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Tea Shop Mystery #27
Murder in the Tea Leaves
It’s Lights, Action, Murder as tea maven Theodosia Browning scrambles for clues in this latest installment of the New York Times bestselling series.
When Theodosia Browning reads the tea leaves on the set of the movie, Dark Fortunes, things go from spooky to worse. Lights are dimmed, the camera rolls, and red hot sparks fly as the film’s director is murdered in a tricky electrical accident.
Or was it an accident? Though the cast and crew are stunned beyond belief, nobody admits to seeing a thing. And when Theodosia’s friend, Delaine, becomes the prime suspect, Theodosia begins her own shadow investigation. But who among this Hollywood cast and crew had murder on their mind? The screenwriter is a self-centered pot head, the leading actress is trying to wiggle out of her contract, the brand new director seems indifferent, and nobody trusts the slippery-when-dry Hollywood agent.
Between hosting a Breakfast at Tiffany’s Tea, a Poetry Tea, and trying to launch her own chocolate line, Theodosia doggedly hunts down clues and explores the seemingly haunted Brittlebank Manor where the murder took place. And just when she’s ready to pounce, a Charleston Film Board member is also murdered, throwing everything into total disarray. But this clever killer will go to any lengths to hide his misdeeds as Theodosia soon finds out when she and her tea sommelier, Drayton, get caught up in a dangerous stakeout.
When Theodosia Browning reads the tea leaves on the set of the movie, Dark Fortunes, things go from spooky to worse. Lights are dimmed, the camera rolls, and red hot sparks fly as the film’s director is murdered in a tricky electrical accident.
Or was it an accident? Though the cast and crew are stunned beyond belief, nobody admits to seeing a thing. And when Theodosia’s friend, Delaine, becomes the prime suspect, Theodosia begins her own shadow investigation. But who among this Hollywood cast and crew had murder on their mind? The screenwriter is a self-centered pot head, the leading actress is trying to wiggle out of her contract, the brand new director seems indifferent, and nobody trusts the slippery-when-dry Hollywood agent.
Between hosting a Breakfast at Tiffany’s Tea, a Poetry Tea, and trying to launch her own chocolate line, Theodosia doggedly hunts down clues and explores the seemingly haunted Brittlebank Manor where the murder took place. And just when she’s ready to pounce, a Charleston Film Board member is also murdered, throwing everything into total disarray. But this clever killer will go to any lengths to hide his misdeeds as Theodosia soon finds out when she and her tea sommelier, Drayton, get caught up in a dangerous stakeout.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published March 5, 2024
453 people are currently reading
877 people want to read
About the author
Laura Childs
93 books2,255 followersLaura Childs is a pseudonym for Gerry Schmitt and she is the best-selling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, the Scrapbook Mysteries, and the Cackleberry Club Mysteries.
Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fund raising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.
Laura specializes in cozy mysteries that have the pace of a thriller (a thrillzy!) Her three series are:
The Tea Shop Mysteries - set in the historic district of Charleston and featuring Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia is a savvy entrepreneur, and pet mom to service dog Earl Grey. She's also an intelligent, focused amateur sleuth who doesn't rely on coincidences or inept police work to solve crimes. This charming series is highly atmospheric and rife with the history and mystery that is Charleston.
The Scrapbooking Mysteries - a slightly edgier series that take place in New Orleans. The main character, Carmela, owns Memory Mine scrapbooking shop in the French Quarter and is forever getting into trouble with her friend, Ava, who owns the Juju Voodoo shop. New Orleans' spooky above-ground cemeteries, jazz clubs, bayous, and Mardi Gras madness make their presence known here!
The Cackleberry Club Mysteries - set in Kindred, a fictional town in the Midwest. In a rehabbed Spur station, Suzanne, Toni, and Petra, three semi-desperate, forty-plus women have launched the Cackleberry Club. Eggs are the morning specialty here and this cozy cafe even offers a book nook and yarn shop. Business is good but murder could lead to the cafe's undoing! This series offers recipes, knitting, cake decorating, and a dash of spirituality.
Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fund raising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.
Laura specializes in cozy mysteries that have the pace of a thriller (a thrillzy!) Her three series are:
The Tea Shop Mysteries - set in the historic district of Charleston and featuring Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia is a savvy entrepreneur, and pet mom to service dog Earl Grey. She's also an intelligent, focused amateur sleuth who doesn't rely on coincidences or inept police work to solve crimes. This charming series is highly atmospheric and rife with the history and mystery that is Charleston.
The Scrapbooking Mysteries - a slightly edgier series that take place in New Orleans. The main character, Carmela, owns Memory Mine scrapbooking shop in the French Quarter and is forever getting into trouble with her friend, Ava, who owns the Juju Voodoo shop. New Orleans' spooky above-ground cemeteries, jazz clubs, bayous, and Mardi Gras madness make their presence known here!
The Cackleberry Club Mysteries - set in Kindred, a fictional town in the Midwest. In a rehabbed Spur station, Suzanne, Toni, and Petra, three semi-desperate, forty-plus women have launched the Cackleberry Club. Eggs are the morning specialty here and this cozy cafe even offers a book nook and yarn shop. Business is good but murder could lead to the cafe's undoing! This series offers recipes, knitting, cake decorating, and a dash of spirituality.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
December 6, 2023
I enjoyed this book more than the previous one. Theodosia still does some ridiculous things, taking chances that could literally kill her, but I guess that’s going to keep happening. Delaine is only in this for a short time. She is so annoying that it was good not to hear too much from her. Drayton plays a bigger part in this story than he has in the past, which I enjoyed. The only thing I really don’t like is that this book just ends. Pages and pages of descriptions about food and gardens and furniture and then the villain is caught. Bingo. End of book. I’d like to have another chapter that explains the why and how of the crime. I have read all of these books and will continue to. I received a copy from NetGalley.
April 16, 2024
A bit ridiculous with an abrupt ending ! Not my favorite in this lovely series !
April 17, 2024
While it was the typical Teashop Mystery, filled with delectable scones, desserts, themed tea parties, and great tea lore, I bumped it up from a 3.5 star rating to 4 because of the bang up finish! How fitting for the apprehension of criminals- way to go Drayton!
March 9, 2024
Loved the mystery in this one! And, as always, the special tea parties that are featured are so creative and fun! Had me wishing I lived on Church Street so I could attend one. Drayton is my favorite character! So loyal to Theodosia, especially when she trapses off on one of her hairbrained 'searching for clues' adventures. And....I really wish the author would just nix this whole "relationship" with Riley. It doesn't seem like there is any close connection/chemistry between these characters at all. It doesn't add anything to the story, and Theo. is so fiercely independent that she never really goes to him in her times of need(after a harrowing experience). So what is the point? I did enjoy the new character Beth Ann and I always love when Miss Dimple helps out. I think it would be fun to have a storyline featuring Miss Dimple more.
March 10, 2024
Quick and easy to read, but maybe because I wasn't familiar with the series, I didn't connect with the characters or the storyline. Theodosia gets what she needs much too quickly and with all those deaths and attempts on her life, I don't get how she is okay with going for a jog with her dog every night.
March 6, 2024
Murder In The Tea Leaves is the twenty-seventh book in the A Tea Shop Mystery series by Laura Childs.
Theodora, Drayton, and Hayley are some of my favorite characters, and they are back once again to provide the reader with an exciting story.
Delaine Dish, Theodora’s friend, has convinced her to provide sandwiches, pastries, and tea for the movie crew shooting a film at the reportedly haunted Brittlebank Manor. The movie producer, Josh Morro, is so impressed with Theadora’s appearance and knowledge of teas that he can convince her to appear in the film and do a tea reading. As the crew is about to start the reading, Morro sits on a metal chair when loud pops and flashes of light begin. Then Morro falls dead on the floor, having been electrocuted. It is learned that the chair had been jerry-rigged so that when Morro sat on it, he would be killed. Theodora vows not to get involved in the investigation until her friend, Delaine Dish, who had had a loud argument with Morro in a restaurant the evening before and witnessed by a room full of people, becomes a prime suspect.
Theodora will soon find many suspects, including the lead actress who wanted out of her movie contract so she could star in a reality show, and also possibly the Charleston Movie Board who was responsible for bringing the movie company to Charleston.
This book is well written and plotted. It is very descriptively written, and I am actually witnessing what is happening. The characters are well-developed and believable.
Recipes and tea facts are also included in the book.
I am looking forward to the next book in this exciting and enjoyable series.
Theodora, Drayton, and Hayley are some of my favorite characters, and they are back once again to provide the reader with an exciting story.
Delaine Dish, Theodora’s friend, has convinced her to provide sandwiches, pastries, and tea for the movie crew shooting a film at the reportedly haunted Brittlebank Manor. The movie producer, Josh Morro, is so impressed with Theadora’s appearance and knowledge of teas that he can convince her to appear in the film and do a tea reading. As the crew is about to start the reading, Morro sits on a metal chair when loud pops and flashes of light begin. Then Morro falls dead on the floor, having been electrocuted. It is learned that the chair had been jerry-rigged so that when Morro sat on it, he would be killed. Theodora vows not to get involved in the investigation until her friend, Delaine Dish, who had had a loud argument with Morro in a restaurant the evening before and witnessed by a room full of people, becomes a prime suspect.
Theodora will soon find many suspects, including the lead actress who wanted out of her movie contract so she could star in a reality show, and also possibly the Charleston Movie Board who was responsible for bringing the movie company to Charleston.
This book is well written and plotted. It is very descriptively written, and I am actually witnessing what is happening. The characters are well-developed and believable.
Recipes and tea facts are also included in the book.
I am looking forward to the next book in this exciting and enjoyable series.
July 10, 2024
Sigh. I just need to give up with these tea shop mysteries. Because, to me, they have gone so far from what they started as, what I loved them for: the small business, more centered around the tea shop vibe.
Theodosia has evolved throughout the books and to me, I don't think in a good way. She is become more of a Nancy Drew wannabe getting into really stupid scenarios. (That end way too quickly. Like we catch the murderer and within a page, the whole book is over). Theodosia seems less in love with the tea, the parties, etc....and I miss that.
This book was definitely too much into the mystery and the characters surrounding it. Even our usual Charlestonians took a backseat. I did not care for that. So obviously I just didn't care about the book ultimately. And I'm not caring about the series as a whole any more.
Theodosia has evolved throughout the books and to me, I don't think in a good way. She is become more of a Nancy Drew wannabe getting into really stupid scenarios. (That end way too quickly. Like we catch the murderer and within a page, the whole book is over). Theodosia seems less in love with the tea, the parties, etc....and I miss that.
This book was definitely too much into the mystery and the characters surrounding it. Even our usual Charlestonians took a backseat. I did not care for that. So obviously I just didn't care about the book ultimately. And I'm not caring about the series as a whole any more.
April 25, 2024
Theodosia, Drayton, Hayley and Earl Grey (dog) are back in the only cozy mystery series I seem to follow now.
I say cozy..but there's a couple of brutal murders involved. One of which seems to me is a variation on a murder I saw in a Louise Penny book!?!
However apart from brutal murders all is well in Charleston..Theodosia is reckless as ever and way too much information about Tea...that I ever needed to know.
I say cozy..but there's a couple of brutal murders involved. One of which seems to me is a variation on a murder I saw in a Louise Penny book!?!
However apart from brutal murders all is well in Charleston..Theodosia is reckless as ever and way too much information about Tea...that I ever needed to know.
June 6, 2024
Murder in the Tea Leaves is another Tea Shop mystery.
I'm a tea drinker and always make it a point to try different kinds of teas, I like most kinds but do have my favorites. When I see a cozy mystery series taking place in a tea shop, I know it's on my to read list at the top.
Tea shop owner Theodosia Browning has hit the big time, and a movie is being filmed in her tea shop. Because she has such knowledge of tea, she is put in at the last minute to read the tea leaves by the movie director. The lights are low and though she was there she didn't see who set the wires up to electrocute the director in his metal chair. When a friend of hers is the prime suspect she knows she must take matters into her own hands to solve this case. Quick read, I enjoyed the clues presented. The descriptions of the delightful different types of teas, and desserts was divine and even the talk about the different cups and tea pots and how they were acquired, how fun. Earl Gray was her dogs name, loved it. There are delightful recipes included plus tea plantations to visit and other things to do while traveling. I really enjoyed the information in the back of the book and look forward to visiting Charleston, such a wonderful travel guide. I always look forward to more books in this series, it's a favorite of mine.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I'm a tea drinker and always make it a point to try different kinds of teas, I like most kinds but do have my favorites. When I see a cozy mystery series taking place in a tea shop, I know it's on my to read list at the top.
Tea shop owner Theodosia Browning has hit the big time, and a movie is being filmed in her tea shop. Because she has such knowledge of tea, she is put in at the last minute to read the tea leaves by the movie director. The lights are low and though she was there she didn't see who set the wires up to electrocute the director in his metal chair. When a friend of hers is the prime suspect she knows she must take matters into her own hands to solve this case. Quick read, I enjoyed the clues presented. The descriptions of the delightful different types of teas, and desserts was divine and even the talk about the different cups and tea pots and how they were acquired, how fun. Earl Gray was her dogs name, loved it. There are delightful recipes included plus tea plantations to visit and other things to do while traveling. I really enjoyed the information in the back of the book and look forward to visiting Charleston, such a wonderful travel guide. I always look forward to more books in this series, it's a favorite of mine.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
March 3, 2024
In the latest installment of the Tea Shop Mystery series, Theodosia finds herself on the set of a movie called, Dark Fortunes. Reading the tea leaves is her easiest task, but now she must find out if the death of the film’s director is actually an accident or a real murder.
I absolutely love coming back to this world. Reading about Theodosia and Drayton always puts a smile on my face. There’s just something very comforting about their friendship and I have always loved Theodosia’s way of thinking. She’s never too rash, but she’s interesting enough that the book never feels too slow-paced or boring.
We have Laura Childs’ writing to thank for that. Out of all the Cozy Mystery authors out there, I have to say that my favorite is Laura Childs. I love how she unravels the story and mystery a bit at a time and keeps readers on their toes until the very end.
If you’re looking for a fun cozy mystery, I would highly recommend this one. There are so many amazing books already in this series and MURDER IN THE TEA LEAVES is so exception. Laura Childs’ Tea Shop Mysteries series is a definite must-read!
I absolutely love coming back to this world. Reading about Theodosia and Drayton always puts a smile on my face. There’s just something very comforting about their friendship and I have always loved Theodosia’s way of thinking. She’s never too rash, but she’s interesting enough that the book never feels too slow-paced or boring.
We have Laura Childs’ writing to thank for that. Out of all the Cozy Mystery authors out there, I have to say that my favorite is Laura Childs. I love how she unravels the story and mystery a bit at a time and keeps readers on their toes until the very end.
If you’re looking for a fun cozy mystery, I would highly recommend this one. There are so many amazing books already in this series and MURDER IN THE TEA LEAVES is so exception. Laura Childs’ Tea Shop Mysteries series is a definite must-read!
March 30, 2024
I’ve read them all and will continue to, but why doesn’t Theo ever get in trouble for trespassing? And I find her manipulating and bullying Drayton into dangerous situations very annoying. But there wouldn’t be a story without it, I guess.
September 3, 2024
I would have rated higher but Theodosia is getting out of control with her risky stunts!
March 9, 2024
Dollycas's Thoughts
Theodosia Browning's Indigo Tea Shop is hopping hosting their regular customers but also hosting special teas like a Poetry Tea and a Breakfast at Tiffany’s Tea. The shop has also been hired to cater the craft services for the spooky movie set of Dark Fortunes. Theodosia even gets in on the action when she steps in to read tea leaves as a fortune teller. But her acting career comes to an abrupt halt when the lights go out and electrical sparks fly as the film's director is killed. Was it a freaky accident? or was it murder? The cast and crew are shocked but claim to have seen nothing because the lights were out.
When the death is ruled a homicide and Theodosia's friend, Delaine finds herself at the top of the list of suspects Theodosia starts an investigation of her own. Then the killer strikes again and Drayton and Theodosia find themselves hot on their trail. They need to catch the killer before the tables are turned and they are fighting for their own lives.
______
I enjoy getting back to historic Charleston, South Carolina, to catch up with Theodosia, Drayton, Haley, Miss Dimple, Riley, Detective Tidwell, Delaine, and the lovable Dallbrador, Earl Grey. The characters Ms. Childs has created are so engaging and aside from chasing down killers feel very true to life. Even after so many close brushes with death, Theo is always ready for anything and she usually has Drayton right by her side trying to talk her out of her latest scheme to catch a killer. Haley, Miss Dimple, and now Haley's cousin Beth Ann handle the tea shop while Drayton and Theo follow the clues. Riley isn't happy when Theo gets involved but he is never going to change her. Earl Grey is quite a dog and will protect his person in any way he can.
I love the way the author sets a scene. Her descriptions create vivid pictures. The movie was being filmed in "dilapidated" supposedly haunted Brittlebank Manor. Theodosia just has to check the place out from top to bottom to see if the legends about the place are true and readers get to see things through her eyes. She also describes Deliane's goofy fashion show, all the fabulous special teas including the decor, teas, food, and at the Breakfast at Tiffany’s Tea what everyone is wearing. We travel along on her runs and walks through the city with Earl Grey and to her and Drayton's homes. We also get to tag along as she tries to solve a murder or two. It is so easy to escape to all these places in the pages of this story.
Theodosia has a knack for questioning people in her quest to get to the truth. She also has a way are getting herself and Drayton in some situations that can quickly turn deadly. Ms. Childs has written a mystery with many twists and turns and what turns out to be a surprising motive. A motive Theo starts to put together a little too late but it leads up to an exhilarating and at points hilarious chase and an even funnier takedown. The ending was a little abrupt but there were no loose strings.
Book 27, Murder in the Tea Leaves is a hit! I was completely entertained from beginning to end and even a little breathless after the last few pages. Bring on Book 28, Peach Tea Smash, has a release date of August 6, 2024! I can't wait! You will find Murder in the Tea Leaves on my Best Reads of 2024.
Theodosia Browning's Indigo Tea Shop is hopping hosting their regular customers but also hosting special teas like a Poetry Tea and a Breakfast at Tiffany’s Tea. The shop has also been hired to cater the craft services for the spooky movie set of Dark Fortunes. Theodosia even gets in on the action when she steps in to read tea leaves as a fortune teller. But her acting career comes to an abrupt halt when the lights go out and electrical sparks fly as the film's director is killed. Was it a freaky accident? or was it murder? The cast and crew are shocked but claim to have seen nothing because the lights were out.
When the death is ruled a homicide and Theodosia's friend, Delaine finds herself at the top of the list of suspects Theodosia starts an investigation of her own. Then the killer strikes again and Drayton and Theodosia find themselves hot on their trail. They need to catch the killer before the tables are turned and they are fighting for their own lives.
______
I enjoy getting back to historic Charleston, South Carolina, to catch up with Theodosia, Drayton, Haley, Miss Dimple, Riley, Detective Tidwell, Delaine, and the lovable Dallbrador, Earl Grey. The characters Ms. Childs has created are so engaging and aside from chasing down killers feel very true to life. Even after so many close brushes with death, Theo is always ready for anything and she usually has Drayton right by her side trying to talk her out of her latest scheme to catch a killer. Haley, Miss Dimple, and now Haley's cousin Beth Ann handle the tea shop while Drayton and Theo follow the clues. Riley isn't happy when Theo gets involved but he is never going to change her. Earl Grey is quite a dog and will protect his person in any way he can.
I love the way the author sets a scene. Her descriptions create vivid pictures. The movie was being filmed in "dilapidated" supposedly haunted Brittlebank Manor. Theodosia just has to check the place out from top to bottom to see if the legends about the place are true and readers get to see things through her eyes. She also describes Deliane's goofy fashion show, all the fabulous special teas including the decor, teas, food, and at the Breakfast at Tiffany’s Tea what everyone is wearing. We travel along on her runs and walks through the city with Earl Grey and to her and Drayton's homes. We also get to tag along as she tries to solve a murder or two. It is so easy to escape to all these places in the pages of this story.
Theodosia has a knack for questioning people in her quest to get to the truth. She also has a way are getting herself and Drayton in some situations that can quickly turn deadly. Ms. Childs has written a mystery with many twists and turns and what turns out to be a surprising motive. A motive Theo starts to put together a little too late but it leads up to an exhilarating and at points hilarious chase and an even funnier takedown. The ending was a little abrupt but there were no loose strings.
Book 27, Murder in the Tea Leaves is a hit! I was completely entertained from beginning to end and even a little breathless after the last few pages. Bring on Book 28, Peach Tea Smash, has a release date of August 6, 2024! I can't wait! You will find Murder in the Tea Leaves on my Best Reads of 2024.
April 28, 2024
This is #27 in the series… I have read several over the years. Good mysteries set in historic Charleston with lots of food and teas thrown in. Fun light reading!
June 15, 2025
What I loved about this book is that it doesn't take itself seriously. Described as a 'cozy mystery,' it flawlessly blends elements of murder and suspense with a laid-back, feel-good ambiance that made it incredibly enjoyable to read.
I would probably revisit the series occasionally when I seek a blend of fun and relaxation.
I would probably revisit the series occasionally when I seek a blend of fun and relaxation.
April 3, 2025
I love a good cozy mystery and Laura Childs Tea Shop Mysteries never miss.
Theo and Drayton are back for another mystery, this time on a film set where the director has just been electrocuted. Back with familiar characters like Delaine, Tidwell, and Riley, Theo is tasked once again with solving the mystery when Delaine comes under suspicion and begs for Theo to intervene.
This is one series that no matter what I always have a good time. Even if the twists are sometimes predictable and the murderer easy to figure out, this is a fun story from start to finish and worth every minute it takes to read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Theo and Drayton are back for another mystery, this time on a film set where the director has just been electrocuted. Back with familiar characters like Delaine, Tidwell, and Riley, Theo is tasked once again with solving the mystery when Delaine comes under suspicion and begs for Theo to intervene.
This is one series that no matter what I always have a good time. Even if the twists are sometimes predictable and the murderer easy to figure out, this is a fun story from start to finish and worth every minute it takes to read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2024
I don't read the books from this series for the mystery (it's usually scant, ends abruptly, have to suspend disbelief) but rather I read these for the delightful characters, the humor, the warmth and cozy vibe but this time around...oh, boy it was really just phoned in. It wasn't a bad read. Just phoned in. And the MC's reaction to nearly getting killed was just bizarre. She didn't bother telling the police or her boyfriend and everyone around her acted as if the murder attempt was a mere bout of mild hay fever. Meh.
December 14, 2023
Theo is catering on a movie set when the director is electrocuted. Because her friend Delaine was dating him, she becomes one of the suspects, and she begs Theo to help clear her name. Several people on the set had issues with the director, so Theo sets out to investigate aided by Drayton. Of course, there are several delicious recipes in the back.
March 16, 2024
In this story, the tea shop is providing the food for a film crew. Theodosia is on the set when the director is killed and naturally she has questions and concerns. As with any of the books in this series there are many suspects. The eventual take down of the murderers is different and thrilling.
February 6, 2024
Title: Murder in the Tea Leaves
Author: Laura Childs
Publisher: Berkley
Format: Hardcover, e-book
Will be published on: March 5, 2024
Set in: Charleston, South Carolina
Genre: Cozy Mystery
In this latest Tea Shop Mystery, Theodosia Browning, the owner of Indigo Tea Shop, and Drayton Conneley, her tea sommelier, are hired to provide food and beverages for Dark Fortune’s movie crew filming at the haunted Brittlebank Manor.
No sooner does Josh Morro, the film’s director, insist that Theo be the fortune teller reading the tea leaves of the lead actress than he gets electrocuted in his chair. Everyone present on the set witnessed the terrible end of this man’s life. Soon after, Theo learns from an on-air TV personality that Andrea Blair, the lead actress, wants to star in a reality TV show, and Morro won’t let her out of her contract. Then, clothing store owner Delaine Dish enters the tea shop to tell Theo how worried she is, as she might be a suspect after arguing with Morro in public. According to Drayton, there’s also a legend about a woman being held prisoner in the manor’s attic.
No sooner does Detective Burt Tidwell tell Theo what the police force assumed happened to Morro than people start pointing fingers at each other, and the clues start forming. Helene Deveroux tells Theo about her involvement in the movie’s pre-production meetings. As she is a member of the Charleston Film Board, Peregrine Pictures needed to be informed about tax rebates and local incentives from the City of Charleston. She also noted who she thought to be suspects, including Andrea Blair, as Morro wouldn’t let her out of her contract; Craig Cole, the screenwriter constantly at odds with Morro; and the lighting crew. When Theo talks to Cole about Andrea’s contract, he suggests that the executive producer, Lewin Usher, doesn’t want her out of her contract. He pointed to the new director, hired immediately after Morro’s death, to complete the movie.
There is so much more to this book; you’ll have to read it to find the killer and his or her motive.
There are a lot of twists and turns in this one, and that’s what made it interesting. I would have never guessed the ending, but some clues lead the reader in that direction. The setting was dark and creepy, perfect for the film. I could not imagine what it would be like to witness someone dying that way. I would think the witnesses would be more shaken. The girlfriend coming out of nowhere didn’t seem believable. Also, I know Theo has been attacked many times over the years; not sure why she wasn’t more affected by someone trying to kill her in one scene.
I love the characters’ personalities. You know it’s only a matter of time before they talk to Theo about the latest murder. The tea shop events are fun to follow. I don’t see how Haley keeps up with all the baking and preparing for the special teas. Can’t wait to try some of the recipes.
four out of five movie sets
Denise Fleischer
gottawritenetwork.wordpress.com
February 6, 2024
Author: Laura Childs
Publisher: Berkley
Format: Hardcover, e-book
Will be published on: March 5, 2024
Set in: Charleston, South Carolina
Genre: Cozy Mystery
In this latest Tea Shop Mystery, Theodosia Browning, the owner of Indigo Tea Shop, and Drayton Conneley, her tea sommelier, are hired to provide food and beverages for Dark Fortune’s movie crew filming at the haunted Brittlebank Manor.
No sooner does Josh Morro, the film’s director, insist that Theo be the fortune teller reading the tea leaves of the lead actress than he gets electrocuted in his chair. Everyone present on the set witnessed the terrible end of this man’s life. Soon after, Theo learns from an on-air TV personality that Andrea Blair, the lead actress, wants to star in a reality TV show, and Morro won’t let her out of her contract. Then, clothing store owner Delaine Dish enters the tea shop to tell Theo how worried she is, as she might be a suspect after arguing with Morro in public. According to Drayton, there’s also a legend about a woman being held prisoner in the manor’s attic.
No sooner does Detective Burt Tidwell tell Theo what the police force assumed happened to Morro than people start pointing fingers at each other, and the clues start forming. Helene Deveroux tells Theo about her involvement in the movie’s pre-production meetings. As she is a member of the Charleston Film Board, Peregrine Pictures needed to be informed about tax rebates and local incentives from the City of Charleston. She also noted who she thought to be suspects, including Andrea Blair, as Morro wouldn’t let her out of her contract; Craig Cole, the screenwriter constantly at odds with Morro; and the lighting crew. When Theo talks to Cole about Andrea’s contract, he suggests that the executive producer, Lewin Usher, doesn’t want her out of her contract. He pointed to the new director, hired immediately after Morro’s death, to complete the movie.
There is so much more to this book; you’ll have to read it to find the killer and his or her motive.
There are a lot of twists and turns in this one, and that’s what made it interesting. I would have never guessed the ending, but some clues lead the reader in that direction. The setting was dark and creepy, perfect for the film. I could not imagine what it would be like to witness someone dying that way. I would think the witnesses would be more shaken. The girlfriend coming out of nowhere didn’t seem believable. Also, I know Theo has been attacked many times over the years; not sure why she wasn’t more affected by someone trying to kill her in one scene.
I love the characters’ personalities. You know it’s only a matter of time before they talk to Theo about the latest murder. The tea shop events are fun to follow. I don’t see how Haley keeps up with all the baking and preparing for the special teas. Can’t wait to try some of the recipes.
four out of five movie sets
Denise Fleischer
gottawritenetwork.wordpress.com
February 6, 2024
March 9, 2024
Theodosia, her lovable dog Earl Grey and her delightful group of friends are back in the 27th entry into Laura Childs’ Tea Shop Mystery series. Readers can easily pick this cozy mystery up as a standalone, but I encourage everyone to dive into the backlist for even more charming reading.
Hollywood has come to historic Charleston, South Carolina with the filming of the movie Dark Fortunes at the old Brittlebank Manor. Theo has agreed to stock the craft services with her delicious baked goods and of course tea. Only days into the filming and there is an electrical accident that kills the film’s director. But was it an accident? It’s hard for the police to know since everyone on set claims to have not seen a thing.
The fast build of the mystery, the second murder and list of suspects and clues had me turning pages so quickly. I inhaled this mystery in a day and a half. In addition to the pacing, I adored all the characters–each so unique and loveable. Theo is especially fearless as a sleuth, unafraid to ask the hard questions or go where she’s not allowed just to find the truth.
The descriptions of the historic city and buildings within felt like arm-chair travel. The special tea parties that Theo hosts at her shop added a whimsical touch to the story, and as a tea lover myself, I found these details fascinating. I wish so much I could attend a tea party at Theo’s shop. The recipes included at the end are mouth-watering, and I appreciated the author’s inclusion of information about tea and South Carolina as additional resources.
No spoilers here, but the ending of this mystery was a lot of fun to read. I could easily picture the breath-taking escape from the bad-guys and their pretty funny capture. So looking forward to book 28!
Hollywood has come to historic Charleston, South Carolina with the filming of the movie Dark Fortunes at the old Brittlebank Manor. Theo has agreed to stock the craft services with her delicious baked goods and of course tea. Only days into the filming and there is an electrical accident that kills the film’s director. But was it an accident? It’s hard for the police to know since everyone on set claims to have not seen a thing.
The fast build of the mystery, the second murder and list of suspects and clues had me turning pages so quickly. I inhaled this mystery in a day and a half. In addition to the pacing, I adored all the characters–each so unique and loveable. Theo is especially fearless as a sleuth, unafraid to ask the hard questions or go where she’s not allowed just to find the truth.
The descriptions of the historic city and buildings within felt like arm-chair travel. The special tea parties that Theo hosts at her shop added a whimsical touch to the story, and as a tea lover myself, I found these details fascinating. I wish so much I could attend a tea party at Theo’s shop. The recipes included at the end are mouth-watering, and I appreciated the author’s inclusion of information about tea and South Carolina as additional resources.
No spoilers here, but the ending of this mystery was a lot of fun to read. I could easily picture the breath-taking escape from the bad-guys and their pretty funny capture. So looking forward to book 28!
September 26, 2024
An exciting story line, starting with a movie production being filmed at a vacant house with a history of possible ghosts, and a wife that was kept prisoner in the third story bedroom. On the set a murder is done in front of the whole crew. Then several days later a second murder happens. Are they related? Since Theodosia Browning and her tea room are providing the poduction crew with food, she is here when the first death is done. The story also tells about some of the fancy Teas the shop is providing. Her employees also get envolved in some interesting problems. Ending with a wild ride on a high powered mortorcycle.
At the end of the book are some good receipes also.
At the end of the book are some good receipes also.
March 15, 2024
I love the themed teas at her shop. The past few books seem to have Theodosia taking outrageous risks in her investigations and the endings seem very abrupt. Still not warming to the relationship with Riley. I feel no chemistry between them at all and it adds nothing to the story. Drayton is wonderful as always and Beth Ann is a nice addition to the cast of characters
August 8, 2024
I enjoyed this book. I was attracted to the title as I am a tea drinker. I appreciated the narrating of various theme centered tea parties. The book includes some recipes in the back as well as some interesting links to tea websites and blogs. The book took place in Charleston, a town that I recently visited. All of these added details aided in my enjoyment of this book. Enjoyable mystery.
April 30, 2024
Theo actually didn't annoy me once while reading this book (at least I don't recall that she did). I love the series, but her walls can sometimes irritate me. Charleston is the huge draw for the series for me, having lived there and I still spend as much time as I can there (yes, even frequently going to the Spice and Tea Exchange right on Church Street to at least *feel* like I'm in Theo's place. I did find this mystery held my interest and I await #28.
June 4, 2024
Another good mystery set in the intriguing tea shop in Charleston.
June 30, 2024
Light read - perfect for a road trip.
September 29, 2024
Enjoyed my date with tea and scones in Charlotte.
January 24, 2025
Very easy, wholesome read
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June 18, 2024OMG I hate the ending. The rest of the story was great, a good Laura Child's tea shop mystery but what the hell with the ending. My husband will tell you I was pissed for a good long while and still am,.
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