A Sense for Murder by Leslie Karst

BACK OF THE BOOK

Chef Sally Solari has – to her own bewilderment – built a reputation as a talented sleuth who keeps tripping over dead bodies. But getting mixed up in the curious case of a cookbook killer threatens to be the final chapter in not just her investigating career . . . but her life.

It’s the height of the tourist season in Santa Cruz, California, and Sally Solari has her hands full, both juggling crowds of hungry diners at her French-Polynesian restaurant Gauguin, as well as appeasing her father, who’s distressed at the number of homeless people camped out in front of Solari’s, the family’s Italian seafood restaurant out on the historic fisherman’s wharf.

Nevertheless, when Sally gets the opportunity to volunteer at a farm-to-table dinner taking place at the hip new restaurant and culinary bookshop Pages and Plums, she seizes the chance. Not only is it a fundraiser for an organization aiding the homeless and seniors, but up for auction at the event is a signed boxset of Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Sally’s hero, the renowned chef Julia Child.

But then the Pages and Plums dining room manager turns up dead – the locked cabinet containing the precious books now empty – and the irrepressible Sally once again finds herself up to her neck in a criminal investigation. She may have a sense for murder, but can Sally outwit a devious killer with a taste for French cooking before the villain makes mincemeat of her, too?

A Sense for Murder is a fast-paced, super fun culinary cozy mystery that will have your brain working and your mouth watering. And if you haven’t met sleuthing chef Sally yet, it’s safe to jump right in.

I thoroughly enjoyed “A Sense for Murder” by Leslie Karst and would happily award it four stars. This culinary cosy mystery is a delightful page-turner that combines the excitement of a murder investigation with the tantalising world of food.

Sally Solari is a relatable and endearing protagonist who finds herself in yet another perplexing murder case. The story is set in the vibrant backdrop of Santa Cruz during the tourist season, and Leslie Karst does an excellent job of bringing the setting to life. From the bustling restaurant scenes to the picturesque coastal town, the atmosphere is vivid and immersive.

The plot is fast-paced and keeps you guessing until the very end. Sally delves into the mystery surrounding a locked cabinet and a stolen box set of Julia Child’s books. The blend of suspense and culinary intrigue had my brain working and my mouth watering simultaneously.

What I appreciated most was that even if you haven’t read the previous books featuring Sally Solari, you can easily jump right into this one. Leslie Karst provides enough context to make it accessible to newcomers, which is a huge plus.

In summary, “A Sense for Murder” is a delightful culinary cosy mystery with a likeable protagonist, a captivating plot, and a mouthwatering backdrop. If you’re looking for a fun and engaging read that tickles your taste buds and keeps you entertained, this book is a great choice.

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