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Red Carpet Catering Mysteries #2
Murder on the Half Shell
Filming a movie on a sunny Florida beach may seem like working in paradise, but dealing with the brutal heat, a difficult director and a leading lady with a serious aversion to seafood makes for a challenging task for Penelope Sutherland and her Red Carpet Catering crew. After two girls go missing during a raucous beach party thrown by the movie's director, the cast and crew fall out of favor with the Andrea Island locals.
When a flashy celebrity chef is accused of the crime, Penelope Sutherland steps in to help her former culinary school instructor find the truth. Surrounded by suspicious locals with a history all their own, Penelope uncovers clues from the past that reveal an undercurrent of evil amid the magnificent sandy beaches.
When a flashy celebrity chef is accused of the crime, Penelope Sutherland steps in to help her former culinary school instructor find the truth. Surrounded by suspicious locals with a history all their own, Penelope uncovers clues from the past that reveal an undercurrent of evil amid the magnificent sandy beaches.
277 pages, Paperback
First published March 15, 2015
65 people are currently reading
709 people want to read
About the author
Shawn Reilly Simmons
36 books143 followersShawn Reilly Simmons is the author of The Red Carpet Catering Mysteries featuring Penelope Sutherland, an on-set movie caterer, and of several short stories appearing in various anthologies including "The Prodigy" which appears in the CWA Anthology Mystery Tour, and "Burnt Orange" in Passport to Murder, the 2017 Bouchercon Anthology.
Her short story "The Last Word" which appears in Malice Domestic 14: Mystery Most Edible was nominated for an Agatha Award for Best Short Story published in 2019.
Shawn was born in Indiana, grew up in Florida, and began her professional career in New York City as a sales executive after graduating from the University of Maryland with a BA in English. Since then Shawn has worked as a book store manager, fiction editor, convention organizer, wine rep and movie set caterer. She serves on the Board of Malice Domestic, is a member of the Dames of Detection, and an editor & co-publisher at Level Best Books.
Shawn is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and the Crime Writers' Association in the UK.
Cooking behind the scenes on movie sets perfectly combined two of her great loves, movies and food, and provides the inspiration for the Red Carpet Catering series.
The Red Carpet Catering Mysteries:
Murder on a Silver Platter #1
Murder on the Half Shell #2
Murder on a Designer Diet #3
Murder is the Main Course #4
Murder on the Rocks #5
Murder With All the Trimmings #6
Murder on the Chopping Block #7
Her short story "The Last Word" which appears in Malice Domestic 14: Mystery Most Edible was nominated for an Agatha Award for Best Short Story published in 2019.
Shawn was born in Indiana, grew up in Florida, and began her professional career in New York City as a sales executive after graduating from the University of Maryland with a BA in English. Since then Shawn has worked as a book store manager, fiction editor, convention organizer, wine rep and movie set caterer. She serves on the Board of Malice Domestic, is a member of the Dames of Detection, and an editor & co-publisher at Level Best Books.
Shawn is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and the Crime Writers' Association in the UK.
Cooking behind the scenes on movie sets perfectly combined two of her great loves, movies and food, and provides the inspiration for the Red Carpet Catering series.
The Red Carpet Catering Mysteries:
Murder on a Silver Platter #1
Murder on the Half Shell #2
Murder on a Designer Diet #3
Murder is the Main Course #4
Murder on the Rocks #5
Murder With All the Trimmings #6
Murder on the Chopping Block #7
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 31, 2020
Penelope Sutherland and her catering crew are working on a period mystery filming on an island in Florida. Penelope has hired a few locals to help out, including two teen girls who work part time as servers. After a party one Friday night, the teens disappear. Suspicion falls on Emilio, one of the chefs that Penelope studied under at culinary school. Penelope doesn’t want to believe her old teacher is guilty, but there is something in his past that makes Penelope doubt her judgement. Where are the girls? Who is responsible for what is going on?
It’s been a few years since I read the first in this series, and I didn’t remember who everyone was. Sadly, this book assumes you remember the relationships, and it took me longer than it should have to figure out those connections. The characters are good, but they don’t feel fully developed to me. I was pulled into the plot, however, with the missing teens making it easy to care about the outcome. There are plenty of twists and turns, and the climax was satisfying. Being able to visit a beach location during the winter was a great treat, and I found the balance of the mystery with the slower life of the island was well done. This is a quick read, and I enjoyed it.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
It’s been a few years since I read the first in this series, and I didn’t remember who everyone was. Sadly, this book assumes you remember the relationships, and it took me longer than it should have to figure out those connections. The characters are good, but they don’t feel fully developed to me. I was pulled into the plot, however, with the missing teens making it easy to care about the outcome. There are plenty of twists and turns, and the climax was satisfying. Being able to visit a beach location during the winter was a great treat, and I found the balance of the mystery with the slower life of the island was well done. This is a quick read, and I enjoyed it.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
February 20, 2016
This was such a fun book. This was my second in the series and I am really starting to like it, a lot. Of course, a catering company that goes on fabulous locations to shoot movies with glamorous movie stars. What's not to like?
The characters are very likable and the writing is very well done. Think of it as a cozy behind the scenes.
Thanks to Henery Press for approving my request and to Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for a review. Without a doubt you should check this series out. Actually I haven't read a series published by Henery Press that I didn't like.
The characters are very likable and the writing is very well done. Think of it as a cozy behind the scenes.
Thanks to Henery Press for approving my request and to Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for a review. Without a doubt you should check this series out. Actually I haven't read a series published by Henery Press that I didn't like.
September 7, 2017
I find that I'm enjoying this series, though there have been inconsistencies that pulled my out of the story. I do like that the very likeable supporting characters from the first book carried through. I do plan to read the third.
February 21, 2016
What it's all about...
Penelope is a caterer and in this book she is catering a historical romance movie...its crew, its director, and its actors and actresses. The fun thing about this job is that it's on a small island in Florida...no cars, lots of curious locals, and lots of sand and sea. In this case something happens to two young teenage besties who are working part time for Penelope. A few lies to parents and a few illegal drinks and we have missing persons! Penelope seems very curious about everything and is determined to find out what happened.
Why I wanted to read it...
I randomly chose this book partly because of the cover and partly because I wanted to read a sweet benign sort of mystery.
What made me truly enjoy this book...
Once I started reading I really didn't want to stop! I loved Penelope! She was like a grown up Nancy Drew! She was so sweet and nice but relentless at fact finding. I loved the island and its crusty residents and secrets. It was so funny when the leading man...with a fiancé no less...came out! His hidden secret! It wasn't funny that he was gay...just funny the way he announced it and why he didn't really want to announce it.
Why you should read it, too...
Readers who love cozy fun mysteries filled with descriptions of yummy foods should love this book. I am up for the next book in this series. Although I probably won't ever want or have the desire to ever eat a crawfish...
February 23, 2016
Penelope's Red Carpet Catering company is feeding the crew of Arlena's new movie.They are on an island off the coast of Florida. The Producer flies a Celebrity Chef Emilio in for the Friday's party. Two teenagers girls are missing after the party. The next day it appears that the Emilio was involved in their disappearance. Penelope doesn't believe it and she starts investigating again. I found that I keep turning pages to see what was happening. Penelope must find the answer before there are more deaths. I recommend this series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from HENERY PRESS through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinIons are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from HENERY PRESS through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinIons are my own.
February 7, 2016
I was really excited to receive an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
I loved the first in this series and I was really looking forward to reading this one. I was not disappointed! This story had so much going on that I had a hard time putting it down.
Penny and her catering staff head to Florida to serve up healthy meals for the film crew.
The island they are working on is filled with a group of tight knit residents and when 2 local girls disappear, all eyes are on Penny's culinary teacher, who left the school under a cloud of embarrassment. Penny can't be sure if her instructor is innocent and she is determined to find out exactly what happened.
When her boyfriend visits the island for some rest and relaxation, Penny is torn between investigating and spending quality time with him. This book packs a punch and will leave the reader on the edge of their seat.
This is a great cozy mystery and the author has no trouble grabbing the reader from the very beginning. I hope to see more from this talented author.
I loved the first in this series and I was really looking forward to reading this one. I was not disappointed! This story had so much going on that I had a hard time putting it down.
Penny and her catering staff head to Florida to serve up healthy meals for the film crew.
The island they are working on is filled with a group of tight knit residents and when 2 local girls disappear, all eyes are on Penny's culinary teacher, who left the school under a cloud of embarrassment. Penny can't be sure if her instructor is innocent and she is determined to find out exactly what happened.
When her boyfriend visits the island for some rest and relaxation, Penny is torn between investigating and spending quality time with him. This book packs a punch and will leave the reader on the edge of their seat.
This is a great cozy mystery and the author has no trouble grabbing the reader from the very beginning. I hope to see more from this talented author.
Read
January 25, 2017“This nicely woven drama once again gave us an insight into catering (what a hard job) while keeping me intrigued in a mystery with some twisty currents that was hard to put down. With a nice island flavor, a nice puzzling mystery and a great cast of characters, this was a very enjoyable read.” – Dru’s Book Musings
June 16, 2017
In this second book of the Red Carpet Catering Mystery Series, we find ourselves in the armpit of hell with the humidity on a small island off the coast of Florida. Once again, Arlena is working on a movie, and Penelope is the head Chef for the catering crew for the cast and crew of the film. When two of Penelope's workers from the island go missing, and her former instructor from culinary school comes to the island for a crew party, what happens? Who is behind the missing girls? What happened to them? Why? This issue runs deep for some not so obvious reasons. You'll have to read the book to find out what happens and why and what the reprecussions are to the actions of the person responsible. I really enjoyed this second book of the series!
April 26, 2020
This is an engaging cozy mystery set in the world of catering for Hollywood. Set in Florida it gas everything - mystery, romance and food. The setting had me wishing I was there and I could almost feel the heat and the tang of the sea. Penelope Sutherland, the main character, is well written and believable. With a penchant for investigation and sticking her nose into everyone’s business, her dogged determination helps her carry the case through to its gripping conclusion. A perfect book for all lovers of the cozy mystery genre
July 9, 2020
When Penelope Sutherland is catering to a crew on an island shoot. Two of the teenage girls she is using for servers disappear after a cast party.
One of Penny's former teachers with a rocky past is accused of kidnapping them after one of their purses is found in his truck.
This is a good story with lots of twists and a solid plotline.
I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
One of Penny's former teachers with a rocky past is accused of kidnapping them after one of their purses is found in his truck.
This is a good story with lots of twists and a solid plotline.
I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
October 3, 2021
The second book in A Red Carpet Catering mystery series. Penelope runs a catering business. Her current job is catering for a movie crew in Florida. When two teens go missing after a party, the prime suspect is Penelope's mentor from culinary school. She tries prove his innocence. A light and enjoyable cozy mystery.
June 7, 2023
This book was ok - I liked the Florida island vibe (reminded me a little of Sanibel), but I thought the characters were rather thin. I didn't really buy Penelope standing up for her cooking teacher, the back story wasn't built up enough for me. In addition, it wasn't terribly believable that her boyfriend didn't seem to mind all of her "detectiving."
June 14, 2018
The second book in this series takes protagonist and movie caterer Penelope Sutherland to the set of a period piece filming on an island off the coast of Florida. The central mystery surrounds the disappearance of two teenage girls who work on Penelope’s staff, and Penelope’s investigation into whether a former culinary instructor was involved in the crime. The setting is vivid and the characters are really well drawn, especially Penelope, who has plenty of personality to sustain many more books in this series. I was guessing who did it right up until the reveal! If you are looking for a classic who-done-it series to dig in to, this is a really good one.
February 20, 2016
Penelope Sutherland, chef and owner of Red Carpet Catering, is on location in Andrea Island, Florida with her best friend and housemate, Arlena Madison where Arlena is filming a movie with a temperamental director and a cast and crew of over 100 people; needless to say, she's kept busy throughout - so busy that she has hired local teens to help out when they can: Regan, a young man who is helping the kitchen staff, and two girls, Rebekkah and Sabina, as waitresses.
Shane, the director, has arranged a beach party one Friday night after shooting for the week was finished. Penelope was pleasantly surprised to learn that the caterer was none other than one of her culinary school instructors, Emilio Babineau, owner of Craw Daddy's a New Orleans restaurant; and that he is also planning on opening one of his restaurants on the island. It turns out that Emilio had left the school under clouded circumstances concerning two of his students, but since then has managed to become quite successful.
The night of the party Penelope sees Regan with a beer in his hand, and since he is not yet twenty-one, tells him that he can't be drinking; he profusely apologizes. She speaks with the teen girls and they tell her that they are staying over at one's home, and leaves them to enjoy their evening. Feeling responsible, she asks her sous chef Francis to keep an eye on them.
Before the weekend is over, it is learned that Rebekkah and Sabina are missing, and they were last seen in Emilio's company. What makes it worse is that Rebekkah's purse is found in Emilio's truck, and he seems to have no idea how it got there. Then the girls are found - in critical shape - locked in the building which is to be Emilio's new restaurant, which makes him the chief suspect.
Then Penelope couldn't be more surprised when her boyfriend, Homicide detective Joey Baglioni, shows up. It turns out he had some vacation time coming, and decided to use it to visit her. She's both pleased and grateful he's there, but still worried about Emilio, wondering if what supposedly occurred in culinary school could be repeating itself...
This is the second book in the series, the first being Murder on a Silver Platter, and I will say that this one does not disappoint. I find the characters both believable and engaging, without a 'true villain' among them (one gets tired of finding someone to hate right off the bat, which isn't too say there aren't those that are just not likable at all). They are three-dimensional and in this book I found that Joey isn't quite your usual homicide detective. You can tell, by small snippets only, that he thinks he might have a rival in Max, Arlena's brother, and doesn't like it one bit even though he's not saying it aloud to Penelope. That makes him not quite sure of himself, but quite human in nature. Penelope, I am glad to say, is still the smart and independent woman she was in the first book, not caving to needing help from her boyfriend or anyone else, when she knows things need to be done. But do not be fooled: this is in no way a mystery woven into a romance; it is strictly the other way around - the romance is woven into the mystery, and in such a way that it is not primary, but enough that you want to know more as it progresses. My only disappointment was that the delightful Randall Madison, father of Arlena, did not appear in this book too. Well, you can't have everything!
Once in a while an author will come along who has a fresh voice; one who can take a tired genre and make it seem new again. Such is Ms. Simmons. She manages, in both books, to create a mystery within a mystery, which isn't to say it will be a murder within a murder by any means; but rather two intriguing stories which tie in together to create one. Quite unique, and quite refreshing. She is a gratifying addition to the mystery genre and I heartily await the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review but this in no way influenced my decision.
http://joannesbooks.blogspot.com/2016...
Shane, the director, has arranged a beach party one Friday night after shooting for the week was finished. Penelope was pleasantly surprised to learn that the caterer was none other than one of her culinary school instructors, Emilio Babineau, owner of Craw Daddy's a New Orleans restaurant; and that he is also planning on opening one of his restaurants on the island. It turns out that Emilio had left the school under clouded circumstances concerning two of his students, but since then has managed to become quite successful.
The night of the party Penelope sees Regan with a beer in his hand, and since he is not yet twenty-one, tells him that he can't be drinking; he profusely apologizes. She speaks with the teen girls and they tell her that they are staying over at one's home, and leaves them to enjoy their evening. Feeling responsible, she asks her sous chef Francis to keep an eye on them.
Before the weekend is over, it is learned that Rebekkah and Sabina are missing, and they were last seen in Emilio's company. What makes it worse is that Rebekkah's purse is found in Emilio's truck, and he seems to have no idea how it got there. Then the girls are found - in critical shape - locked in the building which is to be Emilio's new restaurant, which makes him the chief suspect.
Then Penelope couldn't be more surprised when her boyfriend, Homicide detective Joey Baglioni, shows up. It turns out he had some vacation time coming, and decided to use it to visit her. She's both pleased and grateful he's there, but still worried about Emilio, wondering if what supposedly occurred in culinary school could be repeating itself...
This is the second book in the series, the first being Murder on a Silver Platter, and I will say that this one does not disappoint. I find the characters both believable and engaging, without a 'true villain' among them (one gets tired of finding someone to hate right off the bat, which isn't too say there aren't those that are just not likable at all). They are three-dimensional and in this book I found that Joey isn't quite your usual homicide detective. You can tell, by small snippets only, that he thinks he might have a rival in Max, Arlena's brother, and doesn't like it one bit even though he's not saying it aloud to Penelope. That makes him not quite sure of himself, but quite human in nature. Penelope, I am glad to say, is still the smart and independent woman she was in the first book, not caving to needing help from her boyfriend or anyone else, when she knows things need to be done. But do not be fooled: this is in no way a mystery woven into a romance; it is strictly the other way around - the romance is woven into the mystery, and in such a way that it is not primary, but enough that you want to know more as it progresses. My only disappointment was that the delightful Randall Madison, father of Arlena, did not appear in this book too. Well, you can't have everything!
Once in a while an author will come along who has a fresh voice; one who can take a tired genre and make it seem new again. Such is Ms. Simmons. She manages, in both books, to create a mystery within a mystery, which isn't to say it will be a murder within a murder by any means; but rather two intriguing stories which tie in together to create one. Quite unique, and quite refreshing. She is a gratifying addition to the mystery genre and I heartily await the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review but this in no way influenced my decision.
http://joannesbooks.blogspot.com/2016...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2016
Title: Murder on the Half Shell - Red Carpet Catering Mystery 2
Author: Shawn Reilly Simmons
Published: 2-23-2016
Publisher: Henery Press
Pages: 274
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub Genre: Cozy Mystery; Women Sleuths; Culinary Mystery; Crafts & Hobbies
ISBN: 978194330618
ASIN: B018MPUU90
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
.
Penelope Southerland is back and catering the movie cast and crew on Andrea Island Off the coast of Florida. When the Shane the director hosts a beach party and sixteen year olds Rebekkah Flores and Sabena Lambert who were hired on as part time waitresses, disappear. Suspicion falls on celebrity chef Emilio Babineau when it is revealed the inebriated girls were last seen at his home. When one of the girls die after being found the stakes become even higher. Penelope is convinced her former mentor is innocent and sets out to find a way to prove it. Joey comes to surprise Penelope and helps her find the truth of what happened after the party. Secrets long hidden come to light as Penelope and Joey search for answers before anyone else is harmed.
Many of the Andrea Island locals are front and center in Murder on the Half Shell. Their diverse and colorful personalities show them to close knit, but friendly towards the outsiders. Shawn Reilly Simmons offers plenty of hints and clues along the way as the secrets of the Islanders and film cast and crew are revealed. I also believe the relationship between may be solidifying. A fast paced cozy easily read and enjoyed in an afternoon. I have read Murder on a Silver Platter, the first book in the series, but found can stand on its own for those who have not. With Ms. Simmons' picturesque writing style you can almost taste the salt in the air. Take a vacation and join Penelope and the others. Look for Murder on a Designer Diet coming out in June 2016.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murde...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Author: Shawn Reilly Simmons
Published: 2-23-2016
Publisher: Henery Press
Pages: 274
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub Genre: Cozy Mystery; Women Sleuths; Culinary Mystery; Crafts & Hobbies
ISBN: 978194330618
ASIN: B018MPUU90
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
.
Penelope Southerland is back and catering the movie cast and crew on Andrea Island Off the coast of Florida. When the Shane the director hosts a beach party and sixteen year olds Rebekkah Flores and Sabena Lambert who were hired on as part time waitresses, disappear. Suspicion falls on celebrity chef Emilio Babineau when it is revealed the inebriated girls were last seen at his home. When one of the girls die after being found the stakes become even higher. Penelope is convinced her former mentor is innocent and sets out to find a way to prove it. Joey comes to surprise Penelope and helps her find the truth of what happened after the party. Secrets long hidden come to light as Penelope and Joey search for answers before anyone else is harmed.
Many of the Andrea Island locals are front and center in Murder on the Half Shell. Their diverse and colorful personalities show them to close knit, but friendly towards the outsiders. Shawn Reilly Simmons offers plenty of hints and clues along the way as the secrets of the Islanders and film cast and crew are revealed. I also believe the relationship between may be solidifying. A fast paced cozy easily read and enjoyed in an afternoon. I have read Murder on a Silver Platter, the first book in the series, but found can stand on its own for those who have not. With Ms. Simmons' picturesque writing style you can almost taste the salt in the air. Take a vacation and join Penelope and the others. Look for Murder on a Designer Diet coming out in June 2016.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murde...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
June 28, 2016
This is the second book in the Red Carpet Catering Mysteries and it was as enjoyable as the first. In this adventure, Penelope Sutherland, the owner of Red Carpet Catering is working a movie set on an island off the coast of Florida. Once again, her best friend Arlena is starring in the film.
It starts off with an ordinary movie being filmed on a small touristy island with the usual bossy, selfish movie director. Pen has hired some local teens to help with the serving. When the week of filming is finished, there is a huge beach party that the whole cast and crew are invited to. With lots of food and alcohol, there is of course, some underage drinking. When the two teenage girls do not answer their phones the next day or turn up where they should be the police are called in. Where did they disappear to? Are they on the mainland? Did the "chef" Emilio with the questionable past have anything to do with their disappearance?
Once again Penelope is drawn into an investigation. Her boyfriend, Joey, the detective from New Jersey just happens to show up on the island for a vacation. He helps Penelope gather information but does not interfere with the local police. There are a lot of interesting residents on the island from Jeanne, the local innkeeper to Rose who rents out cabins and owns the local gift shop. There are some rather humorous drunks who sit along the dock and other young people who add to the intrigue of the story. I loved the way the story developed with just the right amount of red herrings to get you thinking in the wrong direction. The emotions of the parents were real and tough to read about. Overall a great story that I would recommend to all mystery lovers.
It starts off with an ordinary movie being filmed on a small touristy island with the usual bossy, selfish movie director. Pen has hired some local teens to help with the serving. When the week of filming is finished, there is a huge beach party that the whole cast and crew are invited to. With lots of food and alcohol, there is of course, some underage drinking. When the two teenage girls do not answer their phones the next day or turn up where they should be the police are called in. Where did they disappear to? Are they on the mainland? Did the "chef" Emilio with the questionable past have anything to do with their disappearance?
Once again Penelope is drawn into an investigation. Her boyfriend, Joey, the detective from New Jersey just happens to show up on the island for a vacation. He helps Penelope gather information but does not interfere with the local police. There are a lot of interesting residents on the island from Jeanne, the local innkeeper to Rose who rents out cabins and owns the local gift shop. There are some rather humorous drunks who sit along the dock and other young people who add to the intrigue of the story. I loved the way the story developed with just the right amount of red herrings to get you thinking in the wrong direction. The emotions of the parents were real and tough to read about. Overall a great story that I would recommend to all mystery lovers.
February 12, 2016
[ I received this book free from the publisher through NetGalley. I thank them for their generousity. In exchange, I was simply asked to write an honest review, and post it. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising]
“Paradise is much more than warm weather and sandy beaches. For me, it’s being with the people you care about the most . You can be in paradise wherever you are if you have that"
Penelope Sutherland and her Red Carpet Catering Co are at yet another movie set. Still following Arelena, this time to the Florida Coast, to shoot her latest:" Yellow Wallpaper". Arlena's boyfriend has sent his yacht so that people are comfortable, and Penelope and her crew are ensconced around the tiny resort town.
Things seem to be going well. Penelope has found out her former instructor from school has also arrived on Andrea Island as he and the director are partners in his expansion project for Craw Daddy's, Emilio's sucessful restaurant up the coast. However, his not so sterling past catches up with him as two of Penelope's local servers are found unconscious in the space that will be Emilo's. And then, one of them dies disrupting the set even more, and throwing her into the middle of yet another suspicious death.
With her empathetic mindset, Simmons again sets the stage for a wonderfully succulent cozy guarenteed to bring you back for seconds!
“Paradise is much more than warm weather and sandy beaches. For me, it’s being with the people you care about the most . You can be in paradise wherever you are if you have that"
Penelope Sutherland and her Red Carpet Catering Co are at yet another movie set. Still following Arelena, this time to the Florida Coast, to shoot her latest:" Yellow Wallpaper". Arlena's boyfriend has sent his yacht so that people are comfortable, and Penelope and her crew are ensconced around the tiny resort town.
Things seem to be going well. Penelope has found out her former instructor from school has also arrived on Andrea Island as he and the director are partners in his expansion project for Craw Daddy's, Emilio's sucessful restaurant up the coast. However, his not so sterling past catches up with him as two of Penelope's local servers are found unconscious in the space that will be Emilo's. And then, one of them dies disrupting the set even more, and throwing her into the middle of yet another suspicious death.
With her empathetic mindset, Simmons again sets the stage for a wonderfully succulent cozy guarenteed to bring you back for seconds!
February 28, 2016
Review:
I am not sure what I expected when I picked up this book, despite the straightforward name. But I was definitely not expecting a book based on the genre of mystery and thriller with no thrilling component at all. At best, the book can be described simply as fiction, mainly because of the lack of both the thriller and mystery components.
The plot of the book is mainly based on the simple concept of fictional murder and mystery. But the characters fail to pull the weigt of the plot. In short, I did not like the characters and the narrative style. The story feels shallow lole its character. And I did not find any plot development and character development.
Well the title is pretty straightforward in pointing out the plot; it is based in murder. But I do not see or understand why the half shell word has been used. I understand that the setting is mainly about a sandy paradise and seafood is involved; but how that becomes half is beyond my comprehension. The cover image looks like an amateur representation of the setting, but in reality it is mostly unappealing to say the least.
My opinion:
The overall impression that I gathered after finishing this book is completely centred around vagueness. Will notbe recommending this.
My rating: 1 out of 5
I am not sure what I expected when I picked up this book, despite the straightforward name. But I was definitely not expecting a book based on the genre of mystery and thriller with no thrilling component at all. At best, the book can be described simply as fiction, mainly because of the lack of both the thriller and mystery components.
The plot of the book is mainly based on the simple concept of fictional murder and mystery. But the characters fail to pull the weigt of the plot. In short, I did not like the characters and the narrative style. The story feels shallow lole its character. And I did not find any plot development and character development.
Well the title is pretty straightforward in pointing out the plot; it is based in murder. But I do not see or understand why the half shell word has been used. I understand that the setting is mainly about a sandy paradise and seafood is involved; but how that becomes half is beyond my comprehension. The cover image looks like an amateur representation of the setting, but in reality it is mostly unappealing to say the least.
My opinion:
The overall impression that I gathered after finishing this book is completely centred around vagueness. Will notbe recommending this.
My rating: 1 out of 5
February 24, 2016
I received this book from Henery Press and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
Murder on the Half Shell is the second book in the Red Carpet Catering Mystery, and my second by this author. I loved the first book, and enjoyed this one as much, if not more. Once again there were a lot of twists and turns, along with two long ago and one current mystery to be solved.
Penelope Sutherland is a personal cook for movie star Arlena, who is also her best friend. Penelope also owns her own catering company, where she provides food on movie sets. Presently she is catering Arlena's next movie, which is located on an island. Present on the island is one of Penelope's mentors from culinary school, who is quickly accused of murder. Penelope is determined to find the truth.
I strongly recommend this book, I enjoyed everything about it. The plot and characters were well developed, and I enjoyed learning about the catering, movie business, and the unique island. This book is a quick read, that I could not put down. I am anxiously waiting the next adventure for Penelope and crew.
Murder on the Half Shell is the second book in the Red Carpet Catering Mystery, and my second by this author. I loved the first book, and enjoyed this one as much, if not more. Once again there were a lot of twists and turns, along with two long ago and one current mystery to be solved.
Penelope Sutherland is a personal cook for movie star Arlena, who is also her best friend. Penelope also owns her own catering company, where she provides food on movie sets. Presently she is catering Arlena's next movie, which is located on an island. Present on the island is one of Penelope's mentors from culinary school, who is quickly accused of murder. Penelope is determined to find the truth.
I strongly recommend this book, I enjoyed everything about it. The plot and characters were well developed, and I enjoyed learning about the catering, movie business, and the unique island. This book is a quick read, that I could not put down. I am anxiously waiting the next adventure for Penelope and crew.
February 23, 2016
Murder on a Half Shell is the second book in the Red Carpet Catering Mystery Series. I enjoyed the first book, Murder on a Silver Platter, so much and was not sure what to expect for the followup. The main character, Penelope, is a catering director on movie sets. She appears in the new book as do some, but not all, of the other characters we met in the first mystery. Background knowledge from the first book is not necessary for the understanding or enjoyment of the second. The setting is different, adding to the reader’s interest.
I did enjoy Murder on a Half Shell as another fun and easy read, but it was not quite up to the high standards set by Ms. Simmons’ first book. There were fewer plot threads and surprises as Penelope tries to locate two of her missing workers and uncover a former instructor’s “unsavory” past. I do recommend the book and enjoyed it enough that I look forward to reading her third mystery, Murder on a Designer Diet, to be published in June of 2016.
Thank you to net galley.com for providing the opportunity to read and review this book.
I did enjoy Murder on a Half Shell as another fun and easy read, but it was not quite up to the high standards set by Ms. Simmons’ first book. There were fewer plot threads and surprises as Penelope tries to locate two of her missing workers and uncover a former instructor’s “unsavory” past. I do recommend the book and enjoyed it enough that I look forward to reading her third mystery, Murder on a Designer Diet, to be published in June of 2016.
Thank you to net galley.com for providing the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 1, 2016
Princess Fuzzypants here:
What would it be like to be the catering manager for a major film that is shooting on a beautiful Florida island? It's hard work but great fun until two of the local girls disappear after a party for the crew and the prime suspect is the chef who taught our heroine everything you know.
This is a good mystery, with interesting characters, none of whom are caricatures. THe film crew including the actors are the outsiders so when one of their own is harmed, many of the islanders believe quite easily that it must be the fault of the interlopers.
The islanders themselves have many secrets and skeletons in the closet. It might have been one of them. Who caused the death of the young girl?
The suspense held up as the story unfolded. The reader did not really no whodunit.
This is the first of the book of the series that I have read. I am inclined to come back for a second helping.
Five purrs and two paws up.
What would it be like to be the catering manager for a major film that is shooting on a beautiful Florida island? It's hard work but great fun until two of the local girls disappear after a party for the crew and the prime suspect is the chef who taught our heroine everything you know.
This is a good mystery, with interesting characters, none of whom are caricatures. THe film crew including the actors are the outsiders so when one of their own is harmed, many of the islanders believe quite easily that it must be the fault of the interlopers.
The islanders themselves have many secrets and skeletons in the closet. It might have been one of them. Who caused the death of the young girl?
The suspense held up as the story unfolded. The reader did not really no whodunit.
This is the first of the book of the series that I have read. I am inclined to come back for a second helping.
Five purrs and two paws up.
February 10, 2016
I enjoyed the first book in this series so much I immediately started Half Shell after I finished Silver Platter. Penelope and her crew are on location and there are a few mysteries, the immediate one of two girls going missing, sabotage and what really happened between one's of Penelope's culinary school instructors and a couple of her classmates back in the day. The story line keeps moving as Penelope tries to figure out what's going on.
Joey, Penelope's best childhood friend and new love interest, shows up for some vacation time with her. As I mentioned in my review of Silver Platter, he's not really used much. I do not expect romance in a mystery, but it's fine if there is one. Why, however, have a detective character/boyfriend if he doesn't really add/do anything?
I received a copy of the book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Joey, Penelope's best childhood friend and new love interest, shows up for some vacation time with her. As I mentioned in my review of Silver Platter, he's not really used much. I do not expect romance in a mystery, but it's fine if there is one. Why, however, have a detective character/boyfriend if he doesn't really add/do anything?
I received a copy of the book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
February 28, 2016
A great way to spend 5 hours on a dreary day.
Penelope’s latest Arlena Madison movie set catering job is on Andrea Island, Florida.
Joey’s vacation visit with Penelope on this secluded island is complicated when two young local servers hired by Red Carpet Catering go missing after a cast and crew party.
Emilio Babineau is arrested outside his newest Craw Daddy construction site. Pen knows her former culinary school teacher’s career change to restaurant owner came about in part because of a scandal involving inappropriate contact with students. When Emilio asks Pen for help to prove his is innocent of the present charges and insists he has never done anything wrong, she investigates her former classmates and the secluded island’s residents.
Steady plot in a beach setting with characters who are not all nice people make this an easy read cozy mystery.
Penelope’s latest Arlena Madison movie set catering job is on Andrea Island, Florida.
Joey’s vacation visit with Penelope on this secluded island is complicated when two young local servers hired by Red Carpet Catering go missing after a cast and crew party.
Emilio Babineau is arrested outside his newest Craw Daddy construction site. Pen knows her former culinary school teacher’s career change to restaurant owner came about in part because of a scandal involving inappropriate contact with students. When Emilio asks Pen for help to prove his is innocent of the present charges and insists he has never done anything wrong, she investigates her former classmates and the secluded island’s residents.
Steady plot in a beach setting with characters who are not all nice people make this an easy read cozy mystery.
August 5, 2016
The second book in the series about Red Carpet Catering and Penelope.
Arlena is on set on a Florida island and Penelope is, of course, providing the movie catering services.
inexplicably, waitresses start to go missing and Penelope gets concerned and decides to find out what is going on. The waitresses are (rather) young local girls, best friends and Penelope feels responsible for them. And just what part in the mystery does her old culinary tutor play? And what part of his history back in the time of her college days is he hiding? And why? And is it relevant to the disappearance of these girls? Should she be suspicious of him? Or is he being set up?
As with good cozies there are the Miss Marple red herrings and twists that bring this out of the 3 star and into 3.5. I find it difficult to give a cozy a 4 star though.
ARC honest review for Henery Press via NetGalley
Arlena is on set on a Florida island and Penelope is, of course, providing the movie catering services.
inexplicably, waitresses start to go missing and Penelope gets concerned and decides to find out what is going on. The waitresses are (rather) young local girls, best friends and Penelope feels responsible for them. And just what part in the mystery does her old culinary tutor play? And what part of his history back in the time of her college days is he hiding? And why? And is it relevant to the disappearance of these girls? Should she be suspicious of him? Or is he being set up?
As with good cozies there are the Miss Marple red herrings and twists that bring this out of the 3 star and into 3.5. I find it difficult to give a cozy a 4 star though.
ARC honest review for Henery Press via NetGalley
September 24, 2016
I read the first book in this series and I remember absolutely loving it. Penny was such a lovable character and the whole set up of a film catering crew, and someone attacking the lead star there was attractive. Also, the writing style was comfortable.Penny had spunk and seemed like my type of a character, the sort I would love.
Unfortunately for me, the same writing and flow did not flow into the second book. I felt Penny was a big let down in this book. Her sparkling personality did not flow through to me in this book. Her reactions were forced several times and her interactions with Emilio did not ring true.
I was let down by Penny in this whole book. The last book gave me a healthy dose of the other characters but here it was only Penny. And unfortunately she did not live up to how she was in the previous books.
This was a let down.
Unfortunately for me, the same writing and flow did not flow into the second book. I felt Penny was a big let down in this book. Her sparkling personality did not flow through to me in this book. Her reactions were forced several times and her interactions with Emilio did not ring true.
I was let down by Penny in this whole book. The last book gave me a healthy dose of the other characters but here it was only Penny. And unfortunately she did not live up to how she was in the previous books.
This was a let down.
February 17, 2016
****Copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review*****
Cozy crime with a food theme - this time it's a film company caterer. This is makes a fun change from cupcakes and coffee shops. Its the second book in the series (I haven't read the first) and I think it was previously published under a different title this year. But it's a good fit with the other Henery Press cozy crime titles. I didn't love it, but I enjoyed the time that I was spending with the characters and I thought the mystery was fun, although the set up on the "obvious suspect" was a little heavy handed at times.
Not stellar and doesn't have the humour that I like in my favourite cozy crimes, but still a nice way to pass some reading time
Cozy crime with a food theme - this time it's a film company caterer. This is makes a fun change from cupcakes and coffee shops. Its the second book in the series (I haven't read the first) and I think it was previously published under a different title this year. But it's a good fit with the other Henery Press cozy crime titles. I didn't love it, but I enjoyed the time that I was spending with the characters and I thought the mystery was fun, although the set up on the "obvious suspect" was a little heavy handed at times.
Not stellar and doesn't have the humour that I like in my favourite cozy crimes, but still a nice way to pass some reading time
February 25, 2016
Great Book!
This is a great book; this is the second book in the Red Carpet Catering Mystery series by Shawn Reilly Simmons. Penelope Sutherland runs her business Red Carpet Catering company and is onset in sunny Florida working for a difficult director and a leading lady who is allergic to seafood. When two girls go missing during a beach party thrown by the movie’s director, one of Penelope’s employees becomes a suspect it is up to her to find out what really happened. If you are looking for a great mystery that will keep you guessing then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
This is a great book; this is the second book in the Red Carpet Catering Mystery series by Shawn Reilly Simmons. Penelope Sutherland runs her business Red Carpet Catering company and is onset in sunny Florida working for a difficult director and a leading lady who is allergic to seafood. When two girls go missing during a beach party thrown by the movie’s director, one of Penelope’s employees becomes a suspect it is up to her to find out what really happened. If you are looking for a great mystery that will keep you guessing then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
May 5, 2016
Another good entry to the Red Carpet Catering series. Even better than the first! Nothing is what is seems as the crew films and the caterers cater in this isolated island beach setting, and Penelope is at the heart of figuring out what is behind disturbing events in this normally quiet place. It's also a blast into her past and a move forward in her relationship with Detective Joey. Extremely entertaining reading as we get to know the characters better. The minor characters and suspects are welcome and memorable additions to the cast and I feel like I know everyone on the island now. The writer has a great grasp of motivations and emotions and that makes for enjoyable reading. Book 3 on preorder!
February 23, 2016
This was a wonderful follow-up to the first book in the series, Murder on a Silver Platter. In this book Penelope and Arlena are on location on a small island off the coast of Florida. I really enjoyed this book, the island setting and the great characters. I like that the location changed from the first book, so that you don't get into "Cabot Cove Syndrome," and the behind the scenes look at movie sets and how much work goes into the catering side of it. I'm looking forward to learning more about these characters in the upcoming books. I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review and can't wait for the next book in the series.
February 20, 2016
Murder on the Half Shell is a very nice read for when you want to be entertained without having to think too much. It is nicely written although it seems a bit oldfashioned. Penelope, the main character, is constantly busy warning people about smoking, drinking, partying and all other things you do when you are young and working on a tropical island. She herself cannot even think about her relationship with her boyfriend without becoming very serious. The 'mystery' in this book is not a very big one, and I would love to have read more about the cooking, but like I said, it is a nice read as long as you don't expect too much of it.
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