Have you ever found yourself craving a good mystery that you can really sink your teeth into? One that combines the thrill of a whodunit with the mouthwatering delights of a gourmet meal? If so, allow me to introduce you to my latest literary obsession: “Catering to Nobody” by Diane Mott Davidson.
As someone who loves nothing more than curling up with a page-turner and a plate of something delicious, I’m always on the hunt for books that feed both my mind and my appetite. So when a fellow mystery-loving foodie friend recommended Davidson’s Goldy Bear Culinary Mystery series, I knew I had to give it a taste. And let me tell you, from the very first chapter, I was hooked!
The story follows Goldy Bear, a recently divorced single mom who’s traded in her unhappy marriage for a new life as a caterer in a charming Colorado town. But when her ex-father-in-law drops dead at a wake she’s catering, and her food is blamed for his demise, Goldy’s reputation and livelihood are suddenly on the chopping block. With the help of her precocious son and a cast of colorful locals, Goldy sets out to clear her name and serve up justice, one clue (and one delectable dish) at a time.
From the very first page, I found myself drawn into Goldy’s world – a cozy, culinary-obsessed corner of Colorado where the gossip is as juicy as the perfectly ripe tomatoes, and where even the most unassuming church social can hide a killer secret. Davidson’s writing is as warm and inviting as a freshly baked cookie, with just the right balance of humor, heart, and suspense to keep you turning the pages.
But what really sets this book apart is the way it seamlessly blends the traditional elements of a mystery with the sensory delights of great food writing. Each chapter is peppered with vivid descriptions of Goldy’s culinary creations, from the “Chocoholic’s Cheesecake” to the “Fudge Soufflé,” that had my mouth watering and my stomach growling. As someone who loves to cook and eat almost as much as I love to read, I found myself utterly transported by Davidson’s ability to capture the joy, creativity, and sensory pleasure of food.
Of course, no mystery is complete without a few red herrings and surprising twists, and “Catering to Nobody” certainly delivers on that front. As Goldy navigates the treacherous waters of small-town secrets and hidden agendas, she uncovers a web of deception that kept me guessing until the very last page. But what I loved most about this book was the way it used the mystery not just as a puzzle to be solved, but as a vehicle for exploring deeper themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the unbreakable bonds of family.
At its heart, “Catering to Nobody” is a story about a woman reclaiming her life and her sense of self in the wake of personal upheaval. It’s a testament to the power of food, friendship, and a little bit of good old-fashioned sleuthing to help us find our way back to ourselves. And it’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there’s always room for a little sweetness and light.
So if you’re hungry for a mystery that will keep you guessing, characters that will make you feel right at home, and food descriptions that will have you raiding your fridge in the middle of the night, I can’t recommend “Catering to Nobody” highly enough. Come for the murder, stay for the mouthwatering menu – and prepare to be utterly charmed by Goldy Bear and her deliciously clever world.