Book Review: French Fried by Kylie Logan (Ethnic Eats Mysteries #2)

Stars: 5 out of 5

Pros: Interesting mystery with strong leads

Cons: None worth dwelling on

The Bottom Line:

Who would kill Rocky?

Search for motive makes great book

Delightful reading

Can Laurel Find a Motive for a Shocking Murder?

As much as I enjoy mysteries, I will freely admit there is a certain formula to them, which is why it is always refreshing to find a book that puts a twist on that familiar formula.  That’s what we get with French Fried, the second in Kylie Logan’s Ethic Eats Mysteries.

As this book opens, the residence of Hubbard, Ohio, are getting ready to celebrate the 130th birthday of the Statue of Liberty.  Terminal at the Tracks is getting into the spirit by offering French cuisine in addition to their normal greasy spoon food.  Laurel Inwood has been working hard at developing the menu for her foster aunt Sophie’s restaurant, and she’s turned to Sophie’s friend Raquel “Rocky” Arnaud for advice and the herbs that Rocky grows on her farm.

Rocky grew up in France, although she’s lived in Ohio for decades, but she is excited for all the events celebrating her heritage.  At least she is until the events start; then she starts acting strangely.  When Rocky doesn’t show up for the fireworks show, Laurel heads to her place to investigate only to find Rocky dead.  The police think it was suicide, but Laurel knows that Rocky would never kill herself.  The trouble is, who has a motive to kill the woman?

As you can see, this book focuses a bit more on the why than the who.  If we can find the correct motive, maybe that will lead Laurel to the killer.  As she begins to dig into Rocky’s past, Laurel uncovers several motives for murder.  Yes, that means that the story never lags but keeps us moving from one motive and the corresponding suspect to another.  The solution was very well done, and like the rest of the book, the satisfying climax didn’t fall into the usual clichés.

We’d met several members of the staff at the Terminal in the first book.  They really didn’t have much more than cameos in this book, but that’s okay because it really gave us a chance to get to know Laurel, Sophie, and Laurel’s potential love interest Declan better.  These three leads are fantastic, and I especially enjoyed a sub-plot that allowed Laurel to grow.  Of course, the suspects are strong.  We’ve got a varied group of characters introduced here, and I found them a lot of fun.

The back of the book includes a recipe for a simple Cassoulet and general directions on creating Tartines.  Both of these sound delicious, and are perfect if reading this book has put you in the mood for French food.

French Fried is a satisfying mystery that will have you savoring every page.  Don’t hesitate to pick up this delightful mystery today.

NOTE: I received a copy of this book.

Giveaway!

Thanks to the publisher, I have one copy of this book to give away.  Because it is a physical book, the contest is limited to residence of the US.

Just leave me a comment with your e-mail address so I can get in touch with you if you win.  I will pick the winner next Tuesday, June 13th, so please leave your comment before 12:01AM Pacific Time on 6/13.  You will have until midnight on 6/18 to get back to me, or I will choose a new winner on 6/19.