Picture an Egyptian-born storyteller who whips up culinary delights and chilling mysteries with equal flair—meet Isis Crawford! Known for her delectable 'Mystery with Recipes' series, Crawford, the pen name of Barbara Block, has been captivating cozy mystery fans for over two decades with tales that blend food, fun, and fatal intrigue. Her knack for turning catering events into crime scenes has earned her an Edgar Award nomination and a loyal following hungry for more.
Born in Egypt to diplomatic parents, Crawford’s life is as flavorful as her novels. Her unique background and love for cooking shape her stories, making her a standout in the mystery genre. Ready to dive into her world of suspense and scrumptious recipes? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this culinary crime queen!
The Making of Isis Crawford
Isis Crawford, born Barbara Block, entered the world in Egypt, where her parents served in the diplomatic corps. At age five, her family relocated to the United States, settling in New York. Her mother opened a restaurant in Upper Westchester County, while her father became a university professor, instilling a love for food and travel in young Barbara. After earning degrees in Spanish from New York University and Columbia University, she ran a catering business, which sparked the culinary thread that runs through her novels. Her writing career began in the 1990s under her real name with the Robin Light series, but it was as Isis Crawford that she found her true calling, debuting with A Catered Murder in 2003.
Isis Crawford’s Unforgettable Stories
Crawford’s 'Mystery with Recipes' series, set in the fictional Longely, New York, stars sisters Bernie and Libby Simmons, caterers with a knack for solving crimes. The series, now spanning 19 books, kicks off with A Catered Murder (2003), where a high school reunion turns deadly, and the sisters uncover secrets alongside recipes for au gratin potatoes. A Catered Christmas (2005) brings holiday chaos with a fatal feast, while A Catered Halloween (2008) mixes spooky vibes and murder at a haunted house. Her latest, A Catered Bake-Off (2025), keeps the tradition alive with fresh mysteries and mouthwatering dishes.
Crawford’s style is cozy yet thrilling, weaving suspense with humor and heart. Her catering settings—think holiday feasts and quirky events like cat weddings—ground the stories in relatable charm, while her vivid characters, like the bold Bernie and grounded Libby, keep readers hooked. Each book includes recipes, from desserts to savory dishes, making them a treat for foodies and mystery lovers alike. Her ability to craft intricate plots from everyday events, like a Thanksgiving gone wrong, showcases her storytelling prowess.
Why Isis Crawford Matters
Isis Crawford has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, blending culinary arts with clever whodunits. Her Edgar Award nomination in 2008 and recognition as the most improved mystery writer in 2013 highlight her impact. Fans adore her for making Longely, New York, feel like home and for recipes that inspire real-life cooking. By focusing on sisterly bonds and small-town life, Crawford offers escapism with a side of warmth, influencing a wave of culinary cozy authors. Her work remains a delicious staple for readers craving comfort and suspense.
- Born: Egypt, to diplomatic parents
- Key Works: 'Mystery with Recipes' series, including A Catered Murder, A Catered Christmas
- Awards: Edgar Award nomination (2008), Most Improved Mystery Writer (2013)
- Fun Fact: Crawford’s pen name is inspired by her cat!
Snag A Catered Murder and dive into Isis Crawford’s cozy, culinary mysteries—perfect for a night of suspense and recipe inspiration!