Nacho Average Murder

Another great read in what has proved to be a fun, puzzling mystery series. Robbie Jordan has closed her diner in Indiana for a much needed break, coinciding with a school reunion in her home town of Santa Barbara where the climate is much gentler - even in winter! It's a bittersweet visit as her mother died there a couple of years ago; when Robbie gets wind of the possibility that it may not have been from natural causes she can't help but make further enquiries. As she begins to think she's making headway, the dead bodies begin to turn up and Robbie feels threatened . . . What a fabulous addition to this wonderful series! Maddie Day writes very plausible mysteries but, for me, what makes them truly different is the setting and - oh boy - the food! Being a Scot, there are very few dishes which are known to me and my mouth fairly waters every time Robbie enjoys a meal or a snack. This is a fine change from the usual setting in Indiana and I have been enthralled by the differences according to location. From an author who never fails to deliver (I adore her Quaker Midwife Mysteries, written under her real name of Edith Maxwell), this is another engaging and enigmatic read which I almost finished reading in bed last evening: I just couldn't put it down! A sparkling 5* read and worthy of a hearty recommendation to all lovers of cosy mysteries.