Cajun Drumsticks, Spicy Margarita, and The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle

Pairing the spicy and bold flavors of Cajun Drumsticks with "The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle" by Stuart Turton offers a thrilling dining experience. Just as the drumsticks are rich with a multi-layered blend of spices, the book unravels complex layers of mystery and intrigue, keeping you captivated. The recommended beverage, "Spicy Margarita," complements the heat of the drumsticks while the tangy notes harmonize with the intense narrative of the book, providing a well-balanced and exhilarating experience. This trio invites you to relish a meal filled with flavor, suspense, and a touch of citrus zest.
Cajun Drumsticks

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparation:

  • In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a paste.

Marinate the Drumsticks:

  • Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated with the marinade.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more intense flavor.

Preheat the Oven or Grill:

  • If using an oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C).
  • If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat.

Cook the Drumsticks:

  • Oven Method: Place the marinated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 35-45 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
  • Grill Method: Grill the drumsticks for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Serve:

  • Remove the drumsticks from the oven or grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side.

The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle

The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle

A mysterious and mind-bending novel where the protagonist lives the same day in the body of different hosts to solve a murder.
"Pop your favorite Agatha Christie whodunnit into a blender with a scoop of Downton Abbey, a dash of Quantum Leap, and a liberal sprinkling of Groundhog Day and you'll get this unique murder mystery." —Harper's Bazaar THE NATIONAL BESTSELLER! The 71⁄2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is a breathlessly addictive mystery that follows one man's race to find a killer, with an astonishing time-turning twist that means nothing and no one are quite what they seem. Aiden Bishop knows the rules. Evelyn Hardcastle will die every day until he can identify her killer and break the cycle. But every time the day begins again, Aiden wakes up in the body of a different guest at Blackheath Manor. And some of his hosts are more helpful than others. With a locked-room mystery that Agatha Christie would envy, Stuart Turton unfurls a breakneck novel of intrigue and suspense. International bestselling author Stuart Turton delivers inventive twists in a thriller of such unexpected creativity it will leave readers guessing until the very last page. ALSO BY STUART TURTON: The Devil and the Dark Water The Last Murder at the End of the World

Discussion Questions

  • How does the concept of living the same day in different bodies affect the narrative structure of the story?
  • What are the implications of choice versus destiny that the novel explores?
  • Discuss the effectiveness of the book's ending. Was it satisfying?
  • How does Turton use the setting to heighten suspense and mystery?
  • Analyze the character development of the protagonist over the course of the story.
  • How does "The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle" challenge the reader's perception of time and identity?
  • What role does memory play in the unfolding of the plot?
  • How do the various characters’ motives influence the central mystery?
  • If you were the protagonist, which character's perspective do you think would be the most challenging?
  • Compare and contrast this book with other murder mysteries you have read. What makes it stand out?
Authors: Stuart Turton
ISBN: 9781492657965
Publisher: Sourcebooks, Inc.
Published Date: 2018-09-18

Spicy Margarita

Spicy Margarita
A vibrant and zesty cocktail that blends tequila, lime, and a hint of jalapeño for a refreshing yet fiery twist, perfect for enhancing the spicy flavors of Cajun Drumsticks.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz lime juice
  • 1 oz Cointreau
  • 1/2 jalapeño, sliced
  • Salt for rim
  • Ice
  • Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions

  • Rim a glass with lime juice and dip in salt.
  • In a shaker, muddle the jalapeño slices.
  • Add tequila, lime juice, Cointreau, and ice. Shake well.
  • Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
  • Garnish with a lime wedge.