I was excited to have the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book on NetGalley.

“‘Look, nobody hanging out in Times Square dressed like a muppet is doing it because they’ve made good decisions. I’ve got a proposition that’ll make you an extra couple of bucks. Low impact, low risk.’“

TAKE OUT AND OTHER TALES OF CULINARY CRIME features stories that first appeared in well-respected crime publications such as Thuglit, Shotgun Honey, and Mystery Tribune, as well as three previously unpublished pieces. Also included is a story from the world of Hart’s awesome Ash McKenna series, “Learning Experience,” in the point of view of Ginny Tonic, the fabulous transvestite crime boss who happens to be one of Ash’s childhood friends.

My favorite stories in the collection are follows: “Creampuff” proves that personality rules in the cutthroat world of bakery bouncing. In “Bhut Jolokia” revenge is served super spicy. “Knock-Off,” the source of the quotation, gives a behind the scene look at the world of the costumed performers of Times Square, who bust their furry butts for tips.

This great crime collection had me hankering for a trip to New York City to enjoy all of its culinary delights and its gritty undertone of violence.

Sixteen tales of twisted modern noir. They do center around a food theme, but they are still dark and twisted. From mafia shakedowns to last death row requests to ferocious bakery lines to food channel cook offs gone psycho, Hart gives us a whole lot of fun. Dig in.