Book Review: Chile Death

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Chile Death     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Susan Wittig Albert
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Amateur Sleuth   Cozy
Series: China Bayles # 7
Berkley, Nov 1998, $21.95, 288 pp.

China Bayles, owner of Thymes and Seasons, knows that the annual Chedar Choppers Chili Cookoff in Pecan Springs, Texas is going to be bittersweet for her this year. Her significant other Mike McQuade will be making his first public appearance at the event since being paralyzed by a bullet. Though some mobility has returned to his upper body, Mike refuses to discuss marriage plans with China because he does not want to burden her with a half of a man, who may never be able to make love with her ever again.

Mike seems a bit revitalized and more like his old self as he judges the chili contest. However euphoria turns to tragedy when a judge dies while tasting one of the entries, which contained peanuts as one of its ingredients. Everyone knew the deceased was allergic to peanuts, but no body believes foul play occurred except Mike, who earlier learned the victim was the recipient of threats. Mike and China investigate what really happened. As he seems to be more like his old self, China is delighted even though she is coming to the attention of a desperate killer who wants to remain anonymous.

The latest China Bayles novel is absolutely terrific and probably is the best work to date in this wonderful series. CHILI DEATH has mainstream, mystery and romantic suspense appeal that will please fans of all genres. Susan Wittig Albert tastefully and sensitively delves into personal issues like impotence, paralysis, and depression and their impact on a relationship. While doing this with class, the author demonstrates that she still has the who-done-it touch that has earned her a reputation for her complex mysteries, turning this detective novel into a solid winner for a wide corps of readers.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner

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