A review by cj_mo_2222
Four Parties and a Funeral by Maria DiRico

funny lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

If you are looking for a really funny cozy mystery book, look no further. Author Maria DiRico, which is the pen name for Ellen Byron, knows comedy. She has been a writer/producer for several television comedies and that talent shines through in her mysteres. Four Parties and a Funeral is the fourth book in the Catering Hall Mystery series featuring Mia Carina. This book has some added fun because the Queens, New York venue that Mia manages becomes the setting for a reality tv show, The Dons of Ditmars Boulevard. Mia already had some concerns about the event, and then a murder occurs.

In addition to the humor which occurs during the reality show, the murder mystery itself is an interesting one. Mia is a likable character and a capable amateur sleuth. I was also interested in the new developments in Mia's romance with her coworker, Shane. Other series regulars appear and I was surprised at how much I enjoyed "Little Donny" in this book. The mystery itself stands alone but there are a lot of characters in this one, once you add in everyone involved in the reality show. It might be better for new readers to start with an earlier book to at least get to know the regular characters first. I enjoyed how things were wrapped up in the long epilogue and will definitely read the next one to see what's in store for Mia and her family and the "Family." I recommend this series to cozy lovers looking for something a little different and a lot of fun.

I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Kensington Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.