A Clue in the Crumbs (A Key West Food Critic Mystery #13) , by Lucy Burdette

Publication August 8, 2023

As always, murder aside, the characters are what draw me back to this series again and again. The pacing and dialogue flow naturally and the use of humor adds to the fun, with just enough backstory woven in to make us feel like we know the characters. In many ways, you could probably call Key West a character, too, as Burdette does such a wonderful job sharing it's sights and sounds, the heartbeat of Key West, so to speak. What a delight to have the Scottish Scone Sisters, Violet and Bettina Booth, come to visit. I think I'm jealous they got to stay on a houseboat at the pier where Hayley lives. Ah, houseboat living, so Key West.

Too bad playing tourist and their cooking show production are ruined by murder. Even worse, one of their knives was used. Red herrings galore, not to mention suspects, and if you're like me, you'll find yourself changing your mind whodunit frequently, I bet. Through it all, you'll admire the sisters' energy -- I got tired reading about all they did while visiting -- and ability to find positives. I do hope Burdette finds a way to bring them back occasionally. They are fun and the sort of fun aunts we'd all love to hang out with. 

I won't detail the plot other than to say that Hayley's husband, Nathan, already hoping for a promotion, has his hands full at the police station. I did like the little bits of logic/reasoning that Hayley shares about why, for instance, the police dislike having untrained investigators ask questions of witnesses. She's obviously learned a thing or two from Nathan. She strives hard to be the perfect hostess while still working her day job at the paper and fretting about being fair to all involved in her reviews. She also worries about her friends and family, even showing sensitivity to the "aura", so to speak, of the local Tarot card reader who appeared down spirited. In other words, she pays attention to others, always a good trait. I mean, she even feels guilty for not badgering Miss Gloria to call her sons more often. Family. Hayley's family may not all be blood-related but they are family nevertheless.

In any case, the finale is a wowzer and one I didn't see coming. Give it a read. You'll enjoy not just the rhythm and beat of Key West -- tiki boat ride, anyone? -- but the intriguing characters that people Hayley's world. And, oh, yes. Make sure you aren't hungry when you sit down to read because, oh, my, the food talk will make you so even if you eat. Toss in some great recipes at the end and you are in foodie heaven. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for letting me enjoy this virtual trip to Key West. I'll add, too, kudos to author Burdette for her respect for the elderly and family ties, both blood and of the heart. That was special.