Dinner at Antoines

Dinner at Antoines by Frances Parkinson Keyes is a reprint edition published by Black Widow Press on October 16, 2013. This 476-page novel is presented in English and delves into a mystery set against the backdrop of New Orleans in the 1940s. The story begins with Orson Foxworth hosting a dinner at Antoines restaurant to celebrate his return to the city, where he plans to introduce his niece during the Carnival festivities and rekindle his romance with Amelie Lalande. A seemingly minor incident involving a spilled glass of red wine takes a dark turn when Odile, Lalande’s daughter, is later found dead, prompting a deeper investigation into the circumstances surrounding her demise.

Readers will find a rich exploration of New Orleans’ history, customs, and societal norms woven throughout the narrative. The plot centers on the unraveling mystery of Odile’s death, which initially appears to be a suicide but raises questions that demand resolution. The edition includes a new introduction by Patricia Brady, providing context and biographical notes on Keyes, enhancing the reader’s understanding of the novel’s background. This blend of fiction and detective elements invites readers to engage with the intricate layers of the story while immersing themselves in the cultural tapestry of the era.