Advienne que mourra

Oxford Tearoom Mysteries #8

by H.Y. Hanna, Diane Garo (Translator)

Contrainte d’annuler ses vacances de rêve avec son petit ami, Gemma, l’enquêtrice amatrice, se retrouve à Vienne, avec sa chatte Muesli et les vieilles chouettes pour compagnie. Il ne leur faut pas longtemps pour tomber sur un meurtre en plein cœur de la capitale autrichienne.
Confrontées à la mort suspecte d’un critique dans leur hôtel, les vieilles chouettes sont bien déterminées à trouver le tueur. Mais qui a fait le coup ? Est-ce la propriétaire rancunière de l’hôtel ? La maîtresse jalouse qui aurait cherché à se venger ? Ou même cet Américain de passage qui semble inexplicablement nerveux en présence de la police ?
Gemma se retrouve entraînée dans une enquête impromptue qui l’amènera à découvrir les célèbres pâtisseries de Vienne, à fouiller dans les dossiers de la police et même à braver un sauna naturiste pour trouver des indices !
Mais parviendra-t-elle à identifier les suspects et à résoudre ce crime avant que le tueur ne frappe à nouveau ?

Les Thés meurtriers d'OxfordChou à la crim' (Livre 1)Beau thé fatal (Livre 2)Flagrant délice (Livre 3)Point de glas sage (Livre 4)Tôt ou tarte (Livre 5)Les entremets tueurs (Livre 6)Péchés pâtissiers (Livre 7)Advienne que mourra (Livre 8)Crimes glacés (Livre 9)Bûche et embûches (Livre 10) - Tome spécial Noël !

Genres: Cozy Mystery, Mystery, Fiction, Cozy, Cats, Audiobook, Contemporary

339 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 24, 2018

About the author

USA 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

Reviews

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Apple Strudel Alibi (Oxford Tearoom Mysteries, #8) by H.Y. Hanna

Synopsis /

When Gemma's romantic holiday with her boyfriend is cancelled, the tearoom sleuth finds herself heading to Vienna instead, with her cat Muesli and the nosy Old Biddies for company. And it's not long before they stumble across a murder right in the heart of Austria's historic capital.

A handsome art critic dies suspiciously at their hotel and the Old Biddies are determined to sniff out the killer. Is it the bitter hotel owner nursing a grudge? The critic's jealous mistress wanting revenge? Or even the American horse trainer who seems inexplicably nervous around the police?

Soon Gemma is dragged into an impromptu investigation which has her tackling Vienna's famous pastries, snooping in police files and even braving a nude sauna in search of clues!

But can she sort the suspects from the Schnitzel, and solve the mystery before the killer strikes again?


My Thoughts /

We have arrived at book #8 in this series and in this instalment (Apple Strudel Alibi) we have moved away some 18 hours across the ditch from Meadowford-on-Smythe to Vienna.

The story opens with Gemma Rose packing for her trip to the island of Malta with her significant other, Detective Inspector Devlin O'Connor.

But when Devlin phones with the news that he's going to have to cancel the trip because of a case, Gemma's plans take a very different turn.

Arriving at the Little Stables Tearoom Gemma was greeted by a huddle of blue rinse sets, woolly cardigans and old rose perfume. Four little old ladies, Mabel, Glenda, Florence, and Ethel, affectionately known as the 'Old Biddies' were jumping out of their orthotics with excitement. The Little Stables Tearoom has won an award for their scones - theirs has been deemed the best in England by the Euro-Tearoom Baking Contest, and the award is to be presented at a ceremony in Vienna. The Old Biddies are expecting Gemma to claim the prize personally (accompanied by them, of course).

It's at about this time, that Gemma's mother arrives at the teashop accompanied by a very stylish looking woman. The woman turns out to be Sophia Fritzl, who was a close childhood friend of Gemma's mother when they were younger. Over some tea and scones, Gemma's mother announced that she was planning a trip overseas next year and will stay with Sophia. It turns out that Sophia has always dreamed of running her own hotel and, has just recently realised that dream. The hotel? Well, as coincidences are bound to happen - Sophia's recently renovated hotel, the Hotel das Herzchen is in Vienna.

And that's how it happened that Gemma and the four octogenarians come to be at the Hotel das Herzchen that fateful night when lifestyle critic, Moritz Wagner is found dead. The police think Herr Wagner took his own life, but the Biddies are certain he was murdered.

With Devlin back in Oxford, the gang is going to have to solve this case solo.

You would be forgiven for thinking you were reading a Lonely Plant Guide to Vienna; the descriptions were so vivid - thanks to Hanna's writing prowess. The characters continue flourish and grow and we are introduced to some new guest characters in Apple Strudel Alibi.

Although it was certainly fun to take a short 'vacay' from Oxford, I'm looking forward to getting back. The plot, although still creative, didn't have as much depth as the previous novels. Maybe that was the setting? I mean, if the original recipe works, why change it?

[Phrynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book eight in the series and Muesli the cat is developing killer instincts. This time he saves a friend by attacking the man who is holding her. Hard to believe when you look at that sweet little face on the cover.

This book takes place a long way from Gemma's tea shop in Oxford as she travels to Vienna to accept an award for baking scones. She is accompanied by Muesli and the Old Biddies so we can expect chaos and confusion and at least one murder. Parts of the book were like a travelogue for the beautiful city with lots of information about the lovely architecture, the museums, the art and the incredible cakes and pastries.

I enjoyed the change of scenery but am looking forward to being back in the Oxford Tearoom in the next book.

[Meg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good one in the series, an easy read with the same great characters. The mc's mom and the Old Biddies and their quirks continue to be a delight. Loved the Austrian setting of this one; it brought back fond memories of the country's scrumptious pastries and historical charm. Already had the next book on the WL and am looking forward to it.

[Nola Arganbright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series

Gemma is peeved that she and Devon are unable to take a planned romantic trip. The Old Biddies join her on an alternate trip to Austria and a stay in a friend's newly opened hotel.
Hanna and friends enjoy the sights and tastes of the historical country. There are great characters in the book with well developed personalities.
Unfortunately there is also a murder in the hotel. The police wrote it off as suicide but Gemma and her entourage aren't satisfied and use their quirky shenanigans to look for answers.
Also you included is a recipe for Apple Strudle.

[Cozybooklady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Apple Strudel Alibi is my favorite in the series by far.
Gemma and the Old Biddies are off to Vienna!

The Old Biddies, a name given to the group of women that frequent Gemma's tea room, consists of Mabel, Ethel, Florence and Glenda.
While the quirky group of ladies tend to annoy Gemma, they always seem to find themselves tangled up in murder.
This time is no different, the biddies and Gemma are off to Vienna to claim Gemma's prize.

They stay at an adorable bed and breakfast, owned by a dear friend of Gemma's mum.
While there, the group meets some colorful characters, including Herr Moritz, a man with a barbed tongue and a nasty personality.
When Herr Moritz is found dead, everyone thinks it's an accident. It certainly could be, but according to the Old Biddies, it's murder!
There are too many suspects, all with good motives so the biddies finally convince Gemma to help investigate.

A scorned lover and a museum owner seem to have the best motives.

Join Gemma and the Old Biddies in this top notch story by H.Y. Hanna.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the author.

***Favorite Quote:
Mabel- Old Biddies ring leader: "That woman is a clear example of irritability produced by constipation and excessive gas."

[PugMom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strudel and cats and murder, oh my! That's what you'll get when you read H.Y. Hanna's 8th Oxford Tearoom Mystery! This time, Gemma and the old biddies (and even Muesli) are off on an adventure to Vienna! They think they'll have a relaxing trip in a luxurious hotel but they soon find out that they thought wrong when one of the hotel guests is murdered! Since it couldn't have possibly have been something as simple as suicide, Gemma and her elderly cronies ferret out the clues and find out what really happened. So many twists and turns! You'll never look at strudel the same away again!
Although I just finished this book I am eagerly awaiting the next in the series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book sent to me by the author.

[Jazzy Lemon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gemma is a finalist in a baking contest held in Vienna! She heads there with Muesli and the Old Biddies tag along. Of course there is a murder involved!

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gained Five Pounds

This was a surprise. I wasn't to sure how having Gemma going on a trip without Devlin was going to play out yet it works perfectly. The old biddies are up to their sleuthing and the description of Gemma and them in the spa is a hoot. Especially Ethel's comment.
And the talk of the Sacher Tort and all the Viennese pastries has given me the desire to run to the kitchen and begin baking. Or running to the kitchen and watching Great British Baking Show while having a cup of coffee.
Either way H.Y. Hannah has again captured a feeling of being in an idyllic place and hanging around with fun characters while never having to leave your home.
And a bonus, Apple Strudel recipe.

[Lola · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.

This is one of my favorite cozy mysteries series and I was excited to start this books. Sadly I feel like I picked it up in the wrong mood as I didn't enjoy it as much as I usually do. This book switches things up and takes place in Austria instead of the usual setting in oxford. And ofcourse Gemma gets involved in a murder mystery there as well, in between the sightseeing.

I was curious how the change in setting would work. And while on the one hand I thought it was fun to visit a different place, on the other hand I missed the usual feel and setting of this series. Now it read half like a travel book with Gemma visiting some famous sites in Vienna and experiencing the city and the mystery got a bit of a backseat. It also lacks a lot of the usual side characters and instead there is a bunch of new side character. The Old Biddies are there as well as they travel with Gemma.

The mystery somehow failed to fully grab my attention. It takes to about 30% of the book until the murder takes place and it's one of those murders were the police are convinced it isn't a murder and the main character believes otherwise even with lack of strong evidence to the contrary. And at the same time the police seemed to dismiss it a bit too easily as well. And while it wasn't my favorite mystery it was wrapped up well and I liked how looking back there are a bunch of hints pointing to the murderer.

What was interesting about the mystery was that with the hotel setting it took place, that meant there is only a limited amount of suspects, which was a nice touch. You know it's one of the hotel visitors or staff. The mystery progresses slowly and there isn't as much investigating as in the other books. It also felt a bit too convenient how Muesli accidentally uncovers two big clues and I am not sure how the mystery would be solved without those. I also wasn't too happy with how Gemma uses Devlin's guilt against him to have him investigate/ look up something for her.

With the book taking place in Vienna we saw some different side characters. They all get introduced in the start, but most were easy to remember who was who, although I got confused about two side characters at first. But I just missed the usual cast of characters and setting a bit that I've come to expect from this series. There's a quirky American tourist who loves horses, a Chinese family, a talkative women with her mother and some Austrian characters related to the art business. We find out more about them over the course of the book which was nice.

I am not too sure how I feel about the plot line surrounding the Chinese family. The mother seemed to focused on a good career for her kid, while repressing her love for art and animals,which didn't seem right. But at the same time I didn't feel fully comfortable with how Gemma inserted herself in that situation. And thought it was a tad realistic how they trusted someone they only met two days with their kid and the change at the end felt a bit abrupt. Although the little girl was adorable.

It was fun that the Old Biddies went with Gemma on her vacation, but I felt they are more fun to read about in the usual setting. But there were some great scene with them and it was interesting seeing them in a different setting. Muesli also went with them to Vienna so the cat does make some appearances as well.

To summarize: Sadly I didn't enjoy this book as much as the previous books. The mystery is well put together, but I felt the balance with the other elements in the story was a bit off. There was a bunch of sightseeing and touristy stuff which I didn't care as much for and it lacked the usual feel of this series. The mystery was a bit slow to start and it felt it got less focus than in the previous books. The mystery was well done and I liked how there are some hints to the murderer throughout the book. But the mystery didn't grab my attention as much as usual. The change in setting brought a new cast of characters that we get to meet and some familiar ones that paly a role too as the Old Biddies and Muesli go to Vienna as well. All in all not my favorite of the series, but still a decent read and I am looking forward to the next book.

[M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again H.Y. Hanna captured my attention with her clever fun amateur detective. Gemma and the Old Biddies are at it again, solving a murder the police do not seem interested in. This time instead of staying in Oxford and solving the murder while serving delicious scones at her Tea Shop, Gemma is off to Vienna to accept an award for her scone recipe. The Old Biddies surprisingly show up at the hotel for a vacation at the same time and the detecting begins when a dead body is discovered in the hotel also. Gemma has to call home for assistance from her boyfriend, the police detective, who had to stay behind and solve another crime. Gemma and the Old Biddies are great giving the readers a wonderful description of the city sights to see and the scrumptious food one should taste while visiting the country of Austria. Once I picked up the book I did not put it down until I had finished it.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is a guaranteed delight to read.
In this latest offering, Gemma, Muesli and the Old Biddies are in Vienna.
The setting is vibrantly written and the characters are engaging and intriguing.
The whodunit as always kept me engrossed and guessing.
I strongly recommend you read this series in order.
I look forward to reading the next in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

[Maryse Leclair · Rating 4 out of 5]

J’ai adoré visiter Vienne aux côtés de Gemma et des vieilles chouettes. Ce changement de lieu a donné un souffle nouveau, un peu de fraîcheur dans la série!

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Apple Strudel Alibi”earns 5/5 Strudel-ishious Murder Mystery!
Ahhh, Vienna! The thought brings up images of a romantic waltz, Von Trapp family, museums, palaces, mouthwatering desserts, and…murder? Gemma Rose gets a marvelous surprise from the Old Biddies who secretly entered the tearoom scones in the Euro Tearoom Baking Contest. The Little Stables Tearoom won! She can pick up the award in Vienna, but “I'll be in Malta with Devlin!” plans makes Vienna a no-go. However, romance once again takes a hit on the priority list when DCI Devlin O’Connor’s work ethic cancels those plans sending Gemma, Muesli, and the Four Biddies off to Vienna. There they are confronted with a hotel filled with delightful, some suspicious guests, pompous critic known for scathing reviews, friends, foes, and hotel owners hoping to build a good reputation for their hotel. These all collide into murder, and Gemma with her octogenarian entourage take on the case.

H.Y. Hanna doesn't disappoint with her signature clever mystery, well-written descriptions, engaging dialogue, and rich, well-developed characters from all walks of life. Have you read her vacation blog about Vienna? Actually having been there, she adds a legitimate realism to the sights, sounds, and tastes…oh, the tastes! deliciously bringing to life the beautiful city of Vienna. I enjoyed the change of setting from the comfortable British countryside to the hectic European city, and much like what one would find in a book one, she spends extra time immersing the reader into the culture and history before diving into the murder mystery. It took longer than I normally like, but I didn't mind the delay because I enjoy Gemma and the “Biddies,” and was very entertained following them around the city. But, Hsin-yi doesn't rely on the narrative alone nor turn it into a travel log, she offers entertaining banter between the “Biddies” and Gemma. Ok, Mable is such a hoot! Although this is the eighth book in the series, there aren't any spoilers and enough background and characters connections to make this an entertaining standalone. But…do not miss the rest of the series! You'll love it!

Fans, like me, are always excited to learn which recipe Hsin-yi decides to include as a special treat…always connected to the story from scones to sticky toffee pudding to custard tarts, so Traditional Apple Strudel? Yes! She credits Ursula Schersch, “Apple Strudel (Apflestrudel), a typical and beloved Austrian dessert.” She says it is “my granny’s recipe—and I've never had any better tasting.” How perfect is that!

"Disclosure: I received an ARC of the book, but I am voluntarily posting a review with honest comments and insights."

[K.A. Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

APPLE STRUDEL ALIBI, the eighth book in the Oxford Tearoom Mysteries by H.Y. Hanna is a very fun addition to an enjoyable series! The protagonist, Gemma Rose, owns Little Stables Tearoom, a successful tearoom near Oxford, England. She’s having a difficult time connecting with her investigator boyfriend… murder cases keep getting in his way and his latest cancellation of their holiday plans is the last straw. When Gemma’s tearoom scones win a contest, she sees it as the perfect chance to go on holiday to collect the award in Vienna, Austria. Fortunately for the entertainment of the reader, the four elderly women (aka the Old Biddies) who frequent Gemma’s tearoom, decide to invite themselves along for the holiday. From there zany antics abound as they find themselves embroiled in murder and mayhem away from home.

While Gemma’s English village and tearoom are charming, it was a refreshing change to see Vienna through her eyes. I loved the description of Austria – the sights, sounds, smells and above all the tastes of their famous pastries! Ms. Hanna made the location come alive and I felt like I was on vacation with Gemma. Muesli, Gemma’s adorable and mischievous tabby, also makes the trip and plays a prominent role. But once again, it’s the Old Biddies who steal the limelight of each scene they’re in! They are such great characters and talk Gemma into the craziest trouble, providing lighthearted humor. Their sauna scene is one of the funniest scenes I’ve read in a long time and one I won’t soon forget.
The mystery itself is well plotted with plenty of suspects with viable reasons to kill the victim. I didn’t figure it out until just before the reveal and the suspenseful conclusion wrapped up the plot and subplots nicely. I was a bit unnerved when a young child was threatened but it was handled with sensitivity and the resolution adhered to our cozy guidelines: a happy ending… which is why I enjoy cozy mysteries so much!

Be prepared to drool all over the pages with all the mentions of Vienna’s delectable pastries and desserts! Ms. Hanna provides a recipe for Traditional Apple Strudel at the back of the book, which was generously provided by Ursula Schersch, blogger at Li’l Vienna.

[Linda Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gemma Rose is happily packed for a long-awaited and much-postponed holiday in Malta with her policeman boyfriend, Devlin O'Connell. So she is not at all pleased that the holiday must be postponed...again. Luckily, the Old Biddies have a surprise for her. The Old Biddies are a quartet of pensioners who not only help out at The Little Stables Tearoom but get Gemma embroiled in their sleuthing adventures. They have entered Gemma's scones in the Euro-Tearoom Baking Contest, and the scones were selected to represent England at the event being held in Vienna. Since a friend of Gemma's mum is opening a hotel in Vienna, one friendly to animals, why not go, along with Gemma's mischievous cat, Muesli? Gemma and the Old Biddies arrive in Vienna and check in to Sofia Fritzl's hotel. The hotel is just opening and has a number of dignitaries checked in. One of the guests is Moritz Wagner, a well-known critic. Herr Wagner appears to be charming but is really a brutal critic who delights in destroying businesses. The discovery of his body at the hotel is ruled suicide, but the Old Biddies are sure it is murder. What can Gemma do but get involved again? If it is murder, then the old ladies could be in danger. Suspects abound, and the investigation leads Gemma (and Muesli) into hilarious misadventures.

The Oxford Tearoom Mysteries is a favorite series with great characters and atmosphere. Oxford is one of my favorite places and Vienna is a wonderful destination as well. I have spent only a few days there and hope to return one day. In the meantime, I can content myself with the vivid descriptions of the architecture, history, and wonderful food to be found there. I highly recommend Apple Strudel Alibi for readers of light-hearted cozy mysteries.

I received an advance digital copy from the author. The opinions are my own.

[Daniele · Rating 4 out of 5]

APPLE STRUDEL ALIBI, the seventh book in the endearing Oxford Tearoom Mystery Series, leaves Oxford behind for the decadent city Vienna. Gemma, when her much anticipated vacation with her boyfriend Devlin is cancelled, finds herself bound for Vienna to receive an award for the teashop’s scone recipe. The Old Biddies tag along (they did submit the recipe to the contest in the first place), and they stay in Gemma’s mother’s friend’s newly opened hotel. Things are going well until local critic Moritz Wagner is found dead in the courtyard. The police are quick to call it a suicide, but Gemma and company cannot abide by that and proceed to investigate.

I enjoyed the change of venue in APPLE STRUDEL ALIBI (though I missed the tearoom, too). I relished every sweet Gemma and the Biddies consumed. Hanna’s s description of all of the wonderful desserts is extravagant and mouthwatering. Gemma and the Biddies are as delightful as ever. Moritz is charming, and I hated to see him the victim. There are plenty of suspects, including Moritz’s friend, ex-girlfriend, and the hotel proprietor Sophia. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep the mystery moving at a steady pace, and I second guessed whodunit until the last moment.

The Oxford Tearoom series is one of my favorite cozy series, and APPLE STRUDEL ALIBI is a strong entry. Highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily shared my thoughts here.

[Celia · Rating 5 out of 5]

H. Y. Hanna has written another wonderful adventure for Gemma, with a little murder thrown in. Although she's supposed to be going on holiday with Devlin in Malta, a change in plans finds Gemma in Vienna (with the Old Biddies no less) to accept an award for making the best scones in England. They end up staying at a newly opened boutique hotel owned by her Mother's old school friend Sophia Fritzl and are having a wonderful time exploring and experiencing all the sights in Vienna when one of the hotel's guests dies under mysterious circumstances. Unlike in Oxford, Gemma has no connections with the Viennese police department, thus they summarily dismiss her concerns that the death could be murder. Consequently, Gemma and the Old Biddies decide to look into the death themselves.

I enjoyed this book so much and was ready to book a trip to Vienna half-way through. The descriptions of various places in Vienna -- the cafés, museums and Lipizzaner horses, in particular, drew me into the book. I found myself googling a lot of the places mentioned, and they are just as H.Y. Hanna described. The Old Biddies were once again at their best, getting Gemma into awkward situations, while Gemma's Mother's attempt at Face-timing her was hilarious. I love a good mystery where the characters don't take themselves too seriously, and Apple Strudel Alibi certainly fits the bill. I highly recommend this book and all of the books in the Oxford Tearoom Mysteries -- they are truly a delight.

A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.

[John Presler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gemma Rose owns and operates the Little Stables Tearoom near Oxford. Gemma is in Vienna to accept the coveted award for making the best scones in England.

While in Vienna, Gemma is staying at a B & B owned by her mother’s friend, Sofia. When Gemma looks over the balcony one morning, she finds the body of a hotel critic lying on the concrete patio below.

Even though the hotel critic was pretty unpleasant, why did he have to die? Did he take his own life by jumping to his death or was he pushed, and if so, by whom and Why? Can Gemma unravel the puzzle? Will Sofia be of any help to Gemma? Will Gemma be able to relax and enjoy some of the sights of Vienna?

As usual, H.Y. Hanna puts a story out that is very involved and fun to read. There are, as always, exciting and interesting facts about the exotic locations. as well as the people and situations she finds there. H.Y. Hanna does not disappoint…

[Cathy Geha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gemma and Devlin are SUPPOSED to go on holiday together but…life gets in the way so instead…Gemma heads to Vienna to receive an award, the old biddies tag along, Muesli (her cat) travels with her and a murder takes place that intrigues the biddies and Gemma. With a murderer to find, plenty of suspects to pick from, wonderful places to visit in Vienna and a young girl that Gemma feels she can help this is a fun cozy murder mystery that is a wonderful addition to the series. I wonder if Gemma and Devlin will ever catch a break and be able to get some time away together ;)

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I actually liked this one since Emma was on her won without her friends and boyfriend. The "Old Biddies" were there, of course, to get her into awkward situations, as her cat was there to find clues and save the day. It would've been nice, however, had her boyfriend tried to find a healthier work/life balance. And now I want to try everything that the author mentioned in her book. Yum!

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book isn’t my favorite in the series so far. I think the change of location threw me off, I missed Gemma’s experiences in Oxford. This time she was in Austria with the old ladies (and her cat) solving a murder at a hotel. Being outside of Oxford made some her actions seem silly. I’m looking forward to their return to Oxford.

[Lindsey DeLost · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m so sad that I only have two more books in the series to read! This is in my top 3 cozy mystery series for sure.

[Sarah Booth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gemma in Vienna

A cute cozy mystery with a scene break in the series to mix things up a bit. The story ended a bit abruptly it felt like but it is entertaining. If you have sussed out the writers formula you can figure out who the killer is relatively quickly, but that doesn’t spoil the story too much. If you’re looking at reviews for this book you’ve probably read all the others and know you will enjoy this one, too.

[Emme · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love this series; however, being set in the beautiful city of Vienna something was missing. It did have a few twists and who didn't love sweet little Mei-Mei. The Old Buddies were too subdued. I did like that the other characters did make brief appearances. Despite something missing, I look forward to the next book in this fun series.

[Arow · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this installment Gemma and the Old Biddies end up on a vacation in Vienna. I enjoyed the change in scenery however the overall storyline didn't grab me

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

A laugh out loud, fun read!

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quand on en est au 8e tome d’une série de cozy mystery, la question ne se pose plus de savoir si on aime ou pas…

[Pink Door Bookshop · Rating 2 out of 5]

Let me start by saying this: I've read every book up to this one and have really enjoyed this series. Regardless of this review, I'll still be continuing to the next book.

That being said, this has been my least favorite book of the series. The main character felt extra annoying and childish in this book.

Her wild outburst when her detective boyfriend can't go on vacation with her was too much for me.

The storyline where Gemma gets in the middle of a family issue with a mother and young child (who are strangers to Gemma btw, she just met them on this vacation) is so unrealistic. Gemma is not a parent herself but takes it upon herself to think she knows better than this mom. There are points in the storyline where Gemma takes a young child away from the hotel without her parents knowing and another point where she gives the child a gift and tells her to keep it a secret from her parents.

I wanted to slap Gemma through the Audiobook (LOL) throughout this whole plot. It was an annoying and unnecessary side show to the book. A little too "Gemma is holier than thou" vibe for me.

And, apparently, Gemma is mature, worldly, and knowledgeable enough to parent this stranger's child BUT she can't handle a few naked people at a European spa even though she's....wait for it......EUROPEAN herself. Oye.

To add to all of this: The murder plot wasn't intriguing at all, and at times, there were so many other side storylines, I kind of forgot who was killed.

And, she takes her cat on vacation. NOBODY DOES THAT. I know her cat is a big part of the series but it felt so dumb.

Author didn't take her time on this book or something. Felt rushed and like she was grasping for stories. Hope the next one is better.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fast-paced fun read in the Oxford Tea Room Mystery series taking you to Vienna on not only a tour but another mystery.

Finally after many stops and starts, Gemma and Devlin can get away on a romantic vacation. With everything ready for their departure, Devlin throws a monkey wrench into the mix. There is a huge case that he got called to work because the detective working the case is sick and unable to complete the task. Gemma is mad...really mad! The old biddies, without Gemma's knowledge entered her scones into an international contest in Vienna. And she won. But she must go to Vienna to receive her reward. When the Biddies explained what they did, and since she was going on vacation anyway...why not and she could bring Muesli, her cat companion! And Gemma's mother introduced her to a friend who just opened a hotel in Vienna where she could stay. And of course the Biddies come along. Needless to say, a famous and acerbic art critic dies from going over the balcony and the Biddies are sure it was murder and gets involved which leaves Gemma protecting them again and investigating the death to try and convince the authorities it was murder not suicide. With subplots and red-herrings you are led by the Biddies and Gemma on a dangerous and hysterical journey to try and figure out whodunit. As a bonus, the author introduces us to Vienna and all its wonderful places to visit! There is some fun humor and you meet some strange characters along the way. A fun and fast paced read. I received an ARC from the author, but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Jeannie and Louis Rigod · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of us have favorite desserts that we tease and say, 'Its to die for.' What happens if a dessert might actually be? Well, that is exactly what went through my mind as I read this title. The Strudel plays throughout the book, but you will be surprised at it's real purpose there. I was.

Gemma Rose, owner of the Little Stables Tearoom, is England's winner for tearooms. The ceremony is in Vienna, Austria. Gemma is regretful, but delighted that she is to be in Malta with her love for vacation...He cancels for work.

Vienna here Gemma, and to her surprise, the Little Ole' Biddies, all four of them, come! Gemma and gang are staying at Gemma's mother's friends hotel. A beautiful upscale boutique hotel. They are thrilled. Glenda even finds a gentleman who invites her to dine with him.

Until the screaming begins...said suitor is dead! Glenda is besides herself, and the Biddies are off to investigate. The Austrian police have labeled it a suicide. Nope, they know better. Gemma is roped in. There are Spa visits not to be missed (oh boy that was a surprise scene.) There are possible art forgeries, there are the precious Royal Lipizaner's 'Airs Above The Ground,' and underground railroads. There is a murderer as well. Then, the tourists and hotel residents. All this surrounded with luscious desserts and coffees.

This book was great reading. I'm so fond of the horses and was lucky to have seen them perform in Las Vegas years ago. I have never forgotten the experience, so this book was tailored to me.

Ms. Hanna never writes a mediocre book. She has the ability to grab the reader, put them in a gentle environment, lull them into a cozy mood, and wham! Humor, action, and a darn good murder mystery occurs. What more can you want? A recipe for Apple Strudel and Ms. Hanna gives us one at the ending. Muesli, the kitty is vastly important in this book, as well. Keep an eye on her.

Enjoy, Enjoy, Enjoy!!!