I enjoyed the book - good amateur sleuth type mystery - would read more from this series (this was my first). ( )

Affairs of Steak (A White House Chef Mystery, #5) by Julie Hyzy

Ollie is working with House Sensitivity Director Peter Sargeant for a new event. They find two dead people, one being the First Lady's assistant. They team up to solve the crime and try to find a killer before more lives are in danger.

The story that moves at a steady pace with well developed characters and page turning plot. Ollie is very likable, she formed some good friendships and a possible love interest. The suspect list grows as secrets are slowly revealed. I was hooked from the first page, and enjoyed the recipes at the end of the book. Overall I enjoyed Affairs of Steak . I recommend to those who love a good cozy murder mystery. ( )

Book number five in the White House Chef mystery series featuring chef Olivia (“Ollie”) Paras. Ollie and colleague/nemesis Peter Sargeant are checking out venues for an event to honor the Secretary of State. As they go to check out one location, the find the First Lady’s assistant and the chief of staff in the banquet hall’s kitchen – both murdered.

Cozy mysteries are my go-to brain candy. I enjoy this series though some of the situations Ollie finds herself in seem rather implausible. In addition to the central murders there’s also the apparent kidnapping (?) of the Secretary of State’s father-in-law, and Sargeant’s rather odd nephew who seems to be stalking Ollie in hopes of landing a job at the White House. There are plenty of suspects, some romantic/sexual tension, workplace drama, and a great cast of supporting characters.

As a bonus, the author includes some recipes at the end of the book. In this episode the focus is on puff pastry and all the delectable dessert, appetizer, or main dish treats one can make using it. ( )

It was a fun read. I liked Ollie being forced to work with Peter Sargent-- the fussbudget! And yes, Gav is growing on me... ;] ( )

For some reason this was a real page-turner for me. I don't think the mystery was fair. It felt more like a "cozy thriller," than a "cozy mystery." Interesting way of (slightly) defrosting a chilly, unlikeable regular character. ( )