Raspberry Danish Murder

Rather interesting characters, but elementary and lackluster writing. In some places the writing is so bad as to be the sort found in chapter books—
“We have a custard for dessert.”
“Did you hear they have a custard for dessert?”
“I think I will order the custard for dessert.”
(To other character at table)
“Did you know they have a custard for dessert?”
Waitress: “We have an almond custard for dessert.”
“An almond custard. How unique.”
“A very smooth custard.”
“A smooth, almond custard. Yes. I will take the almond custard for dessert.”

Repetitive conversation of that sort isn't just elementary, it's unrealistic...no one talks that way! And you really don't have to figure out someone to attribute the quote to when you use a cliche. “My great-aunt used to say...” To her own sister? It's her great-aunt, too.

Also the emotional responses to things are way unrealistic, and the clues are often entirely by chance. It's a fun and fast-paced read, though! Some of the included recipes look really promising, and Imll be trying them out. Perhaps I'll find a new favorite.

Thanks to NetGalley for a free review copy.