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Tea Shop Mystery #20
Broken Bone China
Theodosia Browning serves tea and solves crimes in Charleston, a city steeped in tradition and treachery in the latest Tea Shop Mystery from New York Times bestselling author Laura Childs.
It is Sunday afternoon, and Theodosia and Drayton are catering a formal tea at a hot-air balloon rally. The view aloft is not only stunning, they are also surrounded by a dozen other colorful hot-air balloons. But as the sky turns gray and the clouds start to boil up, a strange object zooms out of nowhere. It is a drone, and it appears to be buzzing around the balloons, checking them out.
As Theodosia and Drayton watch, the drone, hovering like some angry, mechanized insect, deliberately crashes into the balloon next to them. An enormous, fiery explosion erupts, and everyone watches in horror as the balloon plummets to the earth, killing all three of its passengers.
Sirens scream, first responders arrive, and Theodosia is interviewed by the police. During the interview she learns that one of the downed occupants was Don Kingsley, the CEO of a local software company, SyncSoft. Not only do the police suspect Kingsley as the primary target, they learn that he possessed a rare Revolutionary War Union Jack flag that several people were rabidly bidding on.
Intrigued, Theodosia begins her own investigation. Was it the CEO's soon-to-be ex-wife, who is restoring an enormous mansion at no expense? The CEO's personal assistant, who also functioned as curator of his prized collection of Americana? Two rival antiques' dealers known for dirty dealing? Or was the killer the fiancée of one of Theodosia's dear friends, who turns out to be an employee—and whistle-blower—at SyncSoft?
INCLUDES DELICIOUS RECIPES AND TEA TIME TIPS!
It is Sunday afternoon, and Theodosia and Drayton are catering a formal tea at a hot-air balloon rally. The view aloft is not only stunning, they are also surrounded by a dozen other colorful hot-air balloons. But as the sky turns gray and the clouds start to boil up, a strange object zooms out of nowhere. It is a drone, and it appears to be buzzing around the balloons, checking them out.
As Theodosia and Drayton watch, the drone, hovering like some angry, mechanized insect, deliberately crashes into the balloon next to them. An enormous, fiery explosion erupts, and everyone watches in horror as the balloon plummets to the earth, killing all three of its passengers.
Sirens scream, first responders arrive, and Theodosia is interviewed by the police. During the interview she learns that one of the downed occupants was Don Kingsley, the CEO of a local software company, SyncSoft. Not only do the police suspect Kingsley as the primary target, they learn that he possessed a rare Revolutionary War Union Jack flag that several people were rabidly bidding on.
Intrigued, Theodosia begins her own investigation. Was it the CEO's soon-to-be ex-wife, who is restoring an enormous mansion at no expense? The CEO's personal assistant, who also functioned as curator of his prized collection of Americana? Two rival antiques' dealers known for dirty dealing? Or was the killer the fiancée of one of Theodosia's dear friends, who turns out to be an employee—and whistle-blower—at SyncSoft?
INCLUDES DELICIOUS RECIPES AND TEA TIME TIPS!
327 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2019
653 people are currently reading
1357 people want to read
About the author
Laura Childs
94 books2,258 followersLaura Childs is a pseudonym for Gerry Schmitt and she is the best-selling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, the Scrapbook Mysteries, and the Cackleberry Club Mysteries.
Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fund raising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.
Laura specializes in cozy mysteries that have the pace of a thriller (a thrillzy!) Her three series are:
The Tea Shop Mysteries - set in the historic district of Charleston and featuring Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia is a savvy entrepreneur, and pet mom to service dog Earl Grey. She's also an intelligent, focused amateur sleuth who doesn't rely on coincidences or inept police work to solve crimes. This charming series is highly atmospheric and rife with the history and mystery that is Charleston.
The Scrapbooking Mysteries - a slightly edgier series that take place in New Orleans. The main character, Carmela, owns Memory Mine scrapbooking shop in the French Quarter and is forever getting into trouble with her friend, Ava, who owns the Juju Voodoo shop. New Orleans' spooky above-ground cemeteries, jazz clubs, bayous, and Mardi Gras madness make their presence known here!
The Cackleberry Club Mysteries - set in Kindred, a fictional town in the Midwest. In a rehabbed Spur station, Suzanne, Toni, and Petra, three semi-desperate, forty-plus women have launched the Cackleberry Club. Eggs are the morning specialty here and this cozy cafe even offers a book nook and yarn shop. Business is good but murder could lead to the cafe's undoing! This series offers recipes, knitting, cake decorating, and a dash of spirituality.
Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fund raising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.
Laura specializes in cozy mysteries that have the pace of a thriller (a thrillzy!) Her three series are:
The Tea Shop Mysteries - set in the historic district of Charleston and featuring Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia is a savvy entrepreneur, and pet mom to service dog Earl Grey. She's also an intelligent, focused amateur sleuth who doesn't rely on coincidences or inept police work to solve crimes. This charming series is highly atmospheric and rife with the history and mystery that is Charleston.
The Scrapbooking Mysteries - a slightly edgier series that take place in New Orleans. The main character, Carmela, owns Memory Mine scrapbooking shop in the French Quarter and is forever getting into trouble with her friend, Ava, who owns the Juju Voodoo shop. New Orleans' spooky above-ground cemeteries, jazz clubs, bayous, and Mardi Gras madness make their presence known here!
The Cackleberry Club Mysteries - set in Kindred, a fictional town in the Midwest. In a rehabbed Spur station, Suzanne, Toni, and Petra, three semi-desperate, forty-plus women have launched the Cackleberry Club. Eggs are the morning specialty here and this cozy cafe even offers a book nook and yarn shop. Business is good but murder could lead to the cafe's undoing! This series offers recipes, knitting, cake decorating, and a dash of spirituality.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 328 reviews
March 5, 2019
And that makes twenty! Another winner in this long-running series, which are increasingly so hard to find in the cozy world. Theodosia and Drayton are enjoying a tea together in a hot air balloon when they witnesses a drone attack another and cause it to crash, killing the people on board. The mystery also includes an artifact from the Revolutionary War. Suspects include his estranged widow, a disgruntled employee, a shady antique dealer, and a few others in the mix.
I also enjoyed the tea parties, especially the Nancy Drew one. It brought back such fond memories of my childhood and some first edition books my grandmother bought for me as gifts as an adult. Always like to learn about teas that Drayton brews and Hayley's delicious lunches. Theodosia's police officer boyfriend is absent for most of the book. I'd like to see their romance go further than her prior relationships after such a long series. Highly recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance digital review copy. My review is voluntary.
I also enjoyed the tea parties, especially the Nancy Drew one. It brought back such fond memories of my childhood and some first edition books my grandmother bought for me as gifts as an adult. Always like to learn about teas that Drayton brews and Hayley's delicious lunches. Theodosia's police officer boyfriend is absent for most of the book. I'd like to see their romance go further than her prior relationships after such a long series. Highly recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance digital review copy. My review is voluntary.
February 17, 2019
This is the 20th book in the author's Tea Shop Mystery series, and since it's the first I've read, I was a bit concerned that I'd be at something of a disadvantage. Happily, I was not; no doubt some of the characters would have made more of an impression if I'd known them better, but this story stands alone well and, in fact, is quite enjoyable.
It's also a cozy, and I was delighted that main character Theodosia Browning, proprietor of the Indigo Tea Shop in historic Charleston, South Carolina, is neither a wishy-washy wimp nor one of the more commonly written-about busybodies who plunges ahead devil-may-care despite dire warnings from everyone around her to butt out. She's likable, although she doesn't hesitate to speak her mind. Another player here is a character I've come to think is a cozy requisite - the irascible police detective who's constantly annoyed at the heroine's interference with investigations; but in this case, he seems to have genuine respect for her sleuthing talents. One character almost totally missing throughout this one is Theo's main squeeze, detective Pete Riley, who's off to a training conference (I mention this for series followers who might be expecting to see more of him - he sounds like a pretty cool dude).
The story opens with a bang - literally. Theodosia and her resident tea sommelier, Drayton Conneley, are riding high amid a rally of hot-air balloons. Out of nowhere, a drone appears, giving their balloon an evil eye before heading toward another. That one, however, doesn't fare so well; the drone rams the balloon, causing an horrific explosion that kills everyone aboard. Among the victims is the CEO of a local technology company who'd been accused of "misplacing" some $5 million in company money, raising the probability that he was the target. As a side venture, the man was in the process of selling an extremely valuable Revolutionary War flag, with several rival bidders queuing up for the win. Just what, if anything, that might have to do with the murder remains to be determined.
Early on, the primary suspect is the fiance of one of Theo's friends, the owner of a local B and B. Not only does he own a drone, but he works for the tech company and recently blew the whistle on what he believed was a defective product. In part wanting to help her friend, who refuses to believe her fiance is involved, Theo begins to investigate - in between running her successful tea shop, hosting a couple of high-profile tea events, judging a decorative teacup contest and getting soaked in the ever-present rain everywhere she goes.
History buffs will get their fill here by way of prolific descriptions of older sections of Charleston. I'm really not one of them, but I admit that exploring all those nooks and crannies was enticing (although the thought of all that rain put a damper on my enthusiasm and made me wonder how they ever found a day to get those balloons aloft). Also worthy of note for those who enjoy baking are the at-the-end recipes for some of the tasty treats mentioned throughout. All in all, this is an easy-to-read, entertaining book, and I thank the publisher (via NetGalley) for the opportunity to read and review it.
It's also a cozy, and I was delighted that main character Theodosia Browning, proprietor of the Indigo Tea Shop in historic Charleston, South Carolina, is neither a wishy-washy wimp nor one of the more commonly written-about busybodies who plunges ahead devil-may-care despite dire warnings from everyone around her to butt out. She's likable, although she doesn't hesitate to speak her mind. Another player here is a character I've come to think is a cozy requisite - the irascible police detective who's constantly annoyed at the heroine's interference with investigations; but in this case, he seems to have genuine respect for her sleuthing talents. One character almost totally missing throughout this one is Theo's main squeeze, detective Pete Riley, who's off to a training conference (I mention this for series followers who might be expecting to see more of him - he sounds like a pretty cool dude).
The story opens with a bang - literally. Theodosia and her resident tea sommelier, Drayton Conneley, are riding high amid a rally of hot-air balloons. Out of nowhere, a drone appears, giving their balloon an evil eye before heading toward another. That one, however, doesn't fare so well; the drone rams the balloon, causing an horrific explosion that kills everyone aboard. Among the victims is the CEO of a local technology company who'd been accused of "misplacing" some $5 million in company money, raising the probability that he was the target. As a side venture, the man was in the process of selling an extremely valuable Revolutionary War flag, with several rival bidders queuing up for the win. Just what, if anything, that might have to do with the murder remains to be determined.
Early on, the primary suspect is the fiance of one of Theo's friends, the owner of a local B and B. Not only does he own a drone, but he works for the tech company and recently blew the whistle on what he believed was a defective product. In part wanting to help her friend, who refuses to believe her fiance is involved, Theo begins to investigate - in between running her successful tea shop, hosting a couple of high-profile tea events, judging a decorative teacup contest and getting soaked in the ever-present rain everywhere she goes.
History buffs will get their fill here by way of prolific descriptions of older sections of Charleston. I'm really not one of them, but I admit that exploring all those nooks and crannies was enticing (although the thought of all that rain put a damper on my enthusiasm and made me wonder how they ever found a day to get those balloons aloft). Also worthy of note for those who enjoy baking are the at-the-end recipes for some of the tasty treats mentioned throughout. All in all, this is an easy-to-read, entertaining book, and I thank the publisher (via NetGalley) for the opportunity to read and review it.
February 15, 2019
I received an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley for an honest review.
I usually enjoy these books but they are starting to get very routine. Someone is murdered (usually at an event she is catering); she doesn't want to get involved but ends up being asked to get involved; she goes for a run with her dog; she's attacked in some way because she knows something but doesn't know she knows something; she finds the killer. At least this time someone didn't attempt to run her over with a car during one of her runs.
I think I might be done with this series unless there are some serious changes to Theo's life in some way. This is the 20th book in the series and it doesn't seem like any of the characters are changing in any way.
I usually enjoy these books but they are starting to get very routine. Someone is murdered (usually at an event she is catering); she doesn't want to get involved but ends up being asked to get involved; she goes for a run with her dog; she's attacked in some way because she knows something but doesn't know she knows something; she finds the killer. At least this time someone didn't attempt to run her over with a car during one of her runs.
I think I might be done with this series unless there are some serious changes to Theo's life in some way. This is the 20th book in the series and it doesn't seem like any of the characters are changing in any way.
February 29, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
The story opens with Theodosia and Drayton high in the air in a hot-air balloon. They were catering the rally and were gifted to fly in the air themselves. While enjoying the spectacular views and the other balloons the clouds start to roll in and Theo noticed a buzzing and then a strange object flying between the balloons. She soon realizes it is a drone. She doesn’t really get excited at first thinking it is carrying a camera taking pictures of the event. But then the drone crashes into the balloon right next to them. There is a huge explosion and as the rain starts to fall and so does the fiery balloon, crashing to the ground killing the three souls aboard.
Theo and Drayton’s balloon makes a hasty descent followed by a bumpy landing. Theo saw the whole thing and reports the drone’s deliberate attack. It is then she learns one of the people killed was Don Kingsley, the CEO of a local software company, SyncSoft. It later comes out that Kingsley is the owner of a rare Revolutionary War Union Jack flag that was recently part of a bidding war and is now missing. He was also in the process of divorcing his wife who had been spending tons of money to renovate a mansion to open it as a B&B.
After witnessing such a tragic event, Theodosia is driven to distraction. Even though she is warned to leave the case to the police she just can’t stop herself from investigating the deaths herself, pulling Drayton along with her. It doesn’t help that the prime suspect is the fiancée of one of her friends and the evidence is piling up.
____
Wow, this is the 20th Tea Shop Mystery and the author always delivers a fresh and exciting mystery. I mean a drone taking down a hot air balloon, that catches a reader’s attention and the investigation keeps it until the last page.
What makes these stories great is the wonderful cast of characters and the Indigo Tea Shop where everyone seems to gather to pick up their morning tea and scones, or stop by for a lunch of soup and sandwiches or the fantastic tea events that are held there several times a week. The Nancy Drew Tea is one I wish I had been able to attend. While Theo and Drayton venture out to sleuth, most of the key figures find their way to the tea shop eventually and some are there numerous times. Ms. Childs’ descriptive talents really bring time, place, and people to life.
I found the historical information about the Union Jack flag was very interesting. It was a unique element playing a big part in a mystery that was full of twists and turns. Theodosia has built a reputation for solving crimes before the police so expectations are always high and she doesn’t let us down.
The author plots her stories so well and truly fills them with Southern charm. They are perfectly paced and flow so well they are almost impossible to put down. I read this one incredibly fast and totally enjoyed every page.
Broken Bone China is a delightful addition to this long-running series. If you’re not already of fan of this series the author always provides plenty of background so you can jump in the series at any time. Of course, I recommend you read them all 😀
The story opens with Theodosia and Drayton high in the air in a hot-air balloon. They were catering the rally and were gifted to fly in the air themselves. While enjoying the spectacular views and the other balloons the clouds start to roll in and Theo noticed a buzzing and then a strange object flying between the balloons. She soon realizes it is a drone. She doesn’t really get excited at first thinking it is carrying a camera taking pictures of the event. But then the drone crashes into the balloon right next to them. There is a huge explosion and as the rain starts to fall and so does the fiery balloon, crashing to the ground killing the three souls aboard.
Theo and Drayton’s balloon makes a hasty descent followed by a bumpy landing. Theo saw the whole thing and reports the drone’s deliberate attack. It is then she learns one of the people killed was Don Kingsley, the CEO of a local software company, SyncSoft. It later comes out that Kingsley is the owner of a rare Revolutionary War Union Jack flag that was recently part of a bidding war and is now missing. He was also in the process of divorcing his wife who had been spending tons of money to renovate a mansion to open it as a B&B.
After witnessing such a tragic event, Theodosia is driven to distraction. Even though she is warned to leave the case to the police she just can’t stop herself from investigating the deaths herself, pulling Drayton along with her. It doesn’t help that the prime suspect is the fiancée of one of her friends and the evidence is piling up.
____
Wow, this is the 20th Tea Shop Mystery and the author always delivers a fresh and exciting mystery. I mean a drone taking down a hot air balloon, that catches a reader’s attention and the investigation keeps it until the last page.
What makes these stories great is the wonderful cast of characters and the Indigo Tea Shop where everyone seems to gather to pick up their morning tea and scones, or stop by for a lunch of soup and sandwiches or the fantastic tea events that are held there several times a week. The Nancy Drew Tea is one I wish I had been able to attend. While Theo and Drayton venture out to sleuth, most of the key figures find their way to the tea shop eventually and some are there numerous times. Ms. Childs’ descriptive talents really bring time, place, and people to life.
I found the historical information about the Union Jack flag was very interesting. It was a unique element playing a big part in a mystery that was full of twists and turns. Theodosia has built a reputation for solving crimes before the police so expectations are always high and she doesn’t let us down.
The author plots her stories so well and truly fills them with Southern charm. They are perfectly paced and flow so well they are almost impossible to put down. I read this one incredibly fast and totally enjoyed every page.
Broken Bone China is a delightful addition to this long-running series. If you’re not already of fan of this series the author always provides plenty of background so you can jump in the series at any time. Of course, I recommend you read them all 😀
February 24, 2019
Kudos to author Laura Childs for making it to the twentieth book of her Tea Shop Mysteries!
Having just closed, BROKEN BONE CHINA, I’m still in that after-reading-a-good-book euphoria. It was wonderful to be back with Theodosia and Drayton. The teas, the atmosphere, the murder! Why wouldn’t I want to return time and again?
With her usual flare, author Childs has delivered an intriguing whodunit that had me guessing, and second guessing myself the entire way through. From the cinematic worthy murder, to the last word of the story, every detail grabbed my attention and pulled me in. Even the recipes at the end of the book hooked me!
BROKEN BONE CHINA is proof that you will get consistently good storytelling when reading a book written by Laura Childs.
Having just closed, BROKEN BONE CHINA, I’m still in that after-reading-a-good-book euphoria. It was wonderful to be back with Theodosia and Drayton. The teas, the atmosphere, the murder! Why wouldn’t I want to return time and again?
With her usual flare, author Childs has delivered an intriguing whodunit that had me guessing, and second guessing myself the entire way through. From the cinematic worthy murder, to the last word of the story, every detail grabbed my attention and pulled me in. Even the recipes at the end of the book hooked me!
BROKEN BONE CHINA is proof that you will get consistently good storytelling when reading a book written by Laura Childs.
March 9, 2019
This series makes me want to spend lots of time in Charleston. It always makes me wish the tea shop was real!!!!
May 27, 2019
Theodosia is riding in a hot air balloon surrounded by other balloons when a drone starts flying around. The drone circles and then dives into a balloon causing it to explode. The victim is the CEO of a software company and owner of a priceless flag. A whistle blower is the first suspect. Theodosia jumps into the investigation and puts herself in danger.
March 2, 2019
Theodosia and Drayton witness a drone intentionally taking out a nearby hot air balloon as they soar above Charleston. The three person aboard were killed in the explosion. Then an employee of one of murdered men reports the theft of a valuable historic flag. Theodosia's detective boyfriend is attending a conference out of town most of the book. Tidwell is the main investigator. Needless to say, Theodosia does a little detecting. Readers always wish they could visit the tea shop on their trips to Charleston. I wanted to attend all the themed teas she did in this installment, especially the Nancy Drew one! It's a satisfying installment in a long-running series. I received an advance electronic copy from the publisher through NetGalley with the expecation of an honest review. (3.5 stars)
March 13, 2019
Broken Bone China (A Tea Shop Mystery, #20) by Laura Childs.
Theodosia & Drayton are on an adventurous afternoon in a hit air balloon. Their thrilling adventure is cut short by a drone circling their balloon, but sharply turning into a nearby balloon and nose diving into it. Theo & Drayton watched in horror as three terrified passengers are plunged to their deaths.
Don Kingsley was the one of the victims who the police believe was the intended target, making this a homicide. Mr. Kingsley was head of a software corporations but that's not all. He was the owner of a priceless flag that has disappeared at precisely the same time as his calculated murder.
Theo and Drayton are together on this case from the beginning. Detective Tidwell is enjoying scones and tea at Theo's shop while he gathers as much evidence from Theo as possible. Although he begrudges giving any credit to Theo's detecting skills, they soon need each others assistance in unraveling this case.
There's never a dull moment in the life of Theodosia even while in the midst of solving another baffling murder. I especially appreciated her Nancy Drew Tea Event thanks to Drayton's expertise in teas as well as Haley cooking skills that had my mouth watering. Another 5 star review.
Theodosia & Drayton are on an adventurous afternoon in a hit air balloon. Their thrilling adventure is cut short by a drone circling their balloon, but sharply turning into a nearby balloon and nose diving into it. Theo & Drayton watched in horror as three terrified passengers are plunged to their deaths.
Don Kingsley was the one of the victims who the police believe was the intended target, making this a homicide. Mr. Kingsley was head of a software corporations but that's not all. He was the owner of a priceless flag that has disappeared at precisely the same time as his calculated murder.
Theo and Drayton are together on this case from the beginning. Detective Tidwell is enjoying scones and tea at Theo's shop while he gathers as much evidence from Theo as possible. Although he begrudges giving any credit to Theo's detecting skills, they soon need each others assistance in unraveling this case.
There's never a dull moment in the life of Theodosia even while in the midst of solving another baffling murder. I especially appreciated her Nancy Drew Tea Event thanks to Drayton's expertise in teas as well as Haley cooking skills that had my mouth watering. Another 5 star review.
February 27, 2019
Theodosia and Drayton are excited about the tea that they are serving at a hot air balloon rally and can't wait to fly high in the sky in a balloon just for them. While enjoying their ride they hear a noise in the distance and soon see that it is a drone flying among all the balloons. All is well and beautiful until said drone flies right into one of the balloons, ripping it to shreds and sending it hurtling to the earth. The explosion that follows is one that none in the balloon could have survived. Who could do such a thing and why? They soon learn that one of the victims is Don Kingsley the CEO of a software company. It has come to the attention of the company that someone has stolen around five million dollars from them. Theo also learns that the victim was trying to sell a very priceless flag that he owned the only problem it seems to have disappeared right after the incident. Follow along as Theo and Drayton look into Ben's life trying to discover who wanted the man dead. Was it someone from his company looking for the stolen money? Did one of the bidders on his flag decide that they didn't want to pay but would get the flag any way possible? And last but certainly not least could it have been his soon to be ex-wife who seems to be pouring money into what she hopes will be an exclusive B&B? As Theo learns more about the man and those who surrounded him a clearer picture starts to emerge but will she be able to come to a conclusion before she herself ends up in danger? It doesn't help that her boyfriend is out of town and not there to be a part of the investigation. This is a great series filled with a lovely cast of characters, a fabulous setting, and a plot that will have you looking everywhere for a killer. I look forward to seeing where the author takes the characters in her next book.
I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 30, 2019
Theodosia and Drayton are excited to be on a hot-air balloon adventure. The adventure turns to horror when a nearby hot-air balloon is targeted by a drone and crashes. All three passengers are killed instantly. One passenger happens to be the CEO of SyncSoft. They wonder if this was an accident or was this a murder with the main target being Don Kingsley, CEO.
After being so close to the crash, Theodosia can’t get it out of her mind. Against the orders of the local detective, Theodosia dives right in and starts investigating on her own. With the help of her trusty friend and employee, Drayton, of course.
I can’t say enough good things about Laura Childs’ writing. I’m a huge fan of all her series even though I’m also a bit behind on them, but it doesn’t matter. I’ve enjoyed them all, even when I jump into the middle of one of her series. She gives you enough info so you aren’t lost or left wondering.
The series oozes with charm with its quaint tea shop setting. The myriad of quirky characters make you smile or grit your teeth depending on their antics.
I couldn’t put this one down until I knew who the killer was. Laura Childs is an expert at keeping readers guessing and this one is no exception. The ending is exciting. I didn’t want the story to end. I can’t wait to see what Theodosia is up to next.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
After being so close to the crash, Theodosia can’t get it out of her mind. Against the orders of the local detective, Theodosia dives right in and starts investigating on her own. With the help of her trusty friend and employee, Drayton, of course.
I can’t say enough good things about Laura Childs’ writing. I’m a huge fan of all her series even though I’m also a bit behind on them, but it doesn’t matter. I’ve enjoyed them all, even when I jump into the middle of one of her series. She gives you enough info so you aren’t lost or left wondering.
The series oozes with charm with its quaint tea shop setting. The myriad of quirky characters make you smile or grit your teeth depending on their antics.
I couldn’t put this one down until I knew who the killer was. Laura Childs is an expert at keeping readers guessing and this one is no exception. The ending is exciting. I didn’t want the story to end. I can’t wait to see what Theodosia is up to next.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 15, 2019
I always enjoy another romp with the Indigo Tea shop regulars, the mystery was the usual mundane plot, but the Charleston history, tea lore and luscious tea shop fare make it worth the read! The drone attack on the hot air balloon occurring in the first few pages was quite unique however. Also, I love the covers of the Tea Shop Mystery series and this one was especially lovely!
February 27, 2019
Broken Bone China by Laura Childs is the twentieth A Tea Shop Mystery. Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop, is catering afternoon tea for the Top Flight Balloon Club with her tea master, Drayton Conneley at Hampton Park. They are enjoying a balloon ride after the tea when a drone flies up checking out the passengers in each hot air balloon. Suddenly the drone crashes into the red and white balloon next to them causing it to explode in flames and plunge to the ground. Detective Burt Tidwell soon arrives on the scene, and Theo learns one of the victims is Don Kingsley, CEO of SyncSoft who they believe was the prime target. It seems that a large sum of money is missing from SyncSoft and Don was selling a rare Revolutionary War flag that has garnered quite a bit of interest. Theo did not plan on diving into the crime until Angie Congdon, owner of Featherbed House Bed & Breakfast, approaches her. Angie’s fiancé, Harold Affolter is a prime suspect and Angie wants Theo to use her skills to clear his name. There is no shortage of suspects that include the widow, victim’s personal assistant, a woman intent on purchasing the flag, and disreputable antiques dealer. Then the rare flag disappears from Kingsley’s home, and Detective Tidwell is attacked. Can Theo unravel the clues before the killer strikes again? In between sleuthing, Theo is busy at the tea shop, judging the Floral Tea Cups competition, hosting a Nancy Drew tea, helping Drayton with a photoshoot of his home for Southern Interiors Magazine, and preparing for the Beaux Arts Tea where a secret sipper will be in attendance. Join Theo, Drayton, Hayley and Earl Gray in Charleston for another high flying adventure in Broken Bone China.
Broken Bone China may be the twentieth A Tea Shop Mystery, but you can read alone. I highly recommend reading this entire delightful cozy mystery series. I am happy that I discovered Laura Childs’ A Tea Shop Mystery (and the cozy mystery genre) while perusing a bookstore eighteen years ago. I thought Broken Bone China was well-written and proceeds at a steady pace. The book contains developed characters like Theo, Drayton, Haley and Detective Tidwell. I just love Theo’s adorable dog, Earl Grey. Haley, Drayton and Theo have become close friends and have a good working relationship. I enjoy the interactions between the three of them. I appreciate Laura Childs wonderful descriptions of the Indigo Tea Shop, Charleston, the beautiful antiques, books, Haley’s tasty dishes and the entrancing teas (I can just imagine how they would smell). The authors descriptive prose transports me into the world of A Tea Shop Mystery series. I wanted to attend the charming Nancy Drew tea that the shop hosted with the creative decorations and I liked the reference to Trixie Belden (I am a Cherry Ames girl myself). The mystery was multifaceted with a murder and a missing flag. I loved the ingenious method of killing employed by the author. There are good clues to assist readers in solving the mystery with misdirection to throw you off track. There is one little loose end at the end of the book regarding the secret sipper from Tea Faire magazine (I am hoping the author will address it in the next book with a positive review for the tea shop). There are recipes from the tea shop at the end along with tea time tips. A preview of Mumbo Gumbo Murder is included (the next A Scrapbooking Mystery). Ms. Childs has created another winner with Broken Bone China. The only sad part is that I now must wait a year to revisit Theo and the Indigo Tea Shop. If you are looking for an uplifting cozy mystery, look no further than Broken Bone China.
Broken Bone China may be the twentieth A Tea Shop Mystery, but you can read alone. I highly recommend reading this entire delightful cozy mystery series. I am happy that I discovered Laura Childs’ A Tea Shop Mystery (and the cozy mystery genre) while perusing a bookstore eighteen years ago. I thought Broken Bone China was well-written and proceeds at a steady pace. The book contains developed characters like Theo, Drayton, Haley and Detective Tidwell. I just love Theo’s adorable dog, Earl Grey. Haley, Drayton and Theo have become close friends and have a good working relationship. I enjoy the interactions between the three of them. I appreciate Laura Childs wonderful descriptions of the Indigo Tea Shop, Charleston, the beautiful antiques, books, Haley’s tasty dishes and the entrancing teas (I can just imagine how they would smell). The authors descriptive prose transports me into the world of A Tea Shop Mystery series. I wanted to attend the charming Nancy Drew tea that the shop hosted with the creative decorations and I liked the reference to Trixie Belden (I am a Cherry Ames girl myself). The mystery was multifaceted with a murder and a missing flag. I loved the ingenious method of killing employed by the author. There are good clues to assist readers in solving the mystery with misdirection to throw you off track. There is one little loose end at the end of the book regarding the secret sipper from Tea Faire magazine (I am hoping the author will address it in the next book with a positive review for the tea shop). There are recipes from the tea shop at the end along with tea time tips. A preview of Mumbo Gumbo Murder is included (the next A Scrapbooking Mystery). Ms. Childs has created another winner with Broken Bone China. The only sad part is that I now must wait a year to revisit Theo and the Indigo Tea Shop. If you are looking for an uplifting cozy mystery, look no further than Broken Bone China.
March 1, 2019
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
There is a lot of fun to be had when Theodosia and Drayton cater for a hot-air balloon party. I’ve never read anything like this before so it was a new experience for me. I loved Childs attention to detail because it creates a very vivid picture for her readers and I think this is also what makes this series so special.
Another reason why I adore this series is because there really is no other series like it. Part of me if reminded of a Historical novel when I read it, but this book and series is also more than that. It’s difficult to explain unless you read it and that’s why I truly believe this series is a one of a kind gem.
I am constantly looking forward to each new book in the series and BROKEN BONE CHINA definitely delivered with a great mystery and fun antics. If you haven’t already read this series, then I would definitely suggest checking it out if you’re in the mood for something a bit different.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Ann❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
January 8, 2019
Tea lovers will enjoy all the information about the various teas that are found in the 20th installation of this series. Theodosia and Drayton hosted a Hot Air Balloon affair. They were offered a ride in one of the balloons. In the air, they watched in horror as a drone came out of nowhere and crashed into one the balloons. Arriving safely on the ground, The pair learned, that three persons were in the ballon, one is a software CEO. The police feel the CEO was the main target as he had many enemies and priceless Revolutionary war flag was missing from his antique collection. Between asking questions, Theodosia has special teas which are described in detail. One that I admire is a Nancy Drew tea. I highly recommend this book and series.
Recipes and tea tips are included.
Disclosure: Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Recipes and tea tips are included.
Disclosure: Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
November 18, 2021
Audiobook version . . . I enjoyed the setting for this book (a Charleston tea shop), especially the in house talk about varieties of tea, brewing tea, what to serve at high teas, etc. Plot itself seemed weak but maybe that was from my disjointed listening. Also perhaps not good to start a series with #20.
October 8, 2020
I loved this book! I think its probably my favorite Laura Childs book to date. The characters were a lot of fun, the mystery well played and the atmosphere was stunning. I figured out who the killer was before the end, but it was still such a fun read that it didn't damper my enjoyment. I stayed up till 1 am to finish it tonight. A definite five stars for this one!
September 18, 2022
Broken Bone China by Laura Childs is the 20th book in the Tea Shop Mystery series. Theodosia and Drayton witness a drone attack on a hot air balloon causing the death of the three passengers and become embroiled in the investigation of the murder. It is always nice to catch up with the Indigo Tea Shop and their regulars. The descriptions of the various teas and menus sound delicious and tempting and I was especially intrigued with the Nancy Drew tea. I enjoyed the mystery and learning about some of the history of the area. Overall the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea.
March 18, 2025
After catering a weekend party, Theodosia manages to convince Drayton to take a ride in a hot air balloon with her. While riding in the balloon, they witness a drone that seems to be spying on them. Then the drone dive bombs another balloon, like a bee sting. The balloon pops, catches on fire, crash lands and three people are killed, including Don Kingsley, CEO of a major software company. Don Kingsley's personal secretary and museum curator believes Kingsley was killed over a rare Revolutionary War flag, the Navy Jack. The original "Don't tread on me!" flag is worth a fortune and several collectors want it. Would they kill for it? There's also a possibility that a workplace grudge could have contributed to Kingsley's murder and if that is true then Angie of the Featherbed House's new fiancé is the prime suspect. Angie is beside herself with worry and wants Theodosia to help her out. Charles Townsend also wants Theodosia's help finding the Navy Jack flag which has mysteriously vanished! Theodosia is busy with some upcoming teas and Drayton's magazine photo shoot. With her beau, Detective Pete Riley, out of town, she'll have to manage on her own to try to pry information out of Tidwell- easier said that done. Can Theodosia help Tidwell figure out who the murderer is before the Navy Jack flag disappears forever?
This story was MUCH better than the previous few. While the plot wasn't as engaging, the writing was better and the mystery was tighter. If it weren't for the two innocent people killed then I wouldn't care whodunit. At least not at first. There wasn't much reason for Theo to investigate and she behaves slightly more maturely, handing information to Tidwell and calling for help when she needs it. She FINALLY figures out who the murderer is and brings that information to Tidwell BEFORE the murderer comes after her. Unfortunately Theo does get into a spot of trouble but it's not entirely her fault. There's two major teas held in the story that sound like fun. The Beaux Art tea aesthetically is more my style but I don't eat any of the food. The Nancy Drew tea sounds like more fun even though I don't know much about Nancy Drew. Haley's table decoration idea is clever and I like how she kept it a mystery in keeping with the theme.
Theo is a little more likable in this story. She's focused more on her job and only does one TSTL thing and one illegal thing. She misses Riley more than she expected. She's more into him than the previous boyfriends I guess, although she's eager for him to come back and get involved in the murder case and to tell him all about it. He's sweet and romantic. I'm not sure he deserves her. Earl Grey is the bestest goodest boy ever and deserves a whole bag of "good dog" treats! He was treated badly and made to go outside in the RAIN and get his paws wet and then something dramatic happens to him and his special human! How ruff! He's been a hero before and I hope he comes through again in another book.
Drayton and Haley have ceased their sibling squabbling which I appreciate. While Drayton professes to be a luddite, he has a remarkable knowledge of new technology like Photoshop even if he can't come up with the right name for it. Now, if he's unaware that digital photograph exists, how does he know what Photoshop is? I find it hard to believe that someone wouldn't know about digital camera when Theo runs around with an iPhone. Delaine manages not to be too annoying in this story and her sister is fortunately unable to visit due to legal matters but sends her daughter to help Delaine in the shop. Angie has been through so much. Now the Featherbed House is up and running again, a little more upscale than before and she has a new love. How wonderful! I'm happy for her. Harold seems nice. He's affable and creative, helping Angie with her business. He worked for SyncSoft, Don Kingsley's company, and blew the whistle on something that wasn't quite right and was punished for it. That to me says he's not a murderer! He's an honest man who wanted to do the right thing when knew the product wasn't ready to be launched yet. Sure he owns a drone but does that really make him a suspect? I don't think that's enough evidence.
Charles Townsend, Mr. Kingsley's personal secretary and soon to be private museum curator, seems squirrely to me. He's truly in shock over the horrible, tragic death of his boss but when asked about the flag, he seems shifty. I don't think he's telling the truth. Did he steal the flag? Is the murder not related to the flag? Was he planning to steal the flag and someone else beat him to it? He's a nice guy but suspicious. The widow Kingsley, Tawney, is another merry widow. She's GHASTLY! All she cares about is money and she's spending her husband's money freely on opening a VERY high-end B&B featuring all the latest amenities royalty and obscenely wealthy Americans can buy. She shows no remorse at her husband's death but she does end up a more nuanced character than I expected. She is affected by her husband's murder, she just tries not to let it show until she's on the verge of breaking down.
Brooklyn Vance also wants the flag. A PhD and daughter of Col. Joshua Vance, she is eager to get her hands on the flag for a private collector in Wilmington, North Carolina who plans to open a museum to serious scholars only to come and do research on the American Revolution. Brooklyn is friendly and eager to participate in Charleston society events. She's a big fan of the Nancy Drew tea. I don't like that she represents a private collector. Historical artifacts should be accessible to the public to learn from and not hoarded away or locked up so only those on some arbitrary approved list (let me guess? Money?) can see it. Her client is probably her father and he has money. While Brooklyn has to hang around until the police can rule her out as a suspect, I think she wants to hang around until she gets her hands on that flag.
Delanie has a new man, Tod Slawson, an antiques dealer. Theo suspects him because Delaine has a terrible track record with men. Tod alerts Theo to the missing flag. Now how does he know about that already? Another antiques dealer is also interested in the flag, Earl Bullitt. Drayton doesn't like Earl Bullitt. I think this Bullitt guy is shady and he's the type to take advantage of grieving widows and buy low to sell high. He may also be the type to overprice cheap junk. Hey, if people want to pay that price and don't do their homework, then who is he to argue? There's no good reason to suspect him except he seems to be hiding something. Gee he doesn't want Theo and Drayton to look in his private storage room? Ya think? Does that make him a murderer or a thief? Probably he does have stolen goods or items acquired by dubious means but does that make him a murderer?
The killer was very devious and clever but not much was fully explained. There was also a mystery secret sipper who was supposed to attend the Beaux Arts tea for a magazine review but Theo never figured out who it was or saw a review yet. I hope that's carried over into the next story.
I'll read the next one in a few weeks. This series is not a good one to binge read.
This story was MUCH better than the previous few. While the plot wasn't as engaging, the writing was better and the mystery was tighter. If it weren't for the two innocent people killed then I wouldn't care whodunit. At least not at first. There wasn't much reason for Theo to investigate and she behaves slightly more maturely, handing information to Tidwell and calling for help when she needs it. She FINALLY figures out who the murderer is and brings that information to Tidwell BEFORE the murderer comes after her. Unfortunately Theo does get into a spot of trouble but it's not entirely her fault. There's two major teas held in the story that sound like fun. The Beaux Art tea aesthetically is more my style but I don't eat any of the food. The Nancy Drew tea sounds like more fun even though I don't know much about Nancy Drew. Haley's table decoration idea is clever and I like how she kept it a mystery in keeping with the theme.
Theo is a little more likable in this story. She's focused more on her job and only does one TSTL thing and one illegal thing. She misses Riley more than she expected. She's more into him than the previous boyfriends I guess, although she's eager for him to come back and get involved in the murder case and to tell him all about it. He's sweet and romantic. I'm not sure he deserves her. Earl Grey is the bestest goodest boy ever and deserves a whole bag of "good dog" treats! He was treated badly and made to go outside in the RAIN and get his paws wet and then something dramatic happens to him and his special human! How ruff! He's been a hero before and I hope he comes through again in another book.
Drayton and Haley have ceased their sibling squabbling which I appreciate. While Drayton professes to be a luddite, he has a remarkable knowledge of new technology like Photoshop even if he can't come up with the right name for it. Now, if he's unaware that digital photograph exists, how does he know what Photoshop is? I find it hard to believe that someone wouldn't know about digital camera when Theo runs around with an iPhone. Delaine manages not to be too annoying in this story and her sister is fortunately unable to visit due to legal matters but sends her daughter to help Delaine in the shop. Angie has been through so much. Now the Featherbed House is up and running again, a little more upscale than before and she has a new love. How wonderful! I'm happy for her. Harold seems nice. He's affable and creative, helping Angie with her business. He worked for SyncSoft, Don Kingsley's company, and blew the whistle on something that wasn't quite right and was punished for it. That to me says he's not a murderer! He's an honest man who wanted to do the right thing when knew the product wasn't ready to be launched yet. Sure he owns a drone but does that really make him a suspect? I don't think that's enough evidence.
Charles Townsend, Mr. Kingsley's personal secretary and soon to be private museum curator, seems squirrely to me. He's truly in shock over the horrible, tragic death of his boss but when asked about the flag, he seems shifty. I don't think he's telling the truth. Did he steal the flag? Is the murder not related to the flag? Was he planning to steal the flag and someone else beat him to it? He's a nice guy but suspicious. The widow Kingsley, Tawney, is another merry widow. She's GHASTLY! All she cares about is money and she's spending her husband's money freely on opening a VERY high-end B&B featuring all the latest amenities royalty and obscenely wealthy Americans can buy. She shows no remorse at her husband's death but she does end up a more nuanced character than I expected. She is affected by her husband's murder, she just tries not to let it show until she's on the verge of breaking down.
Brooklyn Vance also wants the flag. A PhD and daughter of Col. Joshua Vance, she is eager to get her hands on the flag for a private collector in Wilmington, North Carolina who plans to open a museum to serious scholars only to come and do research on the American Revolution. Brooklyn is friendly and eager to participate in Charleston society events. She's a big fan of the Nancy Drew tea. I don't like that she represents a private collector. Historical artifacts should be accessible to the public to learn from and not hoarded away or locked up so only those on some arbitrary approved list (let me guess? Money?) can see it. Her client is probably her father and he has money. While Brooklyn has to hang around until the police can rule her out as a suspect, I think she wants to hang around until she gets her hands on that flag.
Delanie has a new man, Tod Slawson, an antiques dealer. Theo suspects him because Delaine has a terrible track record with men. Tod alerts Theo to the missing flag. Now how does he know about that already? Another antiques dealer is also interested in the flag, Earl Bullitt. Drayton doesn't like Earl Bullitt. I think this Bullitt guy is shady and he's the type to take advantage of grieving widows and buy low to sell high. He may also be the type to overprice cheap junk. Hey, if people want to pay that price and don't do their homework, then who is he to argue? There's no good reason to suspect him except he seems to be hiding something. Gee he doesn't want Theo and Drayton to look in his private storage room? Ya think? Does that make him a murderer or a thief? Probably he does have stolen goods or items acquired by dubious means but does that make him a murderer?
The killer was very devious and clever but not much was fully explained. There was also a mystery secret sipper who was supposed to attend the Beaux Arts tea for a magazine review but Theo never figured out who it was or saw a review yet. I hope that's carried over into the next story.
I'll read the next one in a few weeks. This series is not a good one to binge read.
February 2, 2024
I always enjoy a visit to the Indigo Tea Shop in Charleston, w/ its sleuthing owner, Theodosia; her tea sommelier, Drayton; her cook and aide, Haley; and all the various quirky townspeople. This is #20 in the series, and it didn't disappoint.
In this one, Theodosia and Drayton catered a hot-air balloon event, and were invited up in a balloon. To their horror, they see a drone seek out and destroy a particular balloon, killing its three occupants. Who would want to kill the owner of a software company, who also collects objects of great historical significance, including the Navy Jack flag?
Since Theodosia actually witnessed the balloon being attacked, she has a decided personal interest in finding the killer -- and the missing Navy Jack flag. Could the thief and the murderer be the same person? Of course, the local gendarmes - especially Detective Bert Tidwell, Theo's nemesis - don't want her poking her nose into the investigation. Of course she does, and eventually experiences the life-endangering denouement that is de rigeur in all cozy mysteries involving nosy amateur detectives. 4 stars.
As a side note, I wish novels #9-#20 were available for a reasonable price on Kindle, as I don't like to pay paperback prices for cozy mysteries. So, obviously, these novels can be read out of order. I think I'll consult my local library for a few of the intervening books.
In this one, Theodosia and Drayton catered a hot-air balloon event, and were invited up in a balloon. To their horror, they see a drone seek out and destroy a particular balloon, killing its three occupants. Who would want to kill the owner of a software company, who also collects objects of great historical significance, including the Navy Jack flag?
Since Theodosia actually witnessed the balloon being attacked, she has a decided personal interest in finding the killer -- and the missing Navy Jack flag. Could the thief and the murderer be the same person? Of course, the local gendarmes - especially Detective Bert Tidwell, Theo's nemesis - don't want her poking her nose into the investigation. Of course she does, and eventually experiences the life-endangering denouement that is de rigeur in all cozy mysteries involving nosy amateur detectives. 4 stars.
As a side note, I wish novels #9-#20 were available for a reasonable price on Kindle, as I don't like to pay paperback prices for cozy mysteries. So, obviously, these novels can be read out of order. I think I'll consult my local library for a few of the intervening books.
March 5, 2019
There is a lot of fun to be had when Theodosia and Drayton cater for a hot-air balloon party. I’ve never read anything like this before so it was a new experience for me. I loved Childs attention to detail because it creates a very vivid picture for her readers and I think this is also what makes this series so special.
Another reason why I adore this series is because there really is no other series like it. Part of me if reminded of a Historical novel when I read it, but this book and series is also more than that. It’s difficult to explain unless you read it and that’s why I truly believe this series is a one of a kind gem.
I am constantly looking forward to each new book in the series and BROKEN BONE CHINA definitely delivered with a great mystery and fun antics. If you haven’t already read this series, then I would definitely suggest checking it out if you’re in the mood for something a bit different.
Read my review at Fresh Fiction
December 3, 2019
Not sure why I keep reading her books. The mysteries are okay, though I usually mistrust the eventual bad guy right from the start. And I'm not usually that accurate because I'm not really trying to solve it as I read.
This one's mystery was one of her worst I think. Even for a cozy mystery, it just really didn't make sense to me. The ending felt like a rush job just to get the book over, and just didn't hold together well for me. The bad guy's actions didn't make sense.
I just really dislike the heroine; I much prefer the supporting cast. It always seems weird to me when there seems to be a lot of attention to how awesome the heroine looks, how awesome and perfect her behavior is. The way she's the center of her world and of everyone else in the book's world - it's just done in a way that's very off putting to me. It's a problem I have with all of Child's heroines
I think I just keep reading these because I feel sort of invested after reading all the series so far.
This one's mystery was one of her worst I think. Even for a cozy mystery, it just really didn't make sense to me. The ending felt like a rush job just to get the book over, and just didn't hold together well for me. The bad guy's actions didn't make sense.
I just really dislike the heroine; I much prefer the supporting cast. It always seems weird to me when there seems to be a lot of attention to how awesome the heroine looks, how awesome and perfect her behavior is. The way she's the center of her world and of everyone else in the book's world - it's just done in a way that's very off putting to me. It's a problem I have with all of Child's heroines
I think I just keep reading these because I feel sort of invested after reading all the series so far.
February 23, 2019
BROKEN BONE CHINA, the twentieth book in the Tea Shop Mysteries by Laura Childs is an entertaining addition to an enduring series. Protagonist, Theodosia Browning, is owner of the charming Indigo Tea Shop in Charleston, South Carolina. During her shop’s catering job at the Top Flight Balloon Club event, Theodosia and her tea sommelier, Drayton, are witness to a horrific calamity when a drone collides with one of the balloons. I’m impressed by the way the author uses a technical and unique murder method… the tragedy could have been pulled from current day news headlines. Ms. Childs brings the action to life, starting from the very first pages, and her description of Theodosia’s balloon ride reinforces my determination that I never want to give it a try myself.
I greatly enjoyed the interaction between Theodosia and Drayton, who are long-time friends. They work well together, both at the shop and in their search for finding the murderer. Their hunt involves a priceless American Revolutionary war flag which gives the reader a peek into historic places and architectural sites. As the duo ask questions and dig into the victims’ pasts, they find many suspects to focus on. The clues are scattered throughout the story and just when I would think I had it figured out, a new clue pointed me in a completely different direction.
Ms. Childs sprinkles her tale of murder with specialty tea events at Theodosia’s shop, like a Nancy Drew Tea, a Beaux Arts Tea, and a Floral Tea Cups competition, in which miniature floral arrangements are created in tea cups… brilliant! She also provides lovely ideas for hosting your own tea party at the back of the book along with delicious recipes.
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I greatly enjoyed the interaction between Theodosia and Drayton, who are long-time friends. They work well together, both at the shop and in their search for finding the murderer. Their hunt involves a priceless American Revolutionary war flag which gives the reader a peek into historic places and architectural sites. As the duo ask questions and dig into the victims’ pasts, they find many suspects to focus on. The clues are scattered throughout the story and just when I would think I had it figured out, a new clue pointed me in a completely different direction.
Ms. Childs sprinkles her tale of murder with specialty tea events at Theodosia’s shop, like a Nancy Drew Tea, a Beaux Arts Tea, and a Floral Tea Cups competition, in which miniature floral arrangements are created in tea cups… brilliant! She also provides lovely ideas for hosting your own tea party at the back of the book along with delicious recipes.
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 8, 2019
When one has read plenty of these cozy mysteries, you do start to wonder how many ways a person can be murdered. Weird, I know. This time the crime was committed by a drone hitting a hot-air balloon. Very creative.
I really like this series. Find the genteel environment of the Tea Shop very interesting. Theodosia and her friends are accidental investigators as the murder impacts their community. I also like Theo's love-hate relationship with Detective Tidwell. It's nothing romantic. The detective hates that Theo loves to nose around his investigations. But he also loves her teas and scones.
Definitely will be reading the next book in this series.
I really like this series. Find the genteel environment of the Tea Shop very interesting. Theodosia and her friends are accidental investigators as the murder impacts their community. I also like Theo's love-hate relationship with Detective Tidwell. It's nothing romantic. The detective hates that Theo loves to nose around his investigations. But he also loves her teas and scones.
Definitely will be reading the next book in this series.
April 28, 2019
Reading a Tea Shop Mystery by Laura Childs is like a quick vacation trip to Charleston, SC. I love the descriptions of the city and the historic district. Theodosia and Drayton are treated to a hot air balloon ride during a festival and are witnesses to a drone attack. There's a host of suspects while Theodosia investigates the deaths. It's like visiting family reading her stories!
December 3, 2020
Broken Bone China isn't just a step backward for the series, it's a book that truly insults the reader's intelligence every ten or fifteen pages. The biggest contibutor to this is the way Childs writes for Theodosia and Drayton this time around. In all the Tea Shop Mysteries before this one, Drayton (despite being a self-proclaimed technophobe) has been written as mostly level-headed and intelligent, and Theo has shown herself to be a respectably competent amateur investigator. But for whatever reason, the decision was made to majorly dumb them down for this story.
Example 1: After the murder occurs in the first chapter, and Theo's looked over her four suspects, Childs wastes the 2nd, 3rd and 4th chapters on having Theo state and re-state that she has four different suspects and it could be any one of them.
Example 2: In one scene, Theo pulls her ringing phone out of her purse, but doesn't know if it's her chef or one of her best friends who's calling. This means Theo--an adult running a business in 2019--doesn't know how to use the caller ID function on her phone, something even a 9-year-old is capable of.
Example 3: Theo is asked over the phone by a panicked-sounding man to meet him in a church graveyard. Upon doing so, she finds him running towards her at a full sprint, looking over his shoulder before ordering her to duck down. Her response? "I think you're being paranoid"--except the man takes a bullet to the shoulder before she can finish her sentence. After the man is loaded into an ambulance, she drives back to her tea shop, where Drayton asks how the secret meeting went. Upon being told the truth, Drayton chuckles and tells Theo she doesn't need to "make up crazy stories," figuring the man was "playing games." This from a man who's aware of *nineteen* other murder cases Theo has helped solve. When Theo tells him she's not joking and that the man was indeed shot, Drayton asks worriedly, "Shot? With a bullet? You know, bang bang?"
Yes, this a grown man speaking, ladies and gentlemen, and it gets even better.
Drayton then asks her to tell the whole series of events. When she finishes, Drayton--having explicitly requested this information--now asks, "You're talking as if this was an episode of 'Wyatt Earp.' Wait, all of this really happened?"
I don't know about you, but seeing two ordinarily-intelligent adults (let alone the two main protagonists) acting this stupid was enough to make *me* homicidal.
I was going to include more examples here, but I think you get what I'm saying. This book is chock-full of infurating moments of inconceivably brain-dead behavior that make you want to slap the characters across the face, shake them violently by the shoulders and scream, "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!?"
Between this and the equally disappointing Cackleberry Club mystery Eggs On Ice, there's increasing evidence that trying to juggle four separate series (including the Afton Tangler thrillers) is too much for Childs, and the prudent thing would be to put one or more of them on hiatus while she gathers her bearings. It's better to wait more for an enjoyable mystery than wait less for a disappointing one.
In closing, I say if you're curious about this series, check out any of the first 19 books, but avoid this one and Lavender Blue Murder at all costs.
Example 1: After the murder occurs in the first chapter, and Theo's looked over her four suspects, Childs wastes the 2nd, 3rd and 4th chapters on having Theo state and re-state that she has four different suspects and it could be any one of them.
Example 2: In one scene, Theo pulls her ringing phone out of her purse, but doesn't know if it's her chef or one of her best friends who's calling. This means Theo--an adult running a business in 2019--doesn't know how to use the caller ID function on her phone, something even a 9-year-old is capable of.
Example 3: Theo is asked over the phone by a panicked-sounding man to meet him in a church graveyard. Upon doing so, she finds him running towards her at a full sprint, looking over his shoulder before ordering her to duck down. Her response? "I think you're being paranoid"--except the man takes a bullet to the shoulder before she can finish her sentence. After the man is loaded into an ambulance, she drives back to her tea shop, where Drayton asks how the secret meeting went. Upon being told the truth, Drayton chuckles and tells Theo she doesn't need to "make up crazy stories," figuring the man was "playing games." This from a man who's aware of *nineteen* other murder cases Theo has helped solve. When Theo tells him she's not joking and that the man was indeed shot, Drayton asks worriedly, "Shot? With a bullet? You know, bang bang?"
Yes, this a grown man speaking, ladies and gentlemen, and it gets even better.
Drayton then asks her to tell the whole series of events. When she finishes, Drayton--having explicitly requested this information--now asks, "You're talking as if this was an episode of 'Wyatt Earp.' Wait, all of this really happened?"
I don't know about you, but seeing two ordinarily-intelligent adults (let alone the two main protagonists) acting this stupid was enough to make *me* homicidal.
I was going to include more examples here, but I think you get what I'm saying. This book is chock-full of infurating moments of inconceivably brain-dead behavior that make you want to slap the characters across the face, shake them violently by the shoulders and scream, "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!?"
Between this and the equally disappointing Cackleberry Club mystery Eggs On Ice, there's increasing evidence that trying to juggle four separate series (including the Afton Tangler thrillers) is too much for Childs, and the prudent thing would be to put one or more of them on hiatus while she gathers her bearings. It's better to wait more for an enjoyable mystery than wait less for a disappointing one.
In closing, I say if you're curious about this series, check out any of the first 19 books, but avoid this one and Lavender Blue Murder at all costs.
December 13, 2018
This series is kind of like an overly idealized vacation to (a pretend version of) Charleston, where every building is historic and beautifully preserved mansion and there are fabulous parties several times a week. Don't get me wrong, I find it entertaining, but the story leaves my head almost immediately. Basically, Theodosia and Drayton witness a hot air balloon explode and kill three people while they're catering a...hot air balloon tea party? It's sabotage, of course, and T&D investigate the murder while simultaneously throwing two or three themed tea parties. As usual, there are many wrong turns and run-ins with Det. Tidwell and the murderer is apprehended publically and dramatically. This was perfect reading for a flight last week.
Note: I received a free ebook ARC from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley. This is my honest review.
Note: I received a free ebook ARC from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley. This is my honest review.
May 3, 2019
Used to follow this series faithfully, but something changed in the tone of the books and I passed on the last few. Decided to read this one and it was OK - Theodosia certainly didn't solve the crime as the killer came to her eventually when everyone else was at a standstill. But still, the lush tea details keep me coming back from time to time.
August 9, 2023
Ecco un'altra di quelle serie che posso leggere sapendo già che il libro di turno mi piacerà sicuramente. E tutte le volte mi viene voglia di trovare una sala da tè e andare ad assaporare un afternoon tea o qualcosa di simile...
March 10, 2019
BROKEN BONE CHINA by Laura Childs
The Twentieth Tea Shop Mystery
A delightful tea for the Top Flight Balloon Club turns deadly when a drone targets one of the hot-air balloons and sends its flaming husk down to the earth. Not only is the Blue Indigo picnic table destroyed, all three occupants of the balloon are killed. As a witness, Theodosia Browning feels compelled to look into the incident, especially when people ask for her help. The attack was surely planned, but was it due to business malfeasance, or an attempt to gain a priceless piece of Americana?
Now in her twentieth outing Theodosia Browning is no stranger to murders...and solving them. In fact, she's recently came to the conclusion that she gets a thrill from investigating. Needless to say, when a murder happens right in front of her, she's going to get involved.
The mystery here was interesting. While it started out as murder...and quite a unique method at that!...it was really about theft. What lengths a person would go to to gain a priceless piece of Americana - a Union Jack flag. A variety of characters made for an interesting suspect pool, from the murdered CEO's right hand man who's been acting hinky, to his flamboyant widow who was poised to be his ex. We can't forget the bidders interested in the flag. Could the staid woman representing a museum or the shady antiques dealer be involved? Or Theo's friend's new fiance?
There was a very modern method of murder here, which I found fascinating...and a bit worrisome. Is anyone safe from these drones? I'm all for the birds of prey snatching them from the sky! I'm sure Theodosia is too! I enjoy creative murders and this certainly was a unique one.
As a tea enthusiast I love reading all the details about the tea and the descriptions of the tea events. What mystery fan wouldn't enjoy a Nancy Drew tea, and history fans, myself included, can gawk over the details of a Beaux Arts tea. It's these details that capture readers and draws them in...and inspires them to return.
I love how Drayton has become more involved and engaged in solving the mystery, while being the staid voice of reason that Theo oftentimes ignores. I love how their partnership and friendship have developed. While Drayton could easily have become a caricature, he's evolved into a real person, albeit persnickety at times, but that's part of his charm.
BROKEN BONE CHINA melds high quality tea and refinement with a desperate bid for a piece of history resulting in murder. A commitment to characterization and attention to detail make the twentieth Tea Shop Mystery a winner.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
The Twentieth Tea Shop Mystery
A delightful tea for the Top Flight Balloon Club turns deadly when a drone targets one of the hot-air balloons and sends its flaming husk down to the earth. Not only is the Blue Indigo picnic table destroyed, all three occupants of the balloon are killed. As a witness, Theodosia Browning feels compelled to look into the incident, especially when people ask for her help. The attack was surely planned, but was it due to business malfeasance, or an attempt to gain a priceless piece of Americana?
Now in her twentieth outing Theodosia Browning is no stranger to murders...and solving them. In fact, she's recently came to the conclusion that she gets a thrill from investigating. Needless to say, when a murder happens right in front of her, she's going to get involved.
The mystery here was interesting. While it started out as murder...and quite a unique method at that!...it was really about theft. What lengths a person would go to to gain a priceless piece of Americana - a Union Jack flag. A variety of characters made for an interesting suspect pool, from the murdered CEO's right hand man who's been acting hinky, to his flamboyant widow who was poised to be his ex. We can't forget the bidders interested in the flag. Could the staid woman representing a museum or the shady antiques dealer be involved? Or Theo's friend's new fiance?
There was a very modern method of murder here, which I found fascinating...and a bit worrisome. Is anyone safe from these drones? I'm all for the birds of prey snatching them from the sky! I'm sure Theodosia is too! I enjoy creative murders and this certainly was a unique one.
As a tea enthusiast I love reading all the details about the tea and the descriptions of the tea events. What mystery fan wouldn't enjoy a Nancy Drew tea, and history fans, myself included, can gawk over the details of a Beaux Arts tea. It's these details that capture readers and draws them in...and inspires them to return.
I love how Drayton has become more involved and engaged in solving the mystery, while being the staid voice of reason that Theo oftentimes ignores. I love how their partnership and friendship have developed. While Drayton could easily have become a caricature, he's evolved into a real person, albeit persnickety at times, but that's part of his charm.
BROKEN BONE CHINA melds high quality tea and refinement with a desperate bid for a piece of history resulting in murder. A commitment to characterization and attention to detail make the twentieth Tea Shop Mystery a winner.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
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