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Tea and Read Mystery #1
In Peppermint Peril
Perfect for Lorna Barrett and Jenn McKinlay fans, this festive series debut set in small-town Maine introduces book-themed tea party organizer Callie Aspen and her lovable Boston terrier.
This Christmas, Callie Aspen returns to her childhood hideout Heart's Harbor, Maine where her great aunt runs Book Tea, a vintage tearoom where every sweet treat contains a bookish clue. Upon arrival in the fairy-tale snowy town, Callie is drawn into the preparations for a special tea party at Haywood Hall, the rambling house of Heart's Harbor's oldest resident, rich but lonely widow Dorothea Finster, who invited her estranged relatives, old friends and the elite of the town to make a mysterious announcement about her will.
Believing they can touch a part of her fortune, everybody is determined to come, despite not liking each other or even their hostess. And Callie's old friend Sheila complicates things by using the tea party to announce her daughter's engagement, even though her daughter isn't sure she's in love with the young lawyer her mother thinks so perfect for her.
Catering to people who each have their own agenda isn't easy for the Book Tea crew, especially once the valuable engagement ring goes missing and a dead body turns up in the conservatory. Can Callie and her great aunt use their love of clues to dig into the crimes and show their unhappy hostess and squabbling guests the true Christmas spirit?
This Christmas, Callie Aspen returns to her childhood hideout Heart's Harbor, Maine where her great aunt runs Book Tea, a vintage tearoom where every sweet treat contains a bookish clue. Upon arrival in the fairy-tale snowy town, Callie is drawn into the preparations for a special tea party at Haywood Hall, the rambling house of Heart's Harbor's oldest resident, rich but lonely widow Dorothea Finster, who invited her estranged relatives, old friends and the elite of the town to make a mysterious announcement about her will.
Believing they can touch a part of her fortune, everybody is determined to come, despite not liking each other or even their hostess. And Callie's old friend Sheila complicates things by using the tea party to announce her daughter's engagement, even though her daughter isn't sure she's in love with the young lawyer her mother thinks so perfect for her.
Catering to people who each have their own agenda isn't easy for the Book Tea crew, especially once the valuable engagement ring goes missing and a dead body turns up in the conservatory. Can Callie and her great aunt use their love of clues to dig into the crimes and show their unhappy hostess and squabbling guests the true Christmas spirit?
285 pages, ebook
First published November 13, 2018
94 people are currently reading
1035 people want to read
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November 6, 2018
In Peppermint Peril by Joy Avon is the first book of the new cozy A Tea and a Read Mystery series. This is a small town cozy mystery in which the main character has returned to work with her aunt in a bookish themed business.
Callie Aspen had left Heart’s Harbor, Maine main years before after nursing a broken heart when her long time crush married another friend. This Christmas however she’s returned to visit her aunt and volunteers to help with her aunt’s business, Book Tea.
Callie finds herself among those she had left behind when she ends up working a special party at Haywood Hall owned by the town’s richest widow, Dorothea Finster. Dorothea had intended on making an announcement about her will but the party was overtaken but Sheila, Callie’s old friend, who had set up her daughter’s surprise engagement much to her daughter’s dismay. But things really go wrong when a dead body is found and a murderer seems to be on the loose.
In Peppermint Peril is one of those books that really tried to come in with a bang and it felt a bit like being dropped into a situation I should have known more about. Callie is barely introduced herself in the story when a whole bunch of other characters are coming into play and it was a bit confusing of a start.
Once settled in though I felt there still seemed to be a lack of depth to the characters to let them stand out more on their own. There’s not much told about the business, how Callie came about her travels, the other folks in town other than a brief what happened. I think if things had more depth this one would have really stood out as the small town vibe and the Christmas events going on seemed fun but with it hard to connect to anyone this first book was just an alright read.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Callie Aspen had left Heart’s Harbor, Maine main years before after nursing a broken heart when her long time crush married another friend. This Christmas however she’s returned to visit her aunt and volunteers to help with her aunt’s business, Book Tea.
Callie finds herself among those she had left behind when she ends up working a special party at Haywood Hall owned by the town’s richest widow, Dorothea Finster. Dorothea had intended on making an announcement about her will but the party was overtaken but Sheila, Callie’s old friend, who had set up her daughter’s surprise engagement much to her daughter’s dismay. But things really go wrong when a dead body is found and a murderer seems to be on the loose.
In Peppermint Peril is one of those books that really tried to come in with a bang and it felt a bit like being dropped into a situation I should have known more about. Callie is barely introduced herself in the story when a whole bunch of other characters are coming into play and it was a bit confusing of a start.
Once settled in though I felt there still seemed to be a lack of depth to the characters to let them stand out more on their own. There’s not much told about the business, how Callie came about her travels, the other folks in town other than a brief what happened. I think if things had more depth this one would have really stood out as the small town vibe and the Christmas events going on seemed fun but with it hard to connect to anyone this first book was just an alright read.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
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December 27, 2018A charming cozy mystery full of books and cheer!
A wonderful small town cozy that will make you feel merry and bright... loved the setting of this lovely teashop with a bookish theme and yummy goodies!
Callie has returned home to small town Maine for the holidays and helps her aunt Iphy out at her teashop... Iphy is a book lover and all her goodies have a bookish clue in them... The teashop is hired to cater the will reading of Dorthia Fimster *Love that name* things go awry at the reading and soon Callie finds herself on the case...
This is the first book in this series and I am curious to see where it goes! I love the setting of the small town and I loved the characters, but I wanted more! More about the teashop, more about Callie’s pass, just more! But as in a lot of series there is always a lot of information to process in the first book so sometimes it’s a little more difficult to develop the characters fully, I’m sure that will come in future books... The mystery was fun although a little predictable, and I enjoyed playing sleuth right along with Callie.... definitely will be picking up the next book in the series, I just noticed that it is on NG!
*** Big thanks to Crooked Lane for my copy of this book ***
A wonderful small town cozy that will make you feel merry and bright... loved the setting of this lovely teashop with a bookish theme and yummy goodies!
Callie has returned home to small town Maine for the holidays and helps her aunt Iphy out at her teashop... Iphy is a book lover and all her goodies have a bookish clue in them... The teashop is hired to cater the will reading of Dorthia Fimster *Love that name* things go awry at the reading and soon Callie finds herself on the case...
This is the first book in this series and I am curious to see where it goes! I love the setting of the small town and I loved the characters, but I wanted more! More about the teashop, more about Callie’s pass, just more! But as in a lot of series there is always a lot of information to process in the first book so sometimes it’s a little more difficult to develop the characters fully, I’m sure that will come in future books... The mystery was fun although a little predictable, and I enjoyed playing sleuth right along with Callie.... definitely will be picking up the next book in the series, I just noticed that it is on NG!
*** Big thanks to Crooked Lane for my copy of this book ***
October 24, 2018
In Peppermint Peril is the first book in the Book Tea Shop Mystery series. Callie Aspen comes home for the holidays to visit her Great Aunt Iphy, who runs a tea shop catering to book themed events, parties and get-togethers. Iphy knows just the right extra touches to add to the baked items and decorations for these parties, wowing her clients every time. In this first book in the series, Iphy and Callie prepare goodies for an Agatha Christie type atmosphere at Haywood Hall. Dorothea Finster, 93 year old owner of the hall, has an announcement about her will that she wants to make. Unfortunately, a murder interrupts the evening before she can make her announcement. Callie finds herself investigating to help Dorothea and childhood friends discover a murderer.
I enjoyed this book! To be honest, the plot was pretty predictable and a bit trope-y....but I like the background theme (I would so attend a bookish themed tea party!!!) and the characters. Aunt Iphy makes constant book references and decorates her baked goods with bookish clues. Callie is intelligent and a pretty good investigator, even when the local police (and the killer) tell her to back off. Dorothea Finster is bound and determined to do the right thing by her family and by her ancestral home. It just made for a fun, entertaining cozy mystery, despite the plot being nothing really new. Sometimes, with cozies, it's comfort reading. This book was awesome fun reading for me on a cold, fall evening with a steaming cup of Earl Grey and my two chihuahuas snuggled up on my lap. :) I love holiday themed cozies!
I'm definitely going to read more of this series. I can't wait to find out what's in store for Callie, Iphy, the tea shop and Haywood Hall!
**I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
I enjoyed this book! To be honest, the plot was pretty predictable and a bit trope-y....but I like the background theme (I would so attend a bookish themed tea party!!!) and the characters. Aunt Iphy makes constant book references and decorates her baked goods with bookish clues. Callie is intelligent and a pretty good investigator, even when the local police (and the killer) tell her to back off. Dorothea Finster is bound and determined to do the right thing by her family and by her ancestral home. It just made for a fun, entertaining cozy mystery, despite the plot being nothing really new. Sometimes, with cozies, it's comfort reading. This book was awesome fun reading for me on a cold, fall evening with a steaming cup of Earl Grey and my two chihuahuas snuggled up on my lap. :) I love holiday themed cozies!
I'm definitely going to read more of this series. I can't wait to find out what's in store for Callie, Iphy, the tea shop and Haywood Hall!
**I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
August 5, 2018
The debut of the Book Tea Shop Mystery is a nice, quick read. Protagonist, Callie Aspen, a tour guide who’s travelled the world, is visiting her Great Aunt Iphy’s vintage tearoom, Book Tea, in Heart’s Harbor, Maine. Callie brings along a sweet Boston Terrier she’s fostering. The Book Tea is catering at Haywood Hall mansion where matriarch Dorothea Finster is ready to reveal the changes in her new will and, thus, has summoned a family gathering. However, the tea party is interrupted by a vicious crime.
New author, Joy Avon, scatters trails of cookie crumbs from one suspect to another, and so forth, and does a good job of keeping the murderer’s identity a secret until the reveal. There is a second mystery plot that ties up all loose ends, and I enjoyed it, also. As I read this cozy, some of the characters grew on me, and I look forward to future developments with them. I just couldn’t get into the Deputy Falk. The story’s premise has great potential and it will be interesting to read the next book and see what happens to Book Tea.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books. Thank you.
New author, Joy Avon, scatters trails of cookie crumbs from one suspect to another, and so forth, and does a good job of keeping the murderer’s identity a secret until the reveal. There is a second mystery plot that ties up all loose ends, and I enjoyed it, also. As I read this cozy, some of the characters grew on me, and I look forward to future developments with them. I just couldn’t get into the Deputy Falk. The story’s premise has great potential and it will be interesting to read the next book and see what happens to Book Tea.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books. Thank you.
January 3, 2019
What a good mystery that turned out to be a heartwarming Christmas story! I really enjoyed getting to know all the characters, and I can't wait to read the next book! In the very back, the author said it would take place in July. This book was really well-written and plotted. I have no idea if the author is someone's pen name who is already established, but if not, it sure seems that way, like they aren't just a beginning writer.
Callie Aspen, who worked as a travel tour guide, was home over Christmas helping her aunt Iphy with her shop called Book Tea. Iphy made cakes with book clues in them for people. At the big tea party she'd made a large winter cake for, the body of the gardener was found in the conservatory. The whole thing had purposely been given an Agatha Christie feel, since the lady of the house, 90-something Dorothea Finster had announced her will was going to be changed. Everyone invited was hoping for a cut of it, but instead, they ended up with a murder.
I liked how Callie and Deputy Falk got along. They were just a little rocky at first, but she wasn't like some sleuths who seem to take offense at everything the police officer says or does. They worked well together and he seemed pretty charmed and won over by her as well. There was no shortage of suspects, until they started producing alibis. I loved the web of deceit that made it seem like everyone had secrets. I had randomly named the person as the killer, but the author seemed to steer away from anyone that I had suspected. I loved the stake-out type take down at the end!
The ending was incredibly Christmasy with family being reunited--which was basically all Dorothea had wanted. Callie had to make an important decision for herself and the little dog she'd temporarily adopted. I enjoyed the side story of Falk's sister Peggy and her two small sons. Falk naturally was very protective of her, but Callie helped him realize that maybe Peggy just wanted a little credit for trying to be a good single mom--she was widowed when her Coast Guard husband went on a rescue mission. I'm really anxious for the next book to come out!
Disclaimer: I was sent a copy of this book by the publisher, but I voluntarily chose to read and review it. My opinions are my own.
Callie Aspen, who worked as a travel tour guide, was home over Christmas helping her aunt Iphy with her shop called Book Tea. Iphy made cakes with book clues in them for people. At the big tea party she'd made a large winter cake for, the body of the gardener was found in the conservatory. The whole thing had purposely been given an Agatha Christie feel, since the lady of the house, 90-something Dorothea Finster had announced her will was going to be changed. Everyone invited was hoping for a cut of it, but instead, they ended up with a murder.
I liked how Callie and Deputy Falk got along. They were just a little rocky at first, but she wasn't like some sleuths who seem to take offense at everything the police officer says or does. They worked well together and he seemed pretty charmed and won over by her as well. There was no shortage of suspects, until they started producing alibis. I loved the web of deceit that made it seem like everyone had secrets. I had randomly named the person as the killer, but the author seemed to steer away from anyone that I had suspected. I loved the stake-out type take down at the end!
The ending was incredibly Christmasy with family being reunited--which was basically all Dorothea had wanted. Callie had to make an important decision for herself and the little dog she'd temporarily adopted. I enjoyed the side story of Falk's sister Peggy and her two small sons. Falk naturally was very protective of her, but Callie helped him realize that maybe Peggy just wanted a little credit for trying to be a good single mom--she was widowed when her Coast Guard husband went on a rescue mission. I'm really anxious for the next book to come out!
Disclaimer: I was sent a copy of this book by the publisher, but I voluntarily chose to read and review it. My opinions are my own.
August 11, 2018
3.75/5 stars ⭐⭐⭐.75 (Rounding up to a 4!) ☺️
ARC provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books in exchange for an honest review
In Peppermint Peril follows Callie Aspen, who, upon returning to her childhood hideout, Hearts Harbor, Maine, finds herself caught up in a murder investigation that involves a missing heirloom, and a mysterious will.
Pros:
First of all, the fact that this is a holiday themed murder-mystery, and features a vintage tearoom that hosts book-themed tea parties makes me want to give Joy Avon bonus points, just because. I felt extremely festive reading this. I enjoyed the overall mystery, and I'm happy to say I did not figure out who the killer was (which is one of the reasons I enjoyed myself even more, because this was so well written). 💖
Cons:
I'm also happy to report that I had no real issues with this one! If you're looking for a short, well-paced mystery to read throughout the holidays, I would highly recommend giving this a shot! The reason I'm giving this a 3.75 (or a 4) star rating instead of a 5 is because I did have just a tiny bit of confusion towards the end, but that's mostly on me.
Final Thoughts/Comments:
This title is expected to release in November, 2018. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future! ☺️
ARC provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books in exchange for an honest review
In Peppermint Peril follows Callie Aspen, who, upon returning to her childhood hideout, Hearts Harbor, Maine, finds herself caught up in a murder investigation that involves a missing heirloom, and a mysterious will.
Pros:
First of all, the fact that this is a holiday themed murder-mystery, and features a vintage tearoom that hosts book-themed tea parties makes me want to give Joy Avon bonus points, just because. I felt extremely festive reading this. I enjoyed the overall mystery, and I'm happy to say I did not figure out who the killer was (which is one of the reasons I enjoyed myself even more, because this was so well written). 💖
Cons:
I'm also happy to report that I had no real issues with this one! If you're looking for a short, well-paced mystery to read throughout the holidays, I would highly recommend giving this a shot! The reason I'm giving this a 3.75 (or a 4) star rating instead of a 5 is because I did have just a tiny bit of confusion towards the end, but that's mostly on me.
Final Thoughts/Comments:
This title is expected to release in November, 2018. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future! ☺️
November 7, 2018
This book was just OK for me. The mystery was well done and kept me guessing right up until the end, but none of the characters were particularly likable. Plus, the dialogue came off very stiff and formal at times. This was especially noticeable with the deputy, who came across so wooden and flat personality wise. I enjoyed it enough to finish it, but I doubt I'll be picking up any more books in the series.
December 25, 2021
A tour guide returns home for the Christmas Holiday hoping to rekindle memories of her growing up years. Instead she gets involved in investigating a murder of a person she respected from her growing up years. Not really the way one wants to spend Christmas but a murderer walks free and while the Sheriff is away on a Christmas break there's a new deputy handling the murder case. Is he capable this responsibility? Could it be that he could use her help in solving this case and bringing the murderer to justice?
Besides the murder there is also the fact that Cilley's heart was broken by Steven whom she'd had a school girl crush on for years. He up and married her friend instead of her and for the past twenty years Cilley has been avoiding the two former friends while she nursed her broken heart. Now she is forced to face them and find forgiveness for the hurt she harbors in her heart towards them. Can she forgive them and move on with her life?
Although this book has a beautiful Christmas cover and a title that goes with the season I found that it only hinted at the holiday until the very end. It was more about the murder and since this is a cozy mystery I would say that's to be expected. The mystery definitely kept me guessing. It was entertaining and kept up my interest.
I recommend this book to readers of Cozy Mystery and fans of the Author.
I borrowed an audio copy of this book from Hoopla library. A review was not requested. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Besides the murder there is also the fact that Cilley's heart was broken by Steven whom she'd had a school girl crush on for years. He up and married her friend instead of her and for the past twenty years Cilley has been avoiding the two former friends while she nursed her broken heart. Now she is forced to face them and find forgiveness for the hurt she harbors in her heart towards them. Can she forgive them and move on with her life?
Although this book has a beautiful Christmas cover and a title that goes with the season I found that it only hinted at the holiday until the very end. It was more about the murder and since this is a cozy mystery I would say that's to be expected. The mystery definitely kept me guessing. It was entertaining and kept up my interest.
I recommend this book to readers of Cozy Mystery and fans of the Author.
I borrowed an audio copy of this book from Hoopla library. A review was not requested. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 24, 2019
In Peppermint Peril was a pleasant read that’s just the thing to get you in the holiday spirit with a fun mystery at its core.
Upon returning to Heart’s Harbor, Maine for Christmas, Callie Aspen is immediately roped into helping her aunt set up a special tea party at Haywood Hall, home of the town’s oldest resident. Lonely widow Dorothea Finster has gathered her remaining relatives, old friends, and esteemed town residents to make a mysterious announcement about her will. However before the announcement is made, a valuable family heirloom goes missing and the gardener is found murdered in the conservatory. Determined to uncover the truth about what happened, Callie and her aunt begin their own investigation hoping to bring the killer to justice in time to save Christmas.
The mystery in this story was interesting and it was the strongest aspect of the book in my opinion. There’s the murder, blackmail, threats against our main character, and multiple credible suspects all of which led to an exciting case. The investigation Callie undertakes is well done and she manages to solve the case in a logical manner. I did have the killer figured out pretty early on which was a bit disappointing as I didn’t understand how the characters weren’t making the connection sooner. Overall though, the mystery element of this book is a good one and I was pretty happy with the way everything was revealed.
Callie is a tour guide for historical locations worldwide and doesn’t get much time away from her job which is why this is the first Christmas in years she’s back in Heart’s Harbor. Callie is the type of person who tends to jump to conclusions which did provide some frustrating situations. She has history with Haywood Hall and the presumed heir to Dorothea’s fortune which she is forced to confront in this book. She does have an adorable Boston Terrier named Daisy who was an absolute delight.
Callie’s Aunt Iphy was an interesting woman and I really liked the idea of her bookish tea shop, Book Tea, where all the items are based off of different books. Deputy Falk is the one assigned to the murder as the sheriff is out of town due to the holidays and he becomes a prospective romantic partner for Callie. His character was a bit confusing as he continuously flips back and forth between trusting Callie and and thinking she’s lying. That does get better as the book goes on but it was a bit annoying at first.
Minor issues with the characters aside, I enjoyed In Peppermint Peril and I’m looking forward to reading more books from this author in the future.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Upon returning to Heart’s Harbor, Maine for Christmas, Callie Aspen is immediately roped into helping her aunt set up a special tea party at Haywood Hall, home of the town’s oldest resident. Lonely widow Dorothea Finster has gathered her remaining relatives, old friends, and esteemed town residents to make a mysterious announcement about her will. However before the announcement is made, a valuable family heirloom goes missing and the gardener is found murdered in the conservatory. Determined to uncover the truth about what happened, Callie and her aunt begin their own investigation hoping to bring the killer to justice in time to save Christmas.
The mystery in this story was interesting and it was the strongest aspect of the book in my opinion. There’s the murder, blackmail, threats against our main character, and multiple credible suspects all of which led to an exciting case. The investigation Callie undertakes is well done and she manages to solve the case in a logical manner. I did have the killer figured out pretty early on which was a bit disappointing as I didn’t understand how the characters weren’t making the connection sooner. Overall though, the mystery element of this book is a good one and I was pretty happy with the way everything was revealed.
Callie is a tour guide for historical locations worldwide and doesn’t get much time away from her job which is why this is the first Christmas in years she’s back in Heart’s Harbor. Callie is the type of person who tends to jump to conclusions which did provide some frustrating situations. She has history with Haywood Hall and the presumed heir to Dorothea’s fortune which she is forced to confront in this book. She does have an adorable Boston Terrier named Daisy who was an absolute delight.
Callie’s Aunt Iphy was an interesting woman and I really liked the idea of her bookish tea shop, Book Tea, where all the items are based off of different books. Deputy Falk is the one assigned to the murder as the sheriff is out of town due to the holidays and he becomes a prospective romantic partner for Callie. His character was a bit confusing as he continuously flips back and forth between trusting Callie and and thinking she’s lying. That does get better as the book goes on but it was a bit annoying at first.
Minor issues with the characters aside, I enjoyed In Peppermint Peril and I’m looking forward to reading more books from this author in the future.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
September 23, 2018
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
IN PEPPERMINT PERIL (Book Tea Shop Mystery #1) by Joy Avon is the start of a new cozy mystery series. A murder, a missing heirloom ring and greed over a new will to be announced by the dame of Haywood Hall all threaten the holiday spirit in Heart’s Harbor.
Callie Aspen has returned to Heart’s Harbor for the holidays to help her great aunt, Iphy run Book Tea, a vintage tea and pastry shop where every pastry is based on a mystery story or includes a mysterious clue to be solved. Callie travels the world as a tour guide, but has fond childhood memories of Haywood Hall and its occupants so she is excited to be helping her great aunt prepare for a special party at the hall. Instead of a surprise engagement and the announcement of the will’s new terms, a dead body is found in the conservatory.
Callie and Iphy use their love of mystery books to follow all the clues, but a certain deputy finds Callie’s interest intrusive. Callie persists because of her love for all involved and even Deputy Falk comes around to aid her in a mutual quest for the killer. Can Callie help the residents of Heart’s Harbor find a killer and help to reveal their secrets and true desires to celebrate a joyous Christmas?
This book was a fast and easy read that kept me guessing the identity of the killer. Callie, as the main character had to deal with her own emotional baggage on returning to the hall besides the murder mystery which gave her character depth. All of the secondary characters were interesting and entertaining including Callie’s foster Boston terrier. There are many twists and red herrings in the mystery plot. Overall, an enjoyable and entertaining cozy holiday mystery read.
Thanks very much to Crooked Lane Books and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
IN PEPPERMINT PERIL (Book Tea Shop Mystery #1) by Joy Avon is the start of a new cozy mystery series. A murder, a missing heirloom ring and greed over a new will to be announced by the dame of Haywood Hall all threaten the holiday spirit in Heart’s Harbor.
Callie Aspen has returned to Heart’s Harbor for the holidays to help her great aunt, Iphy run Book Tea, a vintage tea and pastry shop where every pastry is based on a mystery story or includes a mysterious clue to be solved. Callie travels the world as a tour guide, but has fond childhood memories of Haywood Hall and its occupants so she is excited to be helping her great aunt prepare for a special party at the hall. Instead of a surprise engagement and the announcement of the will’s new terms, a dead body is found in the conservatory.
Callie and Iphy use their love of mystery books to follow all the clues, but a certain deputy finds Callie’s interest intrusive. Callie persists because of her love for all involved and even Deputy Falk comes around to aid her in a mutual quest for the killer. Can Callie help the residents of Heart’s Harbor find a killer and help to reveal their secrets and true desires to celebrate a joyous Christmas?
This book was a fast and easy read that kept me guessing the identity of the killer. Callie, as the main character had to deal with her own emotional baggage on returning to the hall besides the murder mystery which gave her character depth. All of the secondary characters were interesting and entertaining including Callie’s foster Boston terrier. There are many twists and red herrings in the mystery plot. Overall, an enjoyable and entertaining cozy holiday mystery read.
Thanks very much to Crooked Lane Books and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 5, 2018
Peppermint Peril is the first book in the A Book Tea Shop Mystery series.
Callie Aspen is going to take a break from her job as a tour guide and return to her hometown of Heart’s Harbor and give her great Aunt Iphy a hand at her tea shop Book Tea. Callie is excited to learn that Aunt Iphy is putting together a tea for Dorothea Finster at her home, Haywood Hall. Dorothea has plans to announce the terms of her new will and has invited her remaining relatives, and the mayor and his wife, the president of the Chamber of Commerce, and a new school teacher to her tea party. All are hoping for substantial bequests to help fund projects that will benefit the community of Heart’s Harbor.
At the same time, Shelia Du Bouvrais, wife of Stephen Du Bouvrais Dorothea’s only heir, plans on using the party to announce her daughter’s engagement to her boyfriend, Ben. She has asked Callie to put a family heirloom ring into the cake that is to be served at the party. Ben will be cutting the cake and will remove the ring and propose. But as the old saying goes about best-laid plans going awry happens at the tea party. First, the ring box is empty and the longtime gardener is found brutally stabbed in the conservatory.
Callie has known the gardener, Mr. Leadenby, since childhood and is shocked to learn that he has been stabbed to death. She remembers that she had heard Leadenby and Brenda Brink, the school teacher, having a heated discussion. Also, she wants to learn how Sheila had gotten blood on her dress, that hadn’t been there earlier in the evening. She also remembers seeing handyman, Cole Merton, who had a troubled youth, leaving about the time she had put the ring box in the cake. She begins to speculate whether the two events are related. So she sets out to try and find if they are, first, related and who might have done them.
This was an enjoyable first book and looking forward to seeing the next book to learn where the series will go once everyone is able to understand the terms of the new will. I enjoyed all the characters but will be looking forward to learning more about them, particularly Aunt Iphy.
Callie Aspen is going to take a break from her job as a tour guide and return to her hometown of Heart’s Harbor and give her great Aunt Iphy a hand at her tea shop Book Tea. Callie is excited to learn that Aunt Iphy is putting together a tea for Dorothea Finster at her home, Haywood Hall. Dorothea has plans to announce the terms of her new will and has invited her remaining relatives, and the mayor and his wife, the president of the Chamber of Commerce, and a new school teacher to her tea party. All are hoping for substantial bequests to help fund projects that will benefit the community of Heart’s Harbor.
At the same time, Shelia Du Bouvrais, wife of Stephen Du Bouvrais Dorothea’s only heir, plans on using the party to announce her daughter’s engagement to her boyfriend, Ben. She has asked Callie to put a family heirloom ring into the cake that is to be served at the party. Ben will be cutting the cake and will remove the ring and propose. But as the old saying goes about best-laid plans going awry happens at the tea party. First, the ring box is empty and the longtime gardener is found brutally stabbed in the conservatory.
Callie has known the gardener, Mr. Leadenby, since childhood and is shocked to learn that he has been stabbed to death. She remembers that she had heard Leadenby and Brenda Brink, the school teacher, having a heated discussion. Also, she wants to learn how Sheila had gotten blood on her dress, that hadn’t been there earlier in the evening. She also remembers seeing handyman, Cole Merton, who had a troubled youth, leaving about the time she had put the ring box in the cake. She begins to speculate whether the two events are related. So she sets out to try and find if they are, first, related and who might have done them.
This was an enjoyable first book and looking forward to seeing the next book to learn where the series will go once everyone is able to understand the terms of the new will. I enjoyed all the characters but will be looking forward to learning more about them, particularly Aunt Iphy.
October 24, 2018
Callie has just returned home from traveling the world to the small town in Maine where she grew up. Staying with her great aunt Iphy and helping out at Iphy’s tea shop, Callie hosts a special tea party at Haywood Hall, a local manor owned by the elderly Dorothy Finster. But the party goes awry and a man is found dead, stabbed to death in the conservatory. Together with the delicious Deputy Falk, Callie begins to unlock the clues that lead to a killer.
Fall is in full effect, all the stores have their Christmas decorations out, so now was the time to skate into this wintery cozy. In Peppermint Peril is the first in a new series, and I loved this cute lil’ cozy, perfect to get you into a Christmas mood. A very nice, quick read, I sat down on a chilly afternoon and finished it that evening. I enjoyed the plot, a couple of mini-mysteries within the main plot, lots of clues and suspects that kept me guessing, while the warm community of characters made for a cheery setting (murder aside, that is!) I loved Daisy, Callie’s Boston Terrier sidekick, and there were some heartwarming moments that really bumped up the warmth of the season.
And that tea shop! Aunt Iphy bustling around baking up book themed goodies and serving up hot beverages! Heaven. As I sat here huddled in my blanket, I longed for a cup of Snowy Chocolate and A Daily Surprise!
An excellent cozy to get you into the Christmas spirit, In Peppermint Peril is a great way to kick off the Christmas season…any time of year!
Fall is in full effect, all the stores have their Christmas decorations out, so now was the time to skate into this wintery cozy. In Peppermint Peril is the first in a new series, and I loved this cute lil’ cozy, perfect to get you into a Christmas mood. A very nice, quick read, I sat down on a chilly afternoon and finished it that evening. I enjoyed the plot, a couple of mini-mysteries within the main plot, lots of clues and suspects that kept me guessing, while the warm community of characters made for a cheery setting (murder aside, that is!) I loved Daisy, Callie’s Boston Terrier sidekick, and there were some heartwarming moments that really bumped up the warmth of the season.
And that tea shop! Aunt Iphy bustling around baking up book themed goodies and serving up hot beverages! Heaven. As I sat here huddled in my blanket, I longed for a cup of Snowy Chocolate and A Daily Surprise!
An excellent cozy to get you into the Christmas spirit, In Peppermint Peril is a great way to kick off the Christmas season…any time of year!
January 8, 2019
If you enjoy tea and books then you definitely read In Peppermint Peril by Joy Avon. This first book is a great introduction to this series featuring book themed tea parties.
The characters are likeable from the start (even the members of law enforcement) and the setting is a picture-perfect cozy town complete with a large manor house, a fun tea room, and a murder!
The main characters run a tea shop where every confection contains a bookish clue and have fun literary names (I’d love to order a Miss Lemon or Caribbean Mystery dessert)! The murder occurs at a themed tea party where the elderly hostess is expected to reveal the contents of her will. Before even one bite of the specialty made cake can be eaten, a dead body is discovered. It seems like an open and shut case but with so many suspects, red herrings and old family secrets, I was kept guessing until the very end!
My favorite aspect of the book was definitely the Christmas theme and holiday décor on the cover. The only incongruence is the title which I couldn’t relate to any characteristic of the book except that it has to do with Christmas. All in all, it was an entertaining book and I came to care enough about the characters to want to read the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book via the publisher.
The characters are likeable from the start (even the members of law enforcement) and the setting is a picture-perfect cozy town complete with a large manor house, a fun tea room, and a murder!
The main characters run a tea shop where every confection contains a bookish clue and have fun literary names (I’d love to order a Miss Lemon or Caribbean Mystery dessert)! The murder occurs at a themed tea party where the elderly hostess is expected to reveal the contents of her will. Before even one bite of the specialty made cake can be eaten, a dead body is discovered. It seems like an open and shut case but with so many suspects, red herrings and old family secrets, I was kept guessing until the very end!
My favorite aspect of the book was definitely the Christmas theme and holiday décor on the cover. The only incongruence is the title which I couldn’t relate to any characteristic of the book except that it has to do with Christmas. All in all, it was an entertaining book and I came to care enough about the characters to want to read the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book via the publisher.
December 10, 2018
This new book and series by Joy Avon was a delightful distraction. I really enjoyed this new cozy, set at Christmas and about tea, family and perception, I felt at home in this first in series. I can not wait to see where the next story goes. I really enjoyed how honest the main character is and how she made the best of the mystery, situation and her life. I am going to look forward to reading this series for I hope a very long time. This tea and real mystery book is out now.
August 21, 2020
Really only 2.5 at most. It had nothing to make me want to continue on with the series. By the end of the book i still had no idea of character or location description. I had a hard time following who was speaking snd would have to go back a paragraph more than once. A new paragraph of conversation would start but it was difficult to tell which character it was and often was the same person. I read it for the Christmas theme. And so many cliches. She’s the epitome of the amateur sleuth who is out to solve it all by herself and by the end of the book is setting up with the sheriff telling him who the killer is and how to capture the killer using herself as bait. And the sheriff goes right along with it.
July 27, 2019
Not well written and gives away too much.
October 16, 2018
It is Christmas time in Heart's Harbor, Maine and Callie Aspen, the protagonist has returned to childhood home for holidays. This is the first book in a new series A Tea Book Mystery and A new author for me. The story grabbed my attention from the first page and didn't let go until I finished.
Her Great-aunt has Callie take the cake and other supplies to Haywood Hall for tea party given by Dorothy Finster who plans to read her new will. All invited want or need the money every one believes that she had. The party did not go very well as several persons had the end agenda. A body is found in Conservatory. A plan for a surprise engagement goes wrong. A piece of jewelry goes missing. Callie becomes involved with the homicide detective and his two nephews. Callie finds trouble wherever she went and managed to straighten every event to the point I started to dislike her. I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure: Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Her Great-aunt has Callie take the cake and other supplies to Haywood Hall for tea party given by Dorothy Finster who plans to read her new will. All invited want or need the money every one believes that she had. The party did not go very well as several persons had the end agenda. A body is found in Conservatory. A plan for a surprise engagement goes wrong. A piece of jewelry goes missing. Callie becomes involved with the homicide detective and his two nephews. Callie finds trouble wherever she went and managed to straighten every event to the point I started to dislike her. I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure: Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
October 23, 2018
This is the first in a new cozy mystery series by debut author Joy Avon. I found this to be a quick read and a solid start to a series that has good potential. I thought the story had a quaint setting and a steady plot, set during Christmas. The characters engaged me as a reader with the exception of one whose reaction to our protagonist Callie Aspen was a bit confusing. I liked the protagonist and the cast of secondary characters, especially her aunt Iphy. The mystery was nicely done and had me guessing a bit at who exactly committed the murder. There is also a potential love interest for Callie but it wasn't over done and didn't take away from the mystery. I can see the potential relationship progressing naturally and over the course of several books.
All in all, I thought this was a solid start to a new series that was a quick and enjoyable read. I'm interested to see where the author takes the series so I will be back for the next installment.
I voluntarily read an advanced digital copy of this book provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
All in all, I thought this was a solid start to a new series that was a quick and enjoyable read. I'm interested to see where the author takes the series so I will be back for the next installment.
I voluntarily read an advanced digital copy of this book provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
November 20, 2018
Callie comes home for holidays to visit her great aunt Iphy in Heart's Harbor. Iphy runs Book Tea, a vintage tearoom, where sweet treats contain a bookish clue. Iphy and Callie are organizing an Agatha Christie themed party at Haywood Hall. Its owner is a 93-year-old Dorothea, who wants to announce her will, but even before she can do that, an employee is murdered.
It's the first book in the Book Tea Shop Mystery series and it was a great beginning to introduce the characters and the setting. In addition to the dead body, there was also a missing heirloom and mysterious will, which made the story even more interesting all together. I absolutely loved the idea of sweet treats with bookish clues. I'd definitely visit a cafe like that. It was a solid beginning to the new series and I'm keeping an eye for the next book.
It's the first book in the Book Tea Shop Mystery series and it was a great beginning to introduce the characters and the setting. In addition to the dead body, there was also a missing heirloom and mysterious will, which made the story even more interesting all together. I absolutely loved the idea of sweet treats with bookish clues. I'd definitely visit a cafe like that. It was a solid beginning to the new series and I'm keeping an eye for the next book.
December 2, 2019
The road ahead had as much frosting as the triple-tiered cake in the back of her station wagon, and delivering to Haywood Hall could be tricky.
Calliope "Callie" Aspen has come home to Heart's harbor, Maine to see her Great Aunt Iphigeneia. Aunt Iphy puts Callie to work helping her in her tea shop. A special tea at Haywood Hall given by the owner, Dorothea Finster turns deadly when the gardener/handyman is found dead.
This was an interesting book that had many twists and turns. So many different storylines were going on at the same time. I found it odd that Callie took her new charge, a Boston Terrier named Daisy, everywhere with her and no one seemed to mind. I would think that food related events would be an odd place to have a dog underfoot.
The characters were likeable for the most part. I think some of the information provided for certain townspeople was a bit much at times.
I was disappointed that there were not any recipes for any of the confections or teas that were presented. I love tea and would have liked to know a bit more about some of the blends.
Overall this was a good start to the series. It may have given me a bit of a push to read more for the Christmas season.
Calliope "Callie" Aspen has come home to Heart's harbor, Maine to see her Great Aunt Iphigeneia. Aunt Iphy puts Callie to work helping her in her tea shop. A special tea at Haywood Hall given by the owner, Dorothea Finster turns deadly when the gardener/handyman is found dead.
This was an interesting book that had many twists and turns. So many different storylines were going on at the same time. I found it odd that Callie took her new charge, a Boston Terrier named Daisy, everywhere with her and no one seemed to mind. I would think that food related events would be an odd place to have a dog underfoot.
The characters were likeable for the most part. I think some of the information provided for certain townspeople was a bit much at times.
I was disappointed that there were not any recipes for any of the confections or teas that were presented. I love tea and would have liked to know a bit more about some of the blends.
Overall this was a good start to the series. It may have given me a bit of a push to read more for the Christmas season.
December 27, 2018
This is reminiscent of a younger contemporary version of a Miss Marple whodunnit, with humour, mysteries galore and a variety of potential perpetrators to keep you guessing! The heroine is Callie Aspen, ably assisted by her great aunt who runs Book Tea, in the village of Heart’s Harbor in Maine. Her great aunt creates special cakes and pastries that have links to book themes and has been asked to cater for a special at Haywood Hall where the owner, Dorothea Finister, plans to reveal the contents of her will. She has invited a variety of friends and relatives to attend and witness her announcement, many of whom are only attending in the hope of being a recipient, even though they don’t particularly like the old lady or the others wh are involved However, things get even more complicated when an heirloom engagement ring goes missing and a dead body is discovered!
This is the first story in a new series and introduces lots of new characters in a very little time, which was confusing at times, so I suspect future stories in the series will have higher ratings from me as I have now read about some of them in this one. There’s plenty of intrigue to keep you guessing and it was an enjoyable read, so may prove to be of interest to anyone who enjoys cosy mystery stories set in a small community.
i requested and was given a copy of this book via NetGalley without obligation and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
This is the first story in a new series and introduces lots of new characters in a very little time, which was confusing at times, so I suspect future stories in the series will have higher ratings from me as I have now read about some of them in this one. There’s plenty of intrigue to keep you guessing and it was an enjoyable read, so may prove to be of interest to anyone who enjoys cosy mystery stories set in a small community.
i requested and was given a copy of this book via NetGalley without obligation and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
December 21, 2018
This book just missed. Callie moves back to her childhood hideout to help her aunt run a tea room. They are preparing for a special tea party at the rambling house of the town’s richest woman. She plans on revealing her will. Everyone comes even though they don’t like her or each other. A man is found dead and Callie gets involved in finding out who did it.
June 10, 2022
In Peppermint Peril is the first book in Joy Avon’s A Book Tea Shop Mystery series. It is also the first book I’ve read from this author.
Callie Aspen has come home to Heart’s Harbor, Maine, after several years, to spend Christmas with her Great Aunt Iphy and to help in her aunt’s shop, The Book Tea. The Book Tea is catering an elegant Christmas tea party at Heywood Hall, the beautiful estate of Dorothea Finster.
Dorothea, in her 90’s had planned to read her will to the most prominent people of Heart’s Harbor. However, just about everyone invited has their own agenda. When Mr. Leadenby, the long time resident gardener is found dead in the conservatory everyone’s agenda is put on hold while a killer is brought to justice.
In Peppermint Peril was a good mystery with an abundance of suspects. A cute Boston Terrier rescue. A possible romantic connection or two. Family intrigue and secrets, blackmail and murder.
The reason I gave this book 4 stars is I had difficulty connecting to the characters.
Callie Aspen has come home to Heart’s Harbor, Maine, after several years, to spend Christmas with her Great Aunt Iphy and to help in her aunt’s shop, The Book Tea. The Book Tea is catering an elegant Christmas tea party at Heywood Hall, the beautiful estate of Dorothea Finster.
Dorothea, in her 90’s had planned to read her will to the most prominent people of Heart’s Harbor. However, just about everyone invited has their own agenda. When Mr. Leadenby, the long time resident gardener is found dead in the conservatory everyone’s agenda is put on hold while a killer is brought to justice.
In Peppermint Peril was a good mystery with an abundance of suspects. A cute Boston Terrier rescue. A possible romantic connection or two. Family intrigue and secrets, blackmail and murder.
The reason I gave this book 4 stars is I had difficulty connecting to the characters.
December 28, 2018
During the winter wonderland of the holiday season, wealthy Dorothea Finster has requested a lovely cake for a special tea party at her historical home to present her new will to her invited guests. Callie Aspen arrived home in time to assist her Great Aunt Iphy in the preparation and serving of the cake and tea to the distinguish guests. Unfortunately, the tea party goes awry with a dead body and a missing heirloom.
In Peppermint Peril is a fun and exciting cozy mystery with a Christmas theme, and it was the perfect book to read during the holidays. As the first book in the series, it introduces many new characters. I look forward to how these characters develop in the future. Highly recommended.
I received a copy through SERC in exchange for my honest review.
In Peppermint Peril is a fun and exciting cozy mystery with a Christmas theme, and it was the perfect book to read during the holidays. As the first book in the series, it introduces many new characters. I look forward to how these characters develop in the future. Highly recommended.
I received a copy through SERC in exchange for my honest review.
January 7, 2019
This Christmas, Callie Aspen returns to her childhood hideout Heart's Harbor, Maine where her great aunt runs Book Tea, a vintage tearoom where every sweet treat contains a bookish clue. Upon arrival in the fairy-tale snowy town, Callie is drawn into the preparations for a special tea party at Haywood Hall, the rambling house of Heart's Harbor's oldest resident, rich but lonely widow Dorothea Finster, who invited her estranged relatives, old friends and the elite of the town to make a mysterious announcement about her will.
This is the first book in the series. The book was fast paced and had me guessing till the end. The Author did a great job describing each character and giving you a sense that you knew each one personally. Plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes. A great book to curl up with and enjoy next to a warm fire.
This is the first book in the series. The book was fast paced and had me guessing till the end. The Author did a great job describing each character and giving you a sense that you knew each one personally. Plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes. A great book to curl up with and enjoy next to a warm fire.
February 7, 2020
Adding this narrator to my list of ones that really shouldn't be narrating books. Wow. Thankfully I only have one more book with her. Meh.
The book was okay. Not great, not hideous. I guessed the killer early one, but was not 100% sure on the why. And can we PLEASE have a cop that is normal? This guy made me roll my eyes so much I am sure I sprained them.
The book was okay. Not great, not hideous. I guessed the killer early one, but was not 100% sure on the why. And can we PLEASE have a cop that is normal? This guy made me roll my eyes so much I am sure I sprained them.
April 16, 2022
Callie was a fun MC but I really wanted to learn more about Iphy, who should have been the star of the show. I loved her! And Daisy too, of course. I didn’t really get the point of cakes with secret messages and such. It was a cute idea but didn’t really land for me - how would you know everyone had read the book your secret message was based off of? I liked Haywood Hall and Dorothea. I didn’t love Falk, who seemed to rush to conclusions in hopes of wrapping the case up neatly as quickly as possible. 3.5 stars rounded up
dnf
December 11, 2022DNF on page 57
Not liking the writing or the characters or the mystery. I just don’t care.
Not liking the writing or the characters or the mystery. I just don’t care.
December 15, 2018
In Peppermint Peril by Joy Avon is the first A Tea and Read Mystery. Calliope “Callie” Aspen has returned to Heart’s Harbor, Maine to help her Great Aunt Iphy with her tearoom, Book Tea. Iphy incorporates mystery books into her pastry decorations and hosts book themed events. Callie is carting the supplies to Haywood Hall for the tea party being hosted by Dorothea Finster, the town’s oldest resident, a week before Christmas. Callie has fond memories of playing at Haywood Hall as a child plus she vividly remembers the crush she had on Stephen, one of Dorothea’s relatives. Dorothea has invited various relatives and friends to hear an announcement regarding her will. Sheila Du Bouvrais, Stephen’s wife, has her own agenda for the event and insists that Callie hide an heirloom engagement ring in the cake. She is trying to force Ben Matthews, a lawyer, into proposing to her daughter Amber, despite Amber’s lack of interest. When the ring box is removed from the cake and opened, they find the empty. A scream then rings out from the conservatory where Amber has stumbled upon Mr. Leadenby, the gardener and storyteller, stabbed to death. Deputy Falk is in charge of the case since the sheriff is out of town for the holidays. Callie and Iphy join forces to solve this knotty conundrum before Santa slides into town on his sleigh.
In Peppermint Peril we are taken to the small town of Heart’s Harbor, Maine where Callie grew up. After Stephen broke her heart by marrying her childhood friend, Sheila, Callie took a job as a tour guide. Callie has traveled around the world with Travel the Past, but it left her little time to visit home or have a personal life. Callie is quickly confronted by her past when Iphy’s latest catering gig takes her to Haywood Hall. Haywood Hall is a special place to Callie. When I started In Peppermint Peril, I felt like I was dumped down the rabbit hole like Alice. It felt like I started in the middle of the book instead of the beginning. Readers barely get a chance to know Callie and Iphy, when a hoard of other characters are introduced. Callie’s dog, Daisy is an adorable addition to the story. Iphy is lovely woman with a delightful tea shop with mystery book themed pastries. She hides clues on her cakes for the guests to solve. I enjoyed the references to the older mystery novels. Iphy’s creations sounded beautiful and delectable. The mystery was multi-faceted with pointed clues and multiple suspects. Unfortunately, I easily identified the killer early in the story. The why is revealed as the story progresses. The one thing I did not like is Callie jumping to conclusions which led to exasperating situations. She spends a significant amount of time thinking and speculating about the case. Her investigation technique is unique. In Peppermint Peril has steady pacing along with the author’s casual writing style which made the story easy to read. Unfortunately, the book lacked depth. There are details missing on the main characters and the town. The ending felt incomplete. I believe the author was trying to start the series with a BANG, but it fell flat. I am giving In Peppermint Peril 3 out of 5 stars. The series has potential, and I hope the author is more successful in her next A Tea and Read Mystery.
In Peppermint Peril we are taken to the small town of Heart’s Harbor, Maine where Callie grew up. After Stephen broke her heart by marrying her childhood friend, Sheila, Callie took a job as a tour guide. Callie has traveled around the world with Travel the Past, but it left her little time to visit home or have a personal life. Callie is quickly confronted by her past when Iphy’s latest catering gig takes her to Haywood Hall. Haywood Hall is a special place to Callie. When I started In Peppermint Peril, I felt like I was dumped down the rabbit hole like Alice. It felt like I started in the middle of the book instead of the beginning. Readers barely get a chance to know Callie and Iphy, when a hoard of other characters are introduced. Callie’s dog, Daisy is an adorable addition to the story. Iphy is lovely woman with a delightful tea shop with mystery book themed pastries. She hides clues on her cakes for the guests to solve. I enjoyed the references to the older mystery novels. Iphy’s creations sounded beautiful and delectable. The mystery was multi-faceted with pointed clues and multiple suspects. Unfortunately, I easily identified the killer early in the story. The why is revealed as the story progresses. The one thing I did not like is Callie jumping to conclusions which led to exasperating situations. She spends a significant amount of time thinking and speculating about the case. Her investigation technique is unique. In Peppermint Peril has steady pacing along with the author’s casual writing style which made the story easy to read. Unfortunately, the book lacked depth. There are details missing on the main characters and the town. The ending felt incomplete. I believe the author was trying to start the series with a BANG, but it fell flat. I am giving In Peppermint Peril 3 out of 5 stars. The series has potential, and I hope the author is more successful in her next A Tea and Read Mystery.
January 3, 2019
I was excited to get the opportunity to review this book. At first the book started out kind of slow, but it gradually picked up momentum and I was totally hooked by it. Callie has returned to Heart’s Harbor, Maine for the Christmas holiday and is helping out her great-aunt Iphy at her shop, Book Tea. Callie is given the task of helping with a tea party given by Dorothea Finster, the lady who owns the largest manor house, Haywood Hall, in town, which is the house Callie spent a lot of time in growing up. Dorothea has invited her closest relatives, Stephan Du Bouvrais, his wife, Sheila, and daughter, Amber, and several prominent residents of Heart’s Harbor to the reading of her new will, which is the reason for the tea party. Sheila complicates matters by having the family heirloom ring hidden in the cake Aunt Iphy has made and wanting Amber’s boyfriend, Ben to cut the cake; therefore, asking Amber to marry him. Of course nothing about the tea party goes as planned as the ring box is empty once the cake is cut and the box is discovered, Dorothea never gets to reveal what is in her will, and the dead body of Haywood Hall’s gardener is discovered in the conservatory. Callie sets out to find out who the killer is, what actually happened to the ring, and what did Dorothea want to reveal in her will. Callie has a lot to contend with as she helps Deputy Falk discover the killer. Callie threatened a couple times to keep her nose out of the case and she also has a run in with some kids after trying to help Falk’s young nephew. I really enjoyed this story. It had a feel good vide to it, even though a murder occurred. Dorothea only wanted to do what was best for her family and she has to enlist the help of Callie to do that. Along the way, there is a huge revelation about Dorothea’s past. I liked that there was more mystery to this story than just who the murdered was; there was also a mystery about the will, and also about the missing ring. There really were not a lot of suspects for the murdered, and I liked how Callie finally deduced who the killer was and also how she, and Falk, confronted the killer. Of course the setting of this story was great, as it takes place at Christmas. I am anxious to see what happens to Callie next because at the end of the story she decided to keep the little dog she was bequeathed, so hopefully she will settle down in Heart’s Harbor, and hopefully a relationship with Falk can develop.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
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