relationship and are fun, kinda cozy mysteries albeit with some descriptive M/M sex. By the end, I was invested in these characters and the bunch of surrounding characters and would certainly read future books about them. I feel that some good editing could tighten up the prose without losing and of the charm and flavor of the stories.
May 20, 2023
I loved reading how the author uses three murders to bring together two people. I am happy that the author decided to write two follow-up stories to her novella Entrée to Murder. Chef Drew Allison is a very likeable protagonist and Deputy Mac Mackenzie is his match.
The other supporting characters adds depth to the stories and helps to keep the three stories as "cozy mysteries". I loved how Drew built a life for himself in Orca's Slough and found an awesome group of people to call his own.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The other supporting characters adds depth to the stories and helps to keep the three stories as "cozy mysteries". I loved how Drew built a life for himself in Orca's Slough and found an awesome group of people to call his own.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 20, 2023
Drew meets the deputy Max when there is a murder at his bistro. He plays amateur detective questioning people and Max and he become lovers. This book contains three of their murder mysteries they solve together. Having never read a book by Nicole, I was delightfully surprised at how much I enjoyed these mysteries, this pair of sleuths and their friends and families. I continued reading one to another as my enjoyment in these two rose with each story. I hope there are more adventures for Drew and Max. The character development reminded me of S.C. Wynne with their likable depth. I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
May 23, 2023
Chef Drew Allison has relocate to the tiny island town of Orca's Slough and owns Eelgrass restaurant with partnership with Samantha. He discovers his bartender Dorian Gamble dead in his basement .He becomes the main suspect and the sheriff of the town Big Mac Mackenzie is out to get him. A young boy called Lionel who worked in the restaurant was also questioned. It is up to Drew with his experience to solve the case and prove that he wasn’t the killer. A very exciting murder mystery and I received this book free via booksirans and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.
May 9, 2023
I received a advanced copy of this book for free, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily
I really loved the Hallmark Movie feeling about this collection of stories. It really had everything, romance, yummy food, small town, and of course, a sprinkling of murder.
Each of the three stories have their own unique additions to the mystery, and builds onto the adorable relationship started in the first story.
The characters are likeable, the mystery not too predictable, and the enjoyment reading this was high. A definite recommend.
I really loved the Hallmark Movie feeling about this collection of stories. It really had everything, romance, yummy food, small town, and of course, a sprinkling of murder.
Each of the three stories have their own unique additions to the mystery, and builds onto the adorable relationship started in the first story.
The characters are likeable, the mystery not too predictable, and the enjoyment reading this was high. A definite recommend.
May 14, 2023
It's hard d to explain how three murders, an accidental death, and a couple of attempted murders can be called "cozy," but that's the genre and, indeed, there is coziness and warmth to Camas Island. The book is essentially a series of novellas with charming characters and a developing love that is a delight to watch. There's a bit of surprise at he end that gives the reader an unexpected "good guy" to love. It's just cozy and a warm book for a chilly weekend or a hot beach.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 11, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this one! While tons of books are flooding the LGBTQ mystery charts lately, so few are actually mysteries. It's frustrating to those of us who go to the lists to actually read Mystery, not daddy kink. (if that's your thing, that's fine, but don't pretend it's a mystery because someone loses their car keys during the book) This one has a solid mystery and romantic storyline with lots of fun side characters, as well. Loved the humor and fell in love with the characters. Hope there will be more of these two.
June 25, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this collection. There are three cosy mystery stories with chef Drew Allison as the lead. It's small town, cosy mystery, LGBT characters, family secrets, restaurant insights, and found family.
I'm not sure which story I liked most, I might lean more towards the third one because it had the most satisfying ending.
This is my first Nicole Kimberling story but I'd read more from her.
Thanks to BookSirens for inviting me to read and review this book. I'll include this on my MJV Bookish Thoughts reading wrap-up.
I'm not sure which story I liked most, I might lean more towards the third one because it had the most satisfying ending.
This is my first Nicole Kimberling story but I'd read more from her.
Thanks to BookSirens for inviting me to read and review this book. I'll include this on my MJV Bookish Thoughts reading wrap-up.
August 17, 2023
First time to read this author. I actually read it amlost a month ago and it does not stand out like some books one has read before and since.
However, that aside, the Chef and Bog Mac were well-developed as characters and the intrigue of a former lover and a former partner to the Chef make the plot more involved and yet those characters who play fairly major roles are not well-developed.
There is nothing in this book that would stop me reading more of the author's other books but I did not find this to be near the top of my list.
However, that aside, the Chef and Bog Mac were well-developed as characters and the intrigue of a former lover and a former partner to the Chef make the plot more involved and yet those characters who play fairly major roles are not well-developed.
There is nothing in this book that would stop me reading more of the author's other books but I did not find this to be near the top of my list.
May 23, 2023
This is the story of the MacKenzie family on Camas Island and their secrets. It is the story of a law enforcement family and the murders in their community. It also involves the people of the community, their relationships and how they cope with loss. How they come together to support each other. These are three related stories that keep you guessing until all the secrets are exposed or are they?
May 24, 2023
I did not know what I was in for when I started reading the book. It's a very different type of murder mystery because of the straight people that are in the book. Once I got into it and followed Mac and Drew, I got the picture of their characters and thought it was a very interesting type of book. In the beginning, I wanted to just stop reading it but kept coming back and continued reading till the end. 3 stories combined to gather a nice job!!!
April 13, 2023
I enjoyed that this had three mystery novels in one collection, it had everything that I was hoping for in the genre. I enjoyed the way Nicole Kimberling wrote this especially since the mysteries were so well written. The characters worked well overall and I'm glad I got to read this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 6, 2023
A uniquely crafted collection that doesn't steer too far from the genre's cornerstones. Kimberling does a good job of tying the ends together and leaves this reviewer satisfied, just like after a well-cook meal.
I received an advance review copy from Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy from Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 15, 2023
Wow. This was an incredible set of books. What a story! I am still blown away. Something told me that what happened in book 3 was coming . I felt off about that from book 1. And how everything just kind of intertwined….so good. I'm hoping there may be more from these guys later on. If anything, just to see how they turn out. I really enjoyed this
November 1, 2023
Three books, follows the same two characters. I really liked it, main characters isn’t perfect and says things hurtful sometimes, other times seems like a doormat, but it all comes together well and we act different with certain people anyway. Good mysteries that ended up kinda tying together.
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