Right after Thanksgiving, I received an unexpected message from an author that I follow. S.K. Derban. As described on her Instagram page, she is a “Writer of Mystery ~ Child of God ~” I had read and reviewed her novel, Circumvent. And evidently she remembered that.
I was surprised and truly honored to be asked. But first, I wanted to make sure that the title was one that I wanted associated with my name. After she reassured me that the this was a clean, cozy mystery full of family, faith, food and fun, I knew that it was my type of book. To endorse a book, you read a really early copy, but as far as I remember, the book was already quite polished. I did determine that writing reviews are easier than writing endorsements. Trying to figure out how to summarize my thoughts on the title with limited words that were still catchy was a bit of a challenge. My phrase, “A delicious cozy mystery with plenty of Italian flare” was used on the book and in the front cover copy as well. Receiving a signed copy in the mail was such a treat as I really enjoyed the book.
Here is more about this delicious mystery!
With mystery solving skills sharper than her chef’s knife, a young caterer strives to remember: “All things are possible for one who believes…”
Little Italy in San Diego, once a thriving fishing community, has blossomed into a prominent tourist destination. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant neighborhood, both travelers and residents find the Tiepolo Mercato a favorite spot to stop and shop. Ezio and Benedette Tiepolo are the proprietors of the Mercato, while their daughter owns Macaroni on Wheels, the catering company located directly next door.
There’s more than pasta cooking in the Macaroni on Wheels kitchen. Meet Terza Tiepolo, a feisty Italian caterer who fills her free time solving crime. She belongs to a local murder mystery book club, and leads the other participants in their monthly whodunnit contest.
Terza also works diligently to grow her catering business. But when a prominent doctor hires Terza’s company to cater a dinner party, she never expects murder to be on the menu. The prestigious bayfront event should enhance the Macaroni on Wheels portfolio, and Terza anticipates meeting many potential new clients. On the day of the party, Terza arrives early to prepare, only to discover her grand expectations are as dead as the body on the kitchen floor.
Fans of cozy mysteries will revel in solving the murder along with Terza, and will appreciate her zest for life. Readers will also treasure the introduction to her vibrant Italian relatives. They will enjoy getting to know the Tiepolo family, and will smile at the special relationship Terza has with her mother and father. The fun never stops when the animated relatives join together each Sunday for dinner. Consider this your personal invitation!
(Details from S.K. Derban’s website, Child of the Carpenter)
Meet Author S.K. Derban
S.K. Derban resides with her husband in Southern California. Although born in the United States she moved to London within the first three months, and remained in England until the age of five. Her father, an American citizen, was a decorated veteran of the Second World War. Her British mother was involved with the London Royal Ballet Company, and a great fan of the arts. After returning to the United States, Derban’s life remained filled with a love of the theatre, and a passion for British murder mysteries.
S.K. Derban’s personal travel and missionary escapades are readily apparent as they shine through into her characters. Readers are often transported virtually across the globe. She has traveled to Hong Kong on five separate occasions to smuggle Bibles into China, and has been to Israel on seven missionary trips. Derban’s other adventures include visits to Bangkok, Greece, Egypt, Italy, and the Caribbean.
Beginning with her faith in the Lord, S.K. Derban relies on all aspects of her life when writing.
She hopes her books will allow readers to go on holiday without having to pack!
My Review of the Case of Bayfront Murder
“Well, we can’t automatically become detectives because it is a fun thing to do,” Terza told her. “Let’s be content with solving the murders in our Murder Mystery Book Club, okay?”
“I guess.” Moheenie sighed. Her demeanor suddenly brightened. “No, really, I am happy doing what we do. You’re right. We can be detectives by solving book crimes instead of real-life ones.”
“I think it’s safer that way, too.”
Terza loves being a caterer and having her best friend help her serve up meals only adds to the fun. While they consider themselves to be amateur mystery book solving sleuths, they truly did not plan on becoming crime solvers. Until they find one of their clients has been murdered. How can they help but ask a few questions? Being curious is not a crime. Or is it?
What I loved about this book was that the plot did not only revolve around solving the murder. Terza’s best friend and her husband play a prominent role. So does her parents and her loud and enthusiastic Italian family. One should not be hungry while reading this book as many delicious dishes are described. I wish that I could find a caterer like Terza to cook for me!
A dash of faith is a part of the storyline, so is a bit of romance. After all, the detective with plenty of magnetism might still be single. Solving the crime is only the side dish. And the culprits may or may not surprise you. I definitely enjoyed this cozy mystery with plenty of Italian flare. I can’t read to read the next book in the series.
I was provided with an advanced copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
This is a wonderful post! I am positive your readers will appreciate the detail! Thank you for including your review, and also my author information. You are extremely special to me!
Thanks for providing me with a few new role of endorser. 🙂 Looking forward to book two!
It was such fun working with you. I know we will remain in touch!
Thank you! Wonderful!