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A review by roelia
Recipes for Love and Murder by Sally Andrew
5.0
“Recipes for Love and Murder” is the first book in the “Tannie Maria Mysteries” series. And what a delight it is! This cosy mystery plays out in the Klein Karoo. The pure and unique beauty of this part of South Africa is a character of its own, but more about that later.
The quirky and loveable Tannie Maria is our main protagonist and an absolutely delightful narrator! Yes, I will probably use the word “delight” a few times more during this review, because that is what this book, and the entire series, is to me.
Back to Tannie Maria, I found her wonderfully relatable and endearing. She IS my spirit animal, my soul sister. Witty, warm, gutsy, and giving, while being flawed and vulnerable at the same time.
She writes the recipe-slash-love advice column for the local newspaper, and with her passion for food and empathy for others, she shares heavenly recipes and sincere advice with the readers. When one of them is killed, Tannie Maria immediately becomes involved in the investigation. Unofficially of course. She teams up with her colleague, the fiery and spirited Jessie, and this dynamic duo makes it their mission to unravel the mysteries of the small town. Their friendship adds such a charming dynamic!
As the plot and the tension thickens, Tannie Maria finds comfort and nourishment in the kitchen, whilst her recipes and cooking reflects her feelings, mood, and experiences.
This book is filled with genuine and amiable and well-developed characters – a true celebration of the culture, gastronomy, and scenery of the Klein Karoo. With the vibrant imagery, I was throughly invested in the world of Tannie Maria and friends (and foes).
Sally Andrew masterfully integrates the tense storyline with Tannie Maria’s gastronomic delights, with the enticing flavours of South Africa – traditional bobotie, aromatic curries, decadent baked goodies adding complexity and realism. And yes, the recipes are all included in this book for you to try out at home! Her writing is beautifully descriptive and addictive to read.
“Recipes for Love and Murder” also beautifully depicts the intricacy and cultural diversity of South Africa and its people. Social commentary on prejudice, trauma, domestic violence is handled with compassion and humour.
It is a culinary and literary delight that will leave the readers craving for more!
*PS This was a re-read for me - just shows how much I love this book.
The quirky and loveable Tannie Maria is our main protagonist and an absolutely delightful narrator! Yes, I will probably use the word “delight” a few times more during this review, because that is what this book, and the entire series, is to me.
Back to Tannie Maria, I found her wonderfully relatable and endearing. She IS my spirit animal, my soul sister. Witty, warm, gutsy, and giving, while being flawed and vulnerable at the same time.
She writes the recipe-slash-love advice column for the local newspaper, and with her passion for food and empathy for others, she shares heavenly recipes and sincere advice with the readers. When one of them is killed, Tannie Maria immediately becomes involved in the investigation. Unofficially of course. She teams up with her colleague, the fiery and spirited Jessie, and this dynamic duo makes it their mission to unravel the mysteries of the small town. Their friendship adds such a charming dynamic!
As the plot and the tension thickens, Tannie Maria finds comfort and nourishment in the kitchen, whilst her recipes and cooking reflects her feelings, mood, and experiences.
This book is filled with genuine and amiable and well-developed characters – a true celebration of the culture, gastronomy, and scenery of the Klein Karoo. With the vibrant imagery, I was throughly invested in the world of Tannie Maria and friends (and foes).
Sally Andrew masterfully integrates the tense storyline with Tannie Maria’s gastronomic delights, with the enticing flavours of South Africa – traditional bobotie, aromatic curries, decadent baked goodies adding complexity and realism. And yes, the recipes are all included in this book for you to try out at home! Her writing is beautifully descriptive and addictive to read.
“Recipes for Love and Murder” also beautifully depicts the intricacy and cultural diversity of South Africa and its people. Social commentary on prejudice, trauma, domestic violence is handled with compassion and humour.
It is a culinary and literary delight that will leave the readers craving for more!
*PS This was a re-read for me - just shows how much I love this book.