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anabel_unker 's review for:

Coconut Drop Dead by Olivia Matthews
4.0

*I received a copy of this book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this opportunity*

In this third, and arguably best, installment of the Spice Isle Bakery Series, Lyndsay Murray once again finds herself working to solve a murder that has shaken her local community. While no one in her family is on the suspect list this time, Lyndsay still finds herself looking into the murder of local reggae singer Camille and decides to team up with police detective Bryce Jackson to help the investigation (and absolutely nothing to do with his knee-buckling good looks, of course).

The themes of community and family run strong COCONUT DROP DEAD, a continuation from the series' previous installments. Easily one of my favorite elements of the Spice Isle series (besides the descriptions of food!) are the vivid and colorful characters that make up the Murray family-- who prove, time and time again, that there is a true strength in numbers and familial bonds.

Lyndsay herself has grown as a main character-- in previous books, the narration felt monotonous, focusing a lot on Lyndsay's stress concerning the bakery and her family. But I was pleasantly surprised with the development and change of pace for this latest book, Lyndsay's newfound confidence and assertiveness lend well to her character!

A great choice for a lover of modern cozy mysteries, I can't wait for the next installment of the Spice Isle Bakery Series!