Step into the deliciously thrilling world of the Piece of Cake Mystery series, where murder meets Mardi Gras and every cake comes with a side of suspense! Written by Jacklyn Brady, this cozy mystery series follows pastry chef Rita Lucero as she whips up delectable desserts and solves crimes in the vibrant, sultry streets of New Orleans. Perfect for fans of culinary mysteries, this series blends mouthwatering recipes, intricate whodunits, and the Big Easy’s irresistible charm.
With its lively cast of characters and a setting that pulses with jazz and Creole culture, Piece of Cake Mystery invites readers to savor a unique blend of food, fun, and foul play. Whether you’re a cozy mystery aficionado or just craving a fresh literary treat, Rita’s adventures at Zydeco Cakes are sure to satisfy.
How Piece of Cake Mystery Began
Jacklyn Brady, a pseudonym for bestselling author Sherry Lewis, launched the Piece of Cake Mystery series in 2011 with a passion for blending her love of writing with her knack for crafting engaging mysteries. Inspired by New Orleans’ rich culinary scene and vibrant culture, Brady created Rita Lucero, a talented pastry chef navigating life, love, and murder. Published by Berkley Prime Crime, the series quickly gained traction among cozy mystery fans for its fresh take on the genre, combining culinary arts with amateur sleuthing in a city known for its festive spirit and dark secrets.
The Heart of Piece of Cake Mystery
The series kicks off with A Sheetcake Named Desire (2011), where Rita inherits Zydeco Cakes after her almost-ex-husband is found dead with a knife in his back. As suspect number one, she must clear her name and uncover the killer. In Cake on a Hot Tin Roof (2012), Rita’s Mardi Gras party turns deadly when a guest is murdered, forcing her to untangle a web of suspects to save her uncle’s reputation. Arsenic and Old Cake (2012) sees Rita posing as a newlywed at a shady bed-and-breakfast to investigate a friend’s long-lost brother, only to stumble into a murder mystery. The Cakes of Monte Cristo (2016) wraps up the series with Rita uncovering a cursed ruby necklace and a trail of death at a glamorous ball.
Each book weaves themes of resilience, community, and culinary creativity, set against New Orleans’ colorful backdrop of festivals, swamps, and jazz. Brady’s writing shines with vivid descriptions of Creole cuisine, bustling bakeries, and quirky characters like Rita’s eccentric staff and meddling mother-in-law, Miss Frankie. The mysteries are complex yet accessible, with twists that keep readers guessing until the final page. Fans also love the included recipes, from Bavarian Chocolate Cake to Mardi Gras-inspired treats, adding a delicious layer to the storytelling.
Why Piece of Cake Mystery Resonates
The Piece of Cake Mystery series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre with its irresistible blend of food and suspense. Readers praise its immersive New Orleans setting, which brings the city’s vibrant culture and culinary heritage to life. Rita Lucero’s tenacity and relatability make her a standout sleuth, while the series’ focus on strong female characters and tight-knit communities resonates with fans. Though the series concluded in 2016, its charm endures, offering a delightful escape for readers seeking lighthearted yet gripping mysteries. Its cult following continues to recommend it as a must-read for those who love their mysteries served with a side of frosting.
- Publication Years: 2011–2016
- Number of Books: 6
- Genre: Cozy Amateur Sleuth Mystery
- Setting: New Orleans, Louisiana
Grab A Sheetcake Named Desire and dive into the Piece of Cake Mystery series’ scrumptious world of cakes, crimes, and Creole charm! Whether you’re baking along with Rita’s recipes or unraveling the next twist, this series is a treat you won’t want to miss.