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Coffeehouse Mystery #20
Bulletproof Barista
When a film crew's location shoot delivers an actual shooting, Clare Cosi finds herself at the scene of a true crime in this showstopping entry in the beloved Coffeehouse Mysteries from New York Times bestselling author Cleo Coyle.
Only Murders in Gotham, the smash-hit streaming program, is famous for filming in authentic New York locations and using real New Yorkers as extras. For its second season, they've chosen to spotlight the century-old Village Blend and its quirky crew of baristas. Shop manager and master roaster Clare Cosi is beyond thrilled, especially when her superb bulletproof coffee lands her a craft services contract for the production.
Madame, the eccentric octogenarian owner of the landmark shop, reveals an old kinship with the star of the show, comedian Jerry Sullivan. Now a Hollywood legend, Jerry frequented the Blend during his early years performing in Greenwich Village comedy clubs. But the past may hold more than nostalgia for Jerry. Suspicious accidents begin plaguing his shoot. Then a real bullet is fired from a stage gun, and Clare becomes convinced something sinister is afoot.
While Jerry's production moves to exciting new locations, Clare keeps the coffee flowing—and her investigation going—even as a murderer lurks in the wings. But can she root out the rotten player in this Big Apple production before the lights go out on her? Includes a stellar menu of surefire recipes.
Praise for the Coffeehouse Mysteries
"Terrific series" —Criminal Element
"A wonderful series with plenty of local color, great characters, and a setting so real that readers will be scouring the streets of Greenwich Village looking for the real Village Blend." —The Mystery Reader
Only Murders in Gotham, the smash-hit streaming program, is famous for filming in authentic New York locations and using real New Yorkers as extras. For its second season, they've chosen to spotlight the century-old Village Blend and its quirky crew of baristas. Shop manager and master roaster Clare Cosi is beyond thrilled, especially when her superb bulletproof coffee lands her a craft services contract for the production.
Madame, the eccentric octogenarian owner of the landmark shop, reveals an old kinship with the star of the show, comedian Jerry Sullivan. Now a Hollywood legend, Jerry frequented the Blend during his early years performing in Greenwich Village comedy clubs. But the past may hold more than nostalgia for Jerry. Suspicious accidents begin plaguing his shoot. Then a real bullet is fired from a stage gun, and Clare becomes convinced something sinister is afoot.
While Jerry's production moves to exciting new locations, Clare keeps the coffee flowing—and her investigation going—even as a murderer lurks in the wings. But can she root out the rotten player in this Big Apple production before the lights go out on her? Includes a stellar menu of surefire recipes.
Praise for the Coffeehouse Mysteries
"Terrific series" —Criminal Element
"A wonderful series with plenty of local color, great characters, and a setting so real that readers will be scouring the streets of Greenwich Village looking for the real Village Blend." —The Mystery Reader
352 pages, Hardcover
First published November 14, 2023
406 people are currently reading
1524 people want to read
About the author
Cleo Coyle
52 books3,554 followersDon't miss the newest title in Cleo's long-running Coffeehouse Mystery series (with more to come),
NO ROAST FOR THE WEARY,
a National Mystery Bestseller and triple #1 Amazon Category Bestseller. Join Cleo's Coffee Club for bonus recipes and giveaways: Click Here to Subscribe to Cleo’s Free Newsletter
CLEO COYLE is the New York Times and Publishers Weekly bestselling pseudonym for Alice Alfonsi, writing in collaboration with her husband, Marc Cerasini. With more than 1 million books sold, they have gained an enthusiastic following. Cleo's "relenlessly entertaining" (Criminal Element) novels have been translated into Spanish, Japanese, and Czech. Their books have earned starred reviews from Library Journal and Kirkus, Best of Year selection honors from multiple reviewers, and have been recommended by Booklist as among the best culinary mysteries for core library mystery collections.
When not haunting coffeehouses, hunting ghosts, or wrangling their rescued stray cats, Alice and Marc are New York Times bestselling media tie-in writers who have penned properties for Lucasfilm, NBC, Fox, Disney, Imagine, Toho, and MGM. One of those projects (ghostwritten by Alice Alfonsi) was named by Entertainment Weekly as the best media tie-in book written that year.
CONNECT WITH CLEO at CleoCoyle.com and CoffeehouseMystery.com
*******
CLEO'S TWO BESTSELLING SERIES:
Cleo’s Coffeehouse Mystery series, celebrated for pioneering both the “urban cozy" and “coffee cozy” mystery genres, follows the adventures of amateur sleuth Clare Cosi, a single mom with a complicated love life who manages a Greenwich Village coffeehouse and a crew of quirky baristas who helps her solve perplexing crimes.
Cleo’s Haunted Bookshop Mystery series, hailed as a highly original and "utterly charming" (Mystery Scene) blend of cozy and hardboiled genres, features an earnest young New England widow who catches criminals with the help of a gumshoe ghost, the irrepressible spirit of a tough private detective who’d been gunned down in her bookshop decades before.
*******
LATEST BOOK NEWS:
The newest title in Cleo's long-running Coffeehouse Mystery series is NO ROAST FOR THE WEARY, on sale April 1st and already a national mystery bestseller and triple #1 Amazon category bestseller. Cleo's previous release, BULLETPROOF BARISTA, was a "wildly entertaining" (Criminal Elment) national mystery bestseller; a #1 category best seller for Amazon; and honored with 2 Best of Year list selections by reviewers. It is now availalbe in a new paperback reprint edition along with the previous bestselling book in the series, HONEY ROASTED, "A honey of a tale" (Kirkus Reviews).
Cleo's latest Haunted Bookshop Mystery releases include THE GHOST AND THE STOLEN TEARS, praised by Kirkus as "a gem of a story." And THE GHOST GOES TO THE DOGS, a #1 category best seller for Amazon, which Fresh Fiction called "amazing and unique." Cleo is now writing the next Haunted Bookshop Mystery. Subscribe to Cleo’s Free Newsletter for updates on the pub date!
CLEO COYLE is the New York Times and Publishers Weekly bestselling pseudonym for Alice Alfonsi, writing in collaboration with her husband, Marc Cerasini. With more than 1 million books sold, they have gained an enthusiastic following. Cleo's "relenlessly entertaining" (Criminal Element) novels have been translated into Spanish, Japanese, and Czech. Their books have earned starred reviews from Library Journal and Kirkus, Best of Year selection honors from multiple reviewers, and have been recommended by Booklist as among the best culinary mysteries for core library mystery collections.
When not haunting coffeehouses, hunting ghosts, or wrangling their rescued stray cats, Alice and Marc are New York Times bestselling media tie-in writers who have penned properties for Lucasfilm, NBC, Fox, Disney, Imagine, Toho, and MGM. One of those projects (ghostwritten by Alice Alfonsi) was named by Entertainment Weekly as the best media tie-in book written that year.
CONNECT WITH CLEO at CleoCoyle.com and CoffeehouseMystery.com
*******
CLEO'S TWO BESTSELLING SERIES:
Cleo’s Coffeehouse Mystery series, celebrated for pioneering both the “urban cozy" and “coffee cozy” mystery genres, follows the adventures of amateur sleuth Clare Cosi, a single mom with a complicated love life who manages a Greenwich Village coffeehouse and a crew of quirky baristas who helps her solve perplexing crimes.
Cleo’s Haunted Bookshop Mystery series, hailed as a highly original and "utterly charming" (Mystery Scene) blend of cozy and hardboiled genres, features an earnest young New England widow who catches criminals with the help of a gumshoe ghost, the irrepressible spirit of a tough private detective who’d been gunned down in her bookshop decades before.
*******
LATEST BOOK NEWS:
The newest title in Cleo's long-running Coffeehouse Mystery series is NO ROAST FOR THE WEARY, on sale April 1st and already a national mystery bestseller and triple #1 Amazon category bestseller. Cleo's previous release, BULLETPROOF BARISTA, was a "wildly entertaining" (Criminal Elment) national mystery bestseller; a #1 category best seller for Amazon; and honored with 2 Best of Year list selections by reviewers. It is now availalbe in a new paperback reprint edition along with the previous bestselling book in the series, HONEY ROASTED, "A honey of a tale" (Kirkus Reviews).
Cleo's latest Haunted Bookshop Mystery releases include THE GHOST AND THE STOLEN TEARS, praised by Kirkus as "a gem of a story." And THE GHOST GOES TO THE DOGS, a #1 category best seller for Amazon, which Fresh Fiction called "amazing and unique." Cleo is now writing the next Haunted Bookshop Mystery. Subscribe to Cleo’s Free Newsletter for updates on the pub date!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
November 20, 2023
I haven’t read any of the other books in this series and was worried I’d miss a lot but I was wrong. Great book! I can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
November 28, 2023
If you want a fun, fast read with bits of coffee house atmosphere and crime scene intrigue, try this 20th installment of the Coffeehouse series. I read them all and this is one of the best!
The characters are so well developed and interesting you will miss them once the story ends.
Do what I do when I get the new Coffeehouse series book, go to your favorite coffee house, order up a large latte and streusel muffin then begin your read. Two more lattes later you will find out who done it and be sorry to see the line up of characters go at the end of the book because many are now your new found friends.
Enjoy.
The characters are so well developed and interesting you will miss them once the story ends.
Do what I do when I get the new Coffeehouse series book, go to your favorite coffee house, order up a large latte and streusel muffin then begin your read. Two more lattes later you will find out who done it and be sorry to see the line up of characters go at the end of the book because many are now your new found friends.
Enjoy.
October 18, 2023
Cleo Coyle returns with another installment to the Coffeehouse Mystery series. In BULLETPROOF BARISTA, excitement spreads at the Village Blend as a popular streaming show, Only Murders in Gotham, decides to shoot at their beloved coffeehouse. However, when a real shooting and crime occurs during the filming, Clare and the rest of her crew are shocked and concerned. Can they find out who the killer is before another death occurs?
I’ve always enjoyed the scenarios that Coyle brings to their books. However, this one just might be one of my favorites. I loved the idea of the show shooting at the Village Blend. Much like the patrons and the crew, I felt excited about the prospect, knowing that it would bring a lot of excitement and intrigue to the book. And boy, I was definitely right! This book has amazing pacing, excellent dialogue and a fantastic mystery to top it all off! I couldn’t have asked for more.
Another great thing about this series is that the characters continue to grow on you more and more. Although Clare still remains my favorites, there are so many other fantastic characters in this series that I’ve grown very fond of. I enjoy coming back to this series again and again.
You definitely don’t want to miss out on BULLETPROOF BARISTA! Cleo Coyle aims and hits reader’s right in the heart with this one!
I’ve always enjoyed the scenarios that Coyle brings to their books. However, this one just might be one of my favorites. I loved the idea of the show shooting at the Village Blend. Much like the patrons and the crew, I felt excited about the prospect, knowing that it would bring a lot of excitement and intrigue to the book. And boy, I was definitely right! This book has amazing pacing, excellent dialogue and a fantastic mystery to top it all off! I couldn’t have asked for more.
Another great thing about this series is that the characters continue to grow on you more and more. Although Clare still remains my favorites, there are so many other fantastic characters in this series that I’ve grown very fond of. I enjoy coming back to this series again and again.
You definitely don’t want to miss out on BULLETPROOF BARISTA! Cleo Coyle aims and hits reader’s right in the heart with this one!
January 4, 2024
Absolutely loved it. All the regulars plus a film crew and a really good plot made this a winner. Loved how the killer was trapped, totally unexpected.
December 27, 2023
Whenever I pick up one of Cleo Coyle’s Coffeehouse Mysteries, I feel like I’m hanging out in my favorite coffee shop with old friends! I can practically smell the coffee brewing, and my mouth waters thinking about their delicious goodies. I love hanging out with manager Clare Cosi and the Village Blend staff. I can’t believe Bulletproof Barista is the 20th book in this wonderful series that shows no signs of slowing down. Some series start feeling stale by this point, but not this one! It is just as fun and well done as the 19 books before it.
In Bulletproof Barista, a popular streaming show called Only Murders in Gotham is filming at the Village Blend. This show is famous for filming in real New York locations and using real New Yorkers as extras. Clare is thrilled that Village Blend was chosen, not only for the publicity but also because she is a huge fan of the lead actor, Hollywood legend Jerry Sulivan. When an unfortunate incident involving the show’s craft services puts one of the film’s crew in the hospital, Clare and her crew are called upon to take on that role. When a real bullet is fired from a prop gun that could have killed one of Clare’s baristas working as an extra, she knows she has to get to the bottom of what is really going on before someone dies. As she investigates, she learns that the cast and crew are full of secrets, and that Madame, the owner of the shop, has her own secrets and a connection to Jerry from the past.
Even though Jerry swears her to secrecy for the sake of the show while she investigates, Clare finds a way to carefully share her situation with her fiancé Detective Mike Quinn and he helps her out with information where he can. Could Mike’s current drug investigation tie into what’s happening on set? Could a crazy fan of Jerry’s be behind all of this?
This mystery is filled with twists and turns that kept me guessing and turning the pages to find out what happens next. I loved the obvious homage of Only Murders in Gotham to the wonderful streaming show on Hulu, Only Murders in the Building. It made a great book even more fun, and I totally pictured Steve Martin in my head as Jerry. But the best part of this series is the eccentric and delightful characters, the setting, and the coffee! Clare is tough, smart, witty, and never gives up. Her baristas are interesting and fun. Her ex-husband Matt is always ready to help and come to the rescue when needed. Madame (who is also Matt’s mother) is delightful. And Clare’s romance with Mike is both spicy and sweet. The Village Blend is the kind of coffee shop you wish you could hang out at in real life, and I can’t wait to try out the delicious recipes in the back of the book.
While this book can easily stand on its own, I highly recommend reading the entire series—you won’t regret it. If you love coffee, great characters, a wonderful setting, and a well-written mystery, be sure to check out Bulletproof Barista, as well as the rest of the Coffeehouse Mysteries.
In Bulletproof Barista, a popular streaming show called Only Murders in Gotham is filming at the Village Blend. This show is famous for filming in real New York locations and using real New Yorkers as extras. Clare is thrilled that Village Blend was chosen, not only for the publicity but also because she is a huge fan of the lead actor, Hollywood legend Jerry Sulivan. When an unfortunate incident involving the show’s craft services puts one of the film’s crew in the hospital, Clare and her crew are called upon to take on that role. When a real bullet is fired from a prop gun that could have killed one of Clare’s baristas working as an extra, she knows she has to get to the bottom of what is really going on before someone dies. As she investigates, she learns that the cast and crew are full of secrets, and that Madame, the owner of the shop, has her own secrets and a connection to Jerry from the past.
Even though Jerry swears her to secrecy for the sake of the show while she investigates, Clare finds a way to carefully share her situation with her fiancé Detective Mike Quinn and he helps her out with information where he can. Could Mike’s current drug investigation tie into what’s happening on set? Could a crazy fan of Jerry’s be behind all of this?
This mystery is filled with twists and turns that kept me guessing and turning the pages to find out what happens next. I loved the obvious homage of Only Murders in Gotham to the wonderful streaming show on Hulu, Only Murders in the Building. It made a great book even more fun, and I totally pictured Steve Martin in my head as Jerry. But the best part of this series is the eccentric and delightful characters, the setting, and the coffee! Clare is tough, smart, witty, and never gives up. Her baristas are interesting and fun. Her ex-husband Matt is always ready to help and come to the rescue when needed. Madame (who is also Matt’s mother) is delightful. And Clare’s romance with Mike is both spicy and sweet. The Village Blend is the kind of coffee shop you wish you could hang out at in real life, and I can’t wait to try out the delicious recipes in the back of the book.
While this book can easily stand on its own, I highly recommend reading the entire series—you won’t regret it. If you love coffee, great characters, a wonderful setting, and a well-written mystery, be sure to check out Bulletproof Barista, as well as the rest of the Coffeehouse Mysteries.
December 7, 2023
I not only have read all 20 of the Coffeehouse Mysteries, I own them.
I have to say, this was my least favorite of them all. The story was too drawn out, and the relationships are getting stale, i.e.
Claire and Mike panting after one another every second.
I'm a character driven reader, and I could have cared less about the supporting cast in this story .
This has been a great series, but this one, not so much!
I have to say, this was my least favorite of them all. The story was too drawn out, and the relationships are getting stale, i.e.
Claire and Mike panting after one another every second.
I'm a character driven reader, and I could have cared less about the supporting cast in this story .
This has been a great series, but this one, not so much!
April 22, 2025
Cleo Coyle did it again! Just when I thought I knew who did it the table turned. If your looking for a edge of your seat mystery then the Bulletproof Barista is that book. The Village Blend gang never disappoints.
January 29, 2024
Just as great as the first book.
I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters at the Village Blend are always fun to read about. I like making recipes from the books too. I recommend reading it.
I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters at the Village Blend are always fun to read about. I like making recipes from the books too. I recommend reading it.
January 16, 2024
I just love this series.
November 14, 2023
Bulletproof Barista by Cleo Coyle is the first book I’ve read in this series (A Coffeehouse Mystery) though it’s the twentieth book! I’ve wanted to read them before, but I was afraid I’d be really lost. Since I was told that this book was a good place for new readers of the series to start, I gave it a read. It’s true! I wasn’t at all lost or confused about the characters. The authors do a great job at making you feel as if you already know them. They provide you with plenty of information, so you won’t be lost! Jump in here with me!
The premise of this book was so much fun. A streaming network is filming scenes for their hit show, Only Murders in Gotham, at the Village Blend, the coffeehouse setting of this series. Clare Cosi is the manager of Village Blend and the main character in the Coffeehouse Mystery series. She’s obviously thrilled that Only Murders in Gotham is filming in the coffeehouse, and she and the baristas are elated that they’re going to be extras in the episodes filmed there. But, when a crew member is rushed to the hospital after consuming a competitor’s coffee and one of the baristas is shot with a real bullet that was supposed to be a blank, Clare knows that danger lurks on the set.
I really enjoyed Bulletproof Barista, and I’m glad I didn’t worry about reading 19 books first! I thought that the characters were very realistic, and when Clare got to meet one of her favorite actors, I could see myself fan-girling right along with her. The baristas who work for Clare are all quirky and delightful. Clare’s ex Matt, who is the coffee buyer for Village Blend, is kind of a piece of work but also kind of a really great guy. You’ll see when you read this! I love Clare’s NYPD “OD Squad” Detective boyfriend, Mike Quinn. I know many women say they don’t like protective men, but as long as they aren’t controlling, I say, “Protect away!” I’d love to be protected by a guy like Mike. Matt’s mom, Madame, has owned Village Blend for decades. I adore her. She’s smart, sweet, savvy, and so much more! I can’t do her justice in a couple of sentences, and you’ll enjoy getting to know her through the book. The actors, crew, body guards, etc. are written so well that you’ll start to think you know them… You don’t! Of course, no one is based on real-life people, but because of Coyle’s descriptive writing, you’ll think they are!
The frenetic pace of the cast and crew make the mystery so much harder to solve! Just like on a “real” set, there are down times, but there’s no time for downtime in this cozy mystery. It takes you to different parts of the city and gives you lots of suspects. Plus, you never know who the next victim will be. I enjoyed the different settings with some being calming and cozy and others having a colder, industrial feel. Following the twists and turns in this mystery may make you feel as if you’ve had a triple espresso from Village Blend! Get ready for the rush!
I highly recommend Bulletproof Barista for its variety of exceptional characters, alternating settings, and twisty, turny mystery! I’m looking forward to the next Coffeehouse Mystery from Cleo Coyle!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
The premise of this book was so much fun. A streaming network is filming scenes for their hit show, Only Murders in Gotham, at the Village Blend, the coffeehouse setting of this series. Clare Cosi is the manager of Village Blend and the main character in the Coffeehouse Mystery series. She’s obviously thrilled that Only Murders in Gotham is filming in the coffeehouse, and she and the baristas are elated that they’re going to be extras in the episodes filmed there. But, when a crew member is rushed to the hospital after consuming a competitor’s coffee and one of the baristas is shot with a real bullet that was supposed to be a blank, Clare knows that danger lurks on the set.
I really enjoyed Bulletproof Barista, and I’m glad I didn’t worry about reading 19 books first! I thought that the characters were very realistic, and when Clare got to meet one of her favorite actors, I could see myself fan-girling right along with her. The baristas who work for Clare are all quirky and delightful. Clare’s ex Matt, who is the coffee buyer for Village Blend, is kind of a piece of work but also kind of a really great guy. You’ll see when you read this! I love Clare’s NYPD “OD Squad” Detective boyfriend, Mike Quinn. I know many women say they don’t like protective men, but as long as they aren’t controlling, I say, “Protect away!” I’d love to be protected by a guy like Mike. Matt’s mom, Madame, has owned Village Blend for decades. I adore her. She’s smart, sweet, savvy, and so much more! I can’t do her justice in a couple of sentences, and you’ll enjoy getting to know her through the book. The actors, crew, body guards, etc. are written so well that you’ll start to think you know them… You don’t! Of course, no one is based on real-life people, but because of Coyle’s descriptive writing, you’ll think they are!
The frenetic pace of the cast and crew make the mystery so much harder to solve! Just like on a “real” set, there are down times, but there’s no time for downtime in this cozy mystery. It takes you to different parts of the city and gives you lots of suspects. Plus, you never know who the next victim will be. I enjoyed the different settings with some being calming and cozy and others having a colder, industrial feel. Following the twists and turns in this mystery may make you feel as if you’ve had a triple espresso from Village Blend! Get ready for the rush!
I highly recommend Bulletproof Barista for its variety of exceptional characters, alternating settings, and twisty, turny mystery! I’m looking forward to the next Coffeehouse Mystery from Cleo Coyle!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
February 2, 2024
To note, this is the first entry of the series that I have read before. I have a whole list of nineteen books I might have to go catch up on now. It was a quick, fun read. If you like mystery shows like Columbo, cannot see why you would not like this book.
November 14, 2023
Bulletproof Barista
By Cleo Coyle
Pub Date: 14 Nov 2023
Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley
Mystery & Thrillers
Rating: 4.25/5
Cleo Coyle's Bulletproof Barista is book #20 in the Coffeehouse Mystery series. With an engaging story filled with loveable characters, Cleo Coyle's Bulletproof Barista is a delightful mystery regardless of whether the reader is familiar with the series. The mystery is well-crafted and the characters are well-developed. The setting is vivid and the plot is compelling. This intriguing mystery by Cleo Coyle kept me hooked to the very end.
Clare's coffeeshop Village Blend is hosting renown comedian Jerry Sullivan. In an unexpected move, he invites her to join his show. Clare uncovers a plot to sabotage Jerry's hit show, and that plan leads to murder. When Clare becomes involved in a murder mystery, her life is turned upside down, and she must race against time to uncover the truth. Using her wits and savvy, she must track down the mysterious killer before it's too late.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to review Bulletproof Barista. Alice Alfonsi writes under the pseudonym Cleo Coyle in collaboration with her husband, Marc Cerasini. The Coffeehouse Mysteries have been published for twenty years now, and both authors have been New York Times bestselling authors. Cleo Coyle's books have garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards. In the cozy mystery genre, this series is beloved. Cleo Coyle's books have been translated into multiple languages and are available in print and e-book formats.
By Cleo Coyle
Pub Date: 14 Nov 2023
Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley
Mystery & Thrillers
Rating: 4.25/5
Cleo Coyle's Bulletproof Barista is book #20 in the Coffeehouse Mystery series. With an engaging story filled with loveable characters, Cleo Coyle's Bulletproof Barista is a delightful mystery regardless of whether the reader is familiar with the series. The mystery is well-crafted and the characters are well-developed. The setting is vivid and the plot is compelling. This intriguing mystery by Cleo Coyle kept me hooked to the very end.
Clare's coffeeshop Village Blend is hosting renown comedian Jerry Sullivan. In an unexpected move, he invites her to join his show. Clare uncovers a plot to sabotage Jerry's hit show, and that plan leads to murder. When Clare becomes involved in a murder mystery, her life is turned upside down, and she must race against time to uncover the truth. Using her wits and savvy, she must track down the mysterious killer before it's too late.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to review Bulletproof Barista. Alice Alfonsi writes under the pseudonym Cleo Coyle in collaboration with her husband, Marc Cerasini. The Coffeehouse Mysteries have been published for twenty years now, and both authors have been New York Times bestselling authors. Cleo Coyle's books have garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards. In the cozy mystery genre, this series is beloved. Cleo Coyle's books have been translated into multiple languages and are available in print and e-book formats.
November 18, 2023
Start by saying a great series. I absolutely love the cast/family of staff at the coffee shop. Was an interesting addition to the series. I really enjoyed it. Along with it being a great mystery, this book makes you feel like your really there. A place you can visit or would want to visit. I hope there are many more in this series. What's funny is I don't even like coffee, but I love learning about it in this series.
November 18, 2023
I couldn’t put this book down!
It’s like visiting with loved characters and a new adventure ensues. The writing is crisp and moves you along the storyline. I thoroughly enjoyed this book (and the many recipes) and eagerly look forward to number 21. Well done Cleo!
It’s like visiting with loved characters and a new adventure ensues. The writing is crisp and moves you along the storyline. I thoroughly enjoyed this book (and the many recipes) and eagerly look forward to number 21. Well done Cleo!
November 29, 2023
Bulletproof barista
Another hit for Claire! Keeps you trying to guess who is doing all these things. Makes you think you are right there in the city. Even though this is number 20. You can read any of them but I recommend starting at one!
Another hit for Claire! Keeps you trying to guess who is doing all these things. Makes you think you are right there in the city. Even though this is number 20. You can read any of them but I recommend starting at one!
January 2, 2024
Once again, I feel like I'm hanging out with old friends. It is written in a way that makes you feel like you are right there. If you haven't given this series a try, I highly recommend it. You won't be disappointed. Give the recipes a try too :)
January 8, 2024
What a fun way to start the year. This mystery kept me wanting to keep reading. I could barley put this book down. Chapters are short making it feel like a TV Show. The descriptive language and narration was well written and enjoyable. I recommend for anyone who wants an entertaining mystery.
December 22, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars (Outstanding) I enjoyed all of the Bulletproof Barista books! I’ve read them all!
November 29, 2023
Cleo Coyle does it again. The books in this series (I've read every one) are always entertaining
December 6, 2023
Another good read. This one kept me guessing until the end.
January 7, 2024
I love this storyline! The characters felt more dynamic and interesting.
November 13, 2023
Dollycas's Thoughts
Clare Cosi was smiling ear to ear when she learned that a hit streaming show Only Murders in Gotham would be filming at, in front of, and around the Village Blend. She is a huge fan of one of the show's stars, comedian Jerry Sullivan and she has been absolutely gushing about him and his career. She didn't know he had quite a history at the Village Blend and with Madame, her ex-mother-in-law and owner of the coffeehouse though. He did do his best to help everyone feel at ease around himself, his crew, and other members of the cast. He couldn't wait to try Clare's bulletproof coffee and he liked it so much that he gave her the craft services contract.
Shortly after the production started rehearsing and filming strange "accidents" began to happen. One man was severely injured on a stage, another appeared to be poisoned right in front of the coffeehouse, and then a live bullet was fired from a prop gun. Thankfully the victim was wearing a bulletproof vest. Clare knows these are not harmless pranks or accidents, someone is trying to sabotage the show.
With the cast and crew spending so much time at Village Blend Clare has the opportunity to start her own investigation but if she's not careful she could be the killer's next victim and a cup of bulletproof coffee won't be able to save her.
_____
I love the theme of this story. A show shooting at Village Blend is so New York. It is clear that the author drew inspiration from Only Murders in the Building with Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez. A show I sadly have fallen behind watching but have seen enough of to see the parallels between the two shows.
The production does bring all kinds of new characters into the story. Each it seems has their own agenda and secrets. Clare comes in contact with all of them so it should be easy for her to figure out what is going on. Mike would like Clare to leave any investigating to the police but he is busy with his own cases, so much so he even asks her for some help. I like that Matt is around for Clare and that she even gets some one-on-one time with Madame where she learns some pertinent information. All the employees at Village Blend really got involved in this storyline too. There were a lot of characters to keep straight but Ms. Coyle does an excellent job at creating characters that are unique and memorable.
Ms. Coyle gives readers a look at all the drama that happens behind the scenes of a successful show. The fan club president, the grips, the gaffer, the costumes, the prop master, the director, the actors, and the craft services. It takes a lot of people to bring a show to our television screens. In this story, there is also "The Player" would has a mission all their own. Clare really had her eyes opened as she saw how cut-throat show business really is.
There is a lot going on within these pages. Injuries, death, drugs, stalking, secrets, lies, a snake, a bulletproof barista, and more are all twisted together to make a heck of a story. Twists and turns galore make this a very hard book to put down which is something I have come to expect from this author so I plan accordingly. I enjoyed the way all the way all the clues came together for Clare but what I loved was that she had a plan to expose the killer and she got all the right people on board. That showdown was fabulous.
I can't believe this is the 20th book in the series and how far the core characters have come. Honey Roasted is still my favorite but BulletProof Barista is impressive too. Readers had to wait a while for this book. I hope we don't have to wait as long for the next one because I am beyond excited to see what the author has in store for these characters next.
Clare Cosi was smiling ear to ear when she learned that a hit streaming show Only Murders in Gotham would be filming at, in front of, and around the Village Blend. She is a huge fan of one of the show's stars, comedian Jerry Sullivan and she has been absolutely gushing about him and his career. She didn't know he had quite a history at the Village Blend and with Madame, her ex-mother-in-law and owner of the coffeehouse though. He did do his best to help everyone feel at ease around himself, his crew, and other members of the cast. He couldn't wait to try Clare's bulletproof coffee and he liked it so much that he gave her the craft services contract.
Shortly after the production started rehearsing and filming strange "accidents" began to happen. One man was severely injured on a stage, another appeared to be poisoned right in front of the coffeehouse, and then a live bullet was fired from a prop gun. Thankfully the victim was wearing a bulletproof vest. Clare knows these are not harmless pranks or accidents, someone is trying to sabotage the show.
With the cast and crew spending so much time at Village Blend Clare has the opportunity to start her own investigation but if she's not careful she could be the killer's next victim and a cup of bulletproof coffee won't be able to save her.
_____
I love the theme of this story. A show shooting at Village Blend is so New York. It is clear that the author drew inspiration from Only Murders in the Building with Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez. A show I sadly have fallen behind watching but have seen enough of to see the parallels between the two shows.
The production does bring all kinds of new characters into the story. Each it seems has their own agenda and secrets. Clare comes in contact with all of them so it should be easy for her to figure out what is going on. Mike would like Clare to leave any investigating to the police but he is busy with his own cases, so much so he even asks her for some help. I like that Matt is around for Clare and that she even gets some one-on-one time with Madame where she learns some pertinent information. All the employees at Village Blend really got involved in this storyline too. There were a lot of characters to keep straight but Ms. Coyle does an excellent job at creating characters that are unique and memorable.
Ms. Coyle gives readers a look at all the drama that happens behind the scenes of a successful show. The fan club president, the grips, the gaffer, the costumes, the prop master, the director, the actors, and the craft services. It takes a lot of people to bring a show to our television screens. In this story, there is also "The Player" would has a mission all their own. Clare really had her eyes opened as she saw how cut-throat show business really is.
There is a lot going on within these pages. Injuries, death, drugs, stalking, secrets, lies, a snake, a bulletproof barista, and more are all twisted together to make a heck of a story. Twists and turns galore make this a very hard book to put down which is something I have come to expect from this author so I plan accordingly. I enjoyed the way all the way all the clues came together for Clare but what I loved was that she had a plan to expose the killer and she got all the right people on board. That showdown was fabulous.
I can't believe this is the 20th book in the series and how far the core characters have come. Honey Roasted is still my favorite but BulletProof Barista is impressive too. Readers had to wait a while for this book. I hope we don't have to wait as long for the next one because I am beyond excited to see what the author has in store for these characters next.
February 4, 2024
20 is the magic number!
This series keeps getting better and better! There aren’t many series that get to their 20th book and still keep the quality of writing at the level of the beginning, but the coffeehouse series does it!
We get all our beloved regular characters, plus lots of new ones (who might sound like some famous people you know). I love how Cleo Coyle manages to craft a really good mystery, while keeping us enthralled with the characters we’ve come to know and love! I am very good at guessing “whodunnit” almost immediately in all books, shows and movies, but I never really know until right up until the end who the killer is with this wonderful series and this book in particular. There are lots of good red herrings, plus you get so involved in all that’s going on you forget everything else.
These books are what cozy mysteries used to be, well written, great characters and a true mystery all in the same book. So many out there now try to cash in on a theme, but the writing is terrible, the mystery non-existent and they just can’t keep you reading. This series never fails to deliver, which is amazing because they put out a new book each year and the amount of detail and research that must go into each one is astounding so the fact that the writing has stayed top notch and the mysteries real and believable is incredible. Plus, even though Clare owns the coffeehouse and there will always be details about coffee and related things (especially food and cooking), each book has its own stand alone theme with tons of details. For instance, this particular book follows the filming a streaming TV show and gives all sorts of information about what the behind the scenes of that entails, and the information is accurate. This is an author (team) that really does their homework and the proof is in the reading.
I love following Clare, Mike, Matt, Madame, Ester, Dante, Tuck and all the crew as well as getting new people to love (and hate). Also, as a New Yorker, I enjoy the way the city itself always plays a character in the books!
I continue to love this series after the 20th book and so will you. Don’t miss this one, or frankly any of the books in this series, they aren’t smaltzy “hallmark” offerings, but real mysteries with real characters, who live in a real world (created beautifully by the authors). The fact that it’s fun to follow along is a huge bonus!
This series keeps getting better and better! There aren’t many series that get to their 20th book and still keep the quality of writing at the level of the beginning, but the coffeehouse series does it!
We get all our beloved regular characters, plus lots of new ones (who might sound like some famous people you know). I love how Cleo Coyle manages to craft a really good mystery, while keeping us enthralled with the characters we’ve come to know and love! I am very good at guessing “whodunnit” almost immediately in all books, shows and movies, but I never really know until right up until the end who the killer is with this wonderful series and this book in particular. There are lots of good red herrings, plus you get so involved in all that’s going on you forget everything else.
These books are what cozy mysteries used to be, well written, great characters and a true mystery all in the same book. So many out there now try to cash in on a theme, but the writing is terrible, the mystery non-existent and they just can’t keep you reading. This series never fails to deliver, which is amazing because they put out a new book each year and the amount of detail and research that must go into each one is astounding so the fact that the writing has stayed top notch and the mysteries real and believable is incredible. Plus, even though Clare owns the coffeehouse and there will always be details about coffee and related things (especially food and cooking), each book has its own stand alone theme with tons of details. For instance, this particular book follows the filming a streaming TV show and gives all sorts of information about what the behind the scenes of that entails, and the information is accurate. This is an author (team) that really does their homework and the proof is in the reading.
I love following Clare, Mike, Matt, Madame, Ester, Dante, Tuck and all the crew as well as getting new people to love (and hate). Also, as a New Yorker, I enjoy the way the city itself always plays a character in the books!
I continue to love this series after the 20th book and so will you. Don’t miss this one, or frankly any of the books in this series, they aren’t smaltzy “hallmark” offerings, but real mysteries with real characters, who live in a real world (created beautifully by the authors). The fact that it’s fun to follow along is a huge bonus!
February 26, 2024
This is the twentieth book in the coffee house series. A tv show is filming outside the Village Blend. As production on the show starts someone is poisoned. Next, a prop gun was shot with real bullets. Clearly there is a threat and Clare is determined to find out what is going on.
This series is always a go to for me. I love the characters and the setting. These books are always so well written and I enjoy every one of them.
This series is always a go to for me. I love the characters and the setting. These books are always so well written and I enjoy every one of them.
January 17, 2024
Having read this entire series, I can honestly say that each new adventure is as fresh and exciting as the others! I never miss the opportunity to read a new Cleo Coyle novel! The characters are delightful and have become friends of mine after all of these years! The mysteries to be solved are challenging and creative each and every time!
February 17, 2024
Another great book in the series. The film they are making was fun to hear about. Seeing Claire go to work investigating the things happening on set with the blessing of her fiance was very different. This mystery had me guessing until the very end.
December 4, 2023
Love this series!
December 14, 2023
It sure was lovely to read about the whole gang at Village Blend again.
November 6, 2023
" Mind over matter, the Player decided. When you matter,no one minds. Well, now is the time to matter. And act. To cover your tracks."
In this, the 20th (!) In the series, The Village Blend has been tapped to be part of "Only Murders in Gotham": a popular streaming service show. With it come the hassles of filming, the stars ( some of whom have history with the coffee house in the past) and whether they can weather catering the needs of the cast and crew. Security? The show has that covered. However, what happens when a real bullet is fired instead of the fake one expected? And other "accidents" happen. Question is why and who is doing it.
As per usual, Cleo Coyle's stories continue to entertain. I was riveted from page one and read it in one day. So, settle in with your favorite beverage and come visit the Village Blend, where mystery is always on the menu! Highly Recommended 5/5
[ Disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily read and reviewed it]
In this, the 20th (!) In the series, The Village Blend has been tapped to be part of "Only Murders in Gotham": a popular streaming service show. With it come the hassles of filming, the stars ( some of whom have history with the coffee house in the past) and whether they can weather catering the needs of the cast and crew. Security? The show has that covered. However, what happens when a real bullet is fired instead of the fake one expected? And other "accidents" happen. Question is why and who is doing it.
As per usual, Cleo Coyle's stories continue to entertain. I was riveted from page one and read it in one day. So, settle in with your favorite beverage and come visit the Village Blend, where mystery is always on the menu! Highly Recommended 5/5
[ Disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily read and reviewed it]
December 12, 2023
I'm late coming to the Coffeehouse mystery series. This is only the second one I've read, but the book stands alone w/out having read the others. It's an entertaining, lighthearted mystery, with twists, turns, great plot lines and is very engaging. It's a fun read I didn't want to put down. The characters are well developed, and the plot is interesting, taking you to behind the scene drama and interpersonal dynamics of a successful TV series production. Really looking forward to another one in this series.
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