Synopses & Reviews
A sizzling look at restaurant culture
Poppy Markham knows the restaurant biz. She practically grew up at her dad's restaurant, a beloved eatery in Austin, Texas, and -- until recently -- worked as a sous chef under her surly stepsister Ursula. Poppy's not sure if her dad will ever forgive her for leaving Markham's Grille to become a public health inspector -- the most feared figure in the restaurant industry. Despite everything, Poppy agrees to help at the restaurant's grand re-opening featuring Michelin-rated chef Evariste Bontecou. Chaos ensues when Evariste is found stabbed to death with Ursula's knife. Mon dieu
Weeding through everyone who had it in for the hot-headed, philandering chef is like deboning a Coho salmon. Could it be the bad boy sous chef eyeing his chance at the top or the pretty waitress rumored to be Evariste's paramour de jour? Interrogating the kitchen crew soon propels Poppy out of the frying pan and into the fire.
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It's always fun to discover a new author, and Robin Allen delivers big time, with colorful characters and an intriguing plot that keeps you turning the pages. Can't wait to see what Poppy Markham cooks up next.--BEN REHDER, Edgar Award finalist and author of the Blanco County mystery series
Robin Allen whips up a delicious debut-souffle of prima donna chefs, restaurant secrets, family warfare, business shenanigans and as if that were not enough, she spices it all with murder. Welcome Poppy Markham, health inspector and Michelin-star-deserving sleuth --GILLIAN ROBERTS, author of the Amanda Pepper series
If You Can't Stand the Heat is a delightful mystery, full of regional charm and kitchen spice. Robin Allen has served up a delicious debut.--DAVID LISS, author of The Devil's Company and The Whiskey Rebels