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A Caribbean Island Mystery #1
The Bush Tea Murder
Culinary journalist Naomi Sinclair is cooking up a maelstrom of trouble upon her return to the blue waters of her native Saint Thomas.
A new cozy mystery set in the US Virgin Islands, this charming amateur sleuth will enrapture readers of Joanne Fluke and Carrie Doyle.
Food journalist Naomi Sinclair doesn’t expect a side of murder with her passion fruit juice. But when her return to Saint Thomas heralds a series of troubling cases, ranging from petty theft to cold-blooded murder, that threaten her tight-knit community, that is exactly the kind of unsavory treat she must sink her teeth into.
Luckily for her neighbors, Naomi is as adept at solving puzzles as rolling johnnycake dough—a good thing, since her island community, though small, keeps serving up plenty of trouble. With the help of her friends and her crush, Mateo, Naomi must navigate the tumultuous turquoise waters of life in the Caribbean, all as her beloved father battles an illness that keeps tugging her back to her island amid her rising career stateside.
Rich with mouthwatering recipes, lush landscapes, and a hefty dose of fun under the sun, The Bush Tea Murder has all the ingredients to make up the perfect beach read.
A new cozy mystery set in the US Virgin Islands, this charming amateur sleuth will enrapture readers of Joanne Fluke and Carrie Doyle.
Food journalist Naomi Sinclair doesn’t expect a side of murder with her passion fruit juice. But when her return to Saint Thomas heralds a series of troubling cases, ranging from petty theft to cold-blooded murder, that threaten her tight-knit community, that is exactly the kind of unsavory treat she must sink her teeth into.
Luckily for her neighbors, Naomi is as adept at solving puzzles as rolling johnnycake dough—a good thing, since her island community, though small, keeps serving up plenty of trouble. With the help of her friends and her crush, Mateo, Naomi must navigate the tumultuous turquoise waters of life in the Caribbean, all as her beloved father battles an illness that keeps tugging her back to her island amid her rising career stateside.
Rich with mouthwatering recipes, lush landscapes, and a hefty dose of fun under the sun, The Bush Tea Murder has all the ingredients to make up the perfect beach read.
336 pages, Paperback
First published April 21, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was first drawn to The Bush Tea Murder because of its stunning cover. The lush, atmospheric Caribbean setting pulled me in as protagonist Naomi solves multiple mysteries within the mystery. As each story unfolds, we're given glimpses into island life at pace that feels relaxed, yet full of suspense. Well-drawn characters bring emotional depth to this compelling mystery, making this the perfect beachy escape as I wait for winter to end.
My sincere thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an eARC. All thoughts are my own.
My sincere thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an eARC. All thoughts are my own.
May 18, 2026
The over all vibe of this book is that of the Murder She Wrote pilot where the mystery was secondary to Jessica starting a second career as an author. These trips home for Naomi are a way for her to reconnect with kith and kin and to deepen her relationship with Mateo, an EMT who wants to be a nurse but just can't manage to get into university.
I loved getting to know Naomi's extended family and the people she grew up with. I am eager to read more.
https://pussreboots.com/blog/2026/com...
I loved getting to know Naomi's extended family and the people she grew up with. I am eager to read more.
https://pussreboots.com/blog/2026/com...
January 14, 2026
"The Bush Tea Murder" by Ashley-Ruth Bernier is a bit different than your average cozy mystery. Naomi Sinclair is a tv culture and food host based in North Carolina. Her discussion with her bosses over a potential next segment narrates around the various mysteries she finds herself solving when visiting her US Virgin Island home. At first this seemed disruptive but then it really started to flow together.
Naomi solves everything from petty theft to murder. Some cold cases and some cases happening right in front of her as a kid pukes in the middle of a class she helps teach. There's some triggering topics too, but they're a bit tamer than the Lucy Stone books can sometimes get to.
Naomi solves everything from petty theft to murder. Some cold cases and some cases happening right in front of her as a kid pukes in the middle of a class she helps teach. There's some triggering topics too, but they're a bit tamer than the Lucy Stone books can sometimes get to.
Did Not Finish
March 6, 2026I received a free copy from the publisher through Netgalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
I DNF'd this one at 5%. The premise for this one sounded good and I just really liked the idea of a cozy mystery set at a Caribbean Island, but the writing for this one did not work for me. The book starts in present day and I felt like I did not understand anything of what was going on, not a good start, I gave it another chapter which jumps back in time and explains the set up and after that it jumps back to the present. And then I knew this book would not be for me, the jumping back and forth did not work for me here and it just felt really off here. I also did not like the writing or the set-up with the main character being in a battle with another tv show about who could make the best pilot of a food show combined with true crime. So I DNF'd this one.
I DNF'd this one at 5%. The premise for this one sounded good and I just really liked the idea of a cozy mystery set at a Caribbean Island, but the writing for this one did not work for me. The book starts in present day and I felt like I did not understand anything of what was going on, not a good start, I gave it another chapter which jumps back in time and explains the set up and after that it jumps back to the present. And then I knew this book would not be for me, the jumping back and forth did not work for me here and it just felt really off here. I also did not like the writing or the set-up with the main character being in a battle with another tv show about who could make the best pilot of a food show combined with true crime. So I DNF'd this one.
May 12, 2026
This book was, to put it lightly, a complete and total mess. The structure was confusing, as the main storyline was overshadowed, and honestly forgotten, based on how many minor stories are shoved into the writing. I understand after finishing that the smaller stories are meant to put pieces together to help with the big initial mystery, but I honestly feel like it made the ending completely cheap.
The audiobook narrator did an okay job, but based off of how many characters there are in this book, it wasn’t always easy to keep them straight. Speaking of characters, who the HELL are all of these people? There had to be at least 50+ names thrown at you. Some overlapping, some from the same family, and some mentioned once and then tossed to the side. There were 5-10 mini stories within, making it nearly impossible to juggle which characters belonged to which stories, and if they were supposed to be important.
Some of the stories were really interesting. Others were completely dull and just felt like the writer was trying to make her book longer. I think this book would have been much better if maybe it were broken up into several short stories, because the cluster of them together was not cohesive to me at all.
One thing I did really enjoy was the depth of the main character. Naomi was fascinating, charming, and I feel like a lot could be done with her character. I was rooting for her to uncover mysteries and to figure out what she wanted to come next out of her life because it seemed like she had many options. The love story aspect of this was super cute and I really enjoyed them together. However, I don’t feel like it really was necessary to the mysteries at all. It just sort of distracted me from how bad I felt everything else was.
1 star, and I feel like that is me being really kind.
The audiobook narrator did an okay job, but based off of how many characters there are in this book, it wasn’t always easy to keep them straight. Speaking of characters, who the HELL are all of these people? There had to be at least 50+ names thrown at you. Some overlapping, some from the same family, and some mentioned once and then tossed to the side. There were 5-10 mini stories within, making it nearly impossible to juggle which characters belonged to which stories, and if they were supposed to be important.
Some of the stories were really interesting. Others were completely dull and just felt like the writer was trying to make her book longer. I think this book would have been much better if maybe it were broken up into several short stories, because the cluster of them together was not cohesive to me at all.
One thing I did really enjoy was the depth of the main character. Naomi was fascinating, charming, and I feel like a lot could be done with her character. I was rooting for her to uncover mysteries and to figure out what she wanted to come next out of her life because it seemed like she had many options. The love story aspect of this was super cute and I really enjoyed them together. However, I don’t feel like it really was necessary to the mysteries at all. It just sort of distracted me from how bad I felt everything else was.
1 star, and I feel like that is me being really kind.
May 10, 2026
This was a delicious debut novel! It had me looking up dumbread, johnny cake recipes and checking to see if I had any canned milk left to try in my bush tea. The story line between Naomi and Mateo was poetry. I loved the theme of community, "When we watch you travel and interview and cook, we live a little bit through you. 'S why we cheer for you so hard. And your best friend out there? He cheers for you the loudest." I highly recommend it.
January 26, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.
I enjoyed this new book in a new series. What I particularly liked was the focus on the food culture and its related story to the characters and the US Virgin Islands.
I enjoyed this new book in a new series. What I particularly liked was the focus on the food culture and its related story to the characters and the US Virgin Islands.
May 10, 2026
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Naomi Sinclair hosts A Word from the Kitchen on EAT TV. She and her co-worker, Travis Spriggs, have been given the opportunity to submit an unsolved food-based mystery to determine who will host a new true crime show on the network. Naomi picks a cold case that takes her home to St. Thomas, where, in addition to the cold-blooded murder of the woman who opened the first teahouse there, there are several other cases that could use Naomi’s attention. It will also allow her to check on her dad, who is having medical issues.
Soon, Naomi is back at home working to solve a decades-old mystery, and some current mini mysteries, all while catching up with friends, including a certain hunky EMT, and ensuring that her father gets the care he needs.
The Bush Tea Murder stands apart from typical cozy mysteries. It features a grittier tone and uses coarse language, which places it outside the traditional cozy mystery genre. The narrative introduces several subplots, bringing in new characters and separate mysteries—one of which Naomi witnesses firsthand. The story also moves between present-day events and occurrences from a year prior, often within the same chapter. While this structure takes some adjustment, it ultimately develops a readable flow.
Naomi is portrayed as a resilient and proud character, deeply connected to her heritage. Even though she currently resides in North Carolina for work, her heart remains in St. Thomas. She is gentle, respectful, and kind, taking her investigative work seriously—regardless of the scope of each case. Naomi’s relationship with Mateo is particularly touching and sometimes overshadows the mysteries themselves. Her concern for her father is evident, and she rekindles friendships from her high school days. The depiction of St. Thomas offers a look at authentic island life, showing that drama can unfold anywhere, even in paradise.
The main mystery was multifaceted and emotional for many involved. Naomi is pulled in many different directions, as was this reader. The cold case she selects is an excellent choice for the network, and her investigation would likely be captivating on television. However, the resolution of the clues comes together somewhat abruptly, though Naomi’s detailed explanations help clarify the process.
The Bush Tea Murder is an enjoyable story featuring a compelling main character, a diverse supporting cast, and intriguing mysteries, all set against the beautiful backdrop of St. Thomas. Despite some issues with explicit language and the narrative structure, Naomi’s character stands out and provides a solid foundation for the series. I am already looking forward to the next Caribbean Island Mystery.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Naomi Sinclair hosts A Word from the Kitchen on EAT TV. She and her co-worker, Travis Spriggs, have been given the opportunity to submit an unsolved food-based mystery to determine who will host a new true crime show on the network. Naomi picks a cold case that takes her home to St. Thomas, where, in addition to the cold-blooded murder of the woman who opened the first teahouse there, there are several other cases that could use Naomi’s attention. It will also allow her to check on her dad, who is having medical issues.
Soon, Naomi is back at home working to solve a decades-old mystery, and some current mini mysteries, all while catching up with friends, including a certain hunky EMT, and ensuring that her father gets the care he needs.
The Bush Tea Murder stands apart from typical cozy mysteries. It features a grittier tone and uses coarse language, which places it outside the traditional cozy mystery genre. The narrative introduces several subplots, bringing in new characters and separate mysteries—one of which Naomi witnesses firsthand. The story also moves between present-day events and occurrences from a year prior, often within the same chapter. While this structure takes some adjustment, it ultimately develops a readable flow.
Naomi is portrayed as a resilient and proud character, deeply connected to her heritage. Even though she currently resides in North Carolina for work, her heart remains in St. Thomas. She is gentle, respectful, and kind, taking her investigative work seriously—regardless of the scope of each case. Naomi’s relationship with Mateo is particularly touching and sometimes overshadows the mysteries themselves. Her concern for her father is evident, and she rekindles friendships from her high school days. The depiction of St. Thomas offers a look at authentic island life, showing that drama can unfold anywhere, even in paradise.
The main mystery was multifaceted and emotional for many involved. Naomi is pulled in many different directions, as was this reader. The cold case she selects is an excellent choice for the network, and her investigation would likely be captivating on television. However, the resolution of the clues comes together somewhat abruptly, though Naomi’s detailed explanations help clarify the process.
The Bush Tea Murder is an enjoyable story featuring a compelling main character, a diverse supporting cast, and intriguing mysteries, all set against the beautiful backdrop of St. Thomas. Despite some issues with explicit language and the narrative structure, Naomi’s character stands out and provides a solid foundation for the series. I am already looking forward to the next Caribbean Island Mystery.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
April 22, 2026
I'm always excited when I have the chance to read a book by a new author or a book in a new series and I had both with The Bush Tea Murder, the first book in the Caribbean Island Mystery series by Ashley-Run Bernier. I was very excited to be spending time on an island with Naomi, her friends and lots of mouthwatering dishes and drinks. But sadly, I was disappointed and had a difficult time finishing the book.
When I read and review a book, whether I liked it or not, I always let readers know what I did like within the story. I want to be honest and truthful and just because the book wasn't for me, doesn't mean it won't be for others.
In The Bush Tea Murder main character Naomi, who has a television show centered around food, is approached to host a different show. She along with another co-worker, is given a year to provide a first episode for a television show regarding a cold case murder that has food involved. She instantly knows the case she wants to showcase so she sets her sites on that and returns to St. Thomas to begin her research, interviews and investigation.
The story goes in a lot of different directions. Sometimes readers are back at the television station offices where she is presenting her story, then it jumps to back to a certain time in the past year. During that time, she finds herself instrumental in solving some smaller present cases as well as the case she is working on.
Naomi also learns that her father has been ill and she tries to be there for that and then there is Mateo, I think he is what got me through the book. Their relationship is awesome !!
Okay..... The Bush Tea Murder is categorized as a cozy mystery and although there is no strict definition of it, the main rule of thumb seems to be that the story contains no graphic violence and generally no swearing or sex. In The Bush Tea Murder there was quite a bit of cursing throughout. The only reason I kept reading is that the worst swear word was NOT used. I have been reviewing cozy mysteries for over 10 years and have had this problem less than 10 times, so I think I am doing pretty good. However, I do know that cursing can be a turn off for some readers.
Even though I was not a fan of this book, I don't want you to take just my word for it. Please read other reviews and maybe begin reading it yourself if it sounds like something you will enjoy. I never listen to others' opinions when it comes to a movie I want to see and I refuse to read reviews on them so take that into consideration.
When I read and review a book, whether I liked it or not, I always let readers know what I did like within the story. I want to be honest and truthful and just because the book wasn't for me, doesn't mean it won't be for others.
In The Bush Tea Murder main character Naomi, who has a television show centered around food, is approached to host a different show. She along with another co-worker, is given a year to provide a first episode for a television show regarding a cold case murder that has food involved. She instantly knows the case she wants to showcase so she sets her sites on that and returns to St. Thomas to begin her research, interviews and investigation.
The story goes in a lot of different directions. Sometimes readers are back at the television station offices where she is presenting her story, then it jumps to back to a certain time in the past year. During that time, she finds herself instrumental in solving some smaller present cases as well as the case she is working on.
Naomi also learns that her father has been ill and she tries to be there for that and then there is Mateo, I think he is what got me through the book. Their relationship is awesome !!
Okay..... The Bush Tea Murder is categorized as a cozy mystery and although there is no strict definition of it, the main rule of thumb seems to be that the story contains no graphic violence and generally no swearing or sex. In The Bush Tea Murder there was quite a bit of cursing throughout. The only reason I kept reading is that the worst swear word was NOT used. I have been reviewing cozy mysteries for over 10 years and have had this problem less than 10 times, so I think I am doing pretty good. However, I do know that cursing can be a turn off for some readers.
Even though I was not a fan of this book, I don't want you to take just my word for it. Please read other reviews and maybe begin reading it yourself if it sounds like something you will enjoy. I never listen to others' opinions when it comes to a movie I want to see and I refuse to read reviews on them so take that into consideration.
May 6, 2026
A return to one’s roots should leave you all warm and fuzzy. But for Naomi Sinclair, a culinary journalist, her return to Saint Thomas quickly goes in a different direction. Theft and murder have her using her skills to follow the bread crumbs and serve up the culprits.
This was a blast to read. The characters were so genuine. There were the curious, the reluctant, the amateurish and the secret ones. That’s something I love about cozies. The characters make the mystery feel familiar. I added faces of people I know to some of the characters. That had me connecting even more and adding to an urgency to see how the characters reacted as events unfolded.
I also enjoyed how the story was presented. There were two time lines and it was easy to follow. It also had me anticipating each time line. Seeing how things changed or made actions more clear. It also made the book a fast read.
This was a super fun reading experience. Couldn’t have asked for more.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
This was a blast to read. The characters were so genuine. There were the curious, the reluctant, the amateurish and the secret ones. That’s something I love about cozies. The characters make the mystery feel familiar. I added faces of people I know to some of the characters. That had me connecting even more and adding to an urgency to see how the characters reacted as events unfolded.
I also enjoyed how the story was presented. There were two time lines and it was easy to follow. It also had me anticipating each time line. Seeing how things changed or made actions more clear. It also made the book a fast read.
This was a super fun reading experience. Couldn’t have asked for more.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
May 12, 2026
Problems are problems, even in a tropical paradise, and the characters in this novel seemed so real, so relatable, that I worried about them. A lot. Ashley-Ruth Bernier has captured the Caribbean voice of her characters without a hitch, and the senses of sight, sound, smell and taste are piqued endlessly. The protagonist, Naomi, is a puzzle solver and she has no shortages of puzzles thrown her way in this cozy-but-not-kitschy story. Loved my time in St. Thomas with this crew of characters!
April 30, 2026
What a clever way to weave a culture into multiple mysteries. The protagonist, a culinary journalist, wrestles with her distance from her family and friends in St. Thomas because her career opportunities are all in North Carolina. She combines business (research into a cold case murder that could land her the "dream" job) with pleasure (a love interest and a family that needs her) when she returns for a wedding. Blended beautifully into the story is an outstanding choice of words that create a very vivid picture of every scene. The Bush Tea Murder is the umbrella story that keeps readers guessing throughout the book. Shorter mysteries are solved along the way as we get to know larger than life characters. It's a very unique approach to a cozy mystery.
May 1, 2026
Location: St. Thomas, U. S. Virgin Islands 🇻🇮
Conclusion: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a good mystery book, it's cozy, it's set in a great location, there are plenty of characters and some mysteries to solve for our main character Naomi. The book just didn't click with me personally for an unknown reason to me. I had my difficulties with the plot, as it is comprised of one large mystery, The Bush Tea Murder itself, and plenty of smaller mysteries being solved along the way. Further we have 2 timelines going on with short interludes that are set in the present and then the actual story being told in flashbacks to the past year. All in all that is nothing dramatic or bad if you're fine with this setup of a plot! I personally would have wished for more focus on the main mystery and the journey of solving it compared to the plenty of other smaller cases being solved by Naomi in this book. If you're into cozy mysteries, I'd still very much recommend this one and encourage you to see if you are more enjoying it than I could!
Characters:
- Naomi: is an interesting main character that cherishes her heritage from the US VI a lot. I love how she is still embedded into the local society and her family and friends even though she is living on the mainland and working for national television. I love how respectful she is interacting with the subjects of her investigations and how considerate she is concerning the outcome and the found culprits.
- And many, many more!
What I liked: the setting and the main character.
What I disliked: the feeling of a disjointed plot unfortunately.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the eARC in exchange for an honest review of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Conclusion: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a good mystery book, it's cozy, it's set in a great location, there are plenty of characters and some mysteries to solve for our main character Naomi. The book just didn't click with me personally for an unknown reason to me. I had my difficulties with the plot, as it is comprised of one large mystery, The Bush Tea Murder itself, and plenty of smaller mysteries being solved along the way. Further we have 2 timelines going on with short interludes that are set in the present and then the actual story being told in flashbacks to the past year. All in all that is nothing dramatic or bad if you're fine with this setup of a plot! I personally would have wished for more focus on the main mystery and the journey of solving it compared to the plenty of other smaller cases being solved by Naomi in this book. If you're into cozy mysteries, I'd still very much recommend this one and encourage you to see if you are more enjoying it than I could!
Characters:
- Naomi: is an interesting main character that cherishes her heritage from the US VI a lot. I love how she is still embedded into the local society and her family and friends even though she is living on the mainland and working for national television. I love how respectful she is interacting with the subjects of her investigations and how considerate she is concerning the outcome and the found culprits.
- And many, many more!
What I liked: the setting and the main character.
What I disliked: the feeling of a disjointed plot unfortunately.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the eARC in exchange for an honest review of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 25, 2025
This was a first time read of this author. I was attracted to the concept, several stories within a story with Virgin Island food roots.
The characters were interesting, diverse and engaging.
The intertwined stories were good but I felt at one point that I didn’t care as much for the primary mystery of who killed Ursula Merchant. I felt that the ending though appropriate was a little abrupt.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
Thank you #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for the opportunity to read and share my thoughts on this book.
Happy Reading!
May 15, 2026
Mystery and murder infused with island vibes, food, and tea!
The Bush Tea Murder is the first book in author Ashley-Ruth Bernier’s new Caribbean Island Mystery series, and after reading it, I felt as if I’d been on an island vacation. The story, told in the present time and flashbacks, resolves several mysteries and tackles a local murder that has gone unsolved for many years.
Naomi Sinclair, a former investigative reporter who is now a kitchen show television host on EAT-TV out of Charlotte, North Carolina, is competing with a colleague to host a new true culinary crimes show and has a year to produce a sample episode that will determine who gets the hosting spot. Naomi, having grown up on St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands, chooses to investigate a cold case from her hometown, involving people she knows: a successful local teashop owner, Ursula Merchant, murdered in her shop, and several friends and family members of the dead woman. Traveling between Charlotte and St. Thomas, Naomi delves into the circumstances of the case while confronting personal issues: her ailing father and her deepening feelings for the man she left behind.I enjoyed this series debut quite a bit, with its engaging characters and interesting, unusual storylines. Naomi comes across as relatable and realistic, a woman who would be fun to know, and she was easy to root for and follow. She faces common problems in her work situation, worries about her aging father, and changing feelings for Mateo, who has his own struggles. I enjoyed her investigation and keen observations, which helped her resolve other mysteries that came her way while she was visiting her hometown, friends, and family.
The author’s storytelling drew me in from page one. Not only was Naomi likable, but I became invested in what she was going through immediately and wanted her to succeed. As this is the first book in the series, it introduces many characters, reveals backstories, and establishes relationships. However, the author does this so organically that I had no trouble keeping everyone straight and getting familiar with the close-knit community on St. Thomas.The plot was well-paced, with no dull moments. I liked the premise that Naomi was recounting the events of the previous year to her bosses and colleagues, which allowed for present-day action and flashbacks. While the present day had a very corporate feel, her time back home was full of cozy island vibes, with food and drink at every turn, including the local bush tea that reminded her of home no matter her location. The vivid descriptions of the places Naomi visits while building her show really brought the setting to life.
I recommend THE BUSH TEA MURDER to readers of mysteries and suspense.I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Short story writer Ashley-Ruth Bernier’s debut proclaims those roots - this sweetly moving novel is told via short episodes. The episodes connect, and are longer than the typical short story, packing more of a punch. By the end of the novel, the ends are neatly tied up. Our heroine is culinary TV star Naomi Sinclair, who tells stories through her reporting on, and love, of food.
Naomi is from the island of St. Thomas, and it’s her Crucian heritage that shines through on every page of this novel. As the book opens, she and a fellow host on EAT TV are pitching their true crime-food episodes, and Naomi is leaving her audience in suspense. She has a great story to tell and her audience of TV producers are hanging on her every word to find out the solution to the long ago murder of Ursula Merchant, a well known island chef and entrepreneur.
To tell the story, Naomi goes back in time, taking her readers to a vivid rendering of St. Thomas and the Caribbean lifestyle. Her first trip back, for a wedding, finds her reconnecting with old flame Matteo, an adorable and sweet EMT. It’s unclear how this long distance relationship will function as Naomi’s work is back in the states. The two of them have a long connection going back to high school, and the story is populated with their high school buddies ranging from the well loved to the annoying.
The family and food culture of St. Thomas is well drawn, as is the lovely setting, though Bernier makes clear that even in paradise, life can be messy. Her portrayal of the various relationships and connections in the novel illustrate this point nicely, and the main focus is Naomi and Matteo’s relationship, which I would call the centerpiece of the novel, even more so than the murder.
Little by little, Bernier brings the reader through the past, catching up slowly to the present and the resolution of the crime, which includes some nice deductive reasoning on Naomi’s part. At first I was slightly put off by the story telling style, but by the middle of the novel I was able to relax into the rhythm of Bernier’s narrative and portrayal of what is obviously a beloved place for her.
The main crime Naomi investigates has deeply entwined family layers, and as Naomi unpeels them, they become painful for those still alive who were affected by their great aunt’s death. Through the book, Naomi solves many smaller mysteries, all of them leading to the ultimate resolution. The emotional layers in this book are as beautiful as the food she describes. You may leave this book hungry, but you’ll also leave it with a tear in your eye, as the characters Bernier writes about are truly brought to life on the page. This is a lovely debut.
Naomi is from the island of St. Thomas, and it’s her Crucian heritage that shines through on every page of this novel. As the book opens, she and a fellow host on EAT TV are pitching their true crime-food episodes, and Naomi is leaving her audience in suspense. She has a great story to tell and her audience of TV producers are hanging on her every word to find out the solution to the long ago murder of Ursula Merchant, a well known island chef and entrepreneur.
To tell the story, Naomi goes back in time, taking her readers to a vivid rendering of St. Thomas and the Caribbean lifestyle. Her first trip back, for a wedding, finds her reconnecting with old flame Matteo, an adorable and sweet EMT. It’s unclear how this long distance relationship will function as Naomi’s work is back in the states. The two of them have a long connection going back to high school, and the story is populated with their high school buddies ranging from the well loved to the annoying.
The family and food culture of St. Thomas is well drawn, as is the lovely setting, though Bernier makes clear that even in paradise, life can be messy. Her portrayal of the various relationships and connections in the novel illustrate this point nicely, and the main focus is Naomi and Matteo’s relationship, which I would call the centerpiece of the novel, even more so than the murder.
Little by little, Bernier brings the reader through the past, catching up slowly to the present and the resolution of the crime, which includes some nice deductive reasoning on Naomi’s part. At first I was slightly put off by the story telling style, but by the middle of the novel I was able to relax into the rhythm of Bernier’s narrative and portrayal of what is obviously a beloved place for her.
The main crime Naomi investigates has deeply entwined family layers, and as Naomi unpeels them, they become painful for those still alive who were affected by their great aunt’s death. Through the book, Naomi solves many smaller mysteries, all of them leading to the ultimate resolution. The emotional layers in this book are as beautiful as the food she describes. You may leave this book hungry, but you’ll also leave it with a tear in your eye, as the characters Bernier writes about are truly brought to life on the page. This is a lovely debut.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was so entranced by this story and the way that author, Ashley-Ruth Bernier, included local dishes and fun facts, that I was looking up recipes for Johnny Cakes, pictures of Flamboyant trees, and prices for a cruise that would make port in St. Thomas so I could go buy some bush tea. This is not only an unusual storyline, but an expertly crafted tale that proves that a death in paradise can be so much more than just some sand, the sea, and a gimmick. Naomi Sinclair, originally from the island of St. Thomas, has relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina and is the host of the TV show, A Word From the Kitchen. Naomi is living her dream, a job centered around culinary journalism.
What starts out as an opportunity to earn a spot hosting a new true crime food related show becomes an eye-opening experience and a chance for Naomi to shine a light on her home, St. Thomas, and all the things that make it more than just a cruise ship port of call. Naomi chooses an unsolved crime that involves a woman who had built up a business that started with bush tea and was about to be taken to the next level by a rich businessman from the states who wanted to bottle her amazing brews and stock them on shelves from coast to coast. A note to the reader, this is not a comfy cozy but more of an edgy cozy with situations that are very real life oriented, with both good and bad aspects, and good and bad people, and several mysterious suspects in between.
The premise for the new show is unsolved mysteries with a culinary theme, which I find to be a fresh and fascinating idea. In addition to the unique plot premise, the story is told, with a timeline that bounces between the present and sequential periods that span the previous year. Each period is a subplot which introduces a new character or two. The subplots are actually mini mysteries, which Naomi solves while keeping the overall themes in play such as a romance with the handsome EMT, daughterly concern for her parents' health and well-being, and navigating friendships from childhood. In addition to introducing characters in an organic way, each short story added another piece to the Ursula Merchant, locked room murder mystery and the story for Naomi’s pilot show pitch.
This series starter had everything a good mystery needs from captivating characters to amazing imagery and everything in between. The dialogue was well written, and the clues sprinkled just enough. The final reveal has everyone, from the network execs to myself, on the edge of our seats and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next Caribbean Island Mystery.
What starts out as an opportunity to earn a spot hosting a new true crime food related show becomes an eye-opening experience and a chance for Naomi to shine a light on her home, St. Thomas, and all the things that make it more than just a cruise ship port of call. Naomi chooses an unsolved crime that involves a woman who had built up a business that started with bush tea and was about to be taken to the next level by a rich businessman from the states who wanted to bottle her amazing brews and stock them on shelves from coast to coast. A note to the reader, this is not a comfy cozy but more of an edgy cozy with situations that are very real life oriented, with both good and bad aspects, and good and bad people, and several mysterious suspects in between.
The premise for the new show is unsolved mysteries with a culinary theme, which I find to be a fresh and fascinating idea. In addition to the unique plot premise, the story is told, with a timeline that bounces between the present and sequential periods that span the previous year. Each period is a subplot which introduces a new character or two. The subplots are actually mini mysteries, which Naomi solves while keeping the overall themes in play such as a romance with the handsome EMT, daughterly concern for her parents' health and well-being, and navigating friendships from childhood. In addition to introducing characters in an organic way, each short story added another piece to the Ursula Merchant, locked room murder mystery and the story for Naomi’s pilot show pitch.
This series starter had everything a good mystery needs from captivating characters to amazing imagery and everything in between. The dialogue was well written, and the clues sprinkled just enough. The final reveal has everyone, from the network execs to myself, on the edge of our seats and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next Caribbean Island Mystery.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
📱📖 Read on Kindle
📃 336 pages
⏱ 5 hours read time
🏷️ Publisher: Crooked Lane Books
📅 Expected Publication: April 21, 2026
Read as an ARC received from NetGalley
You know that feeling when a book's atmosphere is so vivid you start tasting the salty air? That's exactly what happened to me with The Bush Tea Murder. Ashley-Ruth Bernier writes the Caribbean the way only someone who loves it can, with rhythm, affection, and that familiar ease of community.
What stood out most for me was how authentically Caribbean the storytelling felt, from its language to its lush sensory moments. The dialogue flows like island music, and the relationships between characters are heartfelt and real. While the mystery itself unfolds at a gentle pace, it’s the worldbuilding that keeps you hooked. I loved the subtle dance between Naomi’s stateside ambitions and her love for her island roots, that tension gives this cozy more depth than most in the genre.
Naomi Sinclair is such a standout protagonist as confident but human, smart but not omniscient, and carrying the kind of real-world emotional weight that grounds a cozy mystery. Her relationship with her father added a beautiful warmth without overwhelming the mystery; her community connections added texture; and her subtle chemistry with Mateo? Just the lift the story needed. The plot flows beautifully too in a steady, flavorful, and engaging way, with a mystery that unfurls like slow-simmered stew rather than a frantic sprint.
I can already tell this story will be even more alive in audiobook form. You can practically hear the rhythm and warmth of the speech, and I can’t wait to immerse myself again when it releases in April 2026. Ashley-Ruth Bernier has brewed the perfect blend of character, culture, and cozy intrigue here.
Would I recommend it?
If you’re craving sunshine, spice, and a touch of mystery, The Bush Tea Murder is the cup of comfort you need. Add Naomi Spills the Bush Tea to your TBR today; your future vacation-self will thank you.
Spill the Bush Tea. What do you think?
Would you travel for a mystery? Or better yet, have you ever read a book so atmospheric that you felt transported? Drop your Caribbean daydreams (or any cozy mystery favorites) in the comments!
📃 336 pages
⏱ 5 hours read time
🏷️ Publisher: Crooked Lane Books
📅 Expected Publication: April 21, 2026
Read as an ARC received from NetGalley
You know that feeling when a book's atmosphere is so vivid you start tasting the salty air? That's exactly what happened to me with The Bush Tea Murder. Ashley-Ruth Bernier writes the Caribbean the way only someone who loves it can, with rhythm, affection, and that familiar ease of community.
What stood out most for me was how authentically Caribbean the storytelling felt, from its language to its lush sensory moments. The dialogue flows like island music, and the relationships between characters are heartfelt and real. While the mystery itself unfolds at a gentle pace, it’s the worldbuilding that keeps you hooked. I loved the subtle dance between Naomi’s stateside ambitions and her love for her island roots, that tension gives this cozy more depth than most in the genre.
Naomi Sinclair is such a standout protagonist as confident but human, smart but not omniscient, and carrying the kind of real-world emotional weight that grounds a cozy mystery. Her relationship with her father added a beautiful warmth without overwhelming the mystery; her community connections added texture; and her subtle chemistry with Mateo? Just the lift the story needed. The plot flows beautifully too in a steady, flavorful, and engaging way, with a mystery that unfurls like slow-simmered stew rather than a frantic sprint.
I can already tell this story will be even more alive in audiobook form. You can practically hear the rhythm and warmth of the speech, and I can’t wait to immerse myself again when it releases in April 2026. Ashley-Ruth Bernier has brewed the perfect blend of character, culture, and cozy intrigue here.
Would I recommend it?
If you’re craving sunshine, spice, and a touch of mystery, The Bush Tea Murder is the cup of comfort you need. Add Naomi Spills the Bush Tea to your TBR today; your future vacation-self will thank you.
Spill the Bush Tea. What do you think?
Would you travel for a mystery? Or better yet, have you ever read a book so atmospheric that you felt transported? Drop your Caribbean daydreams (or any cozy mystery favorites) in the comments!
Read
March 18, 2026Caribbean setting, cooking, and murder!
I thoroughly enjoyed Ashley-Ruth Bernier’s short story, Rise, so I was hoping for a good read in Bush Tea Murder, which seems to be the author’s first novel. It has some of the features that made Rise stand out. The Caribbean setting is well done; I want to get on a plane to Charlotte Amalie right now! I am a big language fan and personally liked the use of local slang and accents, but there is a LOT of it, and some readers might find it interferes with the flow of their reading. The characters are nicely drawn. Naomi’s love Mateo came alive at first meeting, and I could understand why she wanted to reunite with him. The foods mentioned and the recipe descriptions were intriguing; this cuisine is not one that I hear about very often. I have a lot of short passages underlined just because the writing was so good, like when Naomi visits a building she remembers from her childhood and muses, “If the pale pink paint on the walls, low lamps, and faint aroma of spice feel like they’ve been there forever, they don’t make the place feel aged as much as they make it feel timeless.” There was some clever plotting that blended a family story with a mystery.
Some features interfered, though, with my positive responses. A big feature was the overall organization of the book. Naomi is telling the story in the present day to her boss and coworkers, but within each chapter she goes back to the time when the major events took place, and these are not identified by date but by what were to me cryptic descriptions such as “Rise” or “Feast” or “Serve”. And ultimately I found the denouement unsatisfactory and the murder technique somewhat outrageous.
I think I would read another book by Ashley-Ruth Bernier but would hope that the features that interfered with my enjoyment would have been corrected.
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books.
I thoroughly enjoyed Ashley-Ruth Bernier’s short story, Rise, so I was hoping for a good read in Bush Tea Murder, which seems to be the author’s first novel. It has some of the features that made Rise stand out. The Caribbean setting is well done; I want to get on a plane to Charlotte Amalie right now! I am a big language fan and personally liked the use of local slang and accents, but there is a LOT of it, and some readers might find it interferes with the flow of their reading. The characters are nicely drawn. Naomi’s love Mateo came alive at first meeting, and I could understand why she wanted to reunite with him. The foods mentioned and the recipe descriptions were intriguing; this cuisine is not one that I hear about very often. I have a lot of short passages underlined just because the writing was so good, like when Naomi visits a building she remembers from her childhood and muses, “If the pale pink paint on the walls, low lamps, and faint aroma of spice feel like they’ve been there forever, they don’t make the place feel aged as much as they make it feel timeless.” There was some clever plotting that blended a family story with a mystery.
Some features interfered, though, with my positive responses. A big feature was the overall organization of the book. Naomi is telling the story in the present day to her boss and coworkers, but within each chapter she goes back to the time when the major events took place, and these are not identified by date but by what were to me cryptic descriptions such as “Rise” or “Feast” or “Serve”. And ultimately I found the denouement unsatisfactory and the murder technique somewhat outrageous.
I think I would read another book by Ashley-Ruth Bernier but would hope that the features that interfered with my enjoyment would have been corrected.
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Bush Tea Murder is a contemporary mystery following Naomi Sinclair, a culinary journalist who intends to solve a murder in her hometown of Saint Thomas. While there, she solves a myriad of other mysteries which all connect to the murder of Ursula Merchant.
I was very excited going into this book as I enjoy Joanne Fluke’s stories. This book does a wonderful job of bringing you to the Virgin Islands with the dialect and the coastal descriptions. I enjoyed feeling like I was at the beach while being snuggled up at home. I loved the way the characters were written. It felt like every character had thought put into them and I can see how each character may continue to grow during the series.
I found the book a little predictable, which is not necessarily a bad thing but it did make the ending less exciting. Naomi is also a very good journalist but I felt like she always had her “a-ha!” moments right in the nick of time. I wish there were more times she either figured out the correct answer right away or took her a little longer to find the answer. I found it hard to believe that she always remembered exactly what she needed to remember at the perfect time.
I did love how each small mystery she solved connected to the larger mystery of Ursula Merchant. Watching those connections form was one of my favorite parts of the book. Although I guessed the ending about halfway through the book, it was enjoyable to see everything come together and show how and why everything happened the way it did.
I am looking forward to continuing the series!
Thank you Crooked Lane Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I was very excited going into this book as I enjoy Joanne Fluke’s stories. This book does a wonderful job of bringing you to the Virgin Islands with the dialect and the coastal descriptions. I enjoyed feeling like I was at the beach while being snuggled up at home. I loved the way the characters were written. It felt like every character had thought put into them and I can see how each character may continue to grow during the series.
I found the book a little predictable, which is not necessarily a bad thing but it did make the ending less exciting. Naomi is also a very good journalist but I felt like she always had her “a-ha!” moments right in the nick of time. I wish there were more times she either figured out the correct answer right away or took her a little longer to find the answer. I found it hard to believe that she always remembered exactly what she needed to remember at the perfect time.
I did love how each small mystery she solved connected to the larger mystery of Ursula Merchant. Watching those connections form was one of my favorite parts of the book. Although I guessed the ending about halfway through the book, it was enjoyable to see everything come together and show how and why everything happened the way it did.
I am looking forward to continuing the series!
Thank you Crooked Lane Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
April 22, 2026
Naomi Sinclair is a culinary journalist living her dream with her job at EAT TV hosting a show where she gets to interview chefs. When a potential new show investigating culinary related cold cases is presented to her, she immediately thinks of a famous case on her native St. Thomas. Four decades ago, the owner of a tea company on the island was killed while locked in her office. It’s the perfect case for her potential pilot. But will she be able to solve it?
The premise and setting appealed to me, so I decided to give this one a try. Sadly, the structure let it down. We get a series of short stories that tie in to the overall mystery only slightly. They feel like side quests. We also have a framing story of Naomi talking about all of this to executives of her TV network. When I realized how different the structure would be, I tried to give it a fair shot, but it truly didn’t work for me. On the other hand, I loved the characters and the setting, and the writing brought them both to life wonderfully. Also, keep in mind that there’s a bit of foul language for what I would have otherwise considered a cozy. If the next in the series has a more traditional structure, I would definitely read it.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
The premise and setting appealed to me, so I decided to give this one a try. Sadly, the structure let it down. We get a series of short stories that tie in to the overall mystery only slightly. They feel like side quests. We also have a framing story of Naomi talking about all of this to executives of her TV network. When I realized how different the structure would be, I tried to give it a fair shot, but it truly didn’t work for me. On the other hand, I loved the characters and the setting, and the writing brought them both to life wonderfully. Also, keep in mind that there’s a bit of foul language for what I would have otherwise considered a cozy. If the next in the series has a more traditional structure, I would definitely read it.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
May 10, 2026
This cozy mystery is deeply set in the culture of the US Virgin Islands. The celebrations, the people, the language, and especially the food, all of it is a major part of the novel. There is a liberal use of the local dialect, something I found fascinating. The plot style is dual time with Naomi explaining her research in a murder in current time with flashbacks to the earlier events. An interesting aspect of the novel is that Naomi solves some minor mysteries while she is investigating the murder. Solving a minor mystery kept the plot moving along even as Naomi did not seem to be making much progress on solving the murder. She does, however, solve the murder in the end and the means the murderer used was certainly unique.
I enjoyed the novel, mostly because of the setting. I liked the exploration of so many foods, and a couple of recipes are included. The descriptions of some of the peppers almost made my eyes water. I am not a tea drinker but tea is a major element so readers who like tea would also be interested in this book. The characters were developed relatively well. I was surprised one was a blind baker, but Bernier makes it work. This is a good cozy mystery in an interesting location.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Tours. My comments are an independent review.
I enjoyed the novel, mostly because of the setting. I liked the exploration of so many foods, and a couple of recipes are included. The descriptions of some of the peppers almost made my eyes water. I am not a tea drinker but tea is a major element so readers who like tea would also be interested in this book. The characters were developed relatively well. I was surprised one was a blind baker, but Bernier makes it work. This is a good cozy mystery in an interesting location.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Tours. My comments are an independent review.
May 11, 2026
What a fun and engaging foodie mystery! Full of family, food, community and a locked room mystery from the past. There are so many secrets from the past that weave together to tell the story and solve more than one mystery. This story is more than just a mystery, it is also about family and love and finding ways to create the life you want that includes them. Naomi relies on family and her close community of friends to help her gather information and solve the mysteries. I like the storytelling style of this book, with Naomi telling the story of what she discovered. It immersed me in the story and in Naomi’s life.
The characters are delightful and spending time with them also shares the culture and community of Naomi’s Saint Thomas. Naomi is a journalist turned food tv host and I like that she is thoughtful when reporting and before sharing the story she considers if telling the story will do more harm than good. The other characters, especially Mateo and West and his family, add depth, support, and more to the story.
I enjoyed this Caribbean Island Mystery and Naomi and hope that this is the start of a series with many, many chances to return to Saint Thomas with Naomi. I recommend this story to readers that enjoy cozy foodie mysteries full of secrets and family.
Thanks to Partners In Crime VBT for the free, gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The characters are delightful and spending time with them also shares the culture and community of Naomi’s Saint Thomas. Naomi is a journalist turned food tv host and I like that she is thoughtful when reporting and before sharing the story she considers if telling the story will do more harm than good. The other characters, especially Mateo and West and his family, add depth, support, and more to the story.
I enjoyed this Caribbean Island Mystery and Naomi and hope that this is the start of a series with many, many chances to return to Saint Thomas with Naomi. I recommend this story to readers that enjoy cozy foodie mysteries full of secrets and family.
Thanks to Partners In Crime VBT for the free, gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 26, 2025
✨ Book Review: The Bush Tea Murder by Ashley-Ruth Bernier ✨
The Bush Tea Murder is a deliciously cozy blend of Caribbean charm, small-town intrigue, and a mystery that simmers perfectly from start to finish. Ashley-Ruth Bernier creates a world so vivid you can practically smell the bush tea brewing and feel the island sunshine warming the pages.
The story’s strength lies not only in its clever mystery but in its heart. The characters are lovingly drawn—full of quirks, warmth, and personality—and their relationships give the novel a beautiful emotional depth. You don’t just follow the investigation; you become part of the community, sharing their laughter, worries, and secrets.
Bernier’s writing is lush and inviting, mixing gentle humor with moments of real tension. Every chapter feels like a cozy chat with a friend who has a really good story to tell. And when the twists arrive, they do so with just the right blend of surprise and satisfaction.
If you enjoy mysteries that feel comforting yet compelling, with a strong sense of place and a cast you’ll want to revisit, The Bush Tea Murder is an absolute treat. It’s the kind of book that leaves you smiling even after the last page is turned.
A charming, heartwarming mystery—perfect with a cup of tea. 🍵✨
The Bush Tea Murder is a deliciously cozy blend of Caribbean charm, small-town intrigue, and a mystery that simmers perfectly from start to finish. Ashley-Ruth Bernier creates a world so vivid you can practically smell the bush tea brewing and feel the island sunshine warming the pages.
The story’s strength lies not only in its clever mystery but in its heart. The characters are lovingly drawn—full of quirks, warmth, and personality—and their relationships give the novel a beautiful emotional depth. You don’t just follow the investigation; you become part of the community, sharing their laughter, worries, and secrets.
Bernier’s writing is lush and inviting, mixing gentle humor with moments of real tension. Every chapter feels like a cozy chat with a friend who has a really good story to tell. And when the twists arrive, they do so with just the right blend of surprise and satisfaction.
If you enjoy mysteries that feel comforting yet compelling, with a strong sense of place and a cast you’ll want to revisit, The Bush Tea Murder is an absolute treat. It’s the kind of book that leaves you smiling even after the last page is turned.
A charming, heartwarming mystery—perfect with a cup of tea. 🍵✨
April 24, 2026
The Bush Tea Murder by Ashley-Ruth M. Bernier is a cozy mystery that takes place in the US Virgin Islands, aka the Caribbean. Our FMC is Naomi Sinclair, who is a food journalist. Naomi returns to St. Thomas and finds lots of unsolved cases varying in severity. Including murder! I love the setting of St. Thomas and the US Virgin Islands, I have always wanted to visit though! The characters are well written as a reader you find yourself really liking Naomi and her parents. They are a great family with their drama of course, like we all have. The characters are authentically Caribbean, which means there is a lot of local speech and slang from where Naomi is from. I liked the chemistry that Naomi has with Mateo also that was a great addition to the mystery part of this read. Naomi loves where she comes from and also loves the states, so she is in a tug-o-war between the two locations, which makes perfect sense for someone who grew up somewhere else. She wants to shine a light on her home and the authentic food that comes from St. Thomas for her food journalism career. And throw in her aging parents and Naomi's concern for them and you have a pretty decent cozy mystery read! Along with the fact that the story is told in two different time frames:) You will want to check this one out!
May 8, 2026
It is one of my favorite things to get in on the ground floor of a new cozy mystery series. And what a unique and interesting start to a series we have here!
First, dear reader, give yourself time to start this well, as it takes a minute to settle in. I first started while waiting for a high school choir concert to start and that was a bad move. I need to get comfy and spend some time with the book, which I did the next day and then I was sailing along and turning pages quickly. Give yourself time to trust the narrative and see where it is going and you will not be disappointed. This would be a great summer read!
Solving multiple mysteries within a mystery made for a unique cozy mystery reading experience and created lots of suspense. In addition to a strong voice and wonderful storytelling, the setting adds a lot to the experience of the story. I felt as though I was there in the US Virgin Islands with Naomi. And let’s not forget the recipes included as well.
Looking forward to future adventures with Naomi!
First, dear reader, give yourself time to start this well, as it takes a minute to settle in. I first started while waiting for a high school choir concert to start and that was a bad move. I need to get comfy and spend some time with the book, which I did the next day and then I was sailing along and turning pages quickly. Give yourself time to trust the narrative and see where it is going and you will not be disappointed. This would be a great summer read!
Solving multiple mysteries within a mystery made for a unique cozy mystery reading experience and created lots of suspense. In addition to a strong voice and wonderful storytelling, the setting adds a lot to the experience of the story. I felt as though I was there in the US Virgin Islands with Naomi. And let’s not forget the recipes included as well.
Looking forward to future adventures with Naomi!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ashley‑Ruth Bernier’s The Bush Tea Murder launches the new Caribbean Island Mystery series with a vibrant blend of food, family, and island intrigue. The story follows Naomi Sinclair, a food journalist and host of EAT TV, whose show decides to branch into solving unsolved food‑related mysteries. This sends Naomi back to her native Saint Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where she dives into the cold case of Ursula Merchant’s long‑ago murde. While there she finds herself pulled into several other mysteries along the way. While reconnecting with family and old friends, Naomi navigates island life, local secrets, and a rich tapestry of food traditions that give the book its charm. The setting and characters are engaging, and the layered mysteries keep the story moving with a cozy, sun‑soaked energy.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest review.
May 20, 2026
Drawn in by Naomi Sinclair from the very first pages, The Bush Tea Murder quickly becomes more than a mystery… it feels like stepping into a close-knit island family where every secret matters. Ashley-Ruth M. Bernier crafts a vivid Saint Thomas backdrop, but it’s Naomi’s perspective as a returning journalist that truly drives the story, blending curiosity, heart, and a deep sense of belonging that lingers long after you finish.
The mystery unfolds in layered, satisfying ways, with Naomi’s reporting instincts pulling her down unexpected paths that steadily piece together a complex puzzle. Each new thread adds both realism and intrigue, making the investigation feel organic rather than convenient. Combined with engaging characters and a strong sense of place, The Bush Tea Murder is a cozy that delivers both warmth and depth… a story that invites you in and keeps you invested.
Originally Published:
https://www.hottbooks.com/review-the-...
The mystery unfolds in layered, satisfying ways, with Naomi’s reporting instincts pulling her down unexpected paths that steadily piece together a complex puzzle. Each new thread adds both realism and intrigue, making the investigation feel organic rather than convenient. Combined with engaging characters and a strong sense of place, The Bush Tea Murder is a cozy that delivers both warmth and depth… a story that invites you in and keeps you invested.
Originally Published:
https://www.hottbooks.com/review-the-...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I picked this up thinking it would be a basic cozy mystery, but it was so much more than that! It was in that sweet spot for me between your standard cozy mystery (which I do enjoy) and a more "hard-bitten" mystery (like a police procedural). The storytelling was fantastic, and Bernier utilized the shifts between the Present, where Naomi is telling the story, to the past sections where you get these mini-mysteries that all lead up to the grand reveal of the big mystery at the end.
I think the balance between Naomi's personal life with Mateo and her parents with her talking and interviewing her friends and islanders to figure out the mystery was perfect. Her characters really came alive on the pages. I'm not usually one to highlight sections or sentences, but the writing in some spots was too good not to. Bernier has a lot of talent, and I'm really hoping to see more books from her.
I think the balance between Naomi's personal life with Mateo and her parents with her talking and interviewing her friends and islanders to figure out the mystery was perfect. Her characters really came alive on the pages. I'm not usually one to highlight sections or sentences, but the writing in some spots was too good not to. Bernier has a lot of talent, and I'm really hoping to see more books from her.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Naomi, a native of the Virgin Islands currently based in North Carolina, hosts a popular food show. Her producer wants to introduce some "true crime" elements to a new program, so she's tasked with finding something to show her superiors. There's an unsolved murder in her hometown, so she flies back, but finds numerous complications and contradictions both with the case and with her job. There is a new romance with the handsome EMT and a host of friends and neighbors who bring a friendly vibe to this book. I hope this will be the start of a series--I would like to visit this island and its citizens again. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
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