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theavidreaderandbibliophile's review
3.0
Southern Sass and Killer Cravings by Kate Young is the beginning of the Marygene Brown Mystery series. Marygene Brown is returning home to Peach Cove, Georgia after the end of her abusive marriage. She is looking forward to working at The Peach Diner with her sister Jena Lynn that was started by her grandmother. Marygene has a knack for knowing what is missing from a recipe or that something special needed to enhance a dish. On her second day at the diner, longtime Joseph Ledbetter collapses and dies. Mr. Ledbetter’s son, Carl uses his connections to bring in Detective Davis Thornton from Atlanta PD to head up the investigation. It turns out that Mr. Ledbetter was poisoned, and all evidence points to Jena Lynn who is quickly arrested, and their diner is closed. To save Jena Lynn and their family diner, Marygene needs to find the killer. She gets help from her friend, Betsy and, surprisingly, her deceased mother’s spirit. Someone, though, is not happy with Marygene’s digging into the case and attempts to warn her off (not that Marygene can be dissuaded). As everyone knows, there are no secrets in a small town. Marygene needs to uncover which one led to Mr. Ledbetter’s demise before the killer makes Marygene his next victim.
Southern Sass and Killer Cravings is set on a small island off the Georgia coast called Peach Cove. The Peach Diner was started by Marygene’s grandmother, Nanny after her husband gambled and drank away their money. Marygene has a natural talent for cooking and baking. She knows what is needed to elevate a dish and how to fix a wonky recipe. I thought Southern Sass and Killer Cravings was nicely written and it moved along at a steady pace. I liked the author’s conversational writing style which made the story easy to read. Southern manners and hospitality are the code in the South. Southern women are polite and always have sweet tea ready for guests (even if they are unwelcome). I liked that Marygene is a friendly yet flawed character (realistic) who has gotten herself out of a bad marriage. She has made mistakes and knows that she needs to make amends (to family and friends). There are an assortment of characters in the story that include Marygene’s sister, her half-brother, biological father, shop owners, residents, a reporter, and land developers. Betsy Myers, Marygene’s best friend, is over-the-top and boisterous (she is quite a characters). With Carl Ledbetter’s father dead, he is ready to let developers buy the land he inherited for high rise condos and a resort. Other residents do not want this type of development which leads to animated debates. There is plenty of action throughout the story, but I could have done without the repetition of case details. The mystery was mixed for me. The method of murder and the killer’s identity are easily discerned by avid cozy mystery readers. It was interesting, though, following the investigation to learn more about the victim and why he was killed. There are two potential love interests for Marygene. Personally, I thought it was too soon for Marygene to move on after her abusive marriage (she still had bruises on her neck). There is mild foul language in Southern Sass and Killer Cravings and references to the abusive Marygene suffered. My favorite phrase from the book is “the past always has a way of coming back and biting you in the keister” (so true). There are recipes from The Peach Diner included at the end. Southern Sass and Killer Cravings is a humorous cozy mystery that is perfect to read on the front porch in a cozy rocking chair with sweet peach tea on a table nearby. Southern Sass and Killer Cravings has Southern hospitality, friendship, sweet tea, gossip, tasty treats, a dead man, secrets, an island spirit and a new amateur sleuth.
Southern Sass and Killer Cravings is set on a small island off the Georgia coast called Peach Cove. The Peach Diner was started by Marygene’s grandmother, Nanny after her husband gambled and drank away their money. Marygene has a natural talent for cooking and baking. She knows what is needed to elevate a dish and how to fix a wonky recipe. I thought Southern Sass and Killer Cravings was nicely written and it moved along at a steady pace. I liked the author’s conversational writing style which made the story easy to read. Southern manners and hospitality are the code in the South. Southern women are polite and always have sweet tea ready for guests (even if they are unwelcome). I liked that Marygene is a friendly yet flawed character (realistic) who has gotten herself out of a bad marriage. She has made mistakes and knows that she needs to make amends (to family and friends). There are an assortment of characters in the story that include Marygene’s sister, her half-brother, biological father, shop owners, residents, a reporter, and land developers. Betsy Myers, Marygene’s best friend, is over-the-top and boisterous (she is quite a characters). With Carl Ledbetter’s father dead, he is ready to let developers buy the land he inherited for high rise condos and a resort. Other residents do not want this type of development which leads to animated debates. There is plenty of action throughout the story, but I could have done without the repetition of case details. The mystery was mixed for me. The method of murder and the killer’s identity are easily discerned by avid cozy mystery readers. It was interesting, though, following the investigation to learn more about the victim and why he was killed. There are two potential love interests for Marygene. Personally, I thought it was too soon for Marygene to move on after her abusive marriage (she still had bruises on her neck). There is mild foul language in Southern Sass and Killer Cravings and references to the abusive Marygene suffered. My favorite phrase from the book is “the past always has a way of coming back and biting you in the keister” (so true). There are recipes from The Peach Diner included at the end. Southern Sass and Killer Cravings is a humorous cozy mystery that is perfect to read on the front porch in a cozy rocking chair with sweet peach tea on a table nearby. Southern Sass and Killer Cravings has Southern hospitality, friendship, sweet tea, gossip, tasty treats, a dead man, secrets, an island spirit and a new amateur sleuth.
kimdavishb's review against another edition
5.0
SOUTHERN SASS AND KILLER CRAVINGS is the first book in the brand new Marygene Brown Mystery series by Kate Young. I enjoyed being introduced to the protagonist, Marygene, and her family, along with spending time with them at The Peach Diner in Peach Cove Island. The author captures the southernisms and Georgia setting realistically and had me hearing, smelling, and thinking I was right there, visiting Peach Cove. This new cozy mystery is a bit different than most cozies in that the author tackles the difficult subject of domestic abuse by making Marygene a survivor. She handles the portrayal with great sensitivity without detracting from the overall mystery. Ms. Young effectively shows how Marygene grows and develops while dealing with the aftermath. Despite the subject matter and the murder of the town’s lothario, there is plenty of humor provided through the ghost of Marygene’s mother showing up to make amends. Marygene’s best friend, Betsy, also brings a lightheartedness, which makes me appreciate the care the author has taken to develop her protagonist and the supporting characters.
When Marygene’s sister, Jena Lynn, is accused of murder by poisoning one of their diner’s customers, the family must pull together to clear her name. I enjoyed that despite the status of being a half-sibling to both her brother and sister, Marygene jumps in with complete support. Marygene is also finding her way with her biological father, Eddie, whom she has been on the outs for a long time. As sheriff, Eddie doesn’t want his daughter to get involved, especially when danger seems to be moving in. It was heartwarming to see that despite the danger, Marygene does all she can to show her love by investigating. As she starts asking questions, it becomes clear that many people had reasons to hate the man. There were plenty of suspects to keep me guessing and the exciting conclusion, which includes Marygene’s mama, was an edge-of-your-seat read!
As owners of The Peach Diner, Marygene and her sister bake and serve mouthwatering dishes. Ms. Young provides several recipes at the back of the book, and they all sound delicious.
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When Marygene’s sister, Jena Lynn, is accused of murder by poisoning one of their diner’s customers, the family must pull together to clear her name. I enjoyed that despite the status of being a half-sibling to both her brother and sister, Marygene jumps in with complete support. Marygene is also finding her way with her biological father, Eddie, whom she has been on the outs for a long time. As sheriff, Eddie doesn’t want his daughter to get involved, especially when danger seems to be moving in. It was heartwarming to see that despite the danger, Marygene does all she can to show her love by investigating. As she starts asking questions, it becomes clear that many people had reasons to hate the man. There were plenty of suspects to keep me guessing and the exciting conclusion, which includes Marygene’s mama, was an edge-of-your-seat read!
As owners of The Peach Diner, Marygene and her sister bake and serve mouthwatering dishes. Ms. Young provides several recipes at the back of the book, and they all sound delicious.
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
melanietalksbooks's review against another edition
4.0
Great book! Fun all the way through and no unnecessary openings for the ex to come back and mess up the MC’s life. I would rate it as 4.5 stars. I take off half a star since I knew who the killer was for a while but it still was a great reveal.
katreader's review against another edition
4.0
SOUTHERN SASS AND KILLER CRAVINGS by Kate Young
The First Marygene Brown Mystery
Leaving her abusive husband behind Marygene Brown returns home to Peach Cove Island. Although family relations are strained, she's come back to be a true partner in the family diner. When an old timer drops dead after eating a piece of pie made especially for him, the diner is shut down and her sister, Jena Lynn, is viewed as the murderer. With the help of her ghostly mama, Marygene is determined to save her family, their name, and their diner legacy.
Family ties is the theme to this first Marygene Brown Mystery while domestic violence is its backdrop. Strained relationships and abandonment issues color the story. Marygene Brown shows the effects of her abuse while learning to recover and deal with her past...and seeing how it effects her present and future. Trying to make amends to her family as well as learning to live and work with them is enough of a trial without a murder being involved. Marygene has a lot on her plate, and more than peach rolls!
SOUTHERN SASS AND KILLER CRAVINGS is not all dire family problems however, it's also a hoot and a half. While I may not have been partial to Mama when she was alive, she makes a fine spirit looking for redemption. I absolutely love Betsy who provides much of the comic relief while being a major support for Marygene. There's also a fine, intricately laid mystery here...though I had a feeling I knew the killer early on, and I was correct. Seeing Marygene find and follow clues, while trying to keep the island authorities, at least her dad and former sweetheart, in the loop was engaging and satisfying.
SOUTHERN SASS AND KILLER CRAVINGS provides a fun mystery while also tackling the tough subjects of family estrangement and domestic abuse. The mystery showcases the importance of family and working together while entertaining readers. I thoroughly enjoyed my first trip to Peach Cove Island and look forward to returning!
Recipes included.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
The First Marygene Brown Mystery
Leaving her abusive husband behind Marygene Brown returns home to Peach Cove Island. Although family relations are strained, she's come back to be a true partner in the family diner. When an old timer drops dead after eating a piece of pie made especially for him, the diner is shut down and her sister, Jena Lynn, is viewed as the murderer. With the help of her ghostly mama, Marygene is determined to save her family, their name, and their diner legacy.
Family ties is the theme to this first Marygene Brown Mystery while domestic violence is its backdrop. Strained relationships and abandonment issues color the story. Marygene Brown shows the effects of her abuse while learning to recover and deal with her past...and seeing how it effects her present and future. Trying to make amends to her family as well as learning to live and work with them is enough of a trial without a murder being involved. Marygene has a lot on her plate, and more than peach rolls!
SOUTHERN SASS AND KILLER CRAVINGS is not all dire family problems however, it's also a hoot and a half. While I may not have been partial to Mama when she was alive, she makes a fine spirit looking for redemption. I absolutely love Betsy who provides much of the comic relief while being a major support for Marygene. There's also a fine, intricately laid mystery here...though I had a feeling I knew the killer early on, and I was correct. Seeing Marygene find and follow clues, while trying to keep the island authorities, at least her dad and former sweetheart, in the loop was engaging and satisfying.
SOUTHERN SASS AND KILLER CRAVINGS provides a fun mystery while also tackling the tough subjects of family estrangement and domestic abuse. The mystery showcases the importance of family and working together while entertaining readers. I thoroughly enjoyed my first trip to Peach Cove Island and look forward to returning!
Recipes included.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
jeo224's review against another edition
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
4.0
A good start to a cozy mystery series set on an island off the coast of Georgia. Great setting and characters; a good plot as well.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Injury/Injury detail and Murder
Moderate: Domestic abuse
inmyhumbleopinion's review against another edition
5.0
Southern Sass and Killer Cravings by (new to me author) Kate Young is down right adorable. Marygene is down but not out and headed back home. But things at home have changed too and when she is sitting right next a diner regular as he dies things get very real. I really like Marygene. This is an exciting cozy mystery with twists and turn you won’t expect. I look forward to future adventures with Marygene and the gang.
hugbandit7's review against another edition
4.0
This is a peach of a new series with good food and ghostly help.
I always enjoy a new series because you never know what the author will come up with to entice a reader or create an intriguing new series. I think the author is on to something and has created a winning combination between a ghostly mother trying to make amends, a diner on a small island with delicious food, and a protagonist that has some baggage and yet is working towards freeing herself and learning to live life again.
Marygene has had a tough life - from learning who her father really was at a younger age to ending up in an abusive relationship. Now she is back home with her sister and brother and finds herself smack dab in the middle of a murder investigation. As true to form with cozies, she finds not one but multiple dead bodies. Nothing like being in the wrong place at the wrong time. However, this just spurs her on to investigate on her own with the assistance of her friend Betsy and even goes as far as creating a timeline in her spare bedroom to help decipher the information she uncovers in hopes it will point her towards the murderer.
I didn't suspect the killer until near the end because something just didn't seem right with this character. There were a few minor clues peppered throughout the book but nothing that really pointed this character's direction.
It wouldn't be a cozy without a love interest....or two! I can't wait to see how this plays out in future books. Will it be Alex her childhood sweetheart or Calhoun the older reporter from out of town?
Lastly, I appreciated the awareness the author brought to the subject of domestic abuse. It happens more often than we may know and I felt like it was handled well and showed Marygene in various stages of acceptance of what happened to her in the past. I hope she continues to address this issue in future books.
Overall we give this 4 paws up!
I always enjoy a new series because you never know what the author will come up with to entice a reader or create an intriguing new series. I think the author is on to something and has created a winning combination between a ghostly mother trying to make amends, a diner on a small island with delicious food, and a protagonist that has some baggage and yet is working towards freeing herself and learning to live life again.
Marygene has had a tough life - from learning who her father really was at a younger age to ending up in an abusive relationship. Now she is back home with her sister and brother and finds herself smack dab in the middle of a murder investigation. As true to form with cozies, she finds not one but multiple dead bodies. Nothing like being in the wrong place at the wrong time. However, this just spurs her on to investigate on her own with the assistance of her friend Betsy and even goes as far as creating a timeline in her spare bedroom to help decipher the information she uncovers in hopes it will point her towards the murderer.
I didn't suspect the killer until near the end because something just didn't seem right with this character. There were a few minor clues peppered throughout the book but nothing that really pointed this character's direction.
It wouldn't be a cozy without a love interest....or two! I can't wait to see how this plays out in future books. Will it be Alex her childhood sweetheart or Calhoun the older reporter from out of town?
Lastly, I appreciated the awareness the author brought to the subject of domestic abuse. It happens more often than we may know and I felt like it was handled well and showed Marygene in various stages of acceptance of what happened to her in the past. I hope she continues to address this issue in future books.
Overall we give this 4 paws up!
amberweirdo's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
4.0
thisandthatwithkaren's review against another edition
4.0
This is a great start to a new mystery series. Protagonist, Marygene, has moved back home after leaving an abusive relationship. The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and I enjoyed the quirky, loveable characters which are well developed and who doesn't love a small southern town setting like Peach Cove Island.
There are plenty of twists and turns in this story, a few red herrings but I guessed whodunnit fairly soon in the story. The story moves at a steady pace, and I had a hard time putting it down. I cant wait to return to Peach Cove Island and the Peach Diner!
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
There are plenty of twists and turns in this story, a few red herrings but I guessed whodunnit fairly soon in the story. The story moves at a steady pace, and I had a hard time putting it down. I cant wait to return to Peach Cove Island and the Peach Diner!
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
peggyemi's review against another edition
4.0
This is a promising start for this new cozy mystery series from Kate Young. Set in the south it is full of charm and feisty characters. The book has a good pace that will keep the reader immersed and turning pages. The author has a smooth writing style which is very descriptive, allowing the reader to visually picture the story as it unfolds. Ms. Young does a good job of setting up the mystery and then allowing it to unfold as the story progresses. She gives the reader enough suspects and plenty of clues to keep them engaged and guessing.
Marygene is a bit unique for a cozy mystery protagonist in that she is a domestic violence survivor. That is not a subject matter that is typically dealt with in cozy mysteries, at least in my experience. I thought the author handle it well and didn't gloss over what Marygene is going through in order to heal. I thought the secondary characters were well done, especially Betsy and Marygene's mama (who is a ghost). There are some moments of humor that are a welcome part of the story and add to the overall charm of the book.
I think this is a promising start to a new series that will be a welcomed addition to the to be read pile for many readers of this genre.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
Marygene is a bit unique for a cozy mystery protagonist in that she is a domestic violence survivor. That is not a subject matter that is typically dealt with in cozy mysteries, at least in my experience. I thought the author handle it well and didn't gloss over what Marygene is going through in order to heal. I thought the secondary characters were well done, especially Betsy and Marygene's mama (who is a ghost). There are some moments of humor that are a welcome part of the story and add to the overall charm of the book.
I think this is a promising start to a new series that will be a welcomed addition to the to be read pile for many readers of this genre.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.