Dying for Dinner by Miranda Bliss

Dying for Dinner by Miranda Bliss

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Even though I figured out who the bad guy was very early on, I didn't know his motive or other very important details until much later. I feel bad for Jacques because that character has been squeezed for more story lines than I would have thought possible. Yet, I still like the series. I really like Annie, Jim, and Eve overall. I was a little disappointed with how Eve was portrayed during one scene at the end, but it wasn't enough to affect my overall impression. If I could talk to the author, however, I would encourage her to be a little more careful with Eve in the future. Otherwise, the stories have all been quite good and I'm loving the progression. Keep it up and I'll keep reading! :)

Possible spoiler! I didn't care for how Eve reacted to the motel clerk. I just don't think a grown woman would really worry that much about a stranger carrying out the wishes of another stranger, even at a no tell motel. Seriously, Eve? He pops out for a ciggie and you're worried about your life? Not so sure I agree with that portrayal. Just saying.

Cooking Up Murder by Miranda Bliss

Cooking Up Murder by Miranda Bliss


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Overall, I really liked this book. I liked Annie and Eve quite a bit. After reading a review or two, I noticed Eve wasn't as popular as Annie. Personally, I know people like Eve in real life, so she seemed very real to me. Additionally, I just like the idea of 2 friends working together to solve a mystery. I've always thought that if I were to become an amateur detective in real life, that I'd have to work with a friend. I would need that other person to bounce ideas off, if nothing else. Plus, I would feel safer if I had a friend with me when dealing with possibly dangerous situations. :) Now, my biggest problem with the book was the ending. It wasn't as strong as I would have liked, but it wasn't bad. I think the author was a touch lazy about some of the finer points when it comes to believability, but it wasn't so unrealistic that I felt dissatisfied by it. A big plus, though, is that one of the recipes supplied at the end of the book sounds really good and I think I'm actually going to try it. (It's bacon pinwheels... Honestly, the name alone sounds great to me!) I look forward to reading more in this series and I have a feeling they will get better with each installment. :)