Crime, fine dining, and a troublesome connection to the Russian mob make for an entertaining combination in Nick Greenberg’s The Caterer, the second book in his By Cook or By Crook series.

Chef Anton Cherny thought his days of stealing art were safely behind him. His debts are cleared, his catering business is doing well, and he can finally focus on what he loves most: cooking and making music. Unfortunately, life has other plans, and Anton is about to discover that some debts are never really forgiven.

The problem is his girlfriend’s father, Peter Danielovitch, a Russian mob boss who helped Anton escape his previous financial troubles. Now he wants something in return, and money simply won’t do. Instead, Anton is expected to steal priceless masterpieces to furnish the mobster’s private art collection.

Fortunately, Anton’s successful catering business gives him access to exclusive events, wealthy guests, and impressive art collections. While everyone else enjoys the food, Anton has different plans for the evening.

Of course, nothing goes quite as expected. A dangerous Ukrainian rival is making trouble, the FBI is closing in, and Anton’s attempts to maintain some semblance of an ordinary life become increasingly complicated.

Greenberg has created an unusual central character: a talented chef who would much rather prepare an exceptional meal than plan another art theft. His enthusiasm for food and music adds personality, while the increasingly ridiculous situations provide plenty of opportunities for humour.

The appeal lies in the combination of criminal intrigue, culinary detail, and Anton’s efforts to keep several very different worlds from colliding. There is enough danger to keep the story moving, but the lighter moments are never far away.

For readers who enjoy crime fiction with humour and a generous helping of food, The Caterer promises an entertaining adventure with an unconventional hero.