The Fatal Funnel Cake by Livia J. Washburn

Are you ready for a great mystery? How about a whole series? And how about we toss in some fabulous recipes to boot? If all of that sounds good to you, then you will also love The Fatal Funnel Cake by Livia J. Washburn. 

I have a dear friend who lives in Weatherford, TX so instantly I was drawn to the location as a place that is special to me. What was totally fabulous and unexpected was how much the characters felt like they were also old friends. It was so effortless to drift into the story and be taken to the State Fair in Dallas! 

Phyllis and her friends, who live together and are the sweetest retired teachers, head to the state fair so they can try their hand at entering  some food competitions, which it seems they have done in the past and with great success. There is the excitement of a cooking show that they normally watch at home being broadcast and since her funnel cake was a blue ribbon winner, Phyllis gets invited to be on the show. 

Of course, in the middle of all of the excitement, they find themselves in the middle of a murder investigation, which also seems to be something they have done in the past. In fact, Phyllis seems to have a great knack for solving mysteries and a keen eye for details. Even though her funnel cake had a part in the death, she isn't a suspect but she still thinks the police have arrested the wrong person. Now the race is on to find the person responsible before the show packs up and takes the evidence with it. 

The storytelling is such that I was completely absorbed and even found myself holding my breath as they were taking part in the cooking contests because you really do feel that genuine excitement for your new friends. Even the secondary characters come to life as you read. 

I mentioned recipes before and I have to say I am so super excited to try making a funnel cake. I have had them at fairs before but never really thought about making one at home. In addition to the funnel cake, there are five other recipes that also sound absolutely mouth watering. I just know my husband will want to try all of the cookie ones because he has a sweet tooth. I am so beyond tickled to have found the Fresh Baked Mystery Series because it has everything I like in a good mystery and I can‘t wait to get my hands on the rest!

Take some time to browse the other great mysteries available from Berkley Prime Crime. While you are there, you can sign up for the newsletter so you never miss a new release. I must warn you though, after browsing my wish list is longer than I could probably read.

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.