Tea Shop Mysteries (Updated 10/7/20)

Tea Shop Mysteries by Laura Childs, Broken Bone China, Death by Darjeeling, Plum Tea Crazy, Seeped in Evil & Ming Tea Murder 

 

I never knew there were so many different flavors of tea! Each book introduces new (at least to me) flavors of tea, and, either in the text or as a footnote provides more detail on teas consumed by the characters. In addition, the books main tea shop serves pastries and other foods for which recipes are provided at the end of the book. The books are entertaining, educational, and, menu pleasing. The heroine of this series is Theodosia Brown, a fiery red-head who is also owner of the tea shop featured in the books. She is assisted in her sleuthing by her staff, Haley, a 20-ish cook extraordinaire; and, by Drayton, who tea maker. Together the trio work to solve a murder mystery which often draws one or all three into harm’s way. 

        Recipes, for scones, sandwiches, soups and other desserts served at the tea shop, are listed in

 

Broken Bone China, 2019

If you’ve ever been to a Hot-Air Balloon event you have firsthand knowledge of what a spectacular event it is. Theo and Drayton were at such an event when a drone flew into one of the balloons causing it to crash, killing three people. A list of suspect develops on who would have wanted to murder Don Kinsley, CEO of a local tech company is one of the people killed. The trail of the investigation reveals corporate secrets, false loyalties and, hidden affairs. So grab a cup of freshly brewed Assam tea and a lemon scones, cuddle on the couch and enjoy this cozy mystery.

 

 

Devonshire Scream, March 2016

Begins with fancy jewels show at local Charleston shop. It's a glamorous party with wine & appetizers.  All the characters are milling around ogling at the pricy gems.  Plot upticks quickly. With the roar of an engine, when an SUV smashes through the stores front windows. Glass flies everywhere, party attendees run for cover while the SUV occupants jump out, smash display cases, stuff millions of jewels into sacks, then exit in the SUV.  Local police refer to it as a 'smash n' grab.' Unfortunately, the niece of the store owner is killed because a piece of glass imbeds in her throat. This title has international intrigue as the police suspect a European Gang who famous for this type of crime.

 

Death by Darjeeling, May 2001

Theodosia Browning opened a small tea ship in Charleston, South Carolina. The shop sells tea by the cup, as well as selling a variety of tea/tea blends and curio items related to tea and tea service. The ambiance of the shop is enhanced by a fire place flanked be comfy chairs for relaxing and enjoying a cup of your favorite beverage. The kitchen is managed by a bright, young Haley who is an extraordinary chef. She creates scones, sweet breads, tea sandwiches, soups and salads to enhance their tea of the day and/or or for special events.

Charleston is a city with old-world charm and southern hospitality with enough historic sites to satisfy the preferences of tourists. The charm of the city is described in the opening sentences of Chapter 2: “Darkness had settled on Charleston like a soft, purple cloak. Palmettos swayed gently in the night breeze. Mourning doves that sheltered in spreading oak and pecan trees had long since tucked downy heads under fragile wings.’ However, this tranquility is “…shattered by the harsh strobe of red and blue lights…’* when a death is discovered. 

Once again Theo is drawn into the investigation. Reading to the end of the book in fascinating as Theo unravels the mystery and often aids the authorities in their investigation. 

(*Chapter 3, opening sentence.)



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