Reviewed By Liz

ISBN 978-0-7582-1018-0

Key Lime Pie Murder is a Hannah Swensen book, set in Lake Eden, Minnesota. Hannah, owner of The Cookie Jar and everyone’s favorite baker, is asked to help judge the baked goods competition at the fair. But she is late leaving the fairgrounds after one of the judging sessions and realizes that she isn’t alone when she hears a loud thump. She follows the noise and finds the body of one of her fellow judges, a ruined key lime pie lying nearby.

The Hannah Swensen series is one based around food, mostly cookies and other baked goods. And let me tell you, do not try to read this book on an empty stomach! The descriptions of the baked goods are just scrumptious and there seem to be more and better recipes in this book than others I have read.

Unfortunately, between the yummy foods and the antics of Hannah and her friends, there isn’t much room left for a mystery. The murder doesn’t take place until 1/3 of the way through this 340 page book and there is no serious development of suspects. Instead, we read about Hannah’s turn as an assistant in the magic show, her cat’s lack of interest in food, her waffling between two suitors, and her inability to find time alone to eat a high calorie (but probably delicious) deep fried candy bar.

While many fans of the series probably enjoy this character development, some of us are disappointed that Fluke didn’t make more of an effort. When you only introduce three new characters into Hannah’s close-knit circle and one is the victim, it really isn’t too hard to figure out who did it.

Favorite character? Norman, who is too good for Hannah. Did I guess it? Yes. Will I read another? Maybe. While interesting, Fluke’s books have become increasingly character-driven and less plot-driven. Sure, you can snack on cookies for 340 pages, but when you get to the end and don’t feel as if you have eaten, it is time to look around for a more substantial meal.

Mystery Book Reviews by Liz at http://reviewedbyliz.com ©2007

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