Noah Dane is a cop hunting for his partner’s killer, trying to solve other murders, and as if his life wasn’t busy enough he’s been assigned a new partner. A celebudroid who looks and acts like Marilyn Monroe.

Marilyn, the celebudroid and Noah’s new partner, has been reprogrammed for police work. The problem is that her original programming is slowly taking over and affecting their investigation.

Chastity Blume, “America’s Favorite Virgin”, is an outspoken opponent of America’s rampant sexuality. Deciding to investigate her past and find the mother she has never known, Chastity stirs up a whole lot of trouble.

Better Than Chocolate is a futuristic book with a noir feel. Murder, mystery, and mayhem all rolled up into a story good enough to eat. Sassy dialog, endearing characters, and a fresh take on the future. The first few chapters set up the background for the story and then the book really takes off. Noah was like all those great detectives of old but with a quirkiness that made him so much more endearing. Marilyn as an android had me laughing from the first meeting. Chastity, is chastity personified. A virgin who espouses abstinence but secretly lusts is hilarious. Well written novel, vivid characters and a satirical look at the future, Bruce Golden, is an author that I will be reading more of.

Reviewed by: Hayley