Hail to the Chef (White House Chef Mystery Series #2) by Julie Hyzy

From the Publisher

White House executive chef Ollie Paras has to put her own interests on the back burner when a kindly electrician is electrocuted to death, and the First Lady's nephew dies in an apparent suicide less than 24 hours after cleaning shrimp with Ollie. Ollie suspects something fishy is going on. She'll have to watch her back—and find a killer unlikely to be pardoned.

VOYA

Ollie is the new White House executive chef. She and her staff are busy preparing Thanksgiving dinner for the president and first lady and gearing up for a busy holiday season during a time of much tumult at the White House. A fake bomb is found, causing a White House evacuation and a Secret Service investigation. Soon after, the White House electrician is electrocuted while restoring power to the Red Room. The First Lady is being pressured by her three partners to sell a successful, philanthropic business, Zendy, started by their fathers. Sean, the President's nephew and First Lady's business advisor regarding Zendy, is found dead, an apparent suicide. Ollie is accosted and almost abducted on her way home one evening. Everyone is under suspicion. There is a lot of action, and Ollie seems to be in the thick of it. This second Ollie Paras mystery stands on its own. Hyzy cooks up a thoroughly enjoyable, fluffy mystery, with all the right ingredients. The diverse characters are crisp, the dialogue is natural, and the descriptions bring the reader vividly into the White House during the holidays. The story takes place over one week, and the action simmers. The suspense is palpable, and the conclusion will satisfy any palate. An appendix includes appetizer recipes. The writing, although not simple, is suitable for seventh grade and older. Put this adult-marketed book on the menu for teens to savor. Reviewer: Ed Goldberg

VOYA

This action-packed novel is a fun read. The setting provides an interesting background, although the story line is predictable. A bit simplified and exaggerated, the novel appeals to a broad audience by combining cooking with bombs. The theme of listening to your intuition and trusting yourself incorporates a serious message in this entertaining novel. The writing style is geared toward older teens while the uncomplicated plot line is enjoyable for everyone, especially following an election year. Reviewer: Liza M. David, Teen Reviewer

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