Book Review: A Vintage Cookbook Mystery – “Dined and Perished” in New Orleans

Get ready to curl up with a cozy mystery that will take you on a thrilling journey through the bustling streets of New Orleans. Ellen Byron’s latest book, “A Cajun Christmas Killing: A Vintage Cookbook Mystery,” is the perfect blend of vintage flair, family secrets, and murder.

The story follows Ricki James-Diaz, a vintage cookbook fan who runs Miss Vee’s Vintage Cookbook and Kitchenware Shop, housed in the magnificent Bon Vee Culinary House Museum. As hurricane season hits New Orleans, Ricki is dealing with the weather-related fears but is thrilled to find crates of French wine buried by the home’s builder, Jean-Louis Charbonnet. With hopes of attracting more customers, Ricki makes a post about the discovery on social media, which brings distant Charbonnet family members out of the woodwork, all hoping to get a cut of the wine’s sale.

While dealing with the family drama, a dead body is found in the midst of Bon Vee’s cheery fall decorations, and the NOPD points towards Eugenia Charbonnet Felice, the head of the Charbonnet family, as the prime suspect. But Ricki believes Eugenia is being framed and sets out to uncover the real culprit. She realizes that Eugenia is acting strangely, and Ricki wonders what kind of secret her mentor has bottled up.

In “A Cajun Christmas Killing,” Byron masterfully weaves together the mystery, the vintage recipes, and the setting of New Orleans. The city is brought to life through the pages, and the story is filled with descriptions of traditional dishes that will leave you craving for more. The sense of community is also vividly portrayed, making you feel like you are a part of the tight-knit group in French Quarter.

One of the best parts of the book is the character development. Ricki is a relatable and likable protagonist who is easy to root for. Her passion for vintage cookbooks is infectious, and the book perfectly captures the joy and nostalgia associated with old-time cooking. Eugenia Charbonnet Felice is also a fascinating character, and her relationship with Ricki is at the heart of the book.

The pacing of the book is perfect, with just the right amount of twists and turns to keep you interested until the last page. The writing is engaging and accessible, making it an easy read that is perfect for curling up by the fireplace during the holidays.

Overall, “A Cajun Christmas Killing: A Vintage Cookbook Mystery,” is a delightful book that will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries, vintage cookbooks, and New Orleans culture. The story is intricate, the setting is enchanting, and the characters are endearing. The book is a must-read, and you will be eagerly waiting for the next installment in the Vintage Cookbook series.
Don’t miss out on the ultimate reading experience! Get your hands on the book now or join Audible for a 30-day free trial and access the audiobook version. Start devouring this captivating story today!
Price: $8.99
(as of Apr 01,2023 12:42:08 UTC – Details)

Ready to start listening? Sign up for a 30-day free trial of Amazon’s Audible service and enjoy free audiobooks and more!

Previous Post
Book Review: 100 Easy-to-Read Short Stories for Seniors – Uplifting, Funny, True, and Mind-Stimulating (An Ideal Present for Elderly Men and Women)
Next Post
“Dear Self: We Will Be Okay” (Spanish Edition) | Review of the Book

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Fill out this field
Fill out this field
Please enter a valid email address.
You need to agree with the terms to proceed