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Honeysuckle Bend #1
Books, Bubble Tea and Bodies
Running a cozy book café can be murder … especially when the past just won’t stay buried.
Callie loves a timeless classic. She thought running a shop in her charming southern town meant quiet days, good tea, and lots of spare time to read. But when a strange journal turns up in a donation box, it leads her straight to the town’s oldest Creole manor—and to the body of a very prominent friend.
But the ladies in the dead woman’s bridge club are tight lipped and snooty, the town planner is acting shady, and the bad boy carpenter who worked for the late Alma Jessup has been spreading rumors. Everybody seems to have something to hide. And the more Callie starts poking around, the less sleepy her little hamlet becomes.
As Callie, Josh and Maya get tangled up with the quirky townsfolk, the clock begins ticking. More bodies. More books. And of course, more bubble tea. Will the trio be able to get to the bottom of things before time runs out?
And just how many secrets can one old mansion hold?
Find out in this tight cozy full of southern charm, lovable characters, and a mystery that will have you guessing until the very last moments. Fans of Ellie Alexander, Tonya Kappes, and Katie Gayle say they “can’t put this book down!”
Callie loves a timeless classic. She thought running a shop in her charming southern town meant quiet days, good tea, and lots of spare time to read. But when a strange journal turns up in a donation box, it leads her straight to the town’s oldest Creole manor—and to the body of a very prominent friend.
But the ladies in the dead woman’s bridge club are tight lipped and snooty, the town planner is acting shady, and the bad boy carpenter who worked for the late Alma Jessup has been spreading rumors. Everybody seems to have something to hide. And the more Callie starts poking around, the less sleepy her little hamlet becomes.
As Callie, Josh and Maya get tangled up with the quirky townsfolk, the clock begins ticking. More bodies. More books. And of course, more bubble tea. Will the trio be able to get to the bottom of things before time runs out?
And just how many secrets can one old mansion hold?
Find out in this tight cozy full of southern charm, lovable characters, and a mystery that will have you guessing until the very last moments. Fans of Ellie Alexander, Tonya Kappes, and Katie Gayle say they “can’t put this book down!”
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 13, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
September 30, 2025
3⭐️
If this wasn't the perfect small-town, cozy mystery, I don't know what is! This was quick and fun and a perfect palette cleanser.
I don't have a whole lot to say on this since it was so short and simple, but the story and characters were fun to read about. The characters had zero depth to them and their personalities weren't really a stand-out, but I think the main plot of this is really what's interesting.
This was a short journey of a classic "who-dun-it" mixed with the cozy fall vibes of a bubble tee store. We are immediately thrown into the murder mystery of a beloved woman in Honeysuckle Bend and our 3 MC's do their own sleuthing to find out the real cause of her death. This book wasn't heavy or shocking in any way, but it was fun for what it was.
Overall, this book is perfect if you're looking for a mystery that's not very serious and has the cozy vibes you're looking for. The townspeople are interesting and there's some history and depth to the plot itself. If you're going to read this, just don't expect a lot. It's entertaining and fast but doesn't have a whole lot of substance.
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𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭: 🌻🍂
I randomly came across this book on Pinterest and now I can't seem to stop thinking about it (plus I'm trying to fill out my fall reading bingo card) and this sounds like the perfect cozy mystery? We'll see if it holds up 👀💛
If this wasn't the perfect small-town, cozy mystery, I don't know what is! This was quick and fun and a perfect palette cleanser.
I don't have a whole lot to say on this since it was so short and simple, but the story and characters were fun to read about. The characters had zero depth to them and their personalities weren't really a stand-out, but I think the main plot of this is really what's interesting.
This was a short journey of a classic "who-dun-it" mixed with the cozy fall vibes of a bubble tee store. We are immediately thrown into the murder mystery of a beloved woman in Honeysuckle Bend and our 3 MC's do their own sleuthing to find out the real cause of her death. This book wasn't heavy or shocking in any way, but it was fun for what it was.
Overall, this book is perfect if you're looking for a mystery that's not very serious and has the cozy vibes you're looking for. The townspeople are interesting and there's some history and depth to the plot itself. If you're going to read this, just don't expect a lot. It's entertaining and fast but doesn't have a whole lot of substance.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭: 🌻🍂
I randomly came across this book on Pinterest and now I can't seem to stop thinking about it (plus I'm trying to fill out my fall reading bingo card) and this sounds like the perfect cozy mystery? We'll see if it holds up 👀💛
April 21, 2026
I recently listened to Books, Bubble Tea, and Bodies, written by Lisa Pevey and narrated by Julie Webster, the latest installment in the Honeysuckle Bend cozy mystery series.
If you are a fan of Agatha Christie mysteries, the movie Knives Out, or even the classic board game Clue, this book is for you. It is simply a quintessential cozy whodunit that kept me guessing until the end. My favorite character was an absolutely lovable dog named Smokie, and I adored the charming details about naps in the bookstore and the blend of other bookish themes throughout. Although mysteries are a bit outside my usual reading comfort zone in general, I have read Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson and The Housemaid series by Freida McFadden recently, and this story felt like listening to an engaging what's-next style puzzle. It makes for a good read on a cozy afternoon.
Narrated by Julie Webster, this audiobook was clear from start to finish. If you like cozy mysteries, small-town settings with a lot of history, and colorful characters, you will have to solve the crime with this one. Her voice was accessible and easy to comprehend, even while keeping a Southern accent throughout, which perfectly grounded the story in its setting. I found the narration so clear that I was able to comfortably listen at greater than two times speed, sometimes 2.5x to 2.8x speed, while still fully comprehending and following the plot.
Beyond the mystery, the story explores a compelling conflict: the tension between a small town steeped in history and tradition, and the pressures of modernization. It kept me mulling over the plot threads as they began to unravel to reveal the ultimate solution. If you are looking for a cozy mystery filled with humor and top-tier audiobook narration, I recommend picking this up.
Perfect if you love:
💕 Cozy mysteries
✨️ Small-town settlings
🩷 Agatha Christie books
✨️ The movie Knives Out
💛 Clue
✨️ Classic whodunnit stories
🐾🥰 Lovable dogs (Smokie! ❤️) and bookshops
Mystery books like:
🛥 Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson
✨️ The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter
👀 The Housemaid series by Freida McFadden
Thank you to Podium Entertainment for an advanced listener copy of this audiobook for review consideration. These are my honest opinions, and I am writing this review voluntarily.
If you are a fan of Agatha Christie mysteries, the movie Knives Out, or even the classic board game Clue, this book is for you. It is simply a quintessential cozy whodunit that kept me guessing until the end. My favorite character was an absolutely lovable dog named Smokie, and I adored the charming details about naps in the bookstore and the blend of other bookish themes throughout. Although mysteries are a bit outside my usual reading comfort zone in general, I have read Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson and The Housemaid series by Freida McFadden recently, and this story felt like listening to an engaging what's-next style puzzle. It makes for a good read on a cozy afternoon.
Narrated by Julie Webster, this audiobook was clear from start to finish. If you like cozy mysteries, small-town settings with a lot of history, and colorful characters, you will have to solve the crime with this one. Her voice was accessible and easy to comprehend, even while keeping a Southern accent throughout, which perfectly grounded the story in its setting. I found the narration so clear that I was able to comfortably listen at greater than two times speed, sometimes 2.5x to 2.8x speed, while still fully comprehending and following the plot.
Beyond the mystery, the story explores a compelling conflict: the tension between a small town steeped in history and tradition, and the pressures of modernization. It kept me mulling over the plot threads as they began to unravel to reveal the ultimate solution. If you are looking for a cozy mystery filled with humor and top-tier audiobook narration, I recommend picking this up.
Perfect if you love:
💕 Cozy mysteries
✨️ Small-town settlings
🩷 Agatha Christie books
✨️ The movie Knives Out
💛 Clue
✨️ Classic whodunnit stories
🐾🥰 Lovable dogs (Smokie! ❤️) and bookshops
Mystery books like:
🛥 Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson
✨️ The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter
👀 The Housemaid series by Freida McFadden
Thank you to Podium Entertainment for an advanced listener copy of this audiobook for review consideration. These are my honest opinions, and I am writing this review voluntarily.
March 31, 2025
Excellent cozy mystery by a new-to-me author. Great plot! Interesting characters, and the way the author leads readers all over the place to figure out whodunnit! I’m looking forward to the next story!
Read
March 14, 2025This was my first foray into the world of cozy mysteries, and I’ve quickly gleaned what the genre is about: a gentle sleuthing whodunnit with a clear mystery and tidy resolution, no reliance on shock value, and no unnecessary twists that leave readers unable to solve the mystery themselves. What sets this particular book apart from others is its delightful nod to southern gothic elements: the atmosphere lightly tinged with secrets from the past, the stifling humid air and personal interactions, and the struggle of living in the present when it may be at odds with reverence for history. While other novels push these elements into existential crisis territory, this cozy story lovingly incorporates them as subtler characters, though still intrinsic to the town. But small town secrets are never truly secret, and this book is a tale of how the past can stay hidden—or come to light.
December 29, 2025
"Books, Bubble Te and Bodies:An Utterly Addictive Cozy Mystery (Honeysuckle Bend Cozy Mystery Series Book 1)" by Lisa Pevey is more cozy than I expected considering the cover is similar to a popular romance novel series I keep seeing pop up. This is full cozy mystery and I'm glad I gave it a chance. To be fair, until that romance series came out I would say this cover style is very cozy mystery.
The story has Callie running a cafe and bookstore in her small Louisiana hometown. Her best friend, a woman that is great with machines, seems to work there from time to time as well. Her bestie brings bubble tea to her shop and kicks off a tend. Then there's Callie's love interest into helping occasionally. It's a very casual, mutual understanding type romance situation.
Callie stocks her shelves with used books donated by locals. One donation box had a leather journal that must have been mistakenly got added. Callie and her bestie figure out who it belongs but it leads Callie to finding that person having died. Possibly from a construction accident.
Callie doesn't think an accident makes sense. She and her friends investigate. I really liked how her best friend is a well skilled woman. She seems to have a very broad knowledge of skills. Especially machines and engineering.
I had two suspects in mind. In a way I was right about both. However, the final reveal was a bit of a twist. I think I will keep reading this series.
The story has Callie running a cafe and bookstore in her small Louisiana hometown. Her best friend, a woman that is great with machines, seems to work there from time to time as well. Her bestie brings bubble tea to her shop and kicks off a tend. Then there's Callie's love interest into helping occasionally. It's a very casual, mutual understanding type romance situation.
Callie stocks her shelves with used books donated by locals. One donation box had a leather journal that must have been mistakenly got added. Callie and her bestie figure out who it belongs but it leads Callie to finding that person having died. Possibly from a construction accident.
Callie doesn't think an accident makes sense. She and her friends investigate. I really liked how her best friend is a well skilled woman. She seems to have a very broad knowledge of skills. Especially machines and engineering.
I had two suspects in mind. In a way I was right about both. However, the final reveal was a bit of a twist. I think I will keep reading this series.
January 14, 2026
This book was okay. I finished it and it had some aspects I enjoyed but it probably isn't a series I'll continue with.
I like books set in the South as I'm a bit of a "Southern-phile" I love the culture, the manners, and the charm of Southerners so books set in the South are likely to get me to give them a try. There was some of that here, which I did enjoy.
I never really connected with Callie. I found her a bit overbearing and pushy, which doesn't really jive with what I know of Southerners. They can make literally anything sound polite and charming and Callie just didn't have that talent here so that was a disappointment.
The mystery was well constructed and kind of clever, but I found the way the resolution played out at the end a bit convoluted and overly complicated.
As I said, overall this book was fine but it wasn't the best of the cozies I've read.
I like books set in the South as I'm a bit of a "Southern-phile" I love the culture, the manners, and the charm of Southerners so books set in the South are likely to get me to give them a try. There was some of that here, which I did enjoy.
I never really connected with Callie. I found her a bit overbearing and pushy, which doesn't really jive with what I know of Southerners. They can make literally anything sound polite and charming and Callie just didn't have that talent here so that was a disappointment.
The mystery was well constructed and kind of clever, but I found the way the resolution played out at the end a bit convoluted and overly complicated.
As I said, overall this book was fine but it wasn't the best of the cozies I've read.
May 8, 2026
3.75⭐️
I got this audiobook as a promotion from Podium Audio so thank you first and foremost! This was a cute listen, but it took me a minute to adjust to the southern drawl. But it definitely immersed you in the story! This is a cute, cozy mystery that centers around a bookshop/cafe owner, Callie, and the untimely death of one of the small town's residents. It is your typical cozy, so nothing crazy spectacular, but if you want a reliable read/listen that is the start of a series then this is it. There is a brewing romance (very clean) and tropes of new-found friendships.
I got this audiobook as a promotion from Podium Audio so thank you first and foremost! This was a cute listen, but it took me a minute to adjust to the southern drawl. But it definitely immersed you in the story! This is a cute, cozy mystery that centers around a bookshop/cafe owner, Callie, and the untimely death of one of the small town's residents. It is your typical cozy, so nothing crazy spectacular, but if you want a reliable read/listen that is the start of a series then this is it. There is a brewing romance (very clean) and tropes of new-found friendships.
October 21, 2025
Cute, Cuddly and Cozy.
What a lovely start to a series. I enjoyed all the characters in this southern yarn. Reminds me very much of my own humble community. The story is clean but in no way lacking. It had everything I wanted in a cozy mystery. Would absolutely recommend. Looking forward to seeing what’s next for Callie, Maya and Josh. Even for Miss Evelyn.
What a lovely start to a series. I enjoyed all the characters in this southern yarn. Reminds me very much of my own humble community. The story is clean but in no way lacking. It had everything I wanted in a cozy mystery. Would absolutely recommend. Looking forward to seeing what’s next for Callie, Maya and Josh. Even for Miss Evelyn.
August 14, 2025
an easy and light read because one doesn't get too invested in the characters. the build up is good and engaging. it's just a book you can enjoy as you go. a cozy read!
April 22, 2026
Books, Bubble Tea, and Bodies is a cozy mystery that takes place in the south. I love a mystery and I thought the cover was so cute, so I am thankful I got the early listening copy from Podium!
I enjoyed that the narrator had a voice that felt like it was perfect for a book that takes place in the south, as someone who lives in the south. Overall, the story was good and I had a decent time while I listened.
However, there were a couple of things that happened in the book that maybe wouldn't bother others, but they bothered me, so I am mentioning them here. I didn't love how when the book store got the boba machine, Callie referred to the packets as having some kind of "Asian writing on the side". It felt like there was just another way they could have said what they meant. Another was when her friend basically told her the sugar in the boba tea would make Callie fat, and the author wrote that the friend looked at her stomach. That just felt so incredibly unnecessary for a cozy mystery novel.
I liked Callie as an FMC. She's slightly pushy, which is important for someone who is trying to solve a mystery! I loved Josh, he just seemed really nice and I loved basically any time he was on the page. I also absolutely loved the dog, Smokie. She was such a joy in the story.
Overall, the book wasn't unenjoyable and I really did enjoy the story! Overall, if you need a quick read that has a thought provoking story, I’d absolutely recommend!
I enjoyed that the narrator had a voice that felt like it was perfect for a book that takes place in the south, as someone who lives in the south. Overall, the story was good and I had a decent time while I listened.
However, there were a couple of things that happened in the book that maybe wouldn't bother others, but they bothered me, so I am mentioning them here. I didn't love how when the book store got the boba machine, Callie referred to the packets as having some kind of "Asian writing on the side". It felt like there was just another way they could have said what they meant. Another was when her friend basically told her the sugar in the boba tea would make Callie fat, and the author wrote that the friend looked at her stomach. That just felt so incredibly unnecessary for a cozy mystery novel.
I liked Callie as an FMC. She's slightly pushy, which is important for someone who is trying to solve a mystery! I loved Josh, he just seemed really nice and I loved basically any time he was on the page. I also absolutely loved the dog, Smokie. She was such a joy in the story.
Overall, the book wasn't unenjoyable and I really did enjoy the story! Overall, if you need a quick read that has a thought provoking story, I’d absolutely recommend!
February 28, 2026
Good book!!!!
It's a good start for this new series!!
Callie and Maya have opened a cafe for tea and books. The cafe is having a rough start but they have confidence it will catch on until Maya starts Bubble Tea. It takes the right people to try it and spread the word. It just so happens to be Victor the town planner and a construction company owner. He has bid plans to renew the old historical buildings and modernize them, to take away the charm of the town.
There are some of the people who don't want it, but he has convinced the town council to start the renewal, at the old train station is the starting point.
Victor keeps after Callie about redoing the front of her cafe and she keeps saying NO!!
She gets a book delivery from her friend Alma and she finds a diary in the bottom.
When she goes to Alma's new house to give back the diary she finds the house in a bad repair state and Alma lying at the bottom of her stairs. What happened????
And this is where alot of strange things start to happen and where Callie, Maya and Josh have to investigate, cause the police department is not good at all.
Now you have to find out the detailsllll
It's a good start for this new series!!
Callie and Maya have opened a cafe for tea and books. The cafe is having a rough start but they have confidence it will catch on until Maya starts Bubble Tea. It takes the right people to try it and spread the word. It just so happens to be Victor the town planner and a construction company owner. He has bid plans to renew the old historical buildings and modernize them, to take away the charm of the town.
There are some of the people who don't want it, but he has convinced the town council to start the renewal, at the old train station is the starting point.
Victor keeps after Callie about redoing the front of her cafe and she keeps saying NO!!
She gets a book delivery from her friend Alma and she finds a diary in the bottom.
When she goes to Alma's new house to give back the diary she finds the house in a bad repair state and Alma lying at the bottom of her stairs. What happened????
And this is where alot of strange things start to happen and where Callie, Maya and Josh have to investigate, cause the police department is not good at all.
Now you have to find out the detailsllll
March 24, 2026
I was instantly intrigued by the title and cover of BOOKS, BUBBLE TEA AND BODIES by Lisa Pevey. My curiosity was really piqued when a mysterious box of paperbacks turned up in Callie's coffee shop - followed by the discovery of an unusual journal. These puzzling clues quickly spiral into something far more troubling - the dead body of Callie's well-known friend.
As Callie teams up with her pals Maya and Josh to uncover the truth, the trio finds themselves tangled in long-buried secrets hidden beneath the charm of their quaint little town.
I enjoyed this cozy mystery as much as I enjoy a good bubble tea, especially the dynamic among these three friends is especially delightful - they are clever, supportive and fun as they piece everything together! This book is a perfect pick for cozy mystery lovers!
As Callie teams up with her pals Maya and Josh to uncover the truth, the trio finds themselves tangled in long-buried secrets hidden beneath the charm of their quaint little town.
I enjoyed this cozy mystery as much as I enjoy a good bubble tea, especially the dynamic among these three friends is especially delightful - they are clever, supportive and fun as they piece everything together! This book is a perfect pick for cozy mystery lovers!
April 25, 2026
Thank you to Podium Entertainment for this gifted ALC. All thoughts are my own.
I'll never say no to bubble tea or books, and I've really enjoyed the cozy murder mysteries I've read. Add a dog side character, like this book did, and I was sold.
- Overall, the story, set in the South and with a subtheme of preservation vs. progress, was very enjoyable.
- Some things, like the police involvement (or lack their of) and an issue with a clock, are just too convenient for me.
- The characters don't have a ton of depth, but the plot is definitely intriguing.
-Julie Webster does an excellent job narrating the story.
If you like small town vibes with murder mysteries like The Vampire Knitting Club series but without the paranormal aspects, or Matlock, you will likely enjoy this one.
No spice, though there are hints of potential romance for the future.
I'll never say no to bubble tea or books, and I've really enjoyed the cozy murder mysteries I've read. Add a dog side character, like this book did, and I was sold.
- Overall, the story, set in the South and with a subtheme of preservation vs. progress, was very enjoyable.
- Some things, like the police involvement (or lack their of) and an issue with a clock, are just too convenient for me.
- The characters don't have a ton of depth, but the plot is definitely intriguing.
-Julie Webster does an excellent job narrating the story.
If you like small town vibes with murder mysteries like The Vampire Knitting Club series but without the paranormal aspects, or Matlock, you will likely enjoy this one.
No spice, though there are hints of potential romance for the future.
May 12, 2026
3.75/5
Meet Callie, a bubble tea and bookshop owner who turns out to be the sharpest person in Honeysuckle Bend with a very big secret on its hands.
This was a little different from my usual reads. I listened on audio, which made the Louisiana small town atmosphere feel like a cosy blanket. The kind of story where you’re building your own suspect list before Callie does.
She works through the mystery methodically, with help from a couple of friends and a dog called Smokie who pulls his weight on the clue front. 🐾
The ending isn’t going to shock you, but that’s part of the comfort of it. A cozy palate cleanser was just what I needed.
🎧 The narration has a southern accent that fits the setting. It’s clear to understand at higher speeds too, which is always a win.
I received a free listener copy from Podium Entertainment. All opinions are my own.
Meet Callie, a bubble tea and bookshop owner who turns out to be the sharpest person in Honeysuckle Bend with a very big secret on its hands.
This was a little different from my usual reads. I listened on audio, which made the Louisiana small town atmosphere feel like a cosy blanket. The kind of story where you’re building your own suspect list before Callie does.
She works through the mystery methodically, with help from a couple of friends and a dog called Smokie who pulls his weight on the clue front. 🐾
The ending isn’t going to shock you, but that’s part of the comfort of it. A cozy palate cleanser was just what I needed.
🎧 The narration has a southern accent that fits the setting. It’s clear to understand at higher speeds too, which is always a win.
I received a free listener copy from Podium Entertainment. All opinions are my own.
May 16, 2026
Thank you so much to Podium Entertainment for this audiobook!!
The narrator Julie Webster did an amazing job!! She had such a fun voice for the characters and I enjoyed listening every second!!
This book was such a fun cozy mystery, I really enjoyed it and figuring out the mystery of what happened to Alma with Callie and her friends kept me thoroughly entertained. I love the small town aspect as well as being in the south, it was such a great atmosphere to be immersed in while listening to the book!! I also love a dog in a book so Smokey had my heart and I love a best friendship in a book so Callie and Maya also had my heart. Callie and Maya’s friendship reminded me of my best friend and I if we were smart enough to solve a murder like that.
Overall I really loved this book and I’m excited to read more from this series!!
The narrator Julie Webster did an amazing job!! She had such a fun voice for the characters and I enjoyed listening every second!!
This book was such a fun cozy mystery, I really enjoyed it and figuring out the mystery of what happened to Alma with Callie and her friends kept me thoroughly entertained. I love the small town aspect as well as being in the south, it was such a great atmosphere to be immersed in while listening to the book!! I also love a dog in a book so Smokey had my heart and I love a best friendship in a book so Callie and Maya also had my heart. Callie and Maya’s friendship reminded me of my best friend and I if we were smart enough to solve a murder like that.
Overall I really loved this book and I’m excited to read more from this series!!
February 25, 2026
I not only enjoyed Books, Bubble Tea and Bodies, but I also learned what bubble tea is. It's a tea-based drink most often containing chewy tapioca balls, milk, and flavoring. It was actually invented in Taiwan in the 1980s. In this book, it is a new drink at Prose and Pours Cafe in Honeysuckle Bend. When Callie St. Augustine discovers a personal looking notebook in a box of donated books in front of the cafe, she is determined to discover what the contents mean. That leads her to the dead body of Alma Jessup. Callie doesn't think her death was an accident. Her friends Maya LaRue and Josh become her partners in crime as they follow clues to solve the mystery. This book has likable characters and a likable rescue dog-Smokie. I look forward to future books in the series.
April 23, 2026
This was such a fun listen. This is book 1 in the Honeysuckle Bend Cozy Mystery Series! If you’re looking for a cute cozy mystery set in a small southern town, with dashes of: revenge, friendship, and bubble tea of course, THIS IS YOUR NEXT BOOK! It may have been a tad predictable for me, but oh well, sometimes it’s fun to guess the “bad guy” correctly! It’s not boring AT ALL either! I feel like some cozy mysteries can be a tad slow, but this one isn’t!
I LOVED the narrator, Julie Webster. She did such a fabulous job. Her accents and voices are so impressive! She truly made this an immersive read for me! I was able to listen at 2x speed too!!
Thank you to Podium entertainment and Lisa Pevey for this ALC! I will be reading and listening to all books to follow this one!
I LOVED the narrator, Julie Webster. She did such a fabulous job. Her accents and voices are so impressive! She truly made this an immersive read for me! I was able to listen at 2x speed too!!
Thank you to Podium entertainment and Lisa Pevey for this ALC! I will be reading and listening to all books to follow this one!
May 11, 2026
Books, Bubble Tea and Bodies by Lisa Pevey was such a fun cozy mystery read for me. Thanks to Podium for this audiobook. All opinions are mine. And I’ve said it before, but if you give me a bookstore setting and an animal sidekick, I’m already halfway sold, and Smoky absolutely stole scenes every chance she got. I loved that this cozy mystery had a solid layer of suspense running through it too, because it kept me actively trying to piece everything together right alongside the characters. The mystery was engaging, the atmosphere was cozy without being too fluffy, and the book definitely kept my detective brain entertained. This is the first book in a series and it’s safe to say the rest of this series will be added to my TBR as soon as they drop.
August 23, 2025
BOOKS, BUBBLE TEA, and BODIES
LISA PEVEY
Review by Author Roy Murry
Yes, this is a cozy mystery, a long one. This story is about three friends: Callie, Maya, and Josh. The murder is accidental to the reader.
An elderly friend of Callie dies. The police call it accidental, and while Callie is snooping around, another accident is fatal.
Callies is on the right track, and she pulls her friends along for the investigative ride. Between episodes, they drink bubble tea while feeding Smokie, the dog, treats.
The characters are cute, the story is plausible, but there is too much fluff - description of events. Take it out, and you have a great cozy mystery.
LISA PEVEY
Review by Author Roy Murry
Yes, this is a cozy mystery, a long one. This story is about three friends: Callie, Maya, and Josh. The murder is accidental to the reader.
An elderly friend of Callie dies. The police call it accidental, and while Callie is snooping around, another accident is fatal.
Callies is on the right track, and she pulls her friends along for the investigative ride. Between episodes, they drink bubble tea while feeding Smokie, the dog, treats.
The characters are cute, the story is plausible, but there is too much fluff - description of events. Take it out, and you have a great cozy mystery.
October 10, 2025
Well crafted mystery, that kept me guessing till the end.
Lisa has crafted a wonderful mystery. I really enjoyed the characters as well. Especially, Callie, Maya, and Josh. They make a wonderful group of friends, who definitely have each other's backs. The historical aspect of the story is engaging and well thought out. There is a great deal of action and intrigue. Her description of Myrtlebough is inviting and makes me wish I could vacation there, soaking in the history while I drink a bubble tea. Looking forward to reading more about this sleepy little town and all of its charming characters.
Lisa has crafted a wonderful mystery. I really enjoyed the characters as well. Especially, Callie, Maya, and Josh. They make a wonderful group of friends, who definitely have each other's backs. The historical aspect of the story is engaging and well thought out. There is a great deal of action and intrigue. Her description of Myrtlebough is inviting and makes me wish I could vacation there, soaking in the history while I drink a bubble tea. Looking forward to reading more about this sleepy little town and all of its charming characters.
April 20, 2026
I really wanted to love Books, Bubble Tea, and Bodies by Lisa Pevey because it combines so many of my favorite things books, bubble tea, and a cozy mystery vibe. It had all the elements I usually gravitate toward, and I went in with high hopes.
While the premise is fun and full of potential, this one ultimately fell flat for me. I just couldn’t fully get into the story or connect the way I was hoping to. That said, the narrator did a good job bringing the characters to life.
Overall, even though it wasn’t a hit for me personally, I can still see how others who love cozy mysteries might enjoy the atmosphere and concept.
While the premise is fun and full of potential, this one ultimately fell flat for me. I just couldn’t fully get into the story or connect the way I was hoping to. That said, the narrator did a good job bringing the characters to life.
Overall, even though it wasn’t a hit for me personally, I can still see how others who love cozy mysteries might enjoy the atmosphere and concept.
October 13, 2025
A delightful cozy mystery with bookstore owner friends, Callie & Maya. They love their little Southern town and all the historic homes that exist there. A dear friend of Callie, Alma, has been lovingly restoring the oldest home in the town, Myrtlebough, when she is discovered deceased in her house by Callie. Callie just can't believe that the death was an accident and begins digging into the death with her friend Maya and, maybe future boyfriend, Josh. The story unfolds in a perfectly paced tale. I definitely recommend.
May 18, 2026
I really enjoyed this audiobook. The narrator was a perfect fit for this story. She had a southern accent and it fit well with the theme of the story. This was a cozy mystery and had me questioning everything and trying to solve it along with our FMC. The side characters were also so fun and had an amazing personality. The mystery did conclude however we were left with a slight cliffhanger, and I really loved that the author did that! I will definitely be waiting for book 2 to see what happens next.
Thank you Podium Entertainment for the ALC!
Thank you Podium Entertainment for the ALC!
March 19, 2025
This story will sneak up on you and touch your heart before you realize it. The characters are vivid, relatable, and with small town humility, at least the ones who count are. The plot is a bit wandering, but in this case the end did justify the means. The premise is finding out what really happened to the good older friend of the main character, because things did not feel right to her. I highly recommend this book.
April 30, 2026
Books, Bubble Tea and Bodied: Honeysuckle Bend Cozy Mystery Series Book 1)
This is one of the best cozy mystery I have read in a white. Wonderful characters you will like, except the bad people. It is truly a cozy mystery. But, you will recognize the bad people, do not trust anyone until the end. You must read this story by Lisa Pevey. Keep your eye open, and listen. Enjoy the Bubble Tea!
This is one of the best cozy mystery I have read in a white. Wonderful characters you will like, except the bad people. It is truly a cozy mystery. But, you will recognize the bad people, do not trust anyone until the end. You must read this story by Lisa Pevey. Keep your eye open, and listen. Enjoy the Bubble Tea!
May 11, 2026
A relaxing and enjoyable cosy mystery that is tense in parts and humorous in others. The voice acting was gripping and I found the plot twists engaging. It would be a great book to read or listen to while on holiday. Weeks later I'm still thinking about Callie and how Julie Webster portrayed her.
I received an advanced listening copy of this audiobook from Podium Entertainment in exchange for a review.
I received an advanced listening copy of this audiobook from Podium Entertainment in exchange for a review.
April 11, 2025
Really cool read!
Lots of historical home lore. The historical architecture llirexmade this a fun and different read I must say. Especially when tossed in with the moderness of things in today's world like boba tea. Lol something I enjoy very much myself. Loved the add in of the dog's story as well. Good all around read for my first from this author.
Lots of historical home lore. The historical architecture llirexmade this a fun and different read I must say. Especially when tossed in with the moderness of things in today's world like boba tea. Lol something I enjoy very much myself. Loved the add in of the dog's story as well. Good all around read for my first from this author.
November 14, 2025
Great little cozy mystery! Wonderful writer; although a little too descriptive at times. 4-5 sentences of description to every one sentence of action. Quirky fun characters and a beautiful small town setting. I might have to try reading the next book in this series because I don’t think I’m done learning about Myrtleborough in “Honeysuckle.” If that doesn’t give you “cozy vibes….”🥰….
January 19, 2026
This was such a comfort read for me! I loved our 3 main characters and their passion for supporting one another and fighting for the truth. And we can't forget about Smokie! I'm excited to pick up the rest of the series.
Mystery-wise, I was able to piece things together, but still thoroughly enjoyed the storytelling and pacing. and characters throughout.
Mystery-wise, I was able to piece things together, but still thoroughly enjoyed the storytelling and pacing. and characters throughout.
February 7, 2026
Good book with an intriguing mystery and great characters. Looking forward to the next one.
Amazon synopsis:
Callie loves a timeless classic. She thought running a shop in her charming southern town meant quiet days, good tea, and lots of spare time to read. But when a strange journal turns up in a donation box, it leads her straight to the town’s oldest Creole manor—and to the body of a very prominent friend.
But the ladies in the dead woman’s bridge club are tight-lipped and snooty, the town planner is acting shady, and the bad boy carpenter who worked for the late Alma Jessup has been spreading rumors. Everybody seems to have something to hide. And the more Callie starts poking around, the less sleepy her little hamlet becomes.
As Callie, Josh and Maya get tangled up with the quirky townsfolk, the clock begins ticking. More bodies. More books. And of course, more bubble tea. Will the trio be able to get to the bottom of things before time runs out?
And just how many secrets can one old mansion hold?
Amazon synopsis:
Callie loves a timeless classic. She thought running a shop in her charming southern town meant quiet days, good tea, and lots of spare time to read. But when a strange journal turns up in a donation box, it leads her straight to the town’s oldest Creole manor—and to the body of a very prominent friend.
But the ladies in the dead woman’s bridge club are tight-lipped and snooty, the town planner is acting shady, and the bad boy carpenter who worked for the late Alma Jessup has been spreading rumors. Everybody seems to have something to hide. And the more Callie starts poking around, the less sleepy her little hamlet becomes.
As Callie, Josh and Maya get tangled up with the quirky townsfolk, the clock begins ticking. More bodies. More books. And of course, more bubble tea. Will the trio be able to get to the bottom of things before time runs out?
And just how many secrets can one old mansion hold?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews