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Sarah Vane Mysteries #3
Murder at the Tea Shop: An utterly gripping and addictive cozy mystery
This cosy seaside village may seem picture perfect, but there are sketchy secrets hiding in plain sight…
Having left the big city behind, Sarah Vane is fully embracing her calmer life in the quaint coastal town of Merstairs. With more time for hobbies, she joins a very popular life drawing class at the local tea shop. But when their usual model, the ever-punctual Mr Williams, doesn’t turn up, Sarah’s worried. He’d been complaining of a cough just last week so she decides to check up on him.
Arriving at his crooked little cottage, it appears the front door isn’t quite shut. Stepping inside, Sarah is shocked to find Mr Williams slumped in his armchair. Casting her eyes down to his coffee table she sees a generous slice of Victoria sponge with one perfectly sized bite taken from it. Is this a case of death by cake?
As Sarah hunts around the cluttered cottage for clues, she finds that Mr Williams had a rather peculiar hobby. It seems that he was an avid collector of ladies’ delicates, and from the looks of it, all the washing lines of Merstairs have been raided. But could his quirky collection really be a motive for murder?
But then the case takes a darker turn when another elderly resident is found dead after eating a slice of red velvet cake. Sarah starts to wonder – why would anyone target pensioners with a sweet tooth? And in a village known for some of the best cakes in the county, can Sarah find the culprit before another life is taken?
A delightfully cozy, utterly compulsive and gripping murder mystery, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Betty Rowlands and Katie Gayle who are looking for their next addictive read.
Readers love the Sarah Vane
‘Wow!!!… I absolutely LOVED this… had me hooked from the start to the end!!… Absolutely gorgeous… brilliant… amazing… incredible … absolutely smashed it out of the ballpark again!!!… completely sucked me in from beginning to end… a page-turner… I felt myself walking around with my kindle in my hand every chance I could get… filled with unexpected twists… absolutely fantastic… addictive… absolutely perfect.’
Bookworm86, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘LOVED!… Many laughing moments!… A real page-turner… once start, you won't be able to put down until finished.’ Coffeeandpages2021, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Wow!… fantastic… I enjoyed every page… I loved the vivid scenery… I was chuckling throughout… unputdownable… Captivated me from the first to the last page.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Fantastic… I can't wait for this to come out and for y'all to lose your minds… You're going to want to read this one. I raced through it this weekend … Brilliantly plotted and compelling.
Having left the big city behind, Sarah Vane is fully embracing her calmer life in the quaint coastal town of Merstairs. With more time for hobbies, she joins a very popular life drawing class at the local tea shop. But when their usual model, the ever-punctual Mr Williams, doesn’t turn up, Sarah’s worried. He’d been complaining of a cough just last week so she decides to check up on him.
Arriving at his crooked little cottage, it appears the front door isn’t quite shut. Stepping inside, Sarah is shocked to find Mr Williams slumped in his armchair. Casting her eyes down to his coffee table she sees a generous slice of Victoria sponge with one perfectly sized bite taken from it. Is this a case of death by cake?
As Sarah hunts around the cluttered cottage for clues, she finds that Mr Williams had a rather peculiar hobby. It seems that he was an avid collector of ladies’ delicates, and from the looks of it, all the washing lines of Merstairs have been raided. But could his quirky collection really be a motive for murder?
But then the case takes a darker turn when another elderly resident is found dead after eating a slice of red velvet cake. Sarah starts to wonder – why would anyone target pensioners with a sweet tooth? And in a village known for some of the best cakes in the county, can Sarah find the culprit before another life is taken?
A delightfully cozy, utterly compulsive and gripping murder mystery, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Betty Rowlands and Katie Gayle who are looking for their next addictive read.
Readers love the Sarah Vane
‘Wow!!!… I absolutely LOVED this… had me hooked from the start to the end!!… Absolutely gorgeous… brilliant… amazing… incredible … absolutely smashed it out of the ballpark again!!!… completely sucked me in from beginning to end… a page-turner… I felt myself walking around with my kindle in my hand every chance I could get… filled with unexpected twists… absolutely fantastic… addictive… absolutely perfect.’
Bookworm86, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘LOVED!… Many laughing moments!… A real page-turner… once start, you won't be able to put down until finished.’ Coffeeandpages2021, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Wow!… fantastic… I enjoyed every page… I loved the vivid scenery… I was chuckling throughout… unputdownable… Captivated me from the first to the last page.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Fantastic… I can't wait for this to come out and for y'all to lose your minds… You're going to want to read this one. I raced through it this weekend … Brilliantly plotted and compelling.
- GenresCozy MysteryMystery
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2024
989 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
Alice Castle
20 books153 followersAlice Castle lives in South London. She was a feature writer on national newspapers for many years. She has a degree in Modern History from St Andrews University, is the British Royalty expert for Flemish TV, and lived in Brussels for nearly a decade. Her first novel, Hot Chocolate, sold out in two weeks and her second, the cozy crime novel The Murder Mystery, is an Amazon bestseller. She has written nine more whodunnits starring single mum amateur sleuth Beth Haldane. She has also written two psychological thrillers for Harper Collins, The Perfect Widow and The Invitation, under the name A.M. Castle
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
October 6, 2024
*4.5 stars ✨
October 15, 2024
After the trauma of her last murder investigation retired doctor, Sarah Vane decided to find some other hobbies instead! So far, she and her best friend, Daphne, have joined a book club and an art group together. She isn't a fan of drawing fruit, however, and so, when their usual model doesn't turn up and is replaced by a banana, Sarah pops round to check on him.
Having once again found herself in the thick of a murder case, Sarah, Daphne, Scotty Dog, Hamish, and possible new beau Charles begin looking into the reasons for the unexpected death. As they make a little headway, tragedy strikes once again, and with danger far too close for comfort, will Sarah get the chance to regret her decision to help the local police once again?
Book three in this series was, unfortunately, a disappointment for me for a few reasons. The main one is that the motive for the killing didn't ring true for me. Traumatic, yes, but there were definitely other actions that could have been attempted first instead of swinging straight into murder mode. In the first two books, Daphne was annoying but survivable, this time, not so much. This is such a shame as I do love a cosy. As always, I won't dismiss a series after one slip. The main protagonist, Sarah, was, once again, a person I could get behind and enjoy all her thought processes. The location is also easy to imagine, and the warmth of Merstairs was a lovely distraction on a cold autumnal evening. Hopefully, book 4 will return to the earlier successes.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. Not for me this time, unfortunately.
Having once again found herself in the thick of a murder case, Sarah, Daphne, Scotty Dog, Hamish, and possible new beau Charles begin looking into the reasons for the unexpected death. As they make a little headway, tragedy strikes once again, and with danger far too close for comfort, will Sarah get the chance to regret her decision to help the local police once again?
Book three in this series was, unfortunately, a disappointment for me for a few reasons. The main one is that the motive for the killing didn't ring true for me. Traumatic, yes, but there were definitely other actions that could have been attempted first instead of swinging straight into murder mode. In the first two books, Daphne was annoying but survivable, this time, not so much. This is such a shame as I do love a cosy. As always, I won't dismiss a series after one slip. The main protagonist, Sarah, was, once again, a person I could get behind and enjoy all her thought processes. The location is also easy to imagine, and the warmth of Merstairs was a lovely distraction on a cold autumnal evening. Hopefully, book 4 will return to the earlier successes.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. Not for me this time, unfortunately.
November 4, 2024
Sarah Vane, retired London GP is fully embracing her calmer life in the quaint coastal town of Merstairs. With more time for hobbies, she joins a very popular life drawing class at the local tea shop. But when their usual model, the ever-punctual Mr Williams, doesn’t turn up, Sarah’s worried. He’d been complaining of a cough just last week so she decides to check up on him. Arriving at his crooked little cottage, it appears the front door isn’t quite shut. Stepping inside, Sarah is shocked to find Mr Williams slumped in his armchair. Casting her eyes down to his coffee table she sees a generous slice of Victoria sponge with one perfectly sized bite taken from it. Hamish, Sarah’s dog dashes upstairs where she finds that Mr Williams had a rather peculiar hobby. It seems that he was an avid collector of ladies’ undies. But then the case takes a darker turn when another elderly resident is found dead after eating a slice of red velvet cake.
The third outing for Sarah, best friend & neighbour Daphne, Charles & of course Hamish, another well written cosy murder mystery. I really like Sarah who is like a terrier with a bone, she won’t give up. Daphne would drive me up the wall but she does make me smile. Charles at last gets a bit of a back bone. I was left guessing as to who the villain was, there were twists, turns & red herrings. The intrepid trio are determined to find the villain especially after the second murder of a beloved friend. The cake tasting expedition had me chuckling. An easy to read captivating book
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The third outing for Sarah, best friend & neighbour Daphne, Charles & of course Hamish, another well written cosy murder mystery. I really like Sarah who is like a terrier with a bone, she won’t give up. Daphne would drive me up the wall but she does make me smile. Charles at last gets a bit of a back bone. I was left guessing as to who the villain was, there were twists, turns & red herrings. The intrepid trio are determined to find the villain especially after the second murder of a beloved friend. The cake tasting expedition had me chuckling. An easy to read captivating book
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
November 10, 2024
Sarah Vane has recently concluded an art class, a new hobby she is pursuing alongside her friend Daphne. Intrigued by the absence of their geriatric model from the class, Sarah visits his residence. Upon knocking on the door, she receives no response. As a retired physician, Sarah seeks a peaceful existence, but her recent encounters have not been conducive to this goal. Consequently, visiting the man’s home may prove to be a necessary step.
Sarah notices that the door is partially ajar. Peeking inside, she discovers a distressing scene - the octogenarian, Mr. Williams, has passed away. While the initial assumption of suicide appears plausible, even upon the arrival of the police, Sarah remains skeptical. She personally believes that Mr. Williams would not have taken his own life, prompting her to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding his demise.
Sarah’s investigation leads her to uncover Mr. Williams’ unusual hobby, an exceptionally peculiar pursuit. This revelation prompts Sarah and the police to consider whether Mr. Williams’ peculiar hobby could have served as a motive for his apparent murder. Tragically, another victim is discovered shortly thereafter, and Sarah becomes convinced of a connection between the two victims.
Cozy mysteries are a genre that I hold in high regard, and this third installment in the Sarah Vane series exemplifies the genre’s charm. The book features endearing characters, intricate mysteries with unexpected twists, and promises of further installments that solidify its place as one of my favorites.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Sarah notices that the door is partially ajar. Peeking inside, she discovers a distressing scene - the octogenarian, Mr. Williams, has passed away. While the initial assumption of suicide appears plausible, even upon the arrival of the police, Sarah remains skeptical. She personally believes that Mr. Williams would not have taken his own life, prompting her to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding his demise.
Sarah’s investigation leads her to uncover Mr. Williams’ unusual hobby, an exceptionally peculiar pursuit. This revelation prompts Sarah and the police to consider whether Mr. Williams’ peculiar hobby could have served as a motive for his apparent murder. Tragically, another victim is discovered shortly thereafter, and Sarah becomes convinced of a connection between the two victims.
Cozy mysteries are a genre that I hold in high regard, and this third installment in the Sarah Vane series exemplifies the genre’s charm. The book features endearing characters, intricate mysteries with unexpected twists, and promises of further installments that solidify its place as one of my favorites.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
October 31, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Alice Castle for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Murder at the Tea Shop coming out November 7, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Having left the big city behind, Sarah Vane is fully embracing her calmer life in the quaint coastal town of Merstairs. With more time for hobbies, she joins a very popular life drawing class at the local tea shop. But when their usual model, the ever-punctual Mr Williams, doesn’t turn up, Sarah’s worried. He’d been complaining of a cough just last week so she decides to check up on him.
Arriving at his crooked little cottage, it appears the front door isn’t quite shut. Stepping inside, Sarah is shocked to find Mr Williams slumped in his armchair. Casting her eyes down to his coffee table she sees a generous slice of Victoria sponge with one perfectly sized bite taken from it. Is this a case of death by cake?
As Sarah hunts around the cluttered cottage for clues, she finds that Mr Williams had a rather peculiar hobby. It seems that he was an avid collector of ladies’ delicates, and from the looks of it, all the washing lines of Merstairs have been raided. But could his quirky collection really be a motive for murder?
But then the case takes a darker turn when another elderly resident is found dead after eating a slice of red velvet cake. Sarah starts to wonder – why would anyone target pensioners with a sweet tooth? And in a village known for some of the best cakes in the county, can Sarah find the culprit before another life is taken?
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I need to read the other ones in the series. I really love cozy mysteries. The setting near the sea was really fun for me. I think Sarah is a smart character and seems like she’s has already solved a few mysteries. I definitely loved the coastal vibes and the town who helps out. I would read more books by this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys seaside cozy mysteries!
Having left the big city behind, Sarah Vane is fully embracing her calmer life in the quaint coastal town of Merstairs. With more time for hobbies, she joins a very popular life drawing class at the local tea shop. But when their usual model, the ever-punctual Mr Williams, doesn’t turn up, Sarah’s worried. He’d been complaining of a cough just last week so she decides to check up on him.
Arriving at his crooked little cottage, it appears the front door isn’t quite shut. Stepping inside, Sarah is shocked to find Mr Williams slumped in his armchair. Casting her eyes down to his coffee table she sees a generous slice of Victoria sponge with one perfectly sized bite taken from it. Is this a case of death by cake?
As Sarah hunts around the cluttered cottage for clues, she finds that Mr Williams had a rather peculiar hobby. It seems that he was an avid collector of ladies’ delicates, and from the looks of it, all the washing lines of Merstairs have been raided. But could his quirky collection really be a motive for murder?
But then the case takes a darker turn when another elderly resident is found dead after eating a slice of red velvet cake. Sarah starts to wonder – why would anyone target pensioners with a sweet tooth? And in a village known for some of the best cakes in the county, can Sarah find the culprit before another life is taken?
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I need to read the other ones in the series. I really love cozy mysteries. The setting near the sea was really fun for me. I think Sarah is a smart character and seems like she’s has already solved a few mysteries. I definitely loved the coastal vibes and the town who helps out. I would read more books by this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys seaside cozy mysteries!
October 19, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read "Murder at the Tea Shop" in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was book 3 in the wonderful Sarah Vane series. Ms. Castle has crafted characters that are interesting, fun and the reader wants to know more about. Sarah Vane is a retired doctor who lives with her black Scottie Hamish - who is my favourite character! I especially enjoy when Ms. Castle writes what Hamish might be thinking about his owner! Next door to Sarah lives her best friend Daphne Roux who owns the Tarot and Tea Leaves. Her daughter Mariella is the town's police detective who is saddled with Constables Dumbarton and Deeside (aka Tweedledum and Tweedledee.) Charles Diggory owns the secondhand clothes shop and is an antiques expert. He might finally be getting his divorce from Francesca the town's mayor. Perhaps there might be a romance in the future for Charles and Sarah.
Sarah has solved a few murder in Merstairs since she moved there. This book is no different as she happens upon a few more. Since someone is using cakes to murder people, that means our favourite trio spends a lot of time testing cakes in this story to find exactly where the cakes might have been purchased. Someone has also been pinching knickers off lines but why?
Sarah once again places herself in danger to solve these crimes but vows to continue investigating when things happen to make sure that her fellow citizens are safe. There are many possibilities for future books and I'm looking forward to reading them.
This was book 3 in the wonderful Sarah Vane series. Ms. Castle has crafted characters that are interesting, fun and the reader wants to know more about. Sarah Vane is a retired doctor who lives with her black Scottie Hamish - who is my favourite character! I especially enjoy when Ms. Castle writes what Hamish might be thinking about his owner! Next door to Sarah lives her best friend Daphne Roux who owns the Tarot and Tea Leaves. Her daughter Mariella is the town's police detective who is saddled with Constables Dumbarton and Deeside (aka Tweedledum and Tweedledee.) Charles Diggory owns the secondhand clothes shop and is an antiques expert. He might finally be getting his divorce from Francesca the town's mayor. Perhaps there might be a romance in the future for Charles and Sarah.
Sarah has solved a few murder in Merstairs since she moved there. This book is no different as she happens upon a few more. Since someone is using cakes to murder people, that means our favourite trio spends a lot of time testing cakes in this story to find exactly where the cakes might have been purchased. Someone has also been pinching knickers off lines but why?
Sarah once again places herself in danger to solve these crimes but vows to continue investigating when things happen to make sure that her fellow citizens are safe. There are many possibilities for future books and I'm looking forward to reading them.
October 17, 2024
In "Murder at the Tea Shop", Alice Castle crafts a delightful cozy mystery that combines the charm of a cozy seaside village with the intrigue of a well-plotted crime.
Set against the backdrop of a beloved tea shop, the novel follows the amateur sleuths Sarah, Daphne and Charles, which fans of the genre will find both relatable and endearing. Very much Miss Marple meets Thursday Murder Club.
I loved our main character Sarah and her personality and way of thinking makes her very likable. Daphne on the other hand is quite annoying and Sarah's friendship with her sometimes seems a bit toxic. I loved her relationship with Charles and it shows that you a never too old to start a new romance.
The ending was a bit disappointing in my opinion and the motive for the murders felt a little bit out of the blue for me. Also, although there are a lot of murders, there is non in the tea shop, so the title doesn't make a lot of sense to me.
Although this is the third book in the Sarah Vane series, but you can perfectly read this as a stand alone. Nevertheless, it would be nice to also read the previous books to get a little bit more background on the characters.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for sending me the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Set against the backdrop of a beloved tea shop, the novel follows the amateur sleuths Sarah, Daphne and Charles, which fans of the genre will find both relatable and endearing. Very much Miss Marple meets Thursday Murder Club.
I loved our main character Sarah and her personality and way of thinking makes her very likable. Daphne on the other hand is quite annoying and Sarah's friendship with her sometimes seems a bit toxic. I loved her relationship with Charles and it shows that you a never too old to start a new romance.
The ending was a bit disappointing in my opinion and the motive for the murders felt a little bit out of the blue for me. Also, although there are a lot of murders, there is non in the tea shop, so the title doesn't make a lot of sense to me.
Although this is the third book in the Sarah Vane series, but you can perfectly read this as a stand alone. Nevertheless, it would be nice to also read the previous books to get a little bit more background on the characters.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for sending me the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 10, 2024
My reviews are starting to sound a bit cut-and-paste, as cosy novels (cozy mystery/fantasy and Christmas novels) are my go-to reads to relax and live in a better world in these dark times.
I was very happy to travel to Merstairs, catching up with the pleasant and well-developed characters of this series (Sarah, Daphne, and Hamish above all).
My favourite cozy mysteries are usually multi-layered: there’s a layer that shows the happy life of people in a tightly-knit community and a darker one that reveals secrets and violence. In this series, the sexist and misogynistic police guys are both irritating and funny.
As we are in a typical cozy mystery village, places where the murder rate is amongst the highest in the UK, there’s not just one murder but two.
It will be up to Sarah and her gang, in collaboration with Mariella, the clever DI saddled with the above-mentioned misogynistic guys, to solve the mystery.
Plenty of surprising twists, red herrings, and a plot that kept me guessing.
I had fun and thoroughly enjoyed this story; I can’t wait to read the next one as I want to know what will happen with Charles.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC; all opinions are mine.
I was very happy to travel to Merstairs, catching up with the pleasant and well-developed characters of this series (Sarah, Daphne, and Hamish above all).
My favourite cozy mysteries are usually multi-layered: there’s a layer that shows the happy life of people in a tightly-knit community and a darker one that reveals secrets and violence. In this series, the sexist and misogynistic police guys are both irritating and funny.
As we are in a typical cozy mystery village, places where the murder rate is amongst the highest in the UK, there’s not just one murder but two.
It will be up to Sarah and her gang, in collaboration with Mariella, the clever DI saddled with the above-mentioned misogynistic guys, to solve the mystery.
Plenty of surprising twists, red herrings, and a plot that kept me guessing.
I had fun and thoroughly enjoyed this story; I can’t wait to read the next one as I want to know what will happen with Charles.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC; all opinions are mine.
November 3, 2024
In "Murder at the Tea Shop", readers are drawn into a delightful blend of mystery and humor, centered around a murder that disrupts the calm of a cozy tea shop. The story has a whimsical tone that contrasts playfully with the darker elements of murder and intrigue. Alice Castle’s vivid descriptions of food—particularly the recurring mention of Victoria sponges—add charm and warmth, giving the story an irresistible appeal for fans of culinary cozies.
The book has received praise for its engaging plot and well-developed characters. Readers describe it as a page-turner with a gripping narrative that keeps them hooked, while the protagonist, Sarah Vane, is celebrated for her witty, resourceful personality. Set within the inviting atmosphere of a tea shop, the story has drawn comparisons to the works of Agatha Christie, with its blend of cozy comfort and suspense. Balancing humor with mystery, "Murder at the Tea Shop" offers an enjoyable escape, making it a recommended read for fans of lighthearted, entertaining mysteries.
The book has received praise for its engaging plot and well-developed characters. Readers describe it as a page-turner with a gripping narrative that keeps them hooked, while the protagonist, Sarah Vane, is celebrated for her witty, resourceful personality. Set within the inviting atmosphere of a tea shop, the story has drawn comparisons to the works of Agatha Christie, with its blend of cozy comfort and suspense. Balancing humor with mystery, "Murder at the Tea Shop" offers an enjoyable escape, making it a recommended read for fans of lighthearted, entertaining mysteries.
November 12, 2024
Favorite Quotes:
Sarah had been terrified, when she’d first heard about the Men of Merstairs, imagining a cut-throat gang at the least. But, as she had rapidly discovered, they were people who’d need satnav and a guidebook to fight their way out of a paper bag. And then require extensive counselling afterwards.
Seastore was Merstairs’ biggest and newest supermarket, and was built in a blocky, unchallenging style that suggested the architect had only just finished playing with Lego and didn’t really see why they should stop now.
At this point, they’d had more false starts than an under-fives egg and spoon race.
My Review:
This was a fun and entertaining cozy featuring some snoopy seniors who just can’t seem to leave a mystery unsolved or pass up a piece of cake with a cup of strong tea. Ms. Castle laces her stories together with lashings of clever wry humor and populates them with knowable, amusingly detailed, and authentically quirky characters. I am already looking forward to the next installment.
Sarah had been terrified, when she’d first heard about the Men of Merstairs, imagining a cut-throat gang at the least. But, as she had rapidly discovered, they were people who’d need satnav and a guidebook to fight their way out of a paper bag. And then require extensive counselling afterwards.
Seastore was Merstairs’ biggest and newest supermarket, and was built in a blocky, unchallenging style that suggested the architect had only just finished playing with Lego and didn’t really see why they should stop now.
At this point, they’d had more false starts than an under-fives egg and spoon race.
My Review:
This was a fun and entertaining cozy featuring some snoopy seniors who just can’t seem to leave a mystery unsolved or pass up a piece of cake with a cup of strong tea. Ms. Castle laces her stories together with lashings of clever wry humor and populates them with knowable, amusingly detailed, and authentically quirky characters. I am already looking forward to the next installment.
October 12, 2024
My first book from the Sarah Vane series. Sarah is a 60ish old retired GP from London who moved to the quiet seaside town of Merstairs with her dog, Hamish (Scottish Terrier), looking for a fresh start after the death of her husband Peter.
The book easy was read as a standalone and indeed had very cozy vibes. I'm here for Hammish the dog but also the other pets that make an appearance. I was a little uncomfortable with the strange friendship with her neighbour Daphne (Sara obviously thinks very little of her) and I did have to push myself to keep reading on occasion.
Sara's relationship with a soon-to-be-divorced Chales was quite heartwarming. It's never too late ;)
If you are looking for a slower pace cozy murder mystery, this series could be for you. For me it was a little slow and the friendship a little too toxic to keep reading the series however.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture, for eARC in exchange for an honest review.
#NetGalley #MurderattheTeaShop
The book easy was read as a standalone and indeed had very cozy vibes. I'm here for Hammish the dog but also the other pets that make an appearance. I was a little uncomfortable with the strange friendship with her neighbour Daphne (Sara obviously thinks very little of her) and I did have to push myself to keep reading on occasion.
Sara's relationship with a soon-to-be-divorced Chales was quite heartwarming. It's never too late ;)
If you are looking for a slower pace cozy murder mystery, this series could be for you. For me it was a little slow and the friendship a little too toxic to keep reading the series however.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture, for eARC in exchange for an honest review.
#NetGalley #MurderattheTeaShop
November 7, 2024
It is so lovely to catch up with Sarah, Hamish the Scottie, her bestie Daphne and her cat Mephisto, Daphne's police daughter Mariella and their friend Charles, his dog Tinkerbell. We catch up with Sarah and Daphne taking an art class. Sarah is wondering where their live model, Mr Williams is, as she prefers a model to fruit. Sarah decides to go to his house and discovers him dead next to a slice of Victoria Sponge. Saran, Daphne and Charles are once again drawn into their amateur sleuthing in Merstairs, a quiet seaside town in Kent, when they being investigations behind the crime much to the horror of Mariella. They really can't help themselves and they discover a second body with a slice of red velvet cake next to it. I love how the characters are written and there are laugh out loud moments especially when they are together. It is an entertaining read and all the twists and turns leads to surprising ending, where I had no idea of the person doing the awful crimes.
November 2, 2024
Book 3 of the Sarah Vane series was a little disappointing. It felt like ¾ of the book was just Sarah, Daphne, and Charles going out to eat, talking about going out to eat and eating. I definitely skimmed a bunch of the book to get to parts that didn’t feel duplicated (Daphne’s tarot, breaking down about Pat, talking about Sarah/Charles). I also really don’t see the appeal of Charles and find him a bit annoying so I can’t say the coupling of Sarah & Charles is intriguing. It felt like tidbits of information were dropped along the way regarding the killer and potential killers but it was really noticeable because it felt so random in the conversation. I am willing to try one more book but I may be done with this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
October 15, 2024
Sarah Vane was a GP in London but retired and is rather recently widowed. She moved to Merstairs to get away from the city and found that her old school chum (daffy) Daphne of the Tarot and Tea Leaves shop has been living there. Daphne is an interesting foil for the more sedate and grounded Sarah and does make for a good bit of the humor.
This episode might have been titled The Case of the Pilfered Knickers. Say what?! No spoilers intended and I love this anti-stress series!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected advance review copy from Bookouture via NetGalley. Thank you! Avail Nov 07, 2024
#MurderAtTheTeaShop #NetGalley #SarahVaneMysteriesBk3 @AliceMCastle @bookouture
This episode might have been titled The Case of the Pilfered Knickers. Say what?! No spoilers intended and I love this anti-stress series!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected advance review copy from Bookouture via NetGalley. Thank you! Avail Nov 07, 2024
#MurderAtTheTeaShop #NetGalley #SarahVaneMysteriesBk3 @AliceMCastle @bookouture
November 4, 2024
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✨ cozy mystery
✨ light and fast paced
✨ whodunit!?
✨ a cozy mystery focusing in the town ‘merstairs’ . A retired doctor (Sarah) has a lot of time in her hands.
As she discover a serial killer who use cake to murder some of the town folks, she doesn’t stop until she finds who do that in a small town.
✨ great read for a cozy afternoon cuppa tea in this autumn season. Light and airy. Not to heavy murder mystery yet the characters are actually funny .
As the age range of this is in boomers stage, this will be a great read for that angle range.
✨ Thankyou @bookouture for the opportunity to read this book for a honest review.
❤️shaye.reads
✨ cozy mystery
✨ light and fast paced
✨ whodunit!?
✨ a cozy mystery focusing in the town ‘merstairs’ . A retired doctor (Sarah) has a lot of time in her hands.
As she discover a serial killer who use cake to murder some of the town folks, she doesn’t stop until she finds who do that in a small town.
✨ great read for a cozy afternoon cuppa tea in this autumn season. Light and airy. Not to heavy murder mystery yet the characters are actually funny .
As the age range of this is in boomers stage, this will be a great read for that angle range.
✨ Thankyou @bookouture for the opportunity to read this book for a honest review.
❤️shaye.reads
November 8, 2024
I loved getting back with Sarah and her group of amateur sleuths. This little seaside village sees it fair amount of murder and crime, and it all started when Sarah came to the village .... or so it seems. In this one we have the method of crime being CAKE ... makes you wary to go to a tea shop lol. Watching these characters process clues and catch the bad guys is so entertaining while getting into trouble with Daphne's daughter. I need more and more in this world and it has almost become a comfort read for me.
November 11, 2024
Recommend
Murder at the Tea Shop by Alice Castle.
Sarah Vane Mysteries Book 3.
I did like the cover and blurb of this book. I really did enjoy this book. I got into it straight away even though I hadn't read the first two books. I liked Sarah. I also liked Charles and Mariella. Daphne grew on me. I liked the writing style. I did try guessing who it was, but I was wrong. I will definitely be reading the first two books. I'm looking forward to the next book. I would definitely recommend this book. .
Murder at the Tea Shop by Alice Castle.
Sarah Vane Mysteries Book 3.
I did like the cover and blurb of this book. I really did enjoy this book. I got into it straight away even though I hadn't read the first two books. I liked Sarah. I also liked Charles and Mariella. Daphne grew on me. I liked the writing style. I did try guessing who it was, but I was wrong. I will definitely be reading the first two books. I'm looking forward to the next book. I would definitely recommend this book. .
November 11, 2024
This is book 3 in the series and as enjoyable a read as the first two in series. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. I enjoy the atmospheric small English village setting and the great characters the author has developed. Each supporting character adds to the story with richly written personalities. This was a fun addtion to the series and a well crafted sleuth. The authors writing is a pleasing flow for the reader and she truly captures the English customs, food and settings brillantly.
November 9, 2024
Set in a quiet coastal town in Kent, the third Sarah Vane Mystery is imaginative, with many humorous moments and twists. It features retired GP Sarah Vane and her two friends, Daphne, who is quirky and an enigma and Charles, who acts as the perfect foil for intelligent Sarah and outspoken Daphne. In this mystery, they discover that cake can be deadly. I like the setting and the dynamic between the amateur sleuths and the unusual murders.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
November 18, 2024
Another great instalment in this cosy mystery series. The story features an intricate mystery with unexpected twists, and may make you never look at cake in the same way again. There are quirky and endearing character's and humour abounds in picture perfect surroundings. Looking forward to the next in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 16, 2024
This was a light-hearted cozy mystery with a bunch of murders thrown in. Honestly, about six chapters of eating Victoria sponges, followed by a murder. I must say I skimmed through the last half just so I could say I finished it. No more in this series for me.
I do thanks NetGalley for an advance copy.
I do thanks NetGalley for an advance copy.
November 8, 2024
Murder at the Teashop by Alice Castle is ~3 in the Dr Sarah Vane series and continues to delight me!
Cozy mysteries are one of my favourite jams and the Sarah Vane mysteries tick every bok with the cherry on top of a wry humour and a delicious cast that will have you chuckling throughout
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture amd Alice Castle for the awesome arc. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
Cozy mysteries are one of my favourite jams and the Sarah Vane mysteries tick every bok with the cherry on top of a wry humour and a delicious cast that will have you chuckling throughout
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture amd Alice Castle for the awesome arc. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
December 9, 2024
I love this series and its quirky characters, and book 3 did not disappoint! Ingeniously plotted, with more red herrings than you'd find at Merstairs' beach, I was gripped from the get-go, eager to find out whodunit this time. Poor Sarah and Hamish, though - retirement isn't quite the relaxing era either of them had envisioned, lol. Oh, and I might be a self-confessed cake fiend but I will never be able to look at anything tender-crumbed in the same way again...
March 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I’m liking the main characters which include the inevitable dog, in this case a Scottie rather unimaginatively named Hamish.
Sarah has retired from her job as a GP and moved to be near her close and rather flamboyant friend Daphne in a Kent seaside town.
The characters are well written and the plot was well thought through.
I’m looking forward to the next one.
Sarah has retired from her job as a GP and moved to be near her close and rather flamboyant friend Daphne in a Kent seaside town.
The characters are well written and the plot was well thought through.
I’m looking forward to the next one.
June 28, 2025
Another wonderful read!
I love the adventures of Sarah & Daphne! A beautiful setting by the sea shore, they can’t help but solve the mysteries that come their way. With the help of their friend Charles & the dogs they solve every murder! Now on to the next book!! I hope you’re still writing Alice!!!
I love the adventures of Sarah & Daphne! A beautiful setting by the sea shore, they can’t help but solve the mysteries that come their way. With the help of their friend Charles & the dogs they solve every murder! Now on to the next book!! I hope you’re still writing Alice!!!
November 7, 2024
Sarah Vane is one of the best recent cosy series to come out of the UK! I have thoroughly enjoyed all three books and I love the fact that they keep me guessing until the end...and then add a little surprise on top of that. It's a series that keeps me coming back for more.
December 15, 2024
who and why is someone committing murder? are they really using a slice of cake so as not to get caught?
Murder at The Tea shop is a fun and cozy read!
Thank you Net Galley for the opportunity to read a fun, cozy mystery that had me guessing who and why someone would do such a thing?
Murder at The Tea shop is a fun and cozy read!
Thank you Net Galley for the opportunity to read a fun, cozy mystery that had me guessing who and why someone would do such a thing?
April 6, 2025
Great cozy mystery
Lovely book with a compelling story line and a twist at the end. Great read
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a cozy mystery with a bit of romance woven in
Lovely book with a compelling story line and a twist at the end. Great read
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a cozy mystery with a bit of romance woven in
November 6, 2024
Delightful cosy murder mystery series! Filled with interesting characters, gorgeous seaside views and a few murders too!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
December 25, 2024
Im not sure this booked dragged on way to long for me, wasn’t very engaging and I struggled to finish it
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