Rent Hickory Smoked Homicide (A Memphis BBQ Mystery)

Southern mysteries are one of my favorites to read whether a cozy or literary fiction. Hickory Smoked Homicide is my first sampling of Riley Adams mystery series.The series is set in Memphis and surrounds Southern traditions of barbecue, kids beauty pageants....and murder. I found it enjoyable and even a little dark at times especially the ending which I was not expecting. I liked it and was glad you didnt miss out not reading the two earlier books in the series but I probably ownt go back and read them but will go forward and read the next installment when it is available. It was a little disappointing that there were only a few recipes in the back and were simply ways to cook barbecue. I would have expcted the yummy desserts mentioned in the story to be in there like the Red Velvet cake which si truly a Southern treasure and one of my favorite cakes! I feel it was a good mystery but not as good as others I have read in the culinary mystery genre. It didnt feel much like a traditional cozy which is good because they can get a little too stereotypical and forced at times. Its a quick read and satisfying as mysteries go so enjoy it on your next trip to Memphis,when you go out to eat at a barbecue place or the next time you are stuck : having to help in a kids beauty pageant. It will give you something to think about! :