Whodunnit Dinners Podcast

Helen and Katie discuss Johana Gustawsson's The Bleeding and wonder why anyone would want to eat Poutine, but invite their listeners to correct them...Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts01:00 The Challenge of Finding the Perfect Poutine02:13 Introduction to 'The Bleeding' and Its Author03:04 The Unique Structure of 'The Bleeding' Across Three Time Periods06:37 Main Character Maxine Grant and Modern Quebec Setting08:31 Historical Characters and Their Connection to the Present10:25 Critical Reception and Personal Impressions of the Book12:24 Character Depth and Plot Twists in 'The Bleeding'15:24 Casting and Adaptation Possibilities for the Book20:02 Linking the Book to the 'Spectre at the Feast' Game20:54 Humorous Discussion on the Origins of Poutine23:55 The Cultural Significance and Modern Variations of Poutine28:50 Helen and Katie’s Final Thoughts and Challenges Resources'The Bleeding' by Johanna Gustafson - https://www.amazon.com/Whodunnit Dinners BlogTheme Thene: Dan McCullough

The Whodunnit Dinners Podcast crew discusses Murder at Mount Fuji by Shizuko Natsuki. The discussion ranges from Mount Fuji itself to the position of women in Japanese society, from Japanese v Western food and whether cumin in gratin is a good idea!Chapters00:00 Introduction to Whodunit Dinners Podcast02:13 Food Challenge and Book Club Dynamics03:03 Exploring 'Murder at Mount Fuji' by Shizuko Natsuki06:04 Setting the Scene: Mount Fuji and Japanese Culture08:57 The Unfolding Mystery: Chiyo's Confession11:48 Detective Dynamics and Plot Twists14:38 Cultural Commentary and Social Themes17:32 Character Analysis: Jane and the Wada Family20:16 Women in the Narrative: Collusion and Choices23:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts24:44 The Illusion of Purity in Japanese Culture25:48 Misogyny and Hierarchical Traditions26:58 Casting Choices for a Film Adaptation28:51 Exploring Whodunnit Dinner Themes29:58 Book Review: Cultural Insights and Ratings32:24 The Evolution of Japanese Cuisine39:52 Understanding Washoku and Yoshoku44:58 The Challenge of PoutineTheme Tune: Dan McCulloughhttps://www.whodunnitdinners.co.uk/blogs/news

Join Helen and Katie as they compare two very different murder mysteries to watch over the Easter holiday, explore an unusual Swedish Easter tradition, and discuss the controversy around Cadbury's chocolate. Chapters00:00 Easter Special Introduction00:59 Murder Mystery Recommendations03:47 Exploring 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'09:35 Comparing Film Adaptations13:12 Cultural Insights and Easter Traditions15:14 Thoughts and Ratings18:40 Exploring 'Huit Femmes' and Its Adaptation23:14 Easter Traditions and Simnel Cake25:20 Cadbury's Chocolate: A Taste Test32:39 Reflections on Easter and Upcoming EpisodesTheme tune: Dan McCulloughhttp://www.whodunnitdinners.co.uk

In this episode, hosts Katie and Helen explore the intersection of murder mysteries, London history, and food, with a focus on West London in the 80s and Jamaican cuisine. They discuss a novel by Mike Phillips, delve into the history of fast food in the UK, debate the merits of a curly sausage at Wimpy (spoiler alert: there are no merits) and share a delicious jerk chicken recipe.Chapters00:00Introduction to Who Done It Dinners Podcast01:34Exploring Fast Food in West London02:27Diving into Mike Phillips' Work06:46Audiobook Experience and Its Impact08:01Character Analysis and Narrative Style14:04Plot Overview and Themes20:49Final Thoughts and Ratings24:56Transitioning to Food Choices26:54Exploring West London Fast Food in the 80s33:24Understanding Jerk Chicken and Its Cultural Significance36:18The Recipe for Jerk Chicken40:22Looking Ahead: Next Episode's ChallengeTheme tune: Dan McCulloughhttp://www.whodunnitdinners.co.uk

Join Helen and Katie for more of the Whodunnit Dinners Podcast as they explore Sherlock Holmes' 'The Sign of the Four,' delving into Victorian London, colonial history, and the intriguing culinary references, including the size of a grouse! Discover how literature, history, and food intertwine and decide whether you are posh enough to eat grouse.ResourcesThe Sign of the Four by Arthur Conan DoyleBaker Street IrregularsWild Justice Campaign against driven grouse shootingThe Field MagazineThe Whodunnit Dinners blog Theme tune: Dan McCullough

Join Helen and Katie as we explore the intriguing world of Ross Montgomery's new Cornish mystery novel set in 1910, delving into its plot, characters and historical context. And engage in the weighty debate: cream teas - jam on first or cream on first?ResourcesRoss Montgomery's Official Website - https://rossmontgomery.comHalley's Comet - NASA - https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/comets/halles-comet/in-depth/Agatha Christie - Official Site - https://agathachristie.comThe History Girls - The F Word Article - https://thehistorygirls.blogspot.com/2014/11/go-forth-and-multiply-brief-history-of.htmlCream Tea Society - https://creamteasociety.co.ukWhodunnit Dinners Blog - https://www.whodunnitdinners.co.uk/blogs/news/whodunnit-dinners-podcast-13-ross-montgomery-sweary-spinsters-comets-and-cream-teasTheme Tune: Dan McCullough

In this episode hosts Helen and Katie delve into the world of murder mystery dinner parties, focusing on the literary character Father Brown created by GK Chesterton. They explore his writing style, and the cultural context of his stories. The conversation then shifts to a fun exploration of beer and cheese pairings, where Helen shares her extensive research and tasting experiences (!)http://www.whodunnitdinners.co.ukTheme tune: Dan McCullough

In the first episode of Season 2, the Whodunnit Dinners Team, review the 'The Thin Man' , discuss tv film 'Knives Out: Wake Up Dead Man' and debate qualities of apple crumble.They explore character dynamics, themes of faith and atheism, and the importance of having absolutely no oats or raisins in apple crumble as a food pairing for their whodunit discussions. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next episode's food - beer and cheese.It's like a book club, but with food!Theme tune: Dan McCullough

Get ready for Season 2 of the Whodunnit Dinners podcast.More eras, more genres, more mystery and most importantly more food.We've got literary and culinary treats aplenty coming in 2026.Like and subscribe so you don't miss a single one!

In this Christmas special of the Whodunnit dinners podcast, hosts Helen and Katie exchange mystery stories as gifts, specifically P.D. James' festive short stories and Dashiell Hammett's classic, The Thin Man. They explore the themes of mystery, food pairings, and the dynamics of the characters, while also critiquing the storytelling techniques and resolutions. The episode concludes with a discussion on cocktails, specifically the Sidecar, as a festive drink to accompany their literary explorations. And the usual 'Magnifying Glasses' scale is adapted for the Christmas Season. Chapters00:00 Christmas Special Introduction03:02 Unwrapping the Mystery: P.D. James' Stories06:09 Exploring the Atmosphere of P.D. James09:00 Food Inspirations for the Holidays12:00 Casting the Characters: Who Should Play the Detective?14:59 The Thin Man: A Classic Mystery Unveiled18:01 Christmas in New York: Setting the Scene24:01 The Mystery Unfolds26:30 Filmic Writing Style28:47 Character Dynamics and Gender Roles30:55 Plot Resolution and Critique33:20 Final Thoughts and Ratings37:02 Prohibition and Cultural Context40:11 Cocktail of the EraDan McCullough

In the last episode of season 1 Katie McLaughlin and Helen Barbour discuss the Netflix series 'The Residence,' which combines humor and mystery set in the White House. The conversation highlights character dynamics, the unique detective Cordelia Cup, and the challenges of blending comedy with murder mystery. They move on to the history of the Pavlova - attempting to avoid the age-old origin controversy - and the episode concludes with reflections on the series and future plans for the podcast.00:00 Introduction to Who Done It Dinners Podcast01:25 Exploring the Dessert Theme02:43 Introducing The Residence Series05:15 Murder Mystery in the White House09:33 Character Dynamics and Detective Introduction12:36 Cordelia Cup: A Unique Detective17:00 The Cast and Their Roles19:28 The Series Conclusion and Future Prospects24:37 Dessert Reveal: The Pavlova30:11 Wrapping Up the SeriesTheme Tune by Dan McCullough

In this episode of Whodunnit Dinners, hosts Helen Barbour and Katie McLaughlin delve into the world of murder mysteries in the 12th Century. We explore the intricacies of 12th-century monastic life, focusing on the food and social customs of the time. The discussion transitions to the book 'A Morbid Taste for Bones' by Ellis Peters, introducing the character of Brother Cadfael and the historical context of the story. We analyze the writing style, character development, and the murder mystery's unfolding, while also sharing insights into the author's background. We discuss whether anyone could be better than Derek Jacobi as Cadfael and finish on the next food challenge!00:00 Introduction to Whodunnit Dinners01:07 Exploring 12th Century Food and Monastic Life06:32 Introducing Brother Cadfael and His World09:41 The Historical Context of the Cadfael Series14:46 The Plot Thickens: The Quest for St. Winifred's Relics19:10 Murder and Intrigue in the Monastery22:12 Writing Style and Legacy of Ellis Peters22:39 The Influence of Television on Writing23:36 Plausibility in Murder Mysteries24:33 Character Development and Series Structure26:41 Exploring Earlier Works in Series27:35 Casting Choices for Adaptations29:33 Monastic Diets and Culinary Traditions32:21 Historical Recipes and Modern Adaptations39:18 Creating a Festive Culinary ExperienceMusic composed by Dan McCulloughhttp://www.whodunnitdinners.com

In this Halloween special episode of the Whodunnit Dinners podcast, hosts Katie McLaughlin and Helen Barbour get autumnal chills. They discuss the works of Stephen King, focusing on his themes and characterization (and very distinctive way of writing about food), before transitioning to Agatha Christie short stories. The conversation highlights the interplay between food and murder in literature, as well as the supernatural elements present in both authors' works. The episode concludes with some tv recommendations for readers and a light-hearted banter about future specials.Chapters00:00 Half Term/Halloween Special Introduction02:42 Clue Game Begins05:13 Unveiling Stephen King09:34 Exploring 'The Outsider'17:28 Characterization and Plot Analysis19:33 The Agatha Christie Connection20:49 Exploring Agatha Christie's Short Stories22:15 Autumn Chills: A Collection of Gems24:12 Murder Mysteries and Culinary Intrigues29:32 Supernatural Elements in Christie’s Work35:26 Reflections on Horror and Mystery39:00 Culinary Delights in Mystery LiteratureTheme Tune: Dan McCulloughhttp://www.whodunnitdinners.co.uk

SummaryIn this episode of the Whodunnit Dinners podcast, hosts Katie McLaughlin and Helen Barbour explore the intersection of murder mysteries and culinary delights. They delve into the works of Donna Leon, particularly her Commissario Brunetti series, set in the enchanting city of Venice. The conversation covers the unique portrayal of Venice as a character, the development of Brunetti as a modern detective, and the themes of family and societal issues within the narrative. The hosts also discuss potential casting for a TV adaptation and share food inspirations from the book, culminating in a delightful exploration of Venetian cuisine. And there's the usual ridiculous conversations about which actor would be right to play the leading role. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Who Done It Dinners Podcast00:58 Exploring Venetian Cuisine and History03:13 Introducing the Commissario Brunetti Mysteries05:32 Setting the Scene: Venice as a Character10:03 Modern Themes in Brunetti's Investigations13:52 Character Analysis: Commissario Brunetti19:22 Reflections on the Story and Writing Style20:14 Connecting Food and Literature23:32 Final Thoughts and Future Recommendations

In this episode of Who Done It Dinners, hosts Helen Barbour and Katie McLaughlin explore the intersection of murder mysteries and culinary delights. They delve into Dorothy L. Sayers' first novel featuring Lord Peter Wimsey, 'Whose Body?', discussing its plot, character dynamics, and psychological depth. The conversation also touches on the colonial influences on British cuisine, leading to a food challenge centered around Kedgeree and a cocktail inspired by the East India Company. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next food challenge involving a Venetian lunch.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Who Done It Dinners01:18 Colonial Influences on British Cuisine02:58 Exploring Dorothy Sayers and Lord Peter Wimsey04:36 The Mystery Unfolds: Who's Body?08:12 Psychological Depth in Sayers' Writing10:17 Contrasting Styles: Sayers vs. Christie12:09 The Climax: Encountering the Murderer13:48 Class and Society in the Narrative15:15 Exploring Lord Peter Wimsey17:29 Agatha Christie’s Unique Approach to Romance21:06 Casting Choices for Lord Peter Wimsey22:06 Rating 'Whose Body?' and Its Impact25:47 Culinary Influences in British Cuisine31:18 Food Challenge: A Venetian Lunch32:36 New ChapterTheme Tune: Dan McCulloughhttp://www.whodunnitdinners.co.uk

In this episode of Whodunnit Dinners, hosts Katie McLaughlin and Helen Barbour delve into the world of Agatha Christie, focusing on her novel 'A Murder is Announced.' They discuss the clever premise of the story, the character dynamics, and the impact of the post-war context on the story. The conversation also explores the connection between food and the mystery genre, culminating in the revelation of Katie's Triump! The hosts set the stage for their next challenge, emphasizing the importance of food and drink pairings in storytelling.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Who Done It Dinners02:56 Exploring Agatha Christie04:18 A Murder is Announced Overview11:16 Character Dynamics and Village Life14:55 The Premise and Clues of the Story17:44 Delicious Death: The Cake Connection24:18 Setting the Next Challenge24:31 Theme Tune.mp3Theme Tune: Dan McCullough

In this episode of Whodunnit Dinners, hosts Helen Barbour and Katie McLaughlin explore the intersection of literature and cuisine, focusing on the book 'The Dirty Streets of Heaven' by Tad Williams and the culinary delight of burritos, particularly the Mission Burrito from San Francisco. The conversation delves into the themes of the book, character dynamics, and the cultural significance of burritos, creating a rich tapestry of storytelling and food appreciation.Theme Tune: Dan McCulloughFind out more about this episode, plus recipes and discover more Whodunnit Dinners' murder mystery games at http://www.whodunnitdinners.co.uk/blog/news

In this episode of Whodunnit Dinners, hosts Katie McLaughlin and Helen Barbour explore the world of murder mysteries, focusing on the character of Maigret from Georges Simenon's novels. They discuss the intricacies of the story 'Felicie', its characters, and the cultural context of the narrative. Alongside the literary analysis, they pair the discussion with traditional Northern French cuisine, including mussels and tarte tatin, creating a delightful blend of food and literature.www.whodunnitdinners.com/blog/newsChapters00:00 Introduction to Who Done It? Dinners00:54 Exploring Maigret and the Mystery Genre06:03 Character Analysis of Maigret09:59 The Atmosphere and Setting of Felici12:58 Food Inspirations from Northern France17:57 Mussels and Traditional Northern French Cuisine20:57 Dessert: Tarte Tatin and Its History24:10 Next Challenge: Californian CuisineTheme Tune: Dan McCullough

The Whodunnit Dinners podcast explores the very best in whodunnits from the classics of Agatha Christie to the latest Netflix series, all served with a discussion of appropriate food and/or drink - because it’s the Whodunnit…Dinners podcast.Each episode murder mystery dinner party writers share a whodunnit: a book, play, film, game, tv show and the dinner or food and drink inspired by that who dunnit. At the end of the episode there will be a food challenge which gives a clue to the next episode.Discussions are far from serious so don’t expect expert opinions. But there are some interesting facts, ridiculous tangents and you’ll get some great recommendations for mysteries to enjoy AND food to savour.

In this episode of Whodunnit Dinners, hosts Helen Barbour and Katie McLaughlin delve into the intriguing world of Japanese murder mysteries, focusing on 'The Honjin Murders' by Seishi Yokomitsu. They explore the book's locked room mystery format, the eccentric detective Kosuke Kindaichi, and the cultural context of post-war Japan. The conversation also highlights the connection between the book and Japanese cuisine, specifically yakitori, while drawing parallels to some of the Whodunnit Dinners murder mystery games.http://www.whodunnitdinners.com/news/blogChapters00:00 Introduction to Who Done It? Dinners01:18 Exploring The Honjin Murders07:36 The Detective: Kosuke Kindaichi13:21 Writing Style and Cultural Context19:38 Food Connection: Yakitori28:01 Murder Mystery Game ConnectionsTheme Tune: Dan McCullough