What do you think?
Rate this book
Coffee Cup Mysteries #1
Brewing Up Murder
As the owner of Mystery Cup Café in Wilton, Missouri, a town made famous by a string of long-ago murders, Blake Harper is used to the mysterious. When her barista is found strangled in a mound of coffee beans, Blake vows to find the killer, even though her sister, the town’s lead police detective, tells her to stay out of it.
Blake finds plenty of suspects, like the owners of a rival coffee shop and the handsome new bookstore owner. But when new threats are made, she soon realizes the danger is centered around Mystery Cup and someone is targeting her personally.
Will Blake be able to solve the murder, find a new barista, and perfect her recipe for espresso brownies before she becomes the next victim?
Blake finds plenty of suspects, like the owners of a rival coffee shop and the handsome new bookstore owner. But when new threats are made, she soon realizes the danger is centered around Mystery Cup and someone is targeting her personally.
Will Blake be able to solve the murder, find a new barista, and perfect her recipe for espresso brownies before she becomes the next victim?
205 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 19, 2017
31 people are currently reading
694 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
February 27, 2018
When Blake’s barista is murdered in her coffee shop, she soon discovers no shortage of people who knew the victim and, as far as Blake is concerned, have a possible motive for wanting her out of the way. Although Blake’s sister, Kyle, is the detective in charge of the investigation, Blake can’t resist getting involved and embarking on her own enquiries which soon land her in hot water.
Thankfully, the town is generously populated with handsome single men (including a dishy doctor) to come to her rescue when she gets a little too close for comfort to finding out the perpetrator.
The small town setting of Wilton is reminiscent of Jessica Fletcher’s hometown in the TV series Murder, She Wrote. Because of a series of murders committed in Wilton in the past, many of the town’s business owners have chosen names to appeal to tourists. For example, The Final Destination (hotel), Sliced (restaurant), Killer Tomatoes (pizza place) and Macabre Reads (bookshop). I laughed out loud at the fact the town’s book club, which meets in Blake’s café, is called Murder, She Read.
Although not my usual genre, I really enjoyed Brewing Up Murder and would recommend it for readers who like their mysteries on the sweet side with a light dusting of romance...or for caffeine addicts. Warning: You may crave brownies after (or even during) reading this book but luckily Neila has provided some recipes at the end.
I received a review copy courtesy of the author and Red Adept Publishing in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Thankfully, the town is generously populated with handsome single men (including a dishy doctor) to come to her rescue when she gets a little too close for comfort to finding out the perpetrator.
The small town setting of Wilton is reminiscent of Jessica Fletcher’s hometown in the TV series Murder, She Wrote. Because of a series of murders committed in Wilton in the past, many of the town’s business owners have chosen names to appeal to tourists. For example, The Final Destination (hotel), Sliced (restaurant), Killer Tomatoes (pizza place) and Macabre Reads (bookshop). I laughed out loud at the fact the town’s book club, which meets in Blake’s café, is called Murder, She Read.
Although not my usual genre, I really enjoyed Brewing Up Murder and would recommend it for readers who like their mysteries on the sweet side with a light dusting of romance...or for caffeine addicts. Warning: You may crave brownies after (or even during) reading this book but luckily Neila has provided some recipes at the end.
I received a review copy courtesy of the author and Red Adept Publishing in return for an honest and unbiased review.
September 6, 2017
Review originally posted at https://natysbookshelf.wordpress.com/
Brewing up Murder is a perfect cozy mystery for reading in one sitting on a lazy day or during a long commute. I was travelling when I read this and didn’t even feel the hours pass! It’s the story of Blake, the owner of the Mystery Cup Café, a city known for a series of murders many years ago. One day, she finds her barista strangled in a mess of coffee beans inside her Café, and Blake starts receiving threats when she starts asking questions.
I loved the setting in Wilton, MO, a sleepy town famous for a series of murders whose perpetrator was never caught. The close-knit community was very interesting and full of personality, and I particularly liked the Book Club ladies. They were so much fun! I totally would have joined the club!
I was not a fan of the Harper sisters’ names, from time to time I had to remind myself they were actually women. As much as I find neutral names wonderful, outright giving a masculine name to a daughter sounds weird to me – personally I’d have hated it very much. It also helps normalize the masculinization of women to make them acceptable in the work place and be taken seriously. So I was not a fan of that.
Blake was not very easy to relate to, although having a coffee shop and working right next to a bookstore did sound like a dream. I thought her a bit too emotional and not giving too much thought to the consequences of her actions, neither too cautious with her own safety. Kyle, on the other hand, was a really nice character! She was tough but also empathetic. I thought it problematic, though, how much she shared with Blake the details of the case – shouldn’t Blake have been sort of a suspect, too?
The love triangle annoyed me a little, but oh well. I totally cheered for the cute doctor all along – Book Hottie was too grumpy for my taste.
The pacing of the book felt just right – although at some points I wanted to yell at Blake for wasting precious time, the story never really got slow or boring. It was fun and I wanted to eat the book up. I didn’t guess the murderer at all – that was quite a surprise, as I thought the clues were pretty clear.
Oh, and the recipes of the spiced mocha and the chocolate bean brownie were such a nice surprise! I need to try them!
I look forward to reading the sequence to this book and see what other mysteries will happen in the Mystery Cup Café!
Veredict: This is a really nice cozy mystery, it’s a quick and fun read, set in a sleepy town in Missouri. If you love coffee, you’ll probably like this book. It’s not a revolutionary book and a lot of it is quite predictable, also Blake was a little frustrating, but I still enjoyed it very much and look forward to the sequence.
Brewing up Murder is a perfect cozy mystery for reading in one sitting on a lazy day or during a long commute. I was travelling when I read this and didn’t even feel the hours pass! It’s the story of Blake, the owner of the Mystery Cup Café, a city known for a series of murders many years ago. One day, she finds her barista strangled in a mess of coffee beans inside her Café, and Blake starts receiving threats when she starts asking questions.
I loved the setting in Wilton, MO, a sleepy town famous for a series of murders whose perpetrator was never caught. The close-knit community was very interesting and full of personality, and I particularly liked the Book Club ladies. They were so much fun! I totally would have joined the club!
I was not a fan of the Harper sisters’ names, from time to time I had to remind myself they were actually women. As much as I find neutral names wonderful, outright giving a masculine name to a daughter sounds weird to me – personally I’d have hated it very much. It also helps normalize the masculinization of women to make them acceptable in the work place and be taken seriously. So I was not a fan of that.
Blake was not very easy to relate to, although having a coffee shop and working right next to a bookstore did sound like a dream. I thought her a bit too emotional and not giving too much thought to the consequences of her actions, neither too cautious with her own safety. Kyle, on the other hand, was a really nice character! She was tough but also empathetic. I thought it problematic, though, how much she shared with Blake the details of the case – shouldn’t Blake have been sort of a suspect, too?
The love triangle annoyed me a little, but oh well. I totally cheered for the cute doctor all along – Book Hottie was too grumpy for my taste.
The pacing of the book felt just right – although at some points I wanted to yell at Blake for wasting precious time, the story never really got slow or boring. It was fun and I wanted to eat the book up. I didn’t guess the murderer at all – that was quite a surprise, as I thought the clues were pretty clear.
Oh, and the recipes of the spiced mocha and the chocolate bean brownie were such a nice surprise! I need to try them!
I look forward to reading the sequence to this book and see what other mysteries will happen in the Mystery Cup Café!
Veredict: This is a really nice cozy mystery, it’s a quick and fun read, set in a sleepy town in Missouri. If you love coffee, you’ll probably like this book. It’s not a revolutionary book and a lot of it is quite predictable, also Blake was a little frustrating, but I still enjoyed it very much and look forward to the sequence.
August 12, 2017
Blake Harper is used to hearing talk about murder. After all, she lives in Wilton, MO which is a huge tourist attraction because of an unsolved, 50 year old murder. But when a killer strikes at her own Murder Cup Cafe, Blake takes it very personally and sets out to investigate, despite warnings from her sister, Kyle, who happens to be the lead detective on the case. Blake doesn't want to think that her new, extremely handsome business neighbor is involved, but some things are just not adding up!
I enjoyed this book so much that I read it in one sitting. Blake's sister, Kyle, was probably one of my favorite characters. She was a hoot and I loved how she could transition from pesky little sister to all-professional, tough detective, then back to loving, sympathetic sister.
Not too many cozies that I've read offer two possible love interests for the protagonist, and while a triangle is not really my favorite thing, it was still interesting and I will want to find out in future books how this is working out for Blake. I like how close the community is and that they do stick together. The businesses (aside from Sabrina's, that is) have each other's backs. The mystery itself kept me guessing and I didn't suspect who the killer was until the reveal.
This was a very nicely written mystery that I hope gets a lot more in the series!
I volunteered to read an ARC of this. I would like to thank NetGalley and Red Adept for letting me read and review.
I enjoyed this book so much that I read it in one sitting. Blake's sister, Kyle, was probably one of my favorite characters. She was a hoot and I loved how she could transition from pesky little sister to all-professional, tough detective, then back to loving, sympathetic sister.
Not too many cozies that I've read offer two possible love interests for the protagonist, and while a triangle is not really my favorite thing, it was still interesting and I will want to find out in future books how this is working out for Blake. I like how close the community is and that they do stick together. The businesses (aside from Sabrina's, that is) have each other's backs. The mystery itself kept me guessing and I didn't suspect who the killer was until the reveal.
This was a very nicely written mystery that I hope gets a lot more in the series!
I volunteered to read an ARC of this. I would like to thank NetGalley and Red Adept for letting me read and review.
August 4, 2017
Travel to a unique tourist destination in Missouri that attracts people desiring the macabre! Blake Harper owns Mystery Cup Cafe where her focus is on making her patrons a great cup of coffee. She and her siblings are a close-knit family. When a new shop owner begins moving in next door to re-open Macabre Reads, Blake isn't sure what to think about the gorgeous, mysterious man, Sean Larson. Then, the shocking murder of a young female employee in the cafe's kitchen brings fear that a serial killer could have returned to the most haunted city in America.
Author Neila Young pours up a tightly plotted and swiftly flowing cozy mystery with a strong cast of characters. She kept me on my toes trying to figure out which characters were good and which ones were bad. The killer reveal was a shock to me. I loved Ninja, Blake's protective black cat, also. I thoroughly enjoyed this cozy and look forward to reading book two.
I voluntarily read an advanced Readers copy.
Author Neila Young pours up a tightly plotted and swiftly flowing cozy mystery with a strong cast of characters. She kept me on my toes trying to figure out which characters were good and which ones were bad. The killer reveal was a shock to me. I loved Ninja, Blake's protective black cat, also. I thoroughly enjoyed this cozy and look forward to reading book two.
I voluntarily read an advanced Readers copy.
October 13, 2024
This would have been a 4 star read for me but the following things happened:
1. There is an [annoying] love triangle. VERY annoying.
2. There was, at the end of the book, an excessive [in MY opinion] use of curse words that grated on my last nerve.
3. Multiple [like every time Blake saw either Adam or Sean] references to how the man's jeans looked on his thighs. Yes, you read that right. Trust me, when I am looking at a cute guy, I am NOT thinking about how good his thighs look in his jeans. . And there are MULTIPLE references to this. Enough that it gave my eyes an excellent workout while reading this.
4. The mean girl is annoying and not totally believable. But that just may be me.
5. I get that the detective is Blake's sister, but the whole police force seemed rather inept. I don't know - there was something about them that rubbed me the wrong way.
What I DID like about this book is the coffee. ALL. THE. COFFEE. ;-) And truly, for the most part, this is a great little cozy story. I like the characters, I liked the mystery and I had NO FREAKING IDEA who the killer was and it totally shocked the pants off of me when it was revealed.
I will read the second one because there was enough that I liked to continue on. But the love triangle HAS. TO. GO. Seriously.
1. There is an [annoying] love triangle. VERY annoying.
2. There was, at the end of the book, an excessive [in MY opinion] use of curse words that grated on my last nerve.
3. Multiple [like every time Blake saw either Adam or Sean] references to how the man's jeans looked on his thighs. Yes, you read that right. Trust me, when I am looking at a cute guy, I am NOT thinking about how good his thighs look in his jeans. . And there are MULTIPLE references to this. Enough that it gave my eyes an excellent workout while reading this.
4. The mean girl is annoying and not totally believable. But that just may be me.
5. I get that the detective is Blake's sister, but the whole police force seemed rather inept. I don't know - there was something about them that rubbed me the wrong way.
What I DID like about this book is the coffee. ALL. THE. COFFEE. ;-) And truly, for the most part, this is a great little cozy story. I like the characters, I liked the mystery and I had NO FREAKING IDEA who the killer was and it totally shocked the pants off of me when it was revealed.
I will read the second one because there was enough that I liked to continue on. But the love triangle HAS. TO. GO. Seriously.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2018
4.5
*Book source ~ ARC. My review is voluntary and honest.
Blake Harper owns Mystery Cup, a coffee joint and tasty bakery in a little town in Missouri made famous by some murders committed eons ago. People come from far and wide to take in the murder-y atmosphere. However, when Blake’s crappy barista gets whacked in her café’s kitchen Blake is not only justifiably upset, she’s determined to figure out who did it and why. It doesn’t matter that the investigation is headed by her own sister and she’s been told to back off more than once, Blake just cannot leave things alone. And we all know that never leads to good things, right?
What an excellent cozy mystery! I will say that Blake gets on my nerves just a tiny bit, with her snooping and such, but I actually do like her gumption and her humor. The mystery of “who” kept me guessing all the way to the end and I have to say I did not see that coming. I did, however, figure out the connection before Blake did, so I will pat myself on the back for that. Now that the murder is solved we need to get down to the nitty gritty here. How is Blake going to choose between the two men who have shown up in town, wanting to date her? Of course, I’m not asking her to rush to a decision and hope to see both men in future books. They each have their strengths, so I hope she dates them for awhile before she makes a decision. I know which Team I’m on, but I’m not sayin’. Yet. So there.
*Book source ~ ARC. My review is voluntary and honest.
Blake Harper owns Mystery Cup, a coffee joint and tasty bakery in a little town in Missouri made famous by some murders committed eons ago. People come from far and wide to take in the murder-y atmosphere. However, when Blake’s crappy barista gets whacked in her café’s kitchen Blake is not only justifiably upset, she’s determined to figure out who did it and why. It doesn’t matter that the investigation is headed by her own sister and she’s been told to back off more than once, Blake just cannot leave things alone. And we all know that never leads to good things, right?
What an excellent cozy mystery! I will say that Blake gets on my nerves just a tiny bit, with her snooping and such, but I actually do like her gumption and her humor. The mystery of “who” kept me guessing all the way to the end and I have to say I did not see that coming. I did, however, figure out the connection before Blake did, so I will pat myself on the back for that. Now that the murder is solved we need to get down to the nitty gritty here. How is Blake going to choose between the two men who have shown up in town, wanting to date her? Of course, I’m not asking her to rush to a decision and hope to see both men in future books. They each have their strengths, so I hope she dates them for awhile before she makes a decision. I know which Team I’m on, but I’m not sayin’. Yet. So there.
August 21, 2017
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book! A coffee shop, a murder, and two gorgeous men, what more can you ask for. I found this book to be a quick read, with a well developed plot and characters. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. If you love cozy mysteries, I strongly recommend this book.
I loved this book! A coffee shop, a murder, and two gorgeous men, what more can you ask for. I found this book to be a quick read, with a well developed plot and characters. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. If you love cozy mysteries, I strongly recommend this book.
September 9, 2017
One of the best cozy mysteries that I have read in a while! The actual murder mystery kept me guessing until the end. And the blossoming romance(s) satisfy my intrigue and leave me wanting a second installment. It has a great cast of characters. I am looking forward to seeing them in future books. Recipes at the end of books always make me happy...this one has two.
July 23, 2017
Brewing Up Murder is the debut novel in Neila Young’s Coffee Cup Mysteries series. The witty writing style flows smoothly at a quick pace and the book is an easy read. The mystery is well plotted and the characters are well developed, quirky, and affable. There is no shortage of suspects and the twists and turns to make it difficult to figure out who the killer is. Ms. Young has combined humor, suspense, tension, and a touch of romance and blended them perfectly. Other than some very mild adult language, this is a clean cozy mystery featuring no gratuitous sex or violence. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series and highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy reading well-crafted cozy mysteries.
Blake Harper is the owner of Mystery Cup Café in Wilton, Missouri. Wilton is famous for the unsolved murders of twelve women by strangulation that occurred nearly fifty years ago and tourists still flock to the small town. Blake is close to her siblings and extended family, which consists of her younger sister, Kyle, who is a Wilton police detective and her boyfriend, Jason, who is her senior partner; her older brother, Ryan, who is a doctor and married to Rachel, and has five-year-old twins. Ryan and Rachel keep trying to set Blake up with blind dates and their current focus is on the new doctor, Adam Bryant, and the new owner of Macabre Reads, Sean Larson. There are several competing cafés in Wilton – Micah and Molly Brand, who are brother and sister, own Sliced Restaurant & Bakery and Sabrina Lang, who has been Blake’s arch nemesis since the first grade owns Café Muerte. Late one evening, Blake goes to the café to check on Nikki, her recently hired barista, who had volunteered to do the monthly inventory and discovers the kitchen in disarray and Nikki’s body on the floor, half buried in coffee beans. Everyone tries to discourage Blake from getting involved in the investigation, but she loves solving puzzles and can’t refrain from asking questions and snooping around, which places her in harm’s way.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
Blake Harper is the owner of Mystery Cup Café in Wilton, Missouri. Wilton is famous for the unsolved murders of twelve women by strangulation that occurred nearly fifty years ago and tourists still flock to the small town. Blake is close to her siblings and extended family, which consists of her younger sister, Kyle, who is a Wilton police detective and her boyfriend, Jason, who is her senior partner; her older brother, Ryan, who is a doctor and married to Rachel, and has five-year-old twins. Ryan and Rachel keep trying to set Blake up with blind dates and their current focus is on the new doctor, Adam Bryant, and the new owner of Macabre Reads, Sean Larson. There are several competing cafés in Wilton – Micah and Molly Brand, who are brother and sister, own Sliced Restaurant & Bakery and Sabrina Lang, who has been Blake’s arch nemesis since the first grade owns Café Muerte. Late one evening, Blake goes to the café to check on Nikki, her recently hired barista, who had volunteered to do the monthly inventory and discovers the kitchen in disarray and Nikki’s body on the floor, half buried in coffee beans. Everyone tries to discourage Blake from getting involved in the investigation, but she loves solving puzzles and can’t refrain from asking questions and snooping around, which places her in harm’s way.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
August 21, 2017
This book was pure fun! Neila Young is a new author to me and I didn’t quite know what to expect going in, but the book was a wonderful surprise. It combined some of my favorite things: coffee, cozy mysteries, and a great story.
Brewing Up Murder is the first book in the Coffee Cup Mystery Series. It follows barista Blake Harper through her life as a 30-something single coffee shop owner. When one of Blake’s employees is found murdered in the her coffee shop, Blake can’t just sit around and wait for the killer to strike again. She has to take action.
Here are my favorite reasons to read this book.
Family Love
Blake is part of a close knit group of siblings who are loyal, fierce, and fun. The siblings provide a strong family unit for each other and are enjoyable to get to know. Blake’s sister is also the police detective in the book. I thought that was an interesting touch – I don’t know if I’ve ever come across that dynamic in a cozy before.
Two Likable Love Interests
Many times when the protagonist is involved in a love triangle, I have one “horse in the race” that I am really rooting for. Blake has two eligible suitors in this book and I found myself liking them both! I kind of hope that Blake doesn’t pick a suitor for awhile. I feel both men are enjoyable to read about and add to the dynamic of the story.
I Had No Clue Who the Killer Was
Like, none. At all. Sometimes it bothers me when I feel the killer comes out of left field, but the author has a solid back story as to the motive for the crimes and after I read it, I found I enjoyed the twist. I also love that it set up a lot of different directions different characters can go in future books.
If you are a fan of coffee and cozies, pick up a copy of this book.
It is a quick and entertaining read and I know I have found a new author to follow for sure. I can’t wait to see what Blake and the rest of the gang are up to in future books!
Review originally published at:
https://cozyexperience.com/reasons-re...
Brewing Up Murder is the first book in the Coffee Cup Mystery Series. It follows barista Blake Harper through her life as a 30-something single coffee shop owner. When one of Blake’s employees is found murdered in the her coffee shop, Blake can’t just sit around and wait for the killer to strike again. She has to take action.
Here are my favorite reasons to read this book.
Family Love
Blake is part of a close knit group of siblings who are loyal, fierce, and fun. The siblings provide a strong family unit for each other and are enjoyable to get to know. Blake’s sister is also the police detective in the book. I thought that was an interesting touch – I don’t know if I’ve ever come across that dynamic in a cozy before.
Two Likable Love Interests
Many times when the protagonist is involved in a love triangle, I have one “horse in the race” that I am really rooting for. Blake has two eligible suitors in this book and I found myself liking them both! I kind of hope that Blake doesn’t pick a suitor for awhile. I feel both men are enjoyable to read about and add to the dynamic of the story.
I Had No Clue Who the Killer Was
Like, none. At all. Sometimes it bothers me when I feel the killer comes out of left field, but the author has a solid back story as to the motive for the crimes and after I read it, I found I enjoyed the twist. I also love that it set up a lot of different directions different characters can go in future books.
If you are a fan of coffee and cozies, pick up a copy of this book.
It is a quick and entertaining read and I know I have found a new author to follow for sure. I can’t wait to see what Blake and the rest of the gang are up to in future books!
Review originally published at:
https://cozyexperience.com/reasons-re...
October 1, 2017
Title: Brewing Up Murder - Coffee Cup Mysteries Book 1
Author: Neila Young
Publisher: Red Adept Publishing LLC
Published: 7-19-2017
Pages: 207
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
Sub-Genre: Fiction, Suspense, Amateur Sleuths, Cozy Mystery
ISBN: 97819402155990
ASIN: B073FR9RZW
Reviewed For NetGalley and Red Adept Publishing
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
A quick easy read with funny likable characters can not begin to tell how much fun Brewing Up Coffee is to read. As I was reading I found myself looking for a cup or the dark rich brew and I do not even like coffee.
The plot was well thought out and keeps you smiling, there are few moments of hold your breath suspense but over all it fits the cozy genre by staying light, clean and not to much of the darker side of mysteries.
My rating of "Brewing Up Murder - Coffee Cup Mysteries Book 1" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073FR9RZW/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/brew...
Books-A-Million Link: Not Available
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/brew...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Neila Young
Publisher: Red Adept Publishing LLC
Published: 7-19-2017
Pages: 207
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
Sub-Genre: Fiction, Suspense, Amateur Sleuths, Cozy Mystery
ISBN: 97819402155990
ASIN: B073FR9RZW
Reviewed For NetGalley and Red Adept Publishing
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
A quick easy read with funny likable characters can not begin to tell how much fun Brewing Up Coffee is to read. As I was reading I found myself looking for a cup or the dark rich brew and I do not even like coffee.
The plot was well thought out and keeps you smiling, there are few moments of hold your breath suspense but over all it fits the cozy genre by staying light, clean and not to much of the darker side of mysteries.
My rating of "Brewing Up Murder - Coffee Cup Mysteries Book 1" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073FR9RZW/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/brew...
Books-A-Million Link: Not Available
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/brew...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
September 8, 2017
Exciting read in the new Neila Young the Coffee
Cup Mysteries.
Blake Harper owns and runs the Mystery Cup
Café in Wilton, Missouri. The town is use to the
mysterious happenings as years back a string of
unsolved murder occurred in the area.
Blake is single and live with her cat, Ninja. Her
family and friends lives in the town and the reader
will meet and interact with them throughout the story.
They add a lot of the ingredients that make up
a new mystery.......who killed Blake's barista??
The barista, Nikki was strangled in the Mystery
Cup Cafe found in a mound of coffee beans where
she stayed to receive a delivery and do inventory.
Who killed her? Was Nikki the intended victim or
was it supposed to be Blake? What was the motive?
Is the mysterious murder back in action?
Brewing Up Murder is fast paced mystery, intriguing
with plenty of action, twist and turns to keep the
reader turning the pages faster and faster.
The tension was thick with plenty of suspense great
chills, thrills with unexpected twists.
The characters are well developed, very realistic and
very interesting. They are believablely involved in a
puzzling plot that keeps you glued to the book from
start to finish.
You will want to visit this small realistic town with all
the quirkiness a small town offers.
Adding to the brew is a touch of humor and romance.
Looking forward to reading the next in the new series.
Kudos to the author for an entertaining and
enjoyable read!!!!!
I volunteered to read the book. Thanks to the author
and publisher via The Cozy Mystery Review Crew for
the opportunity. My opinion is my own.
Cup Mysteries.
Blake Harper owns and runs the Mystery Cup
Café in Wilton, Missouri. The town is use to the
mysterious happenings as years back a string of
unsolved murder occurred in the area.
Blake is single and live with her cat, Ninja. Her
family and friends lives in the town and the reader
will meet and interact with them throughout the story.
They add a lot of the ingredients that make up
a new mystery.......who killed Blake's barista??
The barista, Nikki was strangled in the Mystery
Cup Cafe found in a mound of coffee beans where
she stayed to receive a delivery and do inventory.
Who killed her? Was Nikki the intended victim or
was it supposed to be Blake? What was the motive?
Is the mysterious murder back in action?
Brewing Up Murder is fast paced mystery, intriguing
with plenty of action, twist and turns to keep the
reader turning the pages faster and faster.
The tension was thick with plenty of suspense great
chills, thrills with unexpected twists.
The characters are well developed, very realistic and
very interesting. They are believablely involved in a
puzzling plot that keeps you glued to the book from
start to finish.
You will want to visit this small realistic town with all
the quirkiness a small town offers.
Adding to the brew is a touch of humor and romance.
Looking forward to reading the next in the new series.
Kudos to the author for an entertaining and
enjoyable read!!!!!
I volunteered to read the book. Thanks to the author
and publisher via The Cozy Mystery Review Crew for
the opportunity. My opinion is my own.
August 17, 2017
Blake Harper loves her coffee shop in Wilton, MO, a sleepy little town whose only claim to fame was a serial killer several generations ago. And Blake loves her family: sister Kyle and brother Ryan, along with sister-in-law Rachel. If only her brother and sister-in-law would quit trying to set her up with blind dates. Especially once she meets her new neighbor, bookstore owner Sean.
Then one of Blake's employees is murdered in the coffee shop, after hours. Blake feels like she owes it to the girl to figure out who killed her, in spite of sister Kyle (a local cop) telling Blake to stay out of it. Of course, she can't, and she gets herself in trouble several times. And she can't decide whether Sean is a suspect or a great (and hot) guy. And the new doctor in town (the very guy her brother and sister-in-law were trying to set her up with) is very interested - and interesting.
Neil's Young has built a great community, with the requisite unique characters and rivals. Both the story and the characters are interesting and entertaining. I see lots of possibilities for future stories as we get to know the characters better and the relationships become more clearly defined.
This voluntary review is based on an ARC received from the author.
Then one of Blake's employees is murdered in the coffee shop, after hours. Blake feels like she owes it to the girl to figure out who killed her, in spite of sister Kyle (a local cop) telling Blake to stay out of it. Of course, she can't, and she gets herself in trouble several times. And she can't decide whether Sean is a suspect or a great (and hot) guy. And the new doctor in town (the very guy her brother and sister-in-law were trying to set her up with) is very interested - and interesting.
Neil's Young has built a great community, with the requisite unique characters and rivals. Both the story and the characters are interesting and entertaining. I see lots of possibilities for future stories as we get to know the characters better and the relationships become more clearly defined.
This voluntary review is based on an ARC received from the author.
September 7, 2017
Wilton, Missouri is famous for a series of murders committed fifty years ago by the Wilton Strangler. Blake Harper, owner of the Mystery Cup Cafe, keeps mystery alive in her cafe by placing a mystery ingredient in a large display cup, using that ingredient to make a new signature pastry for the next month. It keeps her regular clientele guessing the ingredient, most recently, chocolate-covered espresso beans for her brownies. But Blake never expecting to be involved in a mystery of her own, found her barista murdered in the storeroom. With her sister Kyle part of the police force investigating this murder, Blake should know better than to investigate on her own, but she can't help asking questions...questions that could make her the next victim. This is the first book in a new series and gets off to a good start. The characters are interesting and have developed good relationships with each other. There is a hint of romance for Blake, with not one, but two leading men. And there are clues galore as to the identity of the murderer, but the final solution was still a surprise. And there is a recipe at the end for the famous espresso brownies! Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing a copy of this book.
September 9, 2017
Brewing Up Murder is a great start to a new series and I can't wait to read more. It is the very definition of a cozy mystery. The town, the people, and of course the murder expertly woven into a mystery that you can snuggle down into like a fleecy blanket on a chilly night.
There are enough reviews that tell you all about Blake, her Mystery Cup Cafe, and all of Wilton Missouri but they can't begin to explain the pure joy of this book. Neila Young does a great job making real three dimensional characters and putting them in the right setting. I really enjoyed this book.
I won a paperback copy in a contest, when it arrived it was too beautiful to take to swim practice and trips to the park so I ended up purchasing a kindle copy that I could read without damage. It was a perfect read to escape into, and at the end there is a recipe for a spicy crockpot mocha and espresso brownies. They both look great, but I can't wait for the weather to cool down enough to make the brownies.
This is a great book you should buy a copy.
There are enough reviews that tell you all about Blake, her Mystery Cup Cafe, and all of Wilton Missouri but they can't begin to explain the pure joy of this book. Neila Young does a great job making real three dimensional characters and putting them in the right setting. I really enjoyed this book.
I won a paperback copy in a contest, when it arrived it was too beautiful to take to swim practice and trips to the park so I ended up purchasing a kindle copy that I could read without damage. It was a perfect read to escape into, and at the end there is a recipe for a spicy crockpot mocha and espresso brownies. They both look great, but I can't wait for the weather to cool down enough to make the brownies.
This is a great book you should buy a copy.
August 31, 2017
I very rarely give out 5 star ratings and the book must be pretty exceptional for that. I usually would only give a cozy mystery a 4 star as the highest rating, but felt that this book deserved more. It was very well developed with great characters that are excellently fleshed out. The plot was interesting with good twists that made for a plausible conclusion that was done excellently. It's one of the few times that I didn't see the killer's identity from the very beginning. It also was a very interesting story to me because of the setting. One it is set around a coffeehouse, which is near and dear to my existence, but also because it is set in the Midwest around towns that I have been to or lived in. I can't wait to read what the author comes up with next in this series!
September 21, 2022
Sometimes I like to take a break from darker crime books and read some cosy crime. I don’t know why we call them that. Someone’s getting killed no matter what. This is a really great start to the series. I loved all the characters. I really liked the potential (I’m guessing in the rest of the series) of going from no romance to having 2 people fighting over main character Blake. Following from that I also liked that Blake and her sister both have masculine names so that in jobhunting & life no-one automatically dismissed them for being female. I have my own favourite of the two potential romantic figures. Yes, hunky doctors are nice but who can resist a tattooed book nerd.
The story though! It’s standard small town American cosy crime and I’ve read a few of this style and I was really intrigued by the idea of a town basing it’s entire business and tourism off of an old serial killer (it’s like someone picked all the interests from my brain and wrote a book about it 😊 ) If only I actually liked coffee (I’m British, it’s tea every time). Who killed the young barista and why? I wasn’t expecting the twists and reveal, always a plus point. Overall loved this book and will definitely pick up the rest of the series.
The story though! It’s standard small town American cosy crime and I’ve read a few of this style and I was really intrigued by the idea of a town basing it’s entire business and tourism off of an old serial killer (it’s like someone picked all the interests from my brain and wrote a book about it 😊 ) If only I actually liked coffee (I’m British, it’s tea every time). Who killed the young barista and why? I wasn’t expecting the twists and reveal, always a plus point. Overall loved this book and will definitely pick up the rest of the series.
November 26, 2018
4 stelle e mezza
Ho comprato questo libro appena uscito, ma poi mi sono dimenticata di averlo... Devo dire che si è rivelato una piacevole lettura e per una volta non avevo proprio capito chi fosse il colpevole, puntando sulla persona sbagliata. Ho solo una lamentela da fare: il triangolo amoroso no, per favore! Spero che si risolva col prossimo libro è che l'autrice non lo tiri per le lunghe perché proprio non lo sopporto...
Ho comprato questo libro appena uscito, ma poi mi sono dimenticata di averlo... Devo dire che si è rivelato una piacevole lettura e per una volta non avevo proprio capito chi fosse il colpevole, puntando sulla persona sbagliata. Ho solo una lamentela da fare: il triangolo amoroso no, per favore! Spero che si risolva col prossimo libro è che l'autrice non lo tiri per le lunghe perché proprio non lo sopporto...
September 1, 2017
Brewing Up Murder is the debut in a new series by Neila Young. Titled the Mystery Cup Cafe series, it takes place in Wilton, Missouri and features Blake Harper, the owner of the aforementioned Mystery Cup Cafe. She is drawn into a murder when her barista, who had volunteered to stay after hours and complete inventory, is found strangled and face down in a pile of coffee beans.
This mystery steadily grew on me as I read it. Blake is extremely appealing, good natured, a little goofy and out of her depth when investigating a murder....but extremely capable when it comes to whipping up coffee drinks and pastries for her cafe. Neila Young has created a great cast of supporting characters, including Blake's brother, sister, and the brooding-but-oh-so-sexy owner of the bookstore next door to the cafe. She's also created a couple of interesting twists on cozy mystery conventions. Blake is constantly being reminded by the town police to stay out of the murder investigation, but unlike in other cozies, the town police is not a current or potential love interest, but Blake's little sister, Kyle. This creates a dynamic between the two sisters that was explored in this book. I hope it will continue to be explored in future books. Also, the small town of Wilton has an unusual quirk: it is known for a series of killings by the Wilton Strangler that took place there about 50 years ago. Not only are the murders the main tourist attraction, but the businesses along Main Street are named with murder themes: Macabre Reads (the bookstore), Cafe Muerte (a rival cafe), Sliced (the restaurant). There is only a brief description of the murders, so I hope they get more attention in a future book.
The mystery itself is well plotted, and there are enough suspects to keep the reader guessing. I didn't guess who the killer was and it came as a surprise. The author also does a very good job of balancing introduction of characters and description of settings with the murder investigation. I felt like I could really visualize the town and the people, and I did enjoy spending time there.
A very promising start to what I hope will be a long series. Oh, and there's one other thing. Blake has a "mystery ingredient" every month at her cafe that gets featured in the pastries she bakes for the cafe. The ingredient for this first book is Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans, and yes, there is a recipe for Espresso Bean Brownies at the end of the book. I can only hope that this tradition continues throughout the series.
This mystery steadily grew on me as I read it. Blake is extremely appealing, good natured, a little goofy and out of her depth when investigating a murder....but extremely capable when it comes to whipping up coffee drinks and pastries for her cafe. Neila Young has created a great cast of supporting characters, including Blake's brother, sister, and the brooding-but-oh-so-sexy owner of the bookstore next door to the cafe. She's also created a couple of interesting twists on cozy mystery conventions. Blake is constantly being reminded by the town police to stay out of the murder investigation, but unlike in other cozies, the town police is not a current or potential love interest, but Blake's little sister, Kyle. This creates a dynamic between the two sisters that was explored in this book. I hope it will continue to be explored in future books. Also, the small town of Wilton has an unusual quirk: it is known for a series of killings by the Wilton Strangler that took place there about 50 years ago. Not only are the murders the main tourist attraction, but the businesses along Main Street are named with murder themes: Macabre Reads (the bookstore), Cafe Muerte (a rival cafe), Sliced (the restaurant). There is only a brief description of the murders, so I hope they get more attention in a future book.
The mystery itself is well plotted, and there are enough suspects to keep the reader guessing. I didn't guess who the killer was and it came as a surprise. The author also does a very good job of balancing introduction of characters and description of settings with the murder investigation. I felt like I could really visualize the town and the people, and I did enjoy spending time there.
A very promising start to what I hope will be a long series. Oh, and there's one other thing. Blake has a "mystery ingredient" every month at her cafe that gets featured in the pastries she bakes for the cafe. The ingredient for this first book is Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans, and yes, there is a recipe for Espresso Bean Brownies at the end of the book. I can only hope that this tradition continues throughout the series.
October 16, 2017
Being a fan of hot coffee and cold-blooded murder mysteries, it was no wonder that I felt drawn to Brewing Up Murder by Neila Young. Which coffee fan can say no to a novel that has a blood-stained espresso machine on its cover? However, the novel had more to offer than mere coffee kicks. Brewing Up Murder tells the story of Blake Harper who runs Mystery Cup Cafe at Wilton, Missouri, a town made famous due to a series of murders that happened there long ago leaving the residents obsessed with anything macabre and morbid. Soon, tragedy strikes home for Blake when her barista is found murdered in her shop. Blake takes it upon herself to find the murderer, unheeding the warning of her sister Kyle who is the town police detective, and her loved ones. Blake feels threatened with the murderer on the loose and people connected to her start getting hurt. Will Blake be able to solve the murders and return to her normal life? Read to find out more…
Narrated from the point of view of Blake Harper, Brewing Up Murder is a light read that stresses on mystery as much as on mouthwatering coffee and brownies. The entire book oozes a small town charm which Neila Young manages to capture through the portrayal of Wilton. The setting of Wilton with the town’s people who know everything about each other and a book club that focuses more on town gossip rather than on books adds to the authenticity of the portrayal. The character of Blake is well depicted with equal stress placed on her strengths and insecurities. As the book progresses, more and more of Blake is revealed through her relationship with her siblings as well as her response to the various events unfolding in the town. Blake is portrayed as emotional and slightly reckless in contrast to Kyle who is strong and commanding but still empathetic. However, this cannot be said about other characters. Blake’s love interest Sean, who seems deeply entangled with the mystery, is stereotyped to a “big muscular hunk with a steamy body and brooding eyes”. The same applies to Adam, another potential love interest of Blake. All these characters are one dimensional and fall completely flat with half their time spent brooding and the other half flashing a sexy smile. I did not enjoy the romantic part as how Sean kept miraculously appearing wherever Blake went felt a bit too contrived and scary.
Read more at : https://bookescapadeblog.wordpress.co...
Narrated from the point of view of Blake Harper, Brewing Up Murder is a light read that stresses on mystery as much as on mouthwatering coffee and brownies. The entire book oozes a small town charm which Neila Young manages to capture through the portrayal of Wilton. The setting of Wilton with the town’s people who know everything about each other and a book club that focuses more on town gossip rather than on books adds to the authenticity of the portrayal. The character of Blake is well depicted with equal stress placed on her strengths and insecurities. As the book progresses, more and more of Blake is revealed through her relationship with her siblings as well as her response to the various events unfolding in the town. Blake is portrayed as emotional and slightly reckless in contrast to Kyle who is strong and commanding but still empathetic. However, this cannot be said about other characters. Blake’s love interest Sean, who seems deeply entangled with the mystery, is stereotyped to a “big muscular hunk with a steamy body and brooding eyes”. The same applies to Adam, another potential love interest of Blake. All these characters are one dimensional and fall completely flat with half their time spent brooding and the other half flashing a sexy smile. I did not enjoy the romantic part as how Sean kept miraculously appearing wherever Blake went felt a bit too contrived and scary.
Read more at : https://bookescapadeblog.wordpress.co...
August 31, 2017
Blake Harper owns Mystery Cup in Wilton, Missouri and is seriously deciding to replace one of her baristas, a girl named Nikki. She hired Nikki as a favor to a friend of her mother's, but Nikki doesn't even show up on time or do her job well. When Nikki does realize she might be fired, she begs Blake for another chance and promises she'll improve. She even offers to do inventory that night so Blake can relax at home.
Blake gives her the chance, but it doesn't turn out the way she hoped. Seeing a light in her shop long after Nikki should be gone, she enters and finds the girl dead in a pile of coffee beans. Shaken, she calls her sister Kyle - a police detective - and so begins the hunt for a killer; and the reason why Mystery Cup was vandalized and Nikki killed.
Not willing to leave the sleuthing to her sister, she decides to do a little investigating on her own. But then something else occurs to up the ante and Blake realizes that Nikki might not have been the target after all and wonders if she might have been the one the murderer was after in the first place. But can her investigating discover a killer or will the killer discover that she's trying to find them and put her permanently out of business...
I felt that the mystery itself was done well. There were plenty of suspects and enough red herrings to keep mystery lovers interested. The clues seemed to point in several different directions, and that was nice in that it keeps one guessing as to who the true murderer might be. However, I do feel that the town and its inhabitants could have been fleshed out more. I felt that if less attention had been paid to conversations about 'hot guys' and trying to find Blake a love interest, then we would have learned more about the town and its inhabitants. We weren't really given any reason why it would be a big tourist attraction; surely murders that occurred nearly fifty years ago wouldn't bring them by the carloads into town unless they were ghost hunters.
Aside from this, the book was very good and the mystery enjoyable, and I liked the main characters. When the murderer was discovered it came as a surprise, and makes us realize that desperation can drive people to do things which we never thought possible. Recommended, and I look forward to the next in the series.
Blake gives her the chance, but it doesn't turn out the way she hoped. Seeing a light in her shop long after Nikki should be gone, she enters and finds the girl dead in a pile of coffee beans. Shaken, she calls her sister Kyle - a police detective - and so begins the hunt for a killer; and the reason why Mystery Cup was vandalized and Nikki killed.
Not willing to leave the sleuthing to her sister, she decides to do a little investigating on her own. But then something else occurs to up the ante and Blake realizes that Nikki might not have been the target after all and wonders if she might have been the one the murderer was after in the first place. But can her investigating discover a killer or will the killer discover that she's trying to find them and put her permanently out of business...
I felt that the mystery itself was done well. There were plenty of suspects and enough red herrings to keep mystery lovers interested. The clues seemed to point in several different directions, and that was nice in that it keeps one guessing as to who the true murderer might be. However, I do feel that the town and its inhabitants could have been fleshed out more. I felt that if less attention had been paid to conversations about 'hot guys' and trying to find Blake a love interest, then we would have learned more about the town and its inhabitants. We weren't really given any reason why it would be a big tourist attraction; surely murders that occurred nearly fifty years ago wouldn't bring them by the carloads into town unless they were ghost hunters.
Aside from this, the book was very good and the mystery enjoyable, and I liked the main characters. When the murderer was discovered it came as a surprise, and makes us realize that desperation can drive people to do things which we never thought possible. Recommended, and I look forward to the next in the series.
July 24, 2017
I'd like to start this review by stating that this is my first mystery book I've reviewed, or read for that matter. I am firmly in the 'chick lit' camp and rarely sway from that genre. However, I was lucky enough to be involved in the focus group for this books cover, and it inspired me to try and broaden my horizons in terms of what I read, something I have aimed to do for some time but my 'to be read' pile never allows!
So..... the book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was truly fantastic. Well written, engaging, leaving you never wanting to put it down in fear of missing something. It had everything, a relatable character in Blake, her family and friends and general lifestyle. Not at all far fetched which is what I imagined, easy to picture, which is something this author did with ease - she manages to paint a picture of each character so you felt like you know them instantly. It was lighthearted, if a murder mystery can be, sometimes amusing and sometimes sad, but always engaging.
Blake is an extremely likable woman, in her early 30's, a very clever business woman who owns her own coffee shop in a small town where everyone knows everyone else's business. She is, however, unlucky in love, and her loving brother and sister (and sister in law) are forever trying to play matchmaker. Her relationship with her family is beautiful, loving and caring for each other despite having some hardships growing up. There's also a fair bit of romance when a possible suitor moves to town, then another one comes along quick on his heels.... suddenly Blake has a decision to make and I for one can't wait to find out what happens next with that one!
As you can imagine with a mystery, troubled times are ahead for Blake and the community, and the author hooks you in right from the start. I didn't for one second guess what was to come in terms of "who done it" or even some of the twists and turns toward the end of the book, which is something that only truly good author can achieve in my eyes. I can honestly say I am hooked on the first of the "coffee cup mysteries" series and cannot wait for book two!
So..... the book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was truly fantastic. Well written, engaging, leaving you never wanting to put it down in fear of missing something. It had everything, a relatable character in Blake, her family and friends and general lifestyle. Not at all far fetched which is what I imagined, easy to picture, which is something this author did with ease - she manages to paint a picture of each character so you felt like you know them instantly. It was lighthearted, if a murder mystery can be, sometimes amusing and sometimes sad, but always engaging.
Blake is an extremely likable woman, in her early 30's, a very clever business woman who owns her own coffee shop in a small town where everyone knows everyone else's business. She is, however, unlucky in love, and her loving brother and sister (and sister in law) are forever trying to play matchmaker. Her relationship with her family is beautiful, loving and caring for each other despite having some hardships growing up. There's also a fair bit of romance when a possible suitor moves to town, then another one comes along quick on his heels.... suddenly Blake has a decision to make and I for one can't wait to find out what happens next with that one!
As you can imagine with a mystery, troubled times are ahead for Blake and the community, and the author hooks you in right from the start. I didn't for one second guess what was to come in terms of "who done it" or even some of the twists and turns toward the end of the book, which is something that only truly good author can achieve in my eyes. I can honestly say I am hooked on the first of the "coffee cup mysteries" series and cannot wait for book two!
September 18, 2017
It’s always fun to be introduced to a new author who is debuting a new series! I had the pleasure of recently reading BREWING UP MURDER by Neila Young, where the very first sentence and then paragraph captured my attention. The protagonist, Blake Harper, owns Mystery Cup Café in Wilton, Missouri. The town is known for a string of murders that happened 50 years ago, the crimes never solved. While the author doesn’t go into great detail, there is enough information provided that makes me curious if subsequent books in this series will lead the protagonist to find answers to the deaths of twelve young women. I’m definitely intrigued with this plot! In addition to the old, unsolved murders, a new murder has taken place. Blake finds her assistant, Nikki, dead in the Mystery Cup Café and her kitchen trashed. Even though Blake’s sister, Kyle, is the detective working the case, the café owner still feels responsible for bringing the murderer to justice.
The two sisters have strong personalities and I enjoyed the close bonds they share with their brother, Ryan. There is fun interaction between the three siblings and a bit of entertainment with Ryan always trying to set Blake up on blind dates. Ms. Young has created a great cast of characters to surround her protagonist; some are there for support, a couple to offer romance, while others to create tension and conflict in Blake’s life. The town and the characters are good backdrops for a puzzling mystery with plenty of suspects that kept me guessing. When I finally read the surprising conclusion the only thing on my mind was wondering when the next book is coming!
The Mystery Cup Café serves up delectable treats and fortunately for the reader the author provides a couple recipes at the back of the book. Blake has indeed perfected her Espresso Brownie recipe and I enjoyed these super rich, super gooey treats with a hot cup of coffee!
I was provided a copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The two sisters have strong personalities and I enjoyed the close bonds they share with their brother, Ryan. There is fun interaction between the three siblings and a bit of entertainment with Ryan always trying to set Blake up on blind dates. Ms. Young has created a great cast of characters to surround her protagonist; some are there for support, a couple to offer romance, while others to create tension and conflict in Blake’s life. The town and the characters are good backdrops for a puzzling mystery with plenty of suspects that kept me guessing. When I finally read the surprising conclusion the only thing on my mind was wondering when the next book is coming!
The Mystery Cup Café serves up delectable treats and fortunately for the reader the author provides a couple recipes at the back of the book. Blake has indeed perfected her Espresso Brownie recipe and I enjoyed these super rich, super gooey treats with a hot cup of coffee!
I was provided a copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 7, 2017
I really enjoyed Brewing Up Murder! It was the perfect first installment to begin a series, I plan to continue reading this series. The characters are likable and the strong family bond is wonderful! The town itself is the perfect setting for a cozy mystery, it's famous for an unsolved serial murder spree from nearly 40 years ago, and almost every business has a murder themed name to bring in tourists who enjoy the morbid closeness to death.
Our protagonist is a woman named Blake who runs one of the local coffee shops. Her business is her baby and fills her days and nights, leaving little time for romance, despite her brother Ryan and sister Kyle's efforts to set her up with "the perfect man". A town known for murder suddenly has a fresh body, one of Blake's employees, and against her cop sister's wishes, Blake takes it upon herself to figure out who-done-it. Along with the murder there are suddenly break-ins through out the town at businesses that serve coffee and a pair of gorgeous men distracting Blake, one is a handsome, suspicious new bookstore owner next door who knew the victim, the other is a sexy new doctor. Both of them seem interested, but her main interest is to find the killer because she might be next.
The story has a nice pace and keeps the reader interested, I liked how there are so many possible killers, the author Neila Young did a great job of pointing the finger at many characters and giving just enough evidence that it could be any of them and just enough reasonable doubt to keep you wondering. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good cozy mystery and wants to be kept guessing!
I requested to borrow a digital copy of this book to review, reading this book for free in no way influenced my opinion or review of this book
Our protagonist is a woman named Blake who runs one of the local coffee shops. Her business is her baby and fills her days and nights, leaving little time for romance, despite her brother Ryan and sister Kyle's efforts to set her up with "the perfect man". A town known for murder suddenly has a fresh body, one of Blake's employees, and against her cop sister's wishes, Blake takes it upon herself to figure out who-done-it. Along with the murder there are suddenly break-ins through out the town at businesses that serve coffee and a pair of gorgeous men distracting Blake, one is a handsome, suspicious new bookstore owner next door who knew the victim, the other is a sexy new doctor. Both of them seem interested, but her main interest is to find the killer because she might be next.
The story has a nice pace and keeps the reader interested, I liked how there are so many possible killers, the author Neila Young did a great job of pointing the finger at many characters and giving just enough evidence that it could be any of them and just enough reasonable doubt to keep you wondering. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good cozy mystery and wants to be kept guessing!
I requested to borrow a digital copy of this book to review, reading this book for free in no way influenced my opinion or review of this book
July 19, 2017
This is a really good lazy day book, perfect, if like me you like to read while sat in the garden or in front of a fire, with a large mug of coffee, or in my case a cafetière full of coffee. It has a very enjoyable storyline, with a couple of red-herring leads thrown in. As I said this is a more relaxing and refreshing read, a murder /mystery with an extra shot of chick-lit thrown in for good measure, a complete opposite to hard-core gritty and violent murder books.
It is set in Wilton, Missouri, its claim to fame being a 50 year unsolved serial killer case. This attracts visitors, researchers and amateur sleuths to town, hence the number coffee shops. Sisters Blake and Kyle are residents, Blake a coffee shop owner and Kyle a Police officer. Throw in various family members and friends, that contribute in various ways, especially when the body of an employee is found on the premises. When other events occur, it takes Kyle and interfering sister Blake to find any evidence of a link, but with no actual real evidence it becomes difficult. Difficulties get worse as friends are looked at under a different light, and are effectively suspects.
There are quite a few characters in this book, there are some very well described quirky traits and characteristics given to the cast. It has made them memorable and easy to identify as you progress through the story. It is set at a very good speed and I found it to be a thoroughly enjoyable read.
I would recommend to readers who enjoy a light-hearted murder mystery and chick-lit genres.
I would like to take the opportunity to thank the author Neila Young for bringing this book to my attention. My opinions are my own, they are unbiased and honest.
It is set in Wilton, Missouri, its claim to fame being a 50 year unsolved serial killer case. This attracts visitors, researchers and amateur sleuths to town, hence the number coffee shops. Sisters Blake and Kyle are residents, Blake a coffee shop owner and Kyle a Police officer. Throw in various family members and friends, that contribute in various ways, especially when the body of an employee is found on the premises. When other events occur, it takes Kyle and interfering sister Blake to find any evidence of a link, but with no actual real evidence it becomes difficult. Difficulties get worse as friends are looked at under a different light, and are effectively suspects.
There are quite a few characters in this book, there are some very well described quirky traits and characteristics given to the cast. It has made them memorable and easy to identify as you progress through the story. It is set at a very good speed and I found it to be a thoroughly enjoyable read.
I would recommend to readers who enjoy a light-hearted murder mystery and chick-lit genres.
I would like to take the opportunity to thank the author Neila Young for bringing this book to my attention. My opinions are my own, they are unbiased and honest.
August 20, 2017
Title: Brewing Up Murder - Coffee Cup Mysteries Book 1
Author: Neila Young
Publisher: Red Adept Publishing LLC
Published: 7-19-2017
Pages: 207
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
Sub-Genre: Fiction, Suspense, Amateur Sleuths, Cozy Mystery
ISBN: 97819402155990
ASIN: B073FR9RZW
Reviewed For NetGalley and Red Adept Publishing
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
A quick easy read with funny likable characters can not begin to tell how much fun Brewing Up Coffee is to read. As I was reading I found myself looking for a cup or the dark rich brew and I do not even like coffee.
The plot was well thought out and keeps you smiling, there are few moments of hold your breath suspense but over all it fits the cozy genre by staying light, clean and not to much of the darker side of mysteries.
My rating of "Brewing Up Murder - Coffee Cup Mysteries Book 1" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073FR9RZW/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/brew...
Books-A-Million Link: Not Available
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/brew...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Neila Young
Publisher: Red Adept Publishing LLC
Published: 7-19-2017
Pages: 207
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
Sub-Genre: Fiction, Suspense, Amateur Sleuths, Cozy Mystery
ISBN: 97819402155990
ASIN: B073FR9RZW
Reviewed For NetGalley and Red Adept Publishing
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
A quick easy read with funny likable characters can not begin to tell how much fun Brewing Up Coffee is to read. As I was reading I found myself looking for a cup or the dark rich brew and I do not even like coffee.
The plot was well thought out and keeps you smiling, there are few moments of hold your breath suspense but over all it fits the cozy genre by staying light, clean and not to much of the darker side of mysteries.
My rating of "Brewing Up Murder - Coffee Cup Mysteries Book 1" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073FR9RZW/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/brew...
Books-A-Million Link: Not Available
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/brew...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
August 29, 2017
Brewing Up Murder (Coffee Cup Mysteries #1) is an entertaining and fun read. It is set in Wilton, Missouri, a small town whose claim to fame is its being the location of the twelve "Red Roses" unsolved serial killings years before. Capitalizing on this unsolved mystery, the businesses on the town's main street bear names reflecting that history, such as The Mystery Cup, Sliced, and Macabre Reads. When another murder occurs in Wilton, Blake Harper, owner of The Mystery Cup Coffee Shop, is determined to solve it, although it means going against the advice of her sister Kyle, who one of the town's police detectives.
There is wonderful character development in this book, especially that of Blake's family, and I especially enjoyed her fiery sister-in-law, Rachel, who is determined to use her matchmaking skills on Blake, despite some dismal failures. Brewing Up Murder is a quick and delightful read, with just the right touch of mystery, family, friendship and potential romance, and the plot has several twists and turns that kept me guessing right until the end. This book also has two delicious recipes at the end (chocolate espresso brownies, anyone?) that I can't wait to try! I highly recommend this book, and look forward to the further adventures of Blake and Co. in future books.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
There is wonderful character development in this book, especially that of Blake's family, and I especially enjoyed her fiery sister-in-law, Rachel, who is determined to use her matchmaking skills on Blake, despite some dismal failures. Brewing Up Murder is a quick and delightful read, with just the right touch of mystery, family, friendship and potential romance, and the plot has several twists and turns that kept me guessing right until the end. This book also has two delicious recipes at the end (chocolate espresso brownies, anyone?) that I can't wait to try! I highly recommend this book, and look forward to the further adventures of Blake and Co. in future books.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 16, 2017
Thank you Net Galley for this ARC
Blake Harper is the owner of Mystery Cup Cafe, coffee is the love of her life and she loves horror movies. She lives in Wilton, a town put on the map for its serial killer almost 50 years ago. Small town, big gossip, and a love interest here and there. There is a new killer on the loose and Blake is determined to solve the mystery whether others like it or not!
Brewing up Murder is a fun, cozy mystery. The first of what seems to be a promising series. Trying to solve a mystery while also dreaming of coffee and brownies. Doesn't get any better than that. At the end of the book, there are two recipes for items mentioned in the book and I am absolutely looking forward to trying those out asap.
I absolutely loved this book, I enjoyed the banter and most importantly, the mystery. I had my guesses throughout the book, but much to my surprise, I did NOT see it coming when the killer was revealed. I love when I am surprised in a mystery novel, it is such a buzzkill when the mystery is too predictable. The flow was well paced and If I did not need sleep to function or care for my children, I would not have put this book down! I honestly have zero complaints about the book, other than the fact that I wish there was more now and I didn't have to wait to read more!
Definitely Recommend
Blake Harper is the owner of Mystery Cup Cafe, coffee is the love of her life and she loves horror movies. She lives in Wilton, a town put on the map for its serial killer almost 50 years ago. Small town, big gossip, and a love interest here and there. There is a new killer on the loose and Blake is determined to solve the mystery whether others like it or not!
Brewing up Murder is a fun, cozy mystery. The first of what seems to be a promising series. Trying to solve a mystery while also dreaming of coffee and brownies. Doesn't get any better than that. At the end of the book, there are two recipes for items mentioned in the book and I am absolutely looking forward to trying those out asap.
I absolutely loved this book, I enjoyed the banter and most importantly, the mystery. I had my guesses throughout the book, but much to my surprise, I did NOT see it coming when the killer was revealed. I love when I am surprised in a mystery novel, it is such a buzzkill when the mystery is too predictable. The flow was well paced and If I did not need sleep to function or care for my children, I would not have put this book down! I honestly have zero complaints about the book, other than the fact that I wish there was more now and I didn't have to wait to read more!
Definitely Recommend
August 26, 2017
Brewing Up Murder is the first book in Neila Young’s Coffee Cup Mystery Series, and what a treat it is! I love cozy mysteries that are set in a coffee shop, likely because of my addiction to caffeine, and this book did not disappoint. In addition to causing serious cravings for anything coffee, it was an intriguing mystery with memorable characters. I especially loved the relationship between Blake and her family, felt it was very realistic, and can really relate to her brother/sister-in-law’s attempts at setting Blake up on blind dates. The mystery itself was intriguing, and I fully admit to buying into one of the red herrings that were thrown in. This book kept me guessing until the very end, which is what I like! I also love cozies with a little romance thrown in, and there is a love triangle here as Blake has two interested suitors. To be honest though, I am feeling rather meh about both men because that I didn’t really feel any chemistry between them and Blake. Perhaps this will be something that will develop as the series continues. Overall, the book is wonderful, and I can’t wait to read the next one in the series!
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews