Dear Friendly Readers,

We are back in Connecticut for a few months, enjoying the spring but not so much the allergies that accompany all those gorgeous flowers. Mother’s Day comes up soon, and I know it’s a date that some people celebrate with enthusiasm, and others dread. Over a lifetime of Mother's Days, I like to think about the raft of mothering figures I’ve been blessed to enjoy, including my mother, stepmother, mother-in-law, sisters, friends, teachers, therapists. But I also understand the complicated feelings.

My Key West character, Hayley Snow, has a motley host of mother figures in her life as well—her mother, mother-in-law, stepmother, grandmother, Miss Gloria. Long time readers of the Key West series might remember meeting Hayley Snow’s mother Janet in book two. On Jungle Red Writers last week, I posted a snippet from my book in progress, as well as a paragraph from Death in Four Courses, and talked about developing characters over the course of a series. Do you remember meeting Janet in book two? Things have changed a lot in their relationship! Hope you’ll stop over to take a look.

Whether or not you will be celebrating Mother’s Day, I think you and yours deserve a sweet treat. This month, I’ve made carrot cake scones with cream cheese frosting. (If you feel tempted to skip the icing, resist!)

It’s always a tiny bit confusing to be working on the next book in a series (I’m working hard on #15,) while also launching this year’s installment. A Poisonous Palate is definitely coming in August, and I’m thrilled that the Netgalley reviews are rolling in:

"Each book is better than the previous one which really seems impossible but is true."
—Kathy A, Netgalley reviewer

"The literary version of 'Life is uncertain, eat dessert first.'"
—Mary G, Netgalley reviewer

"This is one of my favorite in the series so far, and Miss Gloria really saved the day with her plan!"
—Lisa C, Netgalley reviewer

(If you read and review for Netgalley, the link is right here!)

Or, you can pre-order below...

The long-awaited Key West cookbook will be released in July. Here’s what one reader says:

"Lucy Burdette's Kitchen is a delightful culinary companion for fans of the Key West Food Critic Mysteries. This no-frills cookbook serves up a tantalizing collection of recipes featured at the end of each mystery, offering readers a one-book compendium of Key West flavors and tales. Organized by mystery, it's a charming journey through the culinary landscapes of Burdette's novels. From the indulgent Hot Fudge Pie to the comforting Black Bean Soup, each recipe is a delicious invitation to savor the tastes of Key West. (I received an advance reader copy of this book, and all opinions are my own.) For fans of the series longing to recreate their favorite dishes, Lucy Burdette’s Kitchen is an essential addition to their cookbook collection."

I think that’s enough from me. I am very grateful to know you’re reading. I always appreciate help spreading the word as well—pick your poison—Facebook, Instagram, blogs, reviews—every little bit helps!

Love, Lucy

PS: Please put these August events on your calendar if you’re in New England!

August 8, Book launch at RJ Julia in Madison CT with guest Sarah Stewart Taylor

August 13, Book talk at An Unlikely Story in Plainville MA with Sarah and Hank Phillippi Ryan

September 12, book talk with Elise Hart Kipness at the Italian Club, Stamford CT

Do you have a reading friend who might enjoy Lucy’s books? You can forward the newsletter below.