TILL THE LAST PIECE: THE PERFECT RECIPE FOR MURDER

by Kenneth Cruz

Macabre Minutes Introduction

Macabre Stories to Shake Your Soul and Rattle Your Nerves

Step into the shadows where nothing is as it seems. Macabre Minutes is a new series of dark, tantalizing short stories, perfect for quick drives, lunch breaks, or those stolen moments when you crave a journey into the unsettling. These bite-sized tales are crafted to provoke, unnerve, and linger in your mind long after the final word.

Each story offers a glimpse into the darkest corners of the human experience, blending psychological tension, supernatural elements, and the unexplainable to leave your heart racing and your thoughts spiraling.

Prepare yourself for short stories that will haunt your mind, challenge your fears, and make you question what truly lies beneath the surface. Are you ready to dive in?”



VOL. 1 Till The Last Piece : The Perfect Recipe For Murder

A Thirty Minute Thriller



"Every slice hides a secret; every crumb conceals a sin."

Amber’s life seems perfect—on the surface. A loving husband, an adorable daughter, and a home where laughter once reigned. But appearances are fragile, and secrets have a way of creeping into the light. When an unexpected package arrives at her door, Amber is forced to confront a truth so devastating it threatens to unravel everything she thought she knew.

That night, a plan takes shape—a meal prepared with care, a cake rich with meaning, and a table set for something far darker than celebration. But the lines between love, vengeance, and justice blur as the evening unfolds, leading to consequences no one could predict.

Till the Last Piece is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you

What would you do when betrayal meets opportunity? How far would you go to take back control? And at what cost?

For readers who savor gripping twists, simmering tension, and morally complex characters, this story will linger long after the final bite.

Genres: Audiobook, Horror, Thriller, Suspense

20 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 22, 2024

Reviews

[Fairuz ᥫ᭡. · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars! 🌟 Huge thanks to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ALC! 💌

So… Till the Last Piece: A Perfect Recipe for Murder was a quick bite, but unfortunately, it wasn’t the kind I was hoping for. The idea of a short, suspenseful story sounded amazing, but it just didn’t hit the mark for me. The plot? A bit predictable. 🧐 I saw that twist coming from a mile away—though it was still a decent "whoa" moment. The premise had so much potential, but the execution just didn’t grab me as much as I wanted it to. 😕🍰

The audiobook was nice, and the narrator, Dena Kouremetis, did a solid job setting the eerie tone. 🎧 But even with her great delivery, I just couldn’t fully get lost in the story. 😶

It’s a nice quick listen for a short break or a short drive, but I won’t be continuing the series. I’d probably recommend it to fans of bite-sized thrillers, though it wasn’t my cup of tea.

[Krystal · Rating 2 out of 5]

Narrated by Dena Kouremetis
Presented by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op

Macabre Minutes #1.

This was fine I guess for a 30min free listen.

It's quick to the point, and the story is decent enough, though it's definitely easy to suss from a mile away. I feel like it's the kind of plot you read and then swear you've read before elsewhere. So it was okay, but nothing outstanding.

My biggest issue was the narrator - she was fine, but she sounded more like a lil old grandma reading a bedtime story than a vengeful young wife. I just never got into the true horror headspace of the story because I was waiting for some kind of grandma/little old lady twist.

There's not enough here to really recommend, but if you're after a short listen and you have NetGalley it's an easy way to kill 30min.

With thanks to NetGalley for an audio ARC

[Rainbow Goth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was not expecting this to be as short. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I was able to finish this book—within about an hour, to be precise. Despite its length, the writing is exceptionally well-crafted, and it effectively builds an atmospheric tension that lingers long after reading.

One aspect that did stand out to me, however, was the method described for creating the poison. The book suggests that apples seeds and bitter almond were. Used to make cyanide but over 200 apple seeds would be needed, which translates to approximately 40 apples, along with around 50 bitter almonds. This raises a significant question: are we expected to believe that such a large quantity of these items could be readily available and left lying around?

Additionally, I had a strong intuition about the events that would unfold when the protagonist awoke. While I had a sinking feeling in my stomach regarding what was about to happen, the emotional impact of the moment was undeniable. Even with my anticipated outcome, it still hit home and resonated profoundly.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this swift yet haunting read. I want to extend my gratitude to the author, the publishers, and NetGalley for providing me with the audiobook version. All opinions I express here are entirely my own and reflect an honest assessment of the work.

[brittany:) · Rating 3 out of 5]

One bite is all it takes 🍰…..
This was the first book in the “Macabre Minutes” series. They’re thrillers/horrors meant to be consumed in quick bites of time (pun intended)😭😂.
This story was fun, quick and engaging, and could be read on your lunch break🍔
Overall I enjoyed it and I think the fmc for sure had motive…but I was not expecting that ending😭🫢
I’m just wondering what her next steps are going to be now, it could go in so many directions!!🚨🚨🚨

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

Till The Last Piece definitely left me wanting more. They say there’s nothing like a woman scorned, and this short story proves this to be true. Very engaging bite sized thriller that did not disappoint. This short story follows Ben & Amber a married couple that has seen its fair share of ups and downs, yet Amber continues to try and please Ben. When a mysterious package shows up at her doorstep with contents that turn her world upside down, Amber begins to plot her revenge plan.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Till the last piece is an enthralling psychological thriller that follows a woman's wrath upon discovering the lies and betrayal that crept into her reality.

The story follows Amber, a loving wife and mother who believes that her life is picture perfect. Despite the subtle turbulent, nothing that seems important. But then a package arrived containing lies and betrayal blanketed over the years.

Revenge rings high and true. Amber prepared a delightful surprise but as the night progresses the consequences take more than just her raging hurt and anger.

"Every slice hides a secret; every crumb conceals a sin."

This was an amazing book. I couldn't predict that ending. A total page-tuner in my opinion. I stand by Amber's actions. The story has a gripping streak of engaging storyline and anticipation. The narrator of this audiobook breathed life into the characters. Her expressive tone added a superb listening experience. Kudos to the author's fantastic writing style and plot execution.

I'd highly recommend this book.

Thank you #NetGalley for the copy.


#TillTheLastPiece #NetGalley

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC audiobook provided in exchange for an honest review.

This short macabre story was just what I needed as a refresher between longer books! While brief, the story covered everything I needed to know and the horrifying ending was perfectly fitting! I would recommend to anyone who loves scary and horror, with no triggers to cheating, poisoning, and murder!

[Angel · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Till the Last Piece: A Perfect Recipe for Murder" is Book 1 of Macabre Minutes by Kenneth Cruz. These are short horror stories.

The audiobook is 37 minutes long and is well narrated by Dena Kouremetis.

The story is well written, but it is also very predictable.

Thank you to Netgalley, Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op, and Kenneth Cruz for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick and nasty read. Not the most original plot but the characterization was believable and the twist in the end was effective. I’ll seek out more by Cruz. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

[Kimberly Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

First and foremost, this was such a fun thirty minutes! This story was published two months ago, so this will be a review filled with spoilers.
We start off with Gwendolyn meticulously putting a parcel together. Gwen has been seeing a married man and she has decided she knows just how to get her happily ever after. Gwen plans to send videos, photos, and a letter to Amber to show her just how her husband Ben has been spending his late nights and urgent meetings. We see Gwen very pleased with her work and the package goes on its way to Amber who is just going back a normal day.
We switch to Amber as she wakes up on a normal morning, enjoying the beauty of her husband of six years, and taking part in some her "marital duties" before he young daughter Ava breaks in screaming and demanding to be breastfed which leads to a long argument on weaning and her husband demanding she shut the child up and prepare his breakfast. (Obviously a wake up roll in the hay was NOT getting Amber out of tending to her husbands every whim.) Breakfast is prepared and Ben eats and then leaves without a second thought and you really feel the simmering resent most neglected and underappreciated housewives battle on a daily basis. As a woman, I found myself grinding my teeth without even realizing it even before the package arrived... but then it arrived and you get to sit with Amber as her world implodes, she finds out her husband has been referring to her as a millstone and a burden, and she decides to take action.
Amber decides to look up poisons, nice and clean and nearly unnoticeable poisons... and then bakes Ben his very favorite celebratory chocolate cake because Ben is making partner today. Once the cake is made, Amber is left alone to wait and wait and wait for her newly promoted husband to come home and enjoy his cake with her. Feeling as though you are setting at the table waiting with Amber and then watching Ben as he eats his beautiful cake was so beautifully written. If you have ever hoped for revenge for yourself or others, this is a fun quick story you won't regret right up until the very end... As a wife and mother, I knew how it would all end up and even knowing how it would end, the suspense and anxiety nearly had me quitting before the final twist happened, but I still had to follow the story to the conclusion and it was a terrible pleasure.
The audio author was also just perfection for this book! The voice was melodic and creepy and filled with just the right amount of emotion.

[Beyond the Pages with Eva K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick Summary: A dark and thrilling short

My Review: Till The Last Piece: A Perfect Recipe For Murder by Kenneth Cruz is the first volume in a series from Macabre Minutes: Stories to Shake Your Soul and Rattle Your Nerves. It was released in 2024.

About the Book: ""Every slice hides a secret; every crumb conceals a sin."

Amber’s life seems perfect—on the surface. A loving husband, an adorable daughter, and a home where laughter once reigned. But appearances are fragile, and secrets have a way of creeping into the light. When an unexpected package arrives at her door, Amber is forced to confront a truth so devastating it threatens to unravel everything she thought she knew.

That night, a plan takes shape—a meal prepared with care, a cake rich with meaning, and a table set for something far darker than celebration. But the lines between love, vengeance, and justice blur as the evening unfolds, leading to consequences no one could predict.

Till the Last Piece is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you questioning:

What would you do when betrayal meets opportunity? How far would you go to take back control? And at what cost?"

In My Own Words: Secrets. Lies. Betrayals. Revenge. Regrets. Life. Death. Questions.

About the Narration: This volume was narrated by Dena Kouremetis. It was masterfully voiced. Once the story started, I was glued. The rhythm, the tone, the intensity were brilliant.

My Final Say: I loved the concept. I loved the content. I loved the execution. I look forward to the next volume.

Other: "For readers who savor gripping twists, simmering tension, and morally complex characters, this story will linger long after the final bite."

Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Audiobook: Yes
Narration: +

Appreciation is extended to the author, to the narrator, to the publisher (Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op), and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting access to an audio ARC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. I thoroughly enjoyed the listening experience, and I look forward to hearing the next volume in the series.

[Sierra Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎧 Reviewing for the Audiobook 🎧

Till the Last Piece is the first in an episodic-style anthology of thrilling short stories that delve into the deepest parts of ourselves. Easily devoured during a commute, on your lunch break, or while at the gym, Till the Last Piece is a quick read - helping you cross another story off your never-ending TBR list.

Although written as a short story, the plot was not rushed and Cruz gave just enough information for us to relate to and understand the motivations of the characters, while not dragging the story on for too long. The narration by Dena Kouremetis was very well done - her pacing helped to create tension and she was able to bring life to these characters who we only met for a short time.

As an avid reader of thrillers, I was able to see the "twist" coming, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing with this series. I don't think Cruz is trying to shock the reader so much as he is trying to spark a conversation about "What would we do in these situations? Would we have acted in the same way as the characters under the circumstances?"

I think this audiobook (and hopefully the future installments in the series) would be really interesting to listen to together as a book club, and then discuss after in real time when the emotions are still fresh. I think this could lead to some really interesting discussions, and would be a fun way to mix up typical book club night.

[Elisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first in the Macabre Minutes collection of short stories, designed to be read whenever you have a free moment. Till the Last Piece is so brief that it could be easily squeezed into your lunch break, so it doesn’t need to be an audiobook to maximize time. That said, Dena Kouremetis does such an amazing job bringing the story to life, that the audio version is worth it. The author manages to make the plot complete, entertaining and suspenseful, so this short doesn’t need to be any longer to work effectively. With only a few characters it’s not hard to figure out their backstories. In just a short lines Cruz conveys as much about Amber as is needed to understand the position she finds herself in. The weak spot, in my opinion, is the ending. Unfortunately, it is very predictable and doesn’t make much sense. I’m surprised how so many reviewers didn’t see it coming. This is where the audiobook pays off, since Kouremetis’ acting makes it somehow more believable than I would assume the printed version. That said, it is enjoyable and, as advertised, can be read at any time.
I chose to listen to this audiobook and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley/Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer]

Till The Last Piece by Kenneth Cruz is part of the Macabre Minutes collection I listened to the audio narrated by Dina Kouremetis, who had the perfect voice for this story. in the book we meet a couple the mom is a stay at home mother to little Eva and the dad is a hard-working lawyer who’s on the verge of making partner at his law firm. on the day it’s to be announced the mom receives a note from his coworker and decides to bakes a cake, but not for celebration but revenge. Unfortunately, she should’ve remembered sometimes revenge can backfire. The story isn’t long but OMG it was good and I thought the narrator did an awesome job I cannot wait to read more of these short stories and have some already downloaded in my Kindle. These are quick fast reads that are short but long enough to satisfy any horror fan. Although this one was more domestic thriller/horror, some are really deeply embedded in the horror genre, but I recommend this one absolutely.#NetGalley,#VictoryEditingCo-op, #KennethCruz, #DinaKouremetis,#MacabreMinutes, #TillTheLastPiece,

[Barbara Schultz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Title: Till the Last Piece- A Perfect Recipe for Murder
Series: Book #1 Macabre Minutes
Author: Kenneth Cruz
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Dena Koiremetis
Publisher: Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op
Genre: Horror, Mystery/Thriller
Pub Date was: December 22, 2024
My Rating: 3.3 Stars!

The idea behind the Macabre Minutes series is to provide a quick read that will shake your soul and rattle your nerves.

Each story offers a glimpse into the darkest corners of the human experience, blending psychological tension, supernatural elements, and the unexplainable to leave your heart racing and your thoughts spiraling.

I am sure most readers saw this as a challenge. Since it is short I figured I didn’t have much to lose.

Have to admit it wasn’t bad and yes left me wanting more. At the end there are hints regarding upcoming books ~
• The Last Sunday
• Beneath the Bloody Sky
• Forbidden Trails of Kenneth E. Chi
• Whipped at First Sip

Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and Kenneth Cruz for this audiobook
Publishing Release Date was December 22. 2024.

[Rosie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first story in the Macabre Minutes collection of short stories. Amber’s life seems ideal with an amazing husband, daughter, and home. But everything changes when she receives an unexpected package and Amber is forced to rethink everything she thought she knew.

This story is short and sweet (pun intended), but it sure does pack a punch. It’s gripping from the start and features lots of moments of suspense, tension, and drama. It features morally complex characters and an overall sinister vibe. At just over 30 minutes long (audiobook version), this is the perfect story to get a quick fix of suspense. I genuinely enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to reading more from this collection in the future.

Thank you Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing this audiobook for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Jacquelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This short story was short (obviously), but not so sweet like the chocolate cake described. Over the course of about 40 minutes, readers can explore the relationship between a wife and reaction to her husband's betrayal. Though not quite a "gripping psychological thriller" as described, this story is short enough that it will keep your attention.

As is necessary for short stories, Till the Last Piece didn't go into a ton of detail overall, except for the wife's meticulous planning. The planning was good and intriguing, but part of me always wants more. With that said, I am fine with the 'more' being the follow-up stories in the Macabre Minutes series. I thought the narrator did a nice job as well. She kind of reminded of Angela Lansbury, which fits given her role in Murder, She Wrote.

This ALC was provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op.

[Shawnerly · Rating 2 out of 5]

Yes, this was a great short story. It was a great when Stephen King included it in Thinner. Yea, I know, slightly different set up, pie, instead of cake. But, I cant help feeling deja’vu. Hey, if its any consolation, I think others have used the same vehicle in a similar way.

I thought the narration was a bit ‘whispery’. I had to turn up the volume quite a bit above the level i typically listen. Interestingly enough, once the story ended and she was describing upcoming stories, I liked her narration much better.

Overall, I would give 2 stars. Atmospheric, but its been done before and better. The upcoming stories sound grand, I would return to check those out. Good luck.

Note: Audio ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op

[Fallon · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am partial to a short story. I like the succinctness and how it gets right to the point.
The narrator for this made me feel like it was set in the 50s. Maybe this was the point because the husband sounded like a typical breadwinner, executive who expected his dinner on the table at home time. The could almost see Amber floating around in a poodle skirt style dress with her hair in pin curls. I was only popped out of this bubble when there was reference to the child being given a Tablet to keep them entertained.
This was well written if not totally predictable. I would definitely read more from the collection though.

[Bibliophileverse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Till the Last Piece by Kenneth Cruz is an amazing psychological thriller that carries a subtle sense of terror on every page. With just four characters, the author masterfully builds tension and creates an intense, gripping atmosphere. The storytelling is sharp, focused, and unsettling in the best way. Also, the narrator's voice made it more interesting. The limited cast adds to the claustrophobic feel, making every interaction crucial. And the climax? It’s the most challenging and shocking part, leaving you thinking long after the final page.

Read more at https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...

[Irishbookmammy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A tense, bite-sized thriller that packs way more punch than I expected. Till the Last Piece is dark, twisty, and wonderfully unsettling, perfect for a quick read that still leaves your mind spinning. Amber’s descent into suspicion and revenge is gripping, and the story builds tension fast without wasting a word.

The twists land well, the atmosphere is deliciously eerie, and the moral grey areas make it even more compelling. A great start to the Macabre Minutes series, and definitely one that lingers after you finish.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC, all opinions are my own.

[Samantha Weaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this to be a pretty good short story. Cruz did a good job of creating the characters and setting in a short amount of time. I liked that it is a fully fleshed-out story rather than a snippet of something that feels like it is meant to be longer. The ending was quite chilling as well. Dena Kouremetis also does an excellent job. This is a strong starter for an anthology series, and I will be interested in listening to more from Macabre Minutes based off Till the Last Piece.

Thanks to NetGalley, Kenneth Cruz, and Macabre Minutes for this audio ARC.

[Alyssa Kenyon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shocking 😳 🫢
I LOVED the idea of these short stories, honestly looking forward to more because they are perfect for my lunch breaks so I’m glad I was able to try this one out.

I also loved that this audio book wasn’t Siri sounding and had inflections to her voice and sounded mysterious it kept me listening the whole time. So much so, my husband even listened to it while gaming across the room and gasped at the ending when I didn’t know he was paying attention. We both wanted to know more when it was left open ended.

Thank you #NetGalley for this audio copy! #Tillthelastpiece

[Amy apple · Rating 4 out of 5]

Poetically written, the narrative delicately weaves themes of familial bonds, forgiveness, and the search for identity. Theres exploration of love and loss and the ending really leaves with you rethinking the entire story.

I wanted more but even though it’s a short piece, and a little rushed, there was enough there with suspense and character depth.

And no, I did not predict the ending!

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC. :)

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

Till the Last Piece is a perfect short listen for anyone that doesn’t have the time to sit down and listen to or read a full novel. For some readers it may be predictable where the story is headed but despite that i enjoyed it as a whole. The author did a perfect job of putting together a short story that had you hooked right from the start and kept you interested until the end. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ALC in trade for an honest review.

[Chelsea Pittman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Till The Last Piece is a quick bite of a horror story. You'll finish it so quickly that you'll want more!

I would definitely read more of this series. This is Volume One and I can't wait to read more!

The narrator has a comforting voice that can turn sinister quickly.

Thank you to NetGalley, Kenneth Cruz, and Dena Kouremetis for the opportunity to listen to Till The Last Piece! I have written this review voluntarily and honestly.

[Sarah Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

This *bite* size story was nice and easy to read. The perfect one sitting story! You think you know where the story is going but the author did SUCH an amazing job at throwing in twists in such a short story. I hope there are more volumes to keep this story going or more volumes of other short stories! The narrator's voice was so smooth and perfect for the character. Thank you Netgalley, Kenneth Cruz and Audio ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this ARC.

[Aaqilah · Rating 3 out of 5]

🍰 I love the idea of a bite sized thriller, would love to hear more of the type, perhaps even a compilation of many thrillers in one book, the plot is short and sweet, great premise, amazing narration (I’ll be looking out for more from the Narrator), less stars because the ending was a tad bit predictable, but I will be checking out more from the author.

And the writing was good that I am craving a decadent chocolate cake right now 😁

[Mark Shannon · Rating 1 out of 5]

I fancied something different, the short story format appealed. I gave it 15 mins and just hated every minute.

I had the Audiobook and didn't like the narrator, but the narrator had little to play with. It was pedestrian and for a short story surely it needs some pace, excitement and action? It lacked all 3 and a lot more besides.

It was so bad that I couldn't even go beyond 15 minutes, I couldn't do it to myself.

Giving this 1/5 as I don't think you can give it 0??

[Reene · Rating 2 out of 5]

A truly 'meh' story 😀 not really original or anything new, even the plot in the end was just slightly surprising but at the same time predictable. I honestly expected more horror or even the slightest bit of mystery - unfortunately I think the author forgot to include them. The narrator was excellent though and thanks to her I bumped the rating up to 2 instead of one 😅

Thank you NetGalley for providing an audiobook arc in exchange for an honest review