Customer Reviews

A Taste of Murder (The Classical Trio Series, Book 1) (Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense #121)

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

If Virginia Smith writes it, I'll read it! I've read every book Smith's had published and devoured every one. A Taste of Murder was no exception. I love a story that draws me in and allows me to lose myself in the characters' adventures. Jazzy and the rest of her musical trio are delightful. My only complaint is that I couldn't put the book down, swallowed it in one or two gulps, and then it was over too soon. If I may abuse this theme a little longer(and you can't stop me, so I will), the taste of the story lingered and I caught myself thinking about the plot and personalities long after I turned the last page. I read a fair number of mysteries and I did NOT see the solution to this murder coming. Going on vacation? Ready to snuggle up in front of a winter fire with a good book? Looking for a gift for a friend? "A Taste of Murder" (or anything else by Virginia Smith) is a sure bet!

A Taste of Murder was a delightful, delectable read from cover to cover. Smith's books are always filled with memorable characters, a unique story, and a great puzzle with plenty of twists and turns. And the setting - well, let's just say that I keep LOOKING to attend festivals like the one in this book.

I do have one small piece of advice if you find yourself at one of these festivals - RUN if you're asked to judge a beauty pageant! You'll have to read this book to find out WHY!

Whow - I knew when I started this book it would be good - I love Virginia's books. After reading Murder by Mushroom, I thought I was prepared for this book. No way. She blew me away. She has improved on building suspense all through the book. There is a wedding, musicians, a Beauty pagent, BBQ Contest and Festival, and murder. All through the book you think you know who may have committed the murder but in the end it is a surprise. At the last you are holding your breath hoping Jazzy gets away from the murderer and that the sheriff and Derrick can get to her in time. I could relate to her feelings about a dog. This will build your faith and keep your interest from page 1 clear to the end.

I recently finished this book and really enjoyed it. Its set in Kentucky and I did learn some things about the local food. I now know what a Burgoo is. What I love about this book is it mentions Shoutlife a Christian site I am actually a member off. Jasmine and her trio of musicians come to play at a wedding and encounter a murder. Enter the Brides brother who invited them to play. Oh did I mention hes cute and Jasmine likes him! Derrick wants to protect Jasmine. I just loved some of the scenes between these two, add a 4 legged friend and it was pure magic. There are alot of twists and turns which add to the story.

I love Ginny's writing and this was a great example. It's a fun and exciting mystery. The guy in it was darling and I really liked him. Honestly, I had a hard time relating to the heroine. Her stubborness and perfectionism kind of annoyed me sometimes, but that's probably because that is how I am to some degree. She was really nice and I enjoyed the Christian element a lot. My biggest problem was that the really scary thing that happened to the heroine was a result of her stubborness and because she did something stupid, which I felt was a bit of an idiot plot, but I don't know what the author should have done differently, so it still worked for me. The fear was pretty real and her faith and courage were admirable. I admit to agreeing with Donald that Ginny's writing deserves better than this sort of cookie-cutter book, but I know it is a good way for her to get her numbers up and I think she did a really great job within the limits she was given.

I loved "A Taste of Murder" and am glad that it's the first in a trio of mysteries about this musical trio. I agreed with most of what Donald Parker wrote in his review, but think perhaps since he wished for her excellent writing talent to "challenge our spirits and minds", he must not have read her novel "Just As I Am" or it's sequel "Sincerely Mayla". After reading JAIA, one friend berated me for not warning her that her unrecognized prejudices were going to be exposed and challenged. Others, including men in prison, have accepted Jesus as their Savior because of that book.
I gave "A Taste of Murder five stars because in the genre where it lives, it is most definitely a winner!

A Taste of Murder is fun little romp through the burgoo and barbecue competition in Kentucky. This is not a book you want to read on an empty stomach because there's a mention of food throughout. For those people who like a little bit of classical music, some romance, and an ugly but lovable hunting dog, this will provide plenty of enjoyment and diversion. I give this book a four star, not because the writing is deficient, but because the subject matter is a tad bit bland, despite a liberal portion of barbecue sauce. It is my firm belief that Virginia is too good of a writer to be stuck in the mode of churning out cookie-cutter novels. I look forward to her using her talents to challenge our spirits and minds in the near future with something not found in a recipe book.
Donald James Parker
Author of Reforming the Potter's Clay