3.89
Part of "Lydia Chin & Bill Smith" series
In 'A Bitter Feast,' the 12th installment of S.J. Rozan's Lydia Chin/Bill Smith series, the celebrated detective duo takes on a case that blends their professional and personal lives like never before. The story begins when Lydia's cousin Matthew asks her to investigate a series of threatening letters he has received. Matthew, a chef and owner of a popular New York restaurant, is being targeted because of his plan to open a new establishment in a gentrifying neighborhood. As Lydia and Bill delve deeper into the case, they discover a web of corruption, greed, and violence that threatens not only Matthew's business but also the safety of the entire community. Rozan's masterful storytelling shines in 'A Bitter Feast,' as she seamlessly weaves together multiple plotlines and a diverse cast of characters. Lydia and Bill's partnership is at the heart of the novel, and their dynamic is as sharp and witty as ever. However, this case forces them to confront their own biases and assumptions, adding depth and complexity to their relationship. One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of the intersection between food, culture, and gentrification. Rozan uses Matthew's restaurant as a microcosm of the larger societal issues at play, highlighting the tensions and conflicts that arise when different cultures and communities collide. The descriptions of food and cooking are mouth-watering and transport the reader straight into the kitchen alongside Matthew and his team. 'A Bitter Feast' is a thrilling and thought-provoking addition to the Lydia Chin/Bill Smith series. Fans of the series will be delighted to see the duo back in action, while newcomers will be drawn into the world of these complex and compelling characters. Rozan's writing is sharp, smart, and engaging, making 'A Bitter Feast' a must-read for mystery fans...
Sujata Massey
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