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Oxford Tearoom Mysteries #4
Till Death Do Us Tart
When Oxfordshire tearoom owner, Gemma Rose, enters her little tabby, Muesli, in the cat show at the local village fair, the last thing she expects is to stumble across a murder.
And when her meddling mother and the nosy Old Biddies decide to start their own investigation, Gemma has no choice but to join in the sleuthing. She soon finds there’s something much more sinister sandwiched between the home-made Victoria sponge cakes and luscious jam tarts …
But murder isn’t the only thing on Gemma’s mind: there’s the desperate house-hunting that’s going nowhere, the freaky kitchen explosions at her quaint English tearoom and an offer from her handsome detective boyfriend that she can’t refuse!
With things about to reach boiling point, can Gemma solve the mystery before the killer strikes again?
** Traditional Victoria sponge cake recipe at the end of the story!
This book follows British English spelling and usage.
Clean read: no graphic violence, sex, or strong language.
Genre: humorous culinary, cat cozy mystery series / women amateur sleuth / British mystery
And when her meddling mother and the nosy Old Biddies decide to start their own investigation, Gemma has no choice but to join in the sleuthing. She soon finds there’s something much more sinister sandwiched between the home-made Victoria sponge cakes and luscious jam tarts …
But murder isn’t the only thing on Gemma’s mind: there’s the desperate house-hunting that’s going nowhere, the freaky kitchen explosions at her quaint English tearoom and an offer from her handsome detective boyfriend that she can’t refuse!
With things about to reach boiling point, can Gemma solve the mystery before the killer strikes again?
** Traditional Victoria sponge cake recipe at the end of the story!
This book follows British English spelling and usage.
Clean read: no graphic violence, sex, or strong language.
Genre: humorous culinary, cat cozy mystery series / women amateur sleuth / British mystery
Kindle Edition
First published July 5, 2016
1311 people are currently reading
1047 people want to read
About the author
H.Y. Hanna
66 books1,090 followersUSA Today bestselling author H.Y. Hanna has written over 30 mystery novels, many of which have been translated into several languages. Her mysteries blend humour and clever plotting with vivid settings, featuring quirky characters - and cats with big personalities! After spending years trying to fit in and do a “real” job, Hsin-Yi finally returned to her first love: writing.
Throughout her life, she has called many places home—from Taiwan to Oxford, Dubai to New Zealand. She’s finally unpacked for good in Perth, Western Australia, where she spends most days fighting with her rescue cat Muesli for the use of her office chair.
You can learn more about her and her books at: www.hyhanna.com
And don’t forget to join her newsletter to get updates on new releases, exclusive giveaways and other book news—as well as a free novella and short story! Go to: www.hyhanna.com/newsletter
Throughout her life, she has called many places home—from Taiwan to Oxford, Dubai to New Zealand. She’s finally unpacked for good in Perth, Western Australia, where she spends most days fighting with her rescue cat Muesli for the use of her office chair.
You can learn more about her and her books at: www.hyhanna.com
And don’t forget to join her newsletter to get updates on new releases, exclusive giveaways and other book news—as well as a free novella and short story! Go to: www.hyhanna.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
August 31, 2019
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In the fourth volume of this series, Gemma's high-society mother decides that Emma's mongrel cat should be entered into competition since he is so darn cute. There is a lot of anxiety among the owners of the contestants and before long one of the most hateful people around dies right in front of them after eating what they all ate. The shy and timid daughter is devastated over her mother's death. Others were not as saddened.
It was a pleasant surprise to discover this excellent cozy mystery series by H. Y. Hanna. Gemma Rose, the main character, recently returned to Oxford and opened a tea shop, saying goodbye to the corporate world she had been engrossed in for the previous eight years. Let the fun begin!
Oxford Tearoom Mysteries is the prime example of a formula many cozy mysteries seem to contain. It includes a woman sleuth, small pet, two love interests - one of which is a detective with the local police department that makes her blood hum and her heart pitter patter, interfering mother, and her own little tea shop.
When Gemma's meddling mother and the nosy Old Biddies decide to start their own investigation, Gemma has no choice but to join in the sleuthing. But murder isn't the only thing on Gemma's mind: there's the desperate house-hunting that's going nowhere, the freaky kitchen explosions at her quaint English tearoom and an offer from her handsome detective boyfriend that she can't refuse!
This is a clean and wholesome read that is able to stand on its own, although the reader might glean additional insight by reading the series in order.
In the fourth volume of this series, Gemma's high-society mother decides that Emma's mongrel cat should be entered into competition since he is so darn cute. There is a lot of anxiety among the owners of the contestants and before long one of the most hateful people around dies right in front of them after eating what they all ate. The shy and timid daughter is devastated over her mother's death. Others were not as saddened.
It was a pleasant surprise to discover this excellent cozy mystery series by H. Y. Hanna. Gemma Rose, the main character, recently returned to Oxford and opened a tea shop, saying goodbye to the corporate world she had been engrossed in for the previous eight years. Let the fun begin!
Oxford Tearoom Mysteries is the prime example of a formula many cozy mysteries seem to contain. It includes a woman sleuth, small pet, two love interests - one of which is a detective with the local police department that makes her blood hum and her heart pitter patter, interfering mother, and her own little tea shop.
When Gemma's meddling mother and the nosy Old Biddies decide to start their own investigation, Gemma has no choice but to join in the sleuthing. But murder isn't the only thing on Gemma's mind: there's the desperate house-hunting that's going nowhere, the freaky kitchen explosions at her quaint English tearoom and an offer from her handsome detective boyfriend that she can't refuse!
This is a clean and wholesome read that is able to stand on its own, although the reader might glean additional insight by reading the series in order.
January 11, 2022
The fourth book in this series set in Oxford where Gemma operates her tea rooms and enjoys life with her family and friends.
In Till Death Do Us Tart a well known but not well liked community member dies in a suspicious manner at the local cat show. Gemma becomes involved in trying to solve the crime, working some of the time with her partner, Inspector Devlin O'Connor.
This is an entertaining cosy with a good mystery. The ending was fairly predictable although the author raised several clever false leads which made me doubt myself. There are plenty of pleasant, fun characters especially Muesli the cat who plays a big role in the proceedings.
I will be continuing with this series for sure.
In Till Death Do Us Tart a well known but not well liked community member dies in a suspicious manner at the local cat show. Gemma becomes involved in trying to solve the crime, working some of the time with her partner, Inspector Devlin O'Connor.
This is an entertaining cosy with a good mystery. The ending was fairly predictable although the author raised several clever false leads which made me doubt myself. There are plenty of pleasant, fun characters especially Muesli the cat who plays a big role in the proceedings.
I will be continuing with this series for sure.
March 14, 2023
Till Death Do Us Tart (Oxford Tearoom Mysteries, #4) by H.Y. Hanna
Synopsis /
When Oxfordshire tearoom owner, Gemma Rose, enters her little tabby, Muesli, in the cat show at the local village fair, the last thing she expects is to stumble across a murder. And when her meddling mother and the nosy Old Biddies decide to start their own investigation, Gemma has no choice but to join in the sleuthing. She soon finds there’s something much more sinister sandwiched between the home-made Victoria sponge cakes and luscious jam tarts … But murder isn’t the only thing on Gemma’s mind: there’s the desperate house-hunting that’s going nowhere, the freaky kitchen explosions at her quaint English tearoom and an offer from her handsome detective boyfriend that she can’t refuse! With things about to reach boiling point, can Gemma solve the mystery before the killer strikes again?
My Thoughts /
The Oxford Tearoom Mysteries is one of my favourite cozy mystery series, and after finishing Till Death Do Us Tart which is the fourth book in the series, I haven't changed my mind.
If there was one person who could go to an English village fête and end up stumbling on a murder, it would be me.
That 'me' is Gemma Rose, owner of The Little Stables Tearoom in the Cotswolds village of Meadowford-on-Smythe. After fleeing her high-flying corporate job in London for a more demure, quiet, laid-back life in a Cotswold village, Gemma seems to have got anything but!
The story opens with the Village in a hive of preparation for the local Meadowford village fête - egg-and-spoon races, tug-o-war, cake stalls, pony rides, and a highlight of the fête is the Cotswolds Cat Fancy Club Show. [Pardon me if I keep sneezing, I can feel my allergies starting up already. Even though I'm terribly fond of cats, their fur is not fond of me.]
Now, where was I? Oh, yes - the cat show. Well, Gemma's mum thought it would be a most brilliant idea to enter Muesli (a moggie) into the Club's pure breeds cat show. I'm sure they'll never know, darling. Muesli is so pretty, the judges are bound to fall in love with her. And that's how Gemma Rose came to be at the same place and at the same time to witness the murder of Dame Clare Eccleston; who carked it after eating a piece of Victoria sponge cake. [PS: Note the ** Traditional Victoria sponge cake recipe at the end of the story!] - Bake it at your own risk!!!!! (Joking. I'm sure it's fine!!!!)
The case gets further complicated when Dame Eccleston's doctor proclaims that she died of a heart attack, but Gemma is not all that certain. Gemma, with help from the Old Biddies sets out to uncover the real cause of death and ultimately reveal the true culprit behind the murder of Mrs Eccleston.
It was the Old Biddies—the Senior Command of Meadowford-on-Smythe: loud, bossy Mabel Cooke, eighty-going-on-eighteen Glenda Bailey, plump and food-loving Florence Doyle, and quiet, gentle Ethel Webb. Okay, so they were nosy and meddling in their own way, but somehow I didn’t mind it so much.
A part of what makes a great cozy mystery series are its characters, and Hanna has written some beauties in Meadowford-on-Smythe. Returning in this chapter are the Old Biddies, Mabel, Glenda, Florence and Ethel; Gemma and her BFF, Cassie; on-again off-again boyfriend Devlin O'Connor; Lincoln; Seth; and of course, Muesli the cat. Apart from the main mystery there is a side thread going where Gemma moves out of her parent's house and in with Devlin. Hmm, how will this go? Only time will tell! Back to the mystery. Hanna drops us clues at a steady interval. But the fact that pretty well everyone thought the old Dame was a miserable old coot didn't help matters! There were lots of prospective suspects!
I'm a dab hand at reading these now, but I'm still no better at guessing the culprit. Oh well, maybe in book 5, Muffins and Mourning Tea, I'll have better luck!
Synopsis /
When Oxfordshire tearoom owner, Gemma Rose, enters her little tabby, Muesli, in the cat show at the local village fair, the last thing she expects is to stumble across a murder. And when her meddling mother and the nosy Old Biddies decide to start their own investigation, Gemma has no choice but to join in the sleuthing. She soon finds there’s something much more sinister sandwiched between the home-made Victoria sponge cakes and luscious jam tarts … But murder isn’t the only thing on Gemma’s mind: there’s the desperate house-hunting that’s going nowhere, the freaky kitchen explosions at her quaint English tearoom and an offer from her handsome detective boyfriend that she can’t refuse! With things about to reach boiling point, can Gemma solve the mystery before the killer strikes again?
My Thoughts /
The Oxford Tearoom Mysteries is one of my favourite cozy mystery series, and after finishing Till Death Do Us Tart which is the fourth book in the series, I haven't changed my mind.
If there was one person who could go to an English village fête and end up stumbling on a murder, it would be me.
That 'me' is Gemma Rose, owner of The Little Stables Tearoom in the Cotswolds village of Meadowford-on-Smythe. After fleeing her high-flying corporate job in London for a more demure, quiet, laid-back life in a Cotswold village, Gemma seems to have got anything but!
The story opens with the Village in a hive of preparation for the local Meadowford village fête - egg-and-spoon races, tug-o-war, cake stalls, pony rides, and a highlight of the fête is the Cotswolds Cat Fancy Club Show. [Pardon me if I keep sneezing, I can feel my allergies starting up already. Even though I'm terribly fond of cats, their fur is not fond of me.]
Now, where was I? Oh, yes - the cat show. Well, Gemma's mum thought it would be a most brilliant idea to enter Muesli (a moggie) into the Club's pure breeds cat show. I'm sure they'll never know, darling. Muesli is so pretty, the judges are bound to fall in love with her. And that's how Gemma Rose came to be at the same place and at the same time to witness the murder of Dame Clare Eccleston; who carked it after eating a piece of Victoria sponge cake. [PS: Note the ** Traditional Victoria sponge cake recipe at the end of the story!] - Bake it at your own risk!!!!! (Joking. I'm sure it's fine!!!!)
The case gets further complicated when Dame Eccleston's doctor proclaims that she died of a heart attack, but Gemma is not all that certain. Gemma, with help from the Old Biddies sets out to uncover the real cause of death and ultimately reveal the true culprit behind the murder of Mrs Eccleston.
It was the Old Biddies—the Senior Command of Meadowford-on-Smythe: loud, bossy Mabel Cooke, eighty-going-on-eighteen Glenda Bailey, plump and food-loving Florence Doyle, and quiet, gentle Ethel Webb. Okay, so they were nosy and meddling in their own way, but somehow I didn’t mind it so much.
A part of what makes a great cozy mystery series are its characters, and Hanna has written some beauties in Meadowford-on-Smythe. Returning in this chapter are the Old Biddies, Mabel, Glenda, Florence and Ethel; Gemma and her BFF, Cassie; on-again off-again boyfriend Devlin O'Connor; Lincoln; Seth; and of course, Muesli the cat. Apart from the main mystery there is a side thread going where Gemma moves out of her parent's house and in with Devlin. Hmm, how will this go? Only time will tell! Back to the mystery. Hanna drops us clues at a steady interval. But the fact that pretty well everyone thought the old Dame was a miserable old coot didn't help matters! There were lots of prospective suspects!
I'm a dab hand at reading these now, but I'm still no better at guessing the culprit. Oh well, maybe in book 5, Muffins and Mourning Tea, I'll have better luck!
November 7, 2025
Till Death Do Us Tart by H.Y.Hanna is the 4th book in the Oxford Tearoom Mysteries series. Oxfordshire tearoom owner, Gemma Rose, is talked into entering her cat Muesli in a local cat show and when another competitor drops dead from a supposed heart condition, Gemma and her friends are convinced that the lady had been murdered and investigate. I loved this book, and especially the descriptive writing which makes me want to visit Oxford. The mystery was interesting and I loved that Gemma had moved in with her boyfriend but was disappointed when she decided to find a place of her own. A wonderful series with fun characters and beautiful scenery thet keeps you wanting more.
July 6, 2016
In the latest tale from Cotswolds, we find Muesli getting ready to enter the Cotswold Cat Fancy Show. Gemma's Mother is determined to enter Muesli. Gemma and Delvin's plans to spend a weekend together go awry when Delvin has to work at special police task. Gemma goes to the cat show only to find Delvin there. One of the contestants collapse and dies. Her Doctor announced she has dead of a heart attack and Delvin feels there is no reason for ,a police investigation. However, Gemma and the Biddies feel she was murdered. Gemma spends most of her time trying to get an autopsy. In the meantime, she and Muesli moved into Delvin's flat in order get away from her Mother's manipulations. Another plus to this fantastic series. My thanks to the author for my free copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 16, 2017
Ho così tanti libri da leggere che a volte mi dimentico delle mie serie preferite, come in questo caso. Adoro Muesli (la gattina) e l'ambientazione a Oxford e dintorni! In questo libro c'erano un sacco di colpevoli possibili, tanto che ho capito chi fosse il colpevole poco prima della protagonista, ma non sono riuscita a venire a capo su come avesse fatto ad avvelenare la vittima. Mi è piaciuto anche come si evolve la vita privata della protagonista. Ora spero solo di non aspettare mesi prima di leggere i libri successivi, visto che li ho già acquistati... Però, è anche vero che è una di quelle serie a cui attingo quando ho bisogno di un "comford book"...
October 22, 2017
“Till Death Do Us Tart” earns 5+/5 Slices of Victoria Sponge Cake!
I am such a fan of H.Y. Hanna and her Oxford Tearoom Mystery series, nothing is comparable, and add Pearl Hewitt’s voice artistry and you have my all-time literary favorite. This fourth book shows us romance continues but not without its glitches, the dynamics between mothers and daughters can be both exasperating and rewarding, feline fanatics come in all sizes and temperaments, and murder just won’t leave Gemma alone.
Introducing us to all the interests and conflicts we first find Gemma Rose really looking forward to her weekend getaway with boyfriend Devlin O’Connor, and when he calls putting his job as CID Detective first, she is crushed…well, more like livid. He explains his chances at a someday promotion may improve by accepting the extra shift; ’agri-crime’ is a big concern, especially when the most recent victim is a multi-billionaire Hollywood actor. Now, what is Gemma going to do with a free weekend? Her only invitation for the weekend is from her mother who suggests she join her at the village fête and attend The Cotswolds Cat Fancy Club Show—populated by an entertaining community of quirky, if not intense, characters. Her mother is entering Muesli, a moggie (a cat without pedigree), and believes that the judges will overlook her jumble of breeds and just “fall in love with her.” Well, things go from bad to worse to worst in typical, delightful, and most entertaining H.Y. Hanna fashion! Amusements, arts and crafts, competition, threats, and murder. I love it!
Once again Hanna has penned a wonderful mystery to engage your inner “Sherlock” with lots of suspects and motives to examine sprinkled with more than a few misleads and questionable alibis making this story very engaging until the big reveal at the end keeps you turning the pages. This time Gemma’s investigation leads her to rely on her mother and the “Old Biddies” as a marvelous dynamic between these generations has developed over the series. Gemma’s romantic entanglement with CID Detective causes some frustration, but it is fun to follow how they are navigating their relationship in and around murder investigations. And the Victoria Sponge Cake? You get the recipe to try it yourself, sans the murder!
“Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. However, all of the above opinions are my own.”
I am such a fan of H.Y. Hanna and her Oxford Tearoom Mystery series, nothing is comparable, and add Pearl Hewitt’s voice artistry and you have my all-time literary favorite. This fourth book shows us romance continues but not without its glitches, the dynamics between mothers and daughters can be both exasperating and rewarding, feline fanatics come in all sizes and temperaments, and murder just won’t leave Gemma alone.
Introducing us to all the interests and conflicts we first find Gemma Rose really looking forward to her weekend getaway with boyfriend Devlin O’Connor, and when he calls putting his job as CID Detective first, she is crushed…well, more like livid. He explains his chances at a someday promotion may improve by accepting the extra shift; ’agri-crime’ is a big concern, especially when the most recent victim is a multi-billionaire Hollywood actor. Now, what is Gemma going to do with a free weekend? Her only invitation for the weekend is from her mother who suggests she join her at the village fête and attend The Cotswolds Cat Fancy Club Show—populated by an entertaining community of quirky, if not intense, characters. Her mother is entering Muesli, a moggie (a cat without pedigree), and believes that the judges will overlook her jumble of breeds and just “fall in love with her.” Well, things go from bad to worse to worst in typical, delightful, and most entertaining H.Y. Hanna fashion! Amusements, arts and crafts, competition, threats, and murder. I love it!
Once again Hanna has penned a wonderful mystery to engage your inner “Sherlock” with lots of suspects and motives to examine sprinkled with more than a few misleads and questionable alibis making this story very engaging until the big reveal at the end keeps you turning the pages. This time Gemma’s investigation leads her to rely on her mother and the “Old Biddies” as a marvelous dynamic between these generations has developed over the series. Gemma’s romantic entanglement with CID Detective causes some frustration, but it is fun to follow how they are navigating their relationship in and around murder investigations. And the Victoria Sponge Cake? You get the recipe to try it yourself, sans the murder!
“Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. However, all of the above opinions are my own.”
July 8, 2016
I received a review copy in exchange for an honest review
This series continues to impress me and it's one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I am always excited when the next book arrives as I know I am in for a great read. Till Death Do Us Tart was another enjoyable book in this series. The author shakes things up again and in this book we start out with a normal death instead of a murder and Gemma, the Old Biddies and Gemma's mom think there might be more to it and suspect murder. It's also a poison murder mystery, just like book 2 and for some reason I really like it as it adds something different to the mystery.
This was such an exciting mystery. I totally understood why the police wasn't calling it a murder yet as there was no real proof and Gemma tries to stay away, but she just can't let a murderer get away with murder if she can stop it. So she gets involved trying to find out if this was a murder or not. And I actually suspected who was the murderer, I kept going around with a few suspects and when one turned out to be red herring another scene suddenly made me think I knew who the murderer was and I was right. It was fun to actually guess the murderer right for a change. Although I hadn't ruled out some of the other suspects, this was my main suspect. There are some well done red herrings and we find out more about some of the characters involved in the whole process. This book kept my attention the whole time and I just wanted to keep reading.
There's a lot of focus on the mystery, but besides that the characters really make this book shine. In this book we see more of characters we already know like Gemma, Gemma her mom, Muesli, Lincoln, Seth, Cassie, Devlin and more. And we meet some new characters as well and it's a delight seeing all these characters interact. Some fun side characters and possible suspects are introduced in this book like Mary the daughter or the murdered person, a gardener and a crazy cat lady to name a few. And besides that this book also has a fun setting with Oxford and Gemma her tearoom is the small village close to Oxford.
I like Gemma, although she can be a bit too stubborn for her own good, she keeps insisting it is murder even with little evidence to support her claim. But I also admire how she kept working on this as she believed strongly in it and wouldn't let it go until she was sure. And Muesli has some great scenes again in this book. Gemma her mom teams up with the old Biddies who help try and convince everyone the person has been murdered. It's a fun cast of characters and I am amazed at how easy it is to remember who everyone is, the author writes the characters in such a way that they all have a distinct personality.
The romance sub plot takes another turn in this book. Gemma has firmly chosen, so there is no more half love triangle, which I liked. And we even see how the other guy is doing and we meet someone who is hopefully a new love interest for him. The romance is really only a side plot and there are very few scenes that actually focus on it, but it's fun to see things develop in every book. there are some big changes when it comes to the romance in this book. And the epilogue makes me excited for the next book and how this latest development will impact Gemma her life!
To summarize: If you love a good mystery I strongly would recommend this series. I really enjoyed this book and it's one of my favorite cozy mystery series so far! It had an exciting murder mystery where at first it seems the victim died of natural causes. It's a poison murder mystery which I really enjoyed. And I actually managed to guess who was the murderer! It was fun to guess it right for a change. This book has a wonderful group of characters, some familiar and some new ones we meet in this book. And ofcourse Muesli, Gemma her cat, makes some fun appearances. There also are some interesting developments on the romance side and the epilogue makes me curious for next book. All in all another great book in this series!
This series continues to impress me and it's one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I am always excited when the next book arrives as I know I am in for a great read. Till Death Do Us Tart was another enjoyable book in this series. The author shakes things up again and in this book we start out with a normal death instead of a murder and Gemma, the Old Biddies and Gemma's mom think there might be more to it and suspect murder. It's also a poison murder mystery, just like book 2 and for some reason I really like it as it adds something different to the mystery.
This was such an exciting mystery. I totally understood why the police wasn't calling it a murder yet as there was no real proof and Gemma tries to stay away, but she just can't let a murderer get away with murder if she can stop it. So she gets involved trying to find out if this was a murder or not. And I actually suspected who was the murderer, I kept going around with a few suspects and when one turned out to be red herring another scene suddenly made me think I knew who the murderer was and I was right. It was fun to actually guess the murderer right for a change. Although I hadn't ruled out some of the other suspects, this was my main suspect. There are some well done red herrings and we find out more about some of the characters involved in the whole process. This book kept my attention the whole time and I just wanted to keep reading.
There's a lot of focus on the mystery, but besides that the characters really make this book shine. In this book we see more of characters we already know like Gemma, Gemma her mom, Muesli, Lincoln, Seth, Cassie, Devlin and more. And we meet some new characters as well and it's a delight seeing all these characters interact. Some fun side characters and possible suspects are introduced in this book like Mary the daughter or the murdered person, a gardener and a crazy cat lady to name a few. And besides that this book also has a fun setting with Oxford and Gemma her tearoom is the small village close to Oxford.
I like Gemma, although she can be a bit too stubborn for her own good, she keeps insisting it is murder even with little evidence to support her claim. But I also admire how she kept working on this as she believed strongly in it and wouldn't let it go until she was sure. And Muesli has some great scenes again in this book. Gemma her mom teams up with the old Biddies who help try and convince everyone the person has been murdered. It's a fun cast of characters and I am amazed at how easy it is to remember who everyone is, the author writes the characters in such a way that they all have a distinct personality.
The romance sub plot takes another turn in this book. Gemma has firmly chosen, so there is no more half love triangle, which I liked. And we even see how the other guy is doing and we meet someone who is hopefully a new love interest for him. The romance is really only a side plot and there are very few scenes that actually focus on it, but it's fun to see things develop in every book. there are some big changes when it comes to the romance in this book. And the epilogue makes me excited for the next book and how this latest development will impact Gemma her life!
To summarize: If you love a good mystery I strongly would recommend this series. I really enjoyed this book and it's one of my favorite cozy mystery series so far! It had an exciting murder mystery where at first it seems the victim died of natural causes. It's a poison murder mystery which I really enjoyed. And I actually managed to guess who was the murderer! It was fun to guess it right for a change. This book has a wonderful group of characters, some familiar and some new ones we meet in this book. And ofcourse Muesli, Gemma her cat, makes some fun appearances. There also are some interesting developments on the romance side and the epilogue makes me curious for next book. All in all another great book in this series!
July 6, 2016
An enjoyable mystery! Gemma and Devlin are officially a couple again--finally! They are just too adorable for words, even though they did have a bit of angst in this book. I like that they recognized that they should slow their relationship down a bit, which is such a nice contrast to a lot of the insta-love that I have been reading lately.
The mystery was enjoyable, but I will admit that I guessed the killer's identity pretty early on. This book also seemed a bit light on action/suspense compared to the other installments, which I found a little disappointing. I also would have liked a bit more of Seth and Cassie in this story, since I love the dynamic of their friendship.
Overall, I did like this book, although I'll admit it wasn't my favorite series. I do love the series overall and can't wait for more!
**I receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All of my opinions are my own.
The mystery was enjoyable, but I will admit that I guessed the killer's identity pretty early on. This book also seemed a bit light on action/suspense compared to the other installments, which I found a little disappointing. I also would have liked a bit more of Seth and Cassie in this story, since I love the dynamic of their friendship.
Overall, I did like this book, although I'll admit it wasn't my favorite series. I do love the series overall and can't wait for more!
**I receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All of my opinions are my own.
August 18, 2017
This series just keeps getting better and better. A real cozy delight.
This book has Gemma with many issues to deal with. Finding a place to live, kitchen issues at the tea shop, Muesli in a cat show at the village fair, and a death at the aforementioned cat show.
Her and the Old Biddies (along with her mother) have to convince Devlin that it was murder.
This story involved all the characters I have grown to love.
As this series continues I enjoy even more the vivid and well written descriptions.
I did not guess the whodunit.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
I was provided an ARC by the publisher for my honest review.
This book has Gemma with many issues to deal with. Finding a place to live, kitchen issues at the tea shop, Muesli in a cat show at the village fair, and a death at the aforementioned cat show.
Her and the Old Biddies (along with her mother) have to convince Devlin that it was murder.
This story involved all the characters I have grown to love.
As this series continues I enjoy even more the vivid and well written descriptions.
I did not guess the whodunit.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
I was provided an ARC by the publisher for my honest review.
August 12, 2022
going to practice baking victoria sponge cakes and then move to a lovely abandoned cottage in oxfordshire with a cheeky cat. that's The Dream.
October 22, 2017
“Till Death Do Us Tart” earns 5+/5 Slices of Victoria Sponge Cake!
I am such a fan of H.Y. Hanna and her Oxford Tearoom Mystery series, nothing is comparable, and add Pearl Hewitt’s voice artistry and you have my all-time literary favorite. This fourth book shows us romance continues but not without its glitches, the dynamics between mothers and daughters can be both exasperating and rewarding, feline fanatics come in all sizes and temperaments, and murder just won’t leave Gemma alone.
Once again Hanna has penned a wonderful mystery to engage your inner “Sherlock” with lots of suspects and motives to examine, and Pearl Hewitt has enriched the whole experience with her voice artistry. From Gemma to her mother, the Old Biddies, and varying ages one discovers the vast variety of English accents. We are treated with an extraordinary narration that highlights each character's personality, emotion, and tone that reading to yourself can not compare. Pearl even does a clever job with the 'fur friends' from Museli's "Meorrw" to the high-strung Siamese's "MAAAA-OOOWWW, and changing her tone for the few male characters that round out her talent. She is marvelous!
I highly recommend the series in any format, but the audiobook is an incredible experience...humorous, cringe-filled, and nail-biting are all magnified by Pearl Hewitt's excellent voice talent.
“Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. However, all of the above opinions are my own.”
I am such a fan of H.Y. Hanna and her Oxford Tearoom Mystery series, nothing is comparable, and add Pearl Hewitt’s voice artistry and you have my all-time literary favorite. This fourth book shows us romance continues but not without its glitches, the dynamics between mothers and daughters can be both exasperating and rewarding, feline fanatics come in all sizes and temperaments, and murder just won’t leave Gemma alone.
Once again Hanna has penned a wonderful mystery to engage your inner “Sherlock” with lots of suspects and motives to examine, and Pearl Hewitt has enriched the whole experience with her voice artistry. From Gemma to her mother, the Old Biddies, and varying ages one discovers the vast variety of English accents. We are treated with an extraordinary narration that highlights each character's personality, emotion, and tone that reading to yourself can not compare. Pearl even does a clever job with the 'fur friends' from Museli's "Meorrw" to the high-strung Siamese's "MAAAA-OOOWWW, and changing her tone for the few male characters that round out her talent. She is marvelous!
I highly recommend the series in any format, but the audiobook is an incredible experience...humorous, cringe-filled, and nail-biting are all magnified by Pearl Hewitt's excellent voice talent.
“Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. However, all of the above opinions are my own.”
April 19, 2019
British Cozy, takes place in Oxford and a nearby village.
Gemma attends a village fete with her mother and a nasty aristocrat exhibiting a Persian in a cat show is poisoned while eating the sponge cake she and her daughter brought.
Gemma tries to convince her boyfriend Devlin that it is murder but the elderly doctor says she had a heart condition and her death was due to heart attack.
Thinking it is time she moved out on her own, Gemma looks at a number of dismal flats until her detective boyfriend asks her to come live with him in his spacious, converted barn. Little things get on her nerves and she is offended when Devlin asks her not to leave her clothes piled on a chair beside the bed. She tells him that for now she needs her own space (had been living with her parents).
Although this is a tearoom mystery, little of the action takes place in the tearoom. For a business owner, Gemma seems to have a lot of free time.
One delightful aspect of this book is the group of 4 feisty old ladies referred to as The Old Biddies. Although individual names are mentioned, they are always referred to by their collective name and seem to be everywhere and into everthing, like a Greek Chorus. Seeking information, they do not hesitate crawling through a window while a friend distracts the maid at the front door.
Gemma attends a village fete with her mother and a nasty aristocrat exhibiting a Persian in a cat show is poisoned while eating the sponge cake she and her daughter brought.
Gemma tries to convince her boyfriend Devlin that it is murder but the elderly doctor says she had a heart condition and her death was due to heart attack.
Thinking it is time she moved out on her own, Gemma looks at a number of dismal flats until her detective boyfriend asks her to come live with him in his spacious, converted barn. Little things get on her nerves and she is offended when Devlin asks her not to leave her clothes piled on a chair beside the bed. She tells him that for now she needs her own space (had been living with her parents).
Although this is a tearoom mystery, little of the action takes place in the tearoom. For a business owner, Gemma seems to have a lot of free time.
One delightful aspect of this book is the group of 4 feisty old ladies referred to as The Old Biddies. Although individual names are mentioned, they are always referred to by their collective name and seem to be everywhere and into everthing, like a Greek Chorus. Seeking information, they do not hesitate crawling through a window while a friend distracts the maid at the front door.
May 28, 2020
With her romantic weekend away cancelled, Gemma had to go along with her mother to the local village fair. Her mother had got it into her head that Muesli is to win the cat show. Of course, wherever Gemma is, there would be some kind of death. This time, the lady standing next to them at the cat show dropped dead from a heart attack. Or is it? Not according to Gemma's mother nor the Old Biddies. The police, however, have got no indication of foul play to enable them to start an investigation. Meanwhile, Devlin has got his own 'agri-crime' mystery he has to solve and no time to check out the public's speculation of murder.
A veritable comfort (cozy) read, this series is all excitement, funnies, and heartwarming. The sweet romance is also a big plus.
A veritable comfort (cozy) read, this series is all excitement, funnies, and heartwarming. The sweet romance is also a big plus.
April 30, 2021
I really enjoyed this installment in the Oxford Tearoom Mysteries. I've been jumping around a bit, so in this story, Muesli and Gemma are still living with Gemma's parents, and it's getting a bit old. She decides to move in with her boyfriend Devlin, but things don't go as well as she had planned. Meanwhile, Gemma's mother enters Muesli in a cat contest at the village fete, and one of the other entrants collapses from what appears to be a heart attack. But Gemma thinks something else is afoot. Can she convince Devlin to investigate? Will she or the Old Biddies figure it out first? I just love the cat Muesli and I think Gemma is great too.
August 18, 2025
The story was very cute and much more developed than the last one. The narrator was also very good.
I really enjoy these quirky little “mystery” stories, but I feel that some are a little too drawn out. I think this one could have been a little shorter, but was very enjoyable during a weekend of meal prep at home.
I really enjoy these quirky little “mystery” stories, but I feel that some are a little too drawn out. I think this one could have been a little shorter, but was very enjoyable during a weekend of meal prep at home.
March 17, 2021
I really enjoyed this book but compared to others in the series it just felt slow. So much of the book felt like it was just waiting for the investigation to begin. I continued to enjoy the characters and setting.
July 2, 2017
Book 4 and I want more
Another terrific book in this series! I am devouring these so fast, I can only hope brand new titles are released soon!
Another terrific book in this series! I am devouring these so fast, I can only hope brand new titles are released soon!
March 30, 2021
Still enjoying this series, but Devlin was driving me bonkers in this one. And the screwball doctor storyline was really annoying. No doctor could be that bad at all aspects of doctoring.
October 20, 2021
Makes me want to go to England.
Actually, these books make me want to visit Oxford. I know that these books by H. Y. Hanna are fiction, but I can't help feeling that there is a tea room there with Gemma, her cat and the Old Biddies. This book, again, combines the charm of a historic town with a bright, young woman who has a head for solving murders.
Actually, these books make me want to visit Oxford. I know that these books by H. Y. Hanna are fiction, but I can't help feeling that there is a tea room there with Gemma, her cat and the Old Biddies. This book, again, combines the charm of a historic town with a bright, young woman who has a head for solving murders.
February 24, 2024
Cats, murders, little old ladies snooping around, and everyone jumping to conclusions - what's not to like?
July 18, 2021
Fun, suspenseful, a little bit outdated in terms of labels and sensitivity. LOVE the Oxford references-- this one brought me right back to the Eagle and Child. Will probably keep reading this series as long as I have Kindle Unlimited.
April 25, 2021
I’m used to all the heroine’s quirks by now so I was able to hand wave them all away and enjoy this one. :)
The relationship aspect of this book was very realistic yet also sweet. Looking forward to the next one.
The relationship aspect of this book was very realistic yet also sweet. Looking forward to the next one.
July 6, 2016
Till Death Do Us Tart is the adorable fourth entry in the fun Oxford Tearoom Mystery series.
Gemma Rose is the proprietor of a tearoom near Oxford, and business has picked up enough that she has even added catering to her offerings. She had planned to take the weekend off to spend with her boyfriend, Detective Inspector Devlin O’Connor, but he is called away at the last minute by his boss to work an agri-crime case. With the shop closed, Gemma really has no excuse not to go to the village fete. Her mother has entered lovable cat Muesli in the Cotswold’s Cat Fancy Club Show, even though he is not a pure bred cat. There are plenty of colorful characters at the cat show, including domineering Dame Eccleston who promptly keels over just as the judges start making their rounds. Her doctor proclaims her death due to natural causes, but rumors begin circulating and things do not add up. The “Old Biddies” are convinced that Eccleston was murdered, and they draw Gemma’s mother into the investigation. Gemma eventually agrees, and together they investigate to convince Devlin that it was foul play.
I recently discovered the Oxford Tearoom series, and it is a delight. The English village is just the right setting for these tea-centric books. And the recipe included at the end for Victoria Sponge makes my mouth water. Hanna has created a nice group of characters that are fairly well developed (there is always room for growth) and varied. I appreciate that Gemma is a level-headed, “normal” person. She is sometimes a bit rash in her actions, but it is because she has a great sense for justice. Her mother is annoying in the way that most mothers are. She means well but is oblivious. The four elderly ladies who comprise the “Old Biddies” are fun and are indeed busy bodies. Cassie makes a nice sidekick, and Devlin is a good foil to Gemma’s impulsiveness.
The story flows well, and the mystery itself is strong. All of the suspects and their motivations are valid, and I kept changing my mind about whodunit until shortly before Gemma figured it all out. The murder weapon is clever. Dame Eccleston made a great victim, and she was so unpleasant that it was hard to feel bad about her death. Does that make me a bad person?
I really enjoyed Till Death Do Us Tart and recommend it to any cozy reader, especially those who enjoy an English setting and a loveable cat.
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not influence my opinions.**
Gemma Rose is the proprietor of a tearoom near Oxford, and business has picked up enough that she has even added catering to her offerings. She had planned to take the weekend off to spend with her boyfriend, Detective Inspector Devlin O’Connor, but he is called away at the last minute by his boss to work an agri-crime case. With the shop closed, Gemma really has no excuse not to go to the village fete. Her mother has entered lovable cat Muesli in the Cotswold’s Cat Fancy Club Show, even though he is not a pure bred cat. There are plenty of colorful characters at the cat show, including domineering Dame Eccleston who promptly keels over just as the judges start making their rounds. Her doctor proclaims her death due to natural causes, but rumors begin circulating and things do not add up. The “Old Biddies” are convinced that Eccleston was murdered, and they draw Gemma’s mother into the investigation. Gemma eventually agrees, and together they investigate to convince Devlin that it was foul play.
I recently discovered the Oxford Tearoom series, and it is a delight. The English village is just the right setting for these tea-centric books. And the recipe included at the end for Victoria Sponge makes my mouth water. Hanna has created a nice group of characters that are fairly well developed (there is always room for growth) and varied. I appreciate that Gemma is a level-headed, “normal” person. She is sometimes a bit rash in her actions, but it is because she has a great sense for justice. Her mother is annoying in the way that most mothers are. She means well but is oblivious. The four elderly ladies who comprise the “Old Biddies” are fun and are indeed busy bodies. Cassie makes a nice sidekick, and Devlin is a good foil to Gemma’s impulsiveness.
The story flows well, and the mystery itself is strong. All of the suspects and their motivations are valid, and I kept changing my mind about whodunit until shortly before Gemma figured it all out. The murder weapon is clever. Dame Eccleston made a great victim, and she was so unpleasant that it was hard to feel bad about her death. Does that make me a bad person?
I really enjoyed Till Death Do Us Tart and recommend it to any cozy reader, especially those who enjoy an English setting and a loveable cat.
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not influence my opinions.**
Read
February 7, 2017H.Y. Hanna's Tearoom series is a wonderful read set in Oxfordshire, England. This is the 4th book in this series and Gemma and the old Biddies are back again. Since Gemma returned from Australia and opened her tearoom, it seems like murder has been served with a cup of tea. Muesli, Gemma's beautiful little cat is entered in the cat show at the local village faire by Gemma's mother. Although Muesli does not have a pedigree her mother feels she will win the show. However, no ribbons were awarded that day when Gemma's neighbor. Dame Claire. at the cat show is believed to have been struck by a heart attach prior to judging. When a pill is found in the Dame's hand, with belief it is her heart medicine, the mystery begins. Gemma must now convince her boyfriend, Devlin, who is on the police force that there is foul play. Grab a cup of tea, a warm blanket and comfortable chair and enjoy another wonderful story.
July 6, 2016
This is another hit for author H.Y. Hanna. I love this series and look forward to each new installment. This author has a terrific writing style that flows and combines humor with mystery. The characters are well developed at this point in the series, but there is still plenty of room for each to grow, both personally and professionally. All of your favorites are back and once again the "Old Biddies" are out to solve a murder that only they believe is a murder. This time around they involve Gemma's mom and bring her into the group. Gemma and Devlin's relationship takes as step forward but I like how the author has written this part of their romance. The mystery is terrific. The author provides us with plenty of suspects, motives, twists and turns until the reveal of the killer's identity. I did figure out who committed the crime but I did so along with Gemma.
This has fast become one of my favorite series, with wonderful writing, great British charm, humor, mystery and characters that are starting to become like old friends. If you haven't tried this series yet I would encourage you to pick up the first book and give it a try. I don't believe you will be disappointed.
I was provided an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not influence my opinion and the thoughts expressed are my own.
This has fast become one of my favorite series, with wonderful writing, great British charm, humor, mystery and characters that are starting to become like old friends. If you haven't tried this series yet I would encourage you to pick up the first book and give it a try. I don't believe you will be disappointed.
I was provided an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not influence my opinion and the thoughts expressed are my own.
July 6, 2016
First of all I wish to thank H. Y. Hanna for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Well this series is just simply super, from the stunning art work on the covers that always feature super sleuth Muesli the cat, to the wonderful tasty Oxford Tearoom Mysteries inside ready to be devoured at leisure. These novels are cosy murder mysteries that are " purrfect" to curl up with any time. Each of the books, there are 4, can be read as standard alone novels, but l would hate to think I had to leave a book out.
Gemma is blooming, the tearoom is always busy, she is in love and always ready to solve a mystery. Gemma is the owner of the Oxford Tearooms and the main character in the series. She certainly has the knack for being in the wrong place at the wrong time and closely on her tail are four old biddies that help out in the Tearooms and do a little investigating on the side too. It can become quite competitive as to who will solve the mystery first which makes for one very funny and entertaining novel.
I smiled when I got this book, I laughed when I read it and I giggled when I thought about it when I had finished reading. Mint!
Well this series is just simply super, from the stunning art work on the covers that always feature super sleuth Muesli the cat, to the wonderful tasty Oxford Tearoom Mysteries inside ready to be devoured at leisure. These novels are cosy murder mysteries that are " purrfect" to curl up with any time. Each of the books, there are 4, can be read as standard alone novels, but l would hate to think I had to leave a book out.
Gemma is blooming, the tearoom is always busy, she is in love and always ready to solve a mystery. Gemma is the owner of the Oxford Tearooms and the main character in the series. She certainly has the knack for being in the wrong place at the wrong time and closely on her tail are four old biddies that help out in the Tearooms and do a little investigating on the side too. It can become quite competitive as to who will solve the mystery first which makes for one very funny and entertaining novel.
I smiled when I got this book, I laughed when I read it and I giggled when I thought about it when I had finished reading. Mint!
July 5, 2016
I love this series by the talented H.Y. Hanna. The author has created a loveable, down to earth set of characters that will leave you wanting more. This one is my favorite in the series so far.
When Gemma's mother enters Muesli in a cat show, Gemma knows she is in for a wild ride. Muesli isn't a purebred cat and Gemma knows the judges won't be fooled, she only hopes that her mother won't be humiliated.
Some of the other entrants are downright "catty" and it seems they all believe they have the best cat.
When a series of events results in the death of an entrant, everyone seems satisfied with the "died of a heart attack" cause of death.
Rumors begin flying and soon enough it seems that maybe the death was really murder.
I was kept guessing until the end, the author really had me guessing who the murderer was.
I am thrilled that the author portrays Gemma as a normal, down to earth young woman. The details in this story are great and I enjoyed reading about her relationship with Devlin.
I am looking forward to reading the next one in this series.
When Gemma's mother enters Muesli in a cat show, Gemma knows she is in for a wild ride. Muesli isn't a purebred cat and Gemma knows the judges won't be fooled, she only hopes that her mother won't be humiliated.
Some of the other entrants are downright "catty" and it seems they all believe they have the best cat.
When a series of events results in the death of an entrant, everyone seems satisfied with the "died of a heart attack" cause of death.
Rumors begin flying and soon enough it seems that maybe the death was really murder.
I was kept guessing until the end, the author really had me guessing who the murderer was.
I am thrilled that the author portrays Gemma as a normal, down to earth young woman. The details in this story are great and I enjoyed reading about her relationship with Devlin.
I am looking forward to reading the next one in this series.
August 5, 2018
Incredibly done with this series. Up until this book, despite finding all of the characters unlikeable, dense, condescending, bigoted, silly, etc., at least the mysteries were decent. This one, however, was so obvious from the introduction of the killer that I found myself skimming most of the book. I continually ask myself how a 30 year old woman could have possibly been a successful executive when she can't seem to make a decision about ANYTHING without her cat! And I'm sorry, but Devlin is SOOOO in love with her (for years and years) but he talks to her like she's an idiot. He tells her to stay out of the cases but he can't seem to solve one without her. Makes you wonder how he got to be the "top inspector" while she was in Australia. I smell a rat there.
July 6, 2016
Gemma may have been frustrated by not being able to get away for the weekend with Devlin but she keeps busy with a cat show to attend with Muesli and her mother. Well, at the show someone dies…but is it from normal causes or could it have been murder? With Gemma and the Old Biddies believing it is murder they are back on the hunt to find out who the murderer might be. In addition to the mystery to be solved Gemma is looking for a new home to rent, dealing with her mother’s shenanigans, taking care of her shop, interacting with her friends and continuing her relationship with Devlin.
This was a fun, interesting and very enjoyable addition to the Oxford Tearoom Mysteries and I look forward to finding out what will happen next – in Tea with Milk and Murder.
Thank you to the author for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 Stars
This was a fun, interesting and very enjoyable addition to the Oxford Tearoom Mysteries and I look forward to finding out what will happen next – in Tea with Milk and Murder.
Thank you to the author for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 Stars
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