⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Where do I start? First, being of Italian descent, this book was a HOOT to read! 😂 One character even had my (maiden) last name! Apart from that, the writing was excellent. It was suitably festive. It held up well as a standalone. The plot was interesting and kept me guessing. The characters were likable (and hilarious). And to add a cherry on top, we get some yummy sounding recipes at the end. What more can you ask for?!

**ARC Via NetGalley**

Mia is juggling a lot with working at the catering haul and now more has been added to her plate when a friend gets some news and she is sort of thrown into the middle of it. There is a man who is calling himself Jamies long lost brother and it's not sitting well with Mia, then he is killed and her friend is in the hot seat along with his actual brother, but there are plenty of other suspects who might wanted to see the demise of the victimn and Mia has to figure out which one has killed him and get the her friend out of trouble. 

I love this author's other series under her name Ellen Byron and it's taken me till this one to really decide what I think of this series. It's just not the other series which is a favorite and I wasn't really liking it but I actually liked this one a lot better than the others, I think I am getting use to the characters and the setting. 

I am starting to like Mia more and I love the fact that the love interest isn't a cop.

It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Murder
Catering Hall Mystery, Book #3
Maria DiRico
5 Stars

Synopsis:

Astoria, Queens, is decorated within an inch of its life for the Christmas season, and Mia Carina is juggling her job at the Belle View catering hall with a case of murder...

Mia's busy with a full schedule of events at the family business--among them an over-the-top Nativity-themed first birthday party and a Sweet Sixteen for a teen drama queen. But her personal life is even more challenging. Her estranged mother has returned--and her lifelong friend Jamie has discovered a shocking secret about his past. He's so angry that he starts hanging out with Lorenzo, who claims to be his long-lost brother--even after it becomes clear that Lorenzo's story is as fake as a plastic Christmas tree.

Then a body turns up among the elves in a Santa's-workshop lawn display, and amateur sleuth Mia has a buffet of suspects to choose from. Amid the holiday celebrations, she intends to find out who's the guilty party…(Amazon)

Review:

Mia is busy with her events planning, she has a sweet sixteen birthday and first birthday party to plan. And her good friend, Jamie, finds out that he has a brother that he never knew about. Something does not feel right about the brother and Mia plans on looking into it. But before she can, a dead body turns up and she must find out who the murderer is.

The characters are well rounded and well rounded. She has a special relationship with her dad and her brother, and her mother has come for a visit, which does not happen very often. She will have to figure out what her mother really wants.

The writing style flows shoothy and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I could picture the action taking place in my mind’s eye. The mystery was well plotted and not easily solved. I had quite a few suspects that I considered and I did not know who was responsible until it was revealed at the end.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I cannot wait to see what is in store for Mia and her family.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.

This book was awesome. Mia works in the family business catering and organizing ridiculous themed parties such as a nativity scene for a birthday party and others. I loved the humor in this story. The plot twists were great. This is the third book in this amazing series. You should definitely give it a try.

Princess Fuzzypants here: Mia and her father Ravello, former Mob guy, are making a success of the legit business backed by The Family. She is juggling the unique demands of two big pre Christmas birthday parties. But families and family secrets conspire to throw her off track. First her friend, Jamie, son of the boss, who never knew he was adopted meets his new “brother”. Lorenzo comes equipped with a trashy girl friend, whose mother and brother tag along. Everyone but Jamie smells a con but he is far too angry with the secret that has been kept from him all his life. Add to the mystery, the sudden reappearance of Mia’s mother after years MIA. Is there some connection between the two and why, after all this time, is her mother back in town.

Mia, highly suspicious of her mother, is determined to figure out what she is hiding. She is also determined to help her friend and his family reunite after the revealed secrets threaten to tear them asunder. When she learns the truth, it could turn deadly. All the while she is also in the middle of the annual competition between blocks in Astoria for the best Christmas decorations. Over the top does not begin to describe the various shenanigans. But then why go small with anything when you can go BIG.

These books are always entertaining especially the relationship Mia and her father have with the mob boss and his family. They are very grateful to her for helping to bind wounds and bring them back together. Family is the key in these stories. The immediate families and the bigger families and ultimately The Family. The characters are endearing in a loud and boisterous way. The story sucks the reader right into it. And it makes for a good read especially before the holidays. Five purrs and two paws up.

I have to say, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Murder was a cozy mystery no other that I have read. Although it’s considered a culinary cozy, I would even include it as a mafia cozy if there was such a subgenre.

I think I didn’t entirely enjoy the mobster elements of the story, but for those who do like them will enjoy this cozy as the protagonist works for some let’s just say, questionable family who owns the banquet hall Mia, the protagonist, works at.

I definitely believe it’s best to read the two prior books before reading this one to establish a connection with all the characters as I felt there was a lot happening and before I could begin to connect with them.

Overall, it was a nice read and I hope to read the previous books so I could appreciate this a bit more.

Thank you Kensington Books for the arc. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is the third in a series, which I didn't know when I started reading it. However, I'm happy to say that it stands alone and after finishing it, I would enjoy going back and reading the previous two.
A cozy with the Mob is a different idea, but the characters are so lovable and passionate about their lives that it works out well and the reader just wants to be invited to dinner with them all! It's a sweet Christmas read and the mystery is set up very well. So is the romance. It's a nice escape to Queens (of all places!)

You can always count on Maria DiRico (Ellen Byron) for a fabulous read. And It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Murder, the third book in the Catering Hall mystery series, may be the best one yet. With the perfect blend of family secrets, complex mystery, and Christmas spirit, this is a book that is destined to brighten your holiday season.

Between an over-the-top party for an entitled sixteen-year-old, a nativity-themed party for a one-year-old, and Belle View Banquet Hall’s own company party, Mia Carina has her hands full. Add to that her Nonna’s extravagant holiday light competition and an unexpected visit from her estranged mother, and Mia’s life becomes even more complicated. When Lorenzo Puglia appears, claiming to be her best friend Jamie Boldano’s long lost brother, Mia’s suspicions (and those of the Boldano mafia family) are instantly aroused. And when Lorenzo is murdered, Mia finds herself in the middle of a mystery that threatens the very lives of those she loves – as well as her own.

Everything about this book is amazing. The characters are sympathetic and personable. love that the Boldanos are portrayed against type here. Mia is perceptive, intelligent, and resourceful, with a sparkling sense of humor. Her Nonna, Elizabetta is a hoot – her all-out efforts to win the neighborhood holiday decorating competition are hysterical. Shane, Mia’s potential love interest, is not your typical Adonis; he has a charming layer of complexity that (in my opinion) totally justifies Mia’s interest. And Posi, Mia’s brother, is one of my favorite characters. Although he is in jail, he eagerly awaits the day when he can join Mia in running the banquet hall. Even Mia’s pets Doorstop (the cat) and Pizzazz (the bird) are adorable additions to the story. The mystery, too, is a brilliant roller-coaster ride, with enough twists and turns to keep you turning page after page. It is layered and suspenseful, with an ending that you just might not see coming.

Even though I received an ARC of the book, I also borrowed a copy of the audio from my library. And I must say that this is one of the best narrated cozies I have come across. Devon Sorvari gives a brilliant performance that really draws you into the story.

In It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Murder, Maria DiRico has captured the essence of the ideal holiday cozy mystery. With something for everyone, it is a must-read in this fantastic series.

Note: I received an ARC of It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Murder from NetGalley and Kensington Books. The above is my honest review.

I love Mia, but Cammie gets on my nerves with the way she treats Pete. Still, it makes for an interesting storyline. Loved the baby goats! Great story. I love Jamie's girlfriend! I want her as a BFF. I hope Mia's mother stays around and Mia's brother gets out of prison soon. More great stories to be had with this group!

Anytime I pick up a book my Maria DiRico/Ellen Byron, I know I’m not going to put it down and this one was no different. This series definitely pushes the boundaries of cozies by adding in the mafia elements, but I love the edginess of the stories. The characters are so well developed and the situations they find themselves in are both nerve-wracking and fun. There’s so much to love about this series – particularly Mia’s family – that I always look forward to these mysteries. Recommended for rainy afternoons or anytime you want to get sucked into a story and lose track of time.

I enjoyed my most recent visit to Belle View catering hall in Queens, New York. Mia Carina is busy organizing events including a full nativity birthday party for a one year old and a sweet sixteen for a drama queen. Add to all of this, the reappearance of her estranged mother, her friend Jamie finding out he was adopted and the sudden appearance of a biological brother, Lorenzo as well as the Astoria Christmas decorating contest that her grandma is determined to win. Mia doesn't have a second to herself, but when Lorenzo is found dead in the lawn ornaments, she jumps into the investigation when Jamie's brother becomes a suspect.

This book is part of my Christmas reading and it is nice to have a few mysteries in the mix. I love the characters in this book. Think stereotypical mobsters, big hair and huge families and you will understand why this humorous series is becoming a favourite of mine. Cammie works with Mia and they are great friends. She has an in with Detective Pete (her ex-husband who wants to get back together) and is able to share things with Mia. They always provide some comic relief. I mentioned Mia's mother and she plays an important part in this story. I hope she sticks around in future books. This book has mobsters coming out of the woodwork, with the death of Lorenzo. So many suspects (it seems no one liked him), and lots of twists had me constantly changing my mind. I loved the ending of this story that had me sitting up in my seat when the final reveal/showdown occurs. I never would have guessed. There is a little bit of a romantic attraction beginning and we shall see if anything develops between Mia and Shane in future books. Well done Maria DiRico! If you enjoy cozies with quirky and fun characters, great mysteries and well developed plots, then pick up this series, especially this Christmas outing.

This series is so fun to read. I love "the family", Nonna and her cronies, and the setting. You never know what you are going to get into when you open the book but you are guaranteed a good time.

Book 3 shows us how small our world really is and how we all know someone who knows someone. You may not see the connection right away but it is there. I was reminded of that this past weekend in my own life. A connection was made that was shocking. No murder was involved in my real-life situation but Mia was not able to say the same.

Even though this is book 3 you can pick it up with any book. I suggest you read this for the current holiday season. I don't think you will be disappointed. We have decorating wars, crazy nativity scenes, and lots of Christmas murder. Take time to look at the cover of the book and enjoy all the interesting Christmas decorations.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed above are entirely my own.

It's Christmas at Belle View catering hall and everyone is getting in the spirit. Mia's good friend, though, isn't having the best time. He has just found out that he was adopted. And a long-lost brother has shown up. When that brother ends up dead, Mia is determined to figure out what happened so her friend doesn't take the fall.

I am really liking this series. It is so much fun! I love that it takes place in Queens. So many cozies take place in small towns, this one is fun because it's in a big city. I really like Mia and her family and friends. It's really fun reading about them and their adventures. I was taken completely by surprise at the end of this one! I can't wait to read the next!

Wow! This was my first book by this author and it didn't disappoint. Mobsters,murder, and yummy food - this book has it all. I did NOT figure out whodunnit by the end. This is a fun series and is definitely worth putting on your Christmas reading list!
Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

This was such a fun book! A retired mobster, running an event planning business. His daughter solves crimes while planning the best parties and possibly meeting the man of her dreams, all during the Christmas season. What more could you want from a cozy mystery titled It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Murder?

Can't wait to read more books in this series!

You'll laugh your way through this Italian flavored holiday themed mystery.
Christmas is a time for family (sometimes spelled with a capital F) and for competition.
Mia Carina is in charge (well, officially) of the catering and event business owned by the Boldano Family. It is one of the few legitimate enterprises they run. That doesn't make it any less stressful.
Fortunately she has employees of mixed talents helping her out.

Mia's own family also has varied talents and a varied past. Her mother moved on several years ago, her brother is currently awaiting a jail sentence to run its course, and Nonna is a story all in herself.
This time her main theme is the neighborhood holiday decoration competition with proceeds going to charity.

The family drama hits on all levels throughout the book, beginning when an imposter tries to pass himself off as a relative to Mia's friend, Jamie Boldano, who was never told he was adopted.
(Spoiler) But wait- there is a plot twist waiting to be discovered.
Then, Mia's mother shows up unannounced and very unexpectedly. What could her motive possibly be? Mia's father is happily in another relationship and Nonna is the opposite of welcoming.

There is romance in the story, but not in a sweet, sappy way one wishes for at Christmas.
And there is MURDER! But the victim has made so many poor choices and upset so many people, its impossible to narrow down the suspect pool.

The story pace is quick yet entertaining and enjoyable. The characters are well developed and relatable. You will laugh and wish you could really have friends like these.

The recipes included in the book will tempt you!

This is my favorite of the series yet! It doesn't hurt that it's set at my fave time of year, but it's got everything I've been loving about this series and then some. There were plenty of funny scenes, and the scene at the spa when Mia and Cammie went, let's just say part of that made me laugh out loud. Ever since the first book, the voice of Nanny Fran Fine became Mia's voice, and now I can't read it without picturing her, lol. And Cammie makes me think of her friend Val. It seemed like they did a lot more together in this book which added to the fun and hilarity. Cammie and her ex, Det. Pete crack me up!

There was plenty of great action too, and I couldn't help thinking Mia was lucky to have friends like the Boldano family. I got such a kick out of her enjoying having the perks of Jamie dating Madison, a fashion influencer whose help at a party the banquet hall held made a sixteen-year-old girl very happy. I just love everything about the whole storyline even if it veers off the mystery momentarily because it's either funny or just an awesome family/friend or banquet hall party moment.

I wasn't sure about the whodunit, so I just followed along with Mia. The showdown was exciting though! And with the magical Christmas Eve that Mia got, I'm so eager now to read the next book!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

Between the family’s interactions and grandma’s slightly unfiltered mouth, the translation feature on my Kindle had a good workout. It wasn’t always essential since all grandmothers tend to give universal responses when people irritate them -- yet it was good to have for those interactions that could have gone either way.

I enjoyed all the characters the author brought to the table, which isn’t something you would expect when dealing with mafia families from Astoria, Queens. Granted, we shouldn’t judge, and most are good people just looking out for their businesses and the people they care for. Just an odd thing to think when laughing along with the antics of the Carina clan.

Do be prepared with the practice of bringing food, cookies, or pastries everywhere they go. This book will make you hungry. Not just a little hungry, I am talking google searching where you can pick up a cookie tray from an Italian Bakery, kind of hungry.

Another excellent edition to a wonderful series! Full of twists and turns that leaves you wanting more and enjoying each moment until the end when the killer is caught!

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE MURDER, the third book in the Catering Hall Mystery series by Maria DiRico (aka Ellen Byron), has all the ingredients for a laugh-out-loud Christmas cozy mystery! Over-the-top neighbor Christmas decorations feud – check. Mobsters trying to go straight – check. Ridiculously extravagant parties – check. Dead body in Santa’s workshop – check! And so, so much more that it was impossible to put the book down. With her witty humor, Ms. DiRico pens a multi-faceted story with engaging characters. The protagonist, Mia Carina, is a mobster’s daughter trying to keep her dad on the straight and narrow. As if that’s not enough of a plotline, there’s someone claiming to be the mobster’s son’s half-brother; another mobster’s son who’s trying to leave the business and work in Mia’s catering hall; and Mia’s jailbird brother. If it sounds like a lot is going on, there is, yet Ms. DiRico expertly keeps all the plotlines straight (and more importantly entertaining) and not once did I feel like I was lost.

While it might seem that the murder mystery itself could get lost amongst all the subplots, it doesn’t. The author knows how to write a tight and well-paced plot and the seemingly random subplots weave into the murder as the story progresses. There are twists, turns, and laughs galore and instead of playing armchair detective, I sat back and enjoyed the ride. If you’d rather try to spot the killer as you read, there are plenty of clues and suspects to keep you on your toes. With a surprising reveal (or two), the story wraps up with a promise of future happiness for Mia. I, for one, can’t wait to see what’s coming next!

Running a catering hall, there are all sorts of delicious dishes and desserts coming from the Belle View kitchen. Ms. DiRico includes several Italian recipes at the back of the book.

I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.