A sunset cruise around Key West and some of it's surrounding islets sounds like the perfect way to increase business for Key Zest Magazine and Janet Snow's catering business until the boat explodes throwing all the esteemed guests into the water. Hayley's boss, Palamina, editor of Key Zest comes up with the idea with Hayley and coworker Danielle in charge of checking in guests. One or two unexpected guests manage to get onboard in the last minute boarding rush. When one of them is found below deck dead during the investigation of the explosion, Hayley goes into detective mode, even though she and her family are involved in a huge celebration of Miss Gloria's 85th birthday. Of course Miss Gloria's sons and their wives are in attendance, once again determined to move her back to Michigan. How to find the person responsible for the explosion, clearing her mother's name without completely aggravating her chief police deputy husband, Nathan and ensure Miss Gloria has a birthday celebration worthy of this delightful and much loved friend is driving Hayley a bit over the edge.
This series is such a delightful read. The location descriptions always give me a deep desire to visit Key West and take in all the sights and tasty treats. The characters are people I would love to hang out with, though unlike Hayley's stepmother and mother0in-law, I'm not sure I want to delve into the crimes and mishaps! I do think a visit with Lorenzo would be tons of fun and maybe a bit unnerving and the Cuban coffee sounds delicious and maybe calling my name right now! Most of the supporting characters of previous books in the series make an appearance in this one and it was such a treat to see them all again.
The plot built throughout and looking back there were some clues to "who done it", but I was surprised when all was revealed. Another surprise occurs that I did see coming, but it was entertaining to watch it play out and I loved the way things ended.
Many thanks to Lucy Burdette for such a wonderful book and great series. I look forward to every new book in this series with much anticipation. Thanks also to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy to enjoy in exchange for my honest review of the book.