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Cafe Cinema Mystery Series #1
My Fair Latte
Broke, unemployed barista Halley Greer is shocked when she inherits an Art Deco movie palace from the great uncle she remembers meeting once as a child. She moves to the charming tourist town of Utopia Springs, Arkansas to claim her legacy.
In addition to the timeworn theater, she discovers she's also inherited a trash-heaped apartment, family secrets, her uncle's friends, a stealthy calico kitty-and an adversary.
With a whole latte help from her new friends, the feisty barista fixes up and re-opens the theater as a coffee and wine bar, showing classic films. She generates some steam with a hunky local - and risks getting burned. The opening night of My Fair Lady looks like a big hit, and her new life feels like a bit of movie magic until a customer turns up dead during intermission.
With the cops eyeing her as a suspect, Halley digs into the victim's life and runs into a tangle of blackmail and secrets. Can Halley and her friends unmask a killer before the curtain comes down for keeps?
In addition to the timeworn theater, she discovers she's also inherited a trash-heaped apartment, family secrets, her uncle's friends, a stealthy calico kitty-and an adversary.
With a whole latte help from her new friends, the feisty barista fixes up and re-opens the theater as a coffee and wine bar, showing classic films. She generates some steam with a hunky local - and risks getting burned. The opening night of My Fair Lady looks like a big hit, and her new life feels like a bit of movie magic until a customer turns up dead during intermission.
With the cops eyeing her as a suspect, Halley digs into the victim's life and runs into a tangle of blackmail and secrets. Can Halley and her friends unmask a killer before the curtain comes down for keeps?
- GenresMysteryCozy MysteryCozy
252 pages, Paperback
Published March 3, 2020
29 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Vickie Fee
5 books353 followersVickie Fee is the author of the Liv and Di in Dixie mystery series, published by Kensington. The first entry, Death Crashes the Party, releases December 29, 2015. Vickie grew up in Memphis on a steady diet of Nancy Drew, daydreams and sweet tea. She now lives in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan with her husband. If she cranes her neck slightly, she can see Lake Superior from her office/guest room, where she is hard at work on her next novel. Visit her at www.vickiefee.com and www.Facebook.com/VickieFeeAuthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
December 14, 2019
Halley Greer's great uncle Leon leaves her an old movie theater in Utopia Springs, AR. She has wanted a new direction for her life, and decides to use her experience as a barista to make a go of renovating the Star Movie Palace into a classic movie theater with a coffee and wine bar. Just as she gets started, problems begin. It starts with vandalism, and escalates when a local is murdered in the theater on opening night.
This is the first book by Vickie Fee that I've read....and I loved it! I like Halley as a main character, and the local quirky characters are great! The idea of renovating an old theater, combining classic movies and a coffee bar sounds so cool! The mystery was interesting and kept my attention from start to finish. All in all, a fun, entertaining cozy mystery. I will definitely be reading more of this series! Can't wait for the next book!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Henery Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
This is the first book by Vickie Fee that I've read....and I loved it! I like Halley as a main character, and the local quirky characters are great! The idea of renovating an old theater, combining classic movies and a coffee bar sounds so cool! The mystery was interesting and kept my attention from start to finish. All in all, a fun, entertaining cozy mystery. I will definitely be reading more of this series! Can't wait for the next book!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Henery Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
December 30, 2019
In this bookish ‘cinematic’ debut of ‘My Fair Latte’, the story begins rolling nicely with mystery, humor, and a bit of romance between the pages. Set in the quaint tourist town of Utopia Springs, Arkansas; Halley Greer has inherited an old theater that’s long lost its glamour days. If Halley can get the theater up and running with a small stipend from her great uncle Leon, she can use her barista skills by serving coffee and wine along with showcasing classic films on the big screen.
Halley quickly makes good friends with some of the quirky townspeople who help her with cosmetic updates, and other tender loving care touches the theater needs. I loved the idea of hanging photos of classic film stars sipping coffee around the lobby area!
A dead body puts a damper on opening night and suspicious-acting people pop up everywhere. The author does a fine job of instilling a nostalgic ambiance into the coziness of this murder mystery. I was certainly entertained, and look forward to the next story in the Cafe Cinema Mysteries.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by Edelweiss and Henery Press. Thank you.
Halley quickly makes good friends with some of the quirky townspeople who help her with cosmetic updates, and other tender loving care touches the theater needs. I loved the idea of hanging photos of classic film stars sipping coffee around the lobby area!
A dead body puts a damper on opening night and suspicious-acting people pop up everywhere. The author does a fine job of instilling a nostalgic ambiance into the coziness of this murder mystery. I was certainly entertained, and look forward to the next story in the Cafe Cinema Mysteries.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by Edelweiss and Henery Press. Thank you.
March 4, 2020
Halley Greer has just inherited an Art Deco movie palace in the touristy town of Utopia Springs, Arkansas. She’s decided to turn it into a classic movie theater that features coffee and wine as part of the snack bar options. After weeks or hard work restoring it, she is ready to feature My Fair Lady on opening night. However, during intermission, one of the patrons is found dead in his seat. The police think Halley is a good suspect even though she is new to town. Can she clear her name?
I really enjoyed this series debut. The characters are fantastic. We are making friends along with Halley, and they are a varied lot. I felt we got to know them, and I look forward to spending time with them in future books. The plot was a little slow to get started, but once it did, I was hooked on that as well. I thought I had a couple of things figured out, but I was still surprised by some twists. The suspects are just as strong as the series regulars, and kept me guessing until Halley figured it out. While I’m not much of a coffee or wine drinker, I was drooling over some of the food talked about in the book. The book leaves some hints about things to be explored in future books, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit with these characters.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I really enjoyed this series debut. The characters are fantastic. We are making friends along with Halley, and they are a varied lot. I felt we got to know them, and I look forward to spending time with them in future books. The plot was a little slow to get started, but once it did, I was hooked on that as well. I thought I had a couple of things figured out, but I was still surprised by some twists. The suspects are just as strong as the series regulars, and kept me guessing until Halley figured it out. While I’m not much of a coffee or wine drinker, I was drooling over some of the food talked about in the book. The book leaves some hints about things to be explored in future books, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit with these characters.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
March 27, 2021
This could've been a light, fun, and wholesome 3-3.5 stars book if it wasn't for the big reveal + the ending.
I have a lot of thoughts but I'll try to keep them in a cohesive and short paragraph!
First of all, the premise itself is very interesting and intriguing but the plot itself wasn't done as exciting as I hoped it would be.
Almost all of the characters lacked depth and seemed a bit shallow. It was hard to root for ANY character because they all were suspicious. Even those very kind and friendly characters were suspiciously kind and friendly.
And I hated that the character of Joe was basically a stereotype in a nutshell, AND we keep hearing about him in the 3rd person narration until the very last 3 chapters where we FINALLY hear of him talking and interacting with others. The writing, specially of Joe’s character seemed SO lazy, not creative, and lacked research.
The plot could be full of suspense and plot twists to keep the reader hooked, but it was very predictable instead. And the dialogues are boring, redundant and also lacked depth. It truly felt like the author needed to meet a word count but with no creative outline, and with typos instead!
Unless it's a book series, I don't know why we were investing in Uncle Leon's untold previous conflicts with Halley's family for a while. I understand the philosophy of not getting all the answers in life, stories and all, but it was nagging when you add this minor thing along with everything else, basically.
This is not to discourage anyone from reading and enjoying this light book. But I think my friends and I were so invested in a more creative and well thought guesses and theories of where the book is going. That's why I am disappointed with the ending.
I have a lot of thoughts but I'll try to keep them in a cohesive and short paragraph!
First of all, the premise itself is very interesting and intriguing but the plot itself wasn't done as exciting as I hoped it would be.
Almost all of the characters lacked depth and seemed a bit shallow. It was hard to root for ANY character because they all were suspicious. Even those very kind and friendly characters were suspiciously kind and friendly.
And I hated that the character of Joe was basically a stereotype in a nutshell, AND we keep hearing about him in the 3rd person narration until the very last 3 chapters where we FINALLY hear of him talking and interacting with others. The writing, specially of Joe’s character seemed SO lazy, not creative, and lacked research.
The plot could be full of suspense and plot twists to keep the reader hooked, but it was very predictable instead. And the dialogues are boring, redundant and also lacked depth. It truly felt like the author needed to meet a word count but with no creative outline, and with typos instead!
Unless it's a book series, I don't know why we were investing in Uncle Leon's untold previous conflicts with Halley's family for a while. I understand the philosophy of not getting all the answers in life, stories and all, but it was nagging when you add this minor thing along with everything else, basically.
This is not to discourage anyone from reading and enjoying this light book. But I think my friends and I were so invested in a more creative and well thought guesses and theories of where the book is going. That's why I am disappointed with the ending.
January 23, 2020
I was excited to see a new series from author Vickie Fee. I enjoyed her Liv and Di in Dixie Mysteries and was looking forward to diving into a new world. I was not disappointed. Ms. Fee delivered the quality writing I have come to expect from her. The characters are well written and very likable. The main character, Haley, inherits an old movie theatre that comes with its own challenges. However, she is surrounded by fun and quirky townspeople that add to the nostalgia that Ms. Fee weaves throughout the story. The mystery was well written and kept me engaged and guessing. I am looking forward to more stories in this series.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Edelweiss books.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Edelweiss books.
March 18, 2020
My Fair Latte by Vickie Fee is the debut A Café Cinema Mystery series. Halley Greer has come to Utopia Springs, Arkansas to exam her inheritance from her Great Uncle Leon. Halley was surprised her left her the Star Movie Palace since she had not seen him since she was a child. She has not been able to get the complete story from her mother as to the reason for the estrangement. She is grateful that the art deco movie house includes an apartment. Unfortunately, Leon was not big on housekeeping and had enough items stuffed into the apartment to outfit a thrift store. She quickly makes friends who help her fix up the theater on a limited budget. The attendance is good for opening night of My Fair Lady and patrons seem to like Halley’s addition of the coffee and wine bar. The group is ready to celebrate until a guest is found dead in his seat during intermission. Detective Stedman has Halley at the top of his suspect list. Halley, with help from her friends, works to uncover the victim’s killer. My Fair Latte is a fun cozy mystery with humor, a mystery, and old movie references. Halley is a down on her luck barista who does not have a good relationship with her mother. The inheritance came along at a good time for Halley, but she is surprised that Leon left her the theater. I wish the author had given more background information on Halley. I found it lacking. I hope she will provide more details on Halley in the next A Café Cinema Mystery. Trudy and George Mayfield are delightful people. They are warm, open and kindhearted. Trudy also is a fabulous cook. They are quick to help Halley and Trudy introduces her to Kendra Williams who owns Hidden Clue Escape Rooms (my type of entertainment). The story moved along at a steady pace and I liked Vickie Fee’s conversational writing style. The mystery had some interesting details, but it is a cinch to solve. One little detail gives away the identity of the guilty party. There was misdirection along with suspicious characters who could have done the evil deed. I liked the old movie references and the descriptions of the beautiful art deco details. I thought it was clever to add a coffee and wine bar in the theater (I do not drink either, but I imagine this will attract adult clientele). My Fair Latte is a charming story with art deco décor, magnificent movies, a dear head named Derek, a jumble of junk, interrupted intermission, copious quantities of coffee and a dogged detective.
May 10, 2021
The 1st book in series is about Ha!lie moving to Utopia Springs Arkansa because Hallie great uncle Leon gave Hal!is a old movie theater and his apartment upsgairs. Hallie did not know why Leon gave it her. She really did not see him at all because Hallie mom disowned her family. Hallie met George and Trudy ( Leon oldest friend) and Kendra. They starting becoming great friends.Hallie renovated the old theater she named it Star Movie Palace and coffee and wine bar and candies like rrasinettes and jujbees, and with framed movie stars black and white photos of Clark Gable, Lauren Bacall, Humphrey Bogart Rita Hayworth drinking coffee peering over their coffee mugs and the best one was of Audrey Hepburn holding a paper coffee cup as she looked at jewellery through window in the movie Breakfast at Tiffany's. Hallie put the first movie on projection (with an older lady doing projection Gertrude). My Fair Lady was first movie. At the grand opening a man died. They all thought I'd was a heartattack. Come find out it was not a heartattack. So Hallie friends Trudy Gearge and Kendra tried to find out who had it in for him. I really like this book. Love how she renovated the old movie theater with 1930's movie stars and all the furniture and memorabilia were from a junk shop. That looked new and cheap. Loved how there were a coffee and wine bar in the theater. I would really like to be there to see 1930's movies and get some of popcorn. Will read some more in series
April 4, 2020
I loved this new series by Vickie Fee and what a great start it was! I love the idea of the Cafe Cinema. Definitely a must read! There were twist and turns I didn't see coming. Great loving characters. Can't wait to read book 2!
February 26, 2020
As fun as a trip to the movies! This first installment of the Cafe Cinema Mystery Series does everything a ‘first in the series’ should do – it introduces you to a heartwarming cast of characters and makes you anxious to read their next adventures. The book also provides a puzzling who-dun-it that will keep you guessing from the start to the end. A great book!
https://cozyexperience.com/my-fair-la...
https://cozyexperience.com/my-fair-la...
March 12, 2021
Predictable plot, cringey dialogue, and characters I didn't care about. Bummer.
March 3, 2020
Yes! I loved it! Based on the first book, My Fair Latte, Vickie Fee’s new Café Cinema series is going to be as good as Liv and Di, and I loved that series!! I was excited to have the chance to read and ARC of My Fair Latte. I am always a bit nervous about approaching a new series by an author I love, but My Fair Latte was as good as I hoped. I fell in love with a core of town’s people immediately as well as the stars and can't wait to spend more time with all of them. The mystery was as well plotted and unexpected as any of her work and had me suspecting half the town. (mild exaggeration). If you are already a fan, enjoy a well-plotted cozy, or love characters that really pull you in, you will be as captivated by Vickie Fee's newest characters as I was.
Thanks to Edelweiss, Henery Press, and author Vickie Fee for allowing me to read an ARC of this delightful book!
Thanks to Edelweiss, Henery Press, and author Vickie Fee for allowing me to read an ARC of this delightful book!
October 21, 2019
At first I thought that this was going to be the same old inherited-a-business-from-a-distant-relative plot, but this story turned out different enough that I had to keep reading, and I'm glad I did. What unfolded was a really good and very entertaining and humanizing story. I love the friendship of Kendra and Hallie and their shared losses. Hallie's strained relationship with her parents is very relatable, and I look forward to reading more about that in future books. Some timeline discrepancies in the books, but nothing that fully detracted from the story itself, which was entertaining and fun to read.
March 2, 2020
My Fair Latte earns 5/5 Old Movie Screenings...Entertaining & Engaging!
Unemployment is frustrating, broke is scary, but good fortune has shined its light on twenty-something Halley Greer’s cloudy future. She inherited from her Great-Uncle Leon a “much need of repairs” golden-age of movies theater and an upstairs apartment also in need of a “bit of bleach and air freshener.” She’s a “between gigs” barista, so running the Star Movie Palace is a daunting idea, but she’s also inherited his friends, a friendly calico cat, and a trust fund that just might cover costs to renovate the theater and make Utopia Springs, Arkansas home. Her proposal is to combine the screening of vintage movies with a coffee café and wine bar...brilliant! But, it’s a cozy “mystery,” and as exciting it is to join Halley on her journey of opening a new business, making friends, and maybe finding a bit of romance, a dead body does cause a roadblock.
Vicki Fee is a favorite author and her first book in A Café Cinema Mystery series is a hit! Her writing style is rich with descriptive language clearly painting the town, the theater before and after, characters’ looks and mannerisms, and Halley’s inner thoughts. Although the narrative is engaging and creative, she doesn’t stop there; her expressive dialogue provides humor and character connections and illustrates personalities. The murder occurs later in the book than I prefer, but until it did, I was totally engaging; I understand that first-in-a-series books have a lot to introduce: characters, basic background, and hints of conflict. I love the characters Vicki created, each with strengths and weaknesses, wants and needs, and lots of room to develop and grow. At the end of the book is a “don’t miss” Author’s Note, and to get your book club discussion going she has provided a great Reader’s Discussion Guide. This was a great beginning and I look forward to more!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Henery Press thru EdelweissPlus. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Unemployment is frustrating, broke is scary, but good fortune has shined its light on twenty-something Halley Greer’s cloudy future. She inherited from her Great-Uncle Leon a “much need of repairs” golden-age of movies theater and an upstairs apartment also in need of a “bit of bleach and air freshener.” She’s a “between gigs” barista, so running the Star Movie Palace is a daunting idea, but she’s also inherited his friends, a friendly calico cat, and a trust fund that just might cover costs to renovate the theater and make Utopia Springs, Arkansas home. Her proposal is to combine the screening of vintage movies with a coffee café and wine bar...brilliant! But, it’s a cozy “mystery,” and as exciting it is to join Halley on her journey of opening a new business, making friends, and maybe finding a bit of romance, a dead body does cause a roadblock.
Vicki Fee is a favorite author and her first book in A Café Cinema Mystery series is a hit! Her writing style is rich with descriptive language clearly painting the town, the theater before and after, characters’ looks and mannerisms, and Halley’s inner thoughts. Although the narrative is engaging and creative, she doesn’t stop there; her expressive dialogue provides humor and character connections and illustrates personalities. The murder occurs later in the book than I prefer, but until it did, I was totally engaging; I understand that first-in-a-series books have a lot to introduce: characters, basic background, and hints of conflict. I love the characters Vicki created, each with strengths and weaknesses, wants and needs, and lots of room to develop and grow. At the end of the book is a “don’t miss” Author’s Note, and to get your book club discussion going she has provided a great Reader’s Discussion Guide. This was a great beginning and I look forward to more!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Henery Press thru EdelweissPlus. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
April 12, 2021
I loved this premise of a coffee/wine bar in an old cinema. Fee does an excellent job of sprinkling allusions to old movies throughout the novel, which I enjoyed. The cozy setting of Utopia Springs (such a charming location) was even inspired by an actual town.
This whodunit left me guessing who the culprit was until the very end. I liked the trail of clues and red herrings, although I’m surprised by how much help Halley received—she’s got a whole sleuthing team behind her. One minor point is that I wish the detective was more affable and effective in the story, but I suppose that’s just his personality.
I appreciated the hidden depth of the main character as she copes with grief and handles the complicated relationships with her family. It was interesting to see Halley develop a little throughout the book and find her own place in the world.
A uniquely set mystery that involves a contemporary heroine against the backdrop of classic movies.
This whodunit left me guessing who the culprit was until the very end. I liked the trail of clues and red herrings, although I’m surprised by how much help Halley received—she’s got a whole sleuthing team behind her. One minor point is that I wish the detective was more affable and effective in the story, but I suppose that’s just his personality.
I appreciated the hidden depth of the main character as she copes with grief and handles the complicated relationships with her family. It was interesting to see Halley develop a little throughout the book and find her own place in the world.
A uniquely set mystery that involves a contemporary heroine against the backdrop of classic movies.
didn-t-finish
October 19, 2020The words “Cary Grant”. He’s my favorite old movie dude “. Should never be in print or spoken out loud. I am an Old Hollywood purist and when I read two characters, grown women in their thirties, using these types of descriptions for actors or movies of this time period it’s fingernails on the chalkboard.
October 24, 2020
A theater hit
If you love old movies, historic cinemas, and a bit of murder, this book is for you. It was fun seeing an old movie theater in a touristy town being brought back to life. But it wasn’t just all cinema, popcorn and chocolate covered raisins. What could be worse than a dead body in the audience on opening night. Read My Fair Latte to find out what happens.
If you love old movies, historic cinemas, and a bit of murder, this book is for you. It was fun seeing an old movie theater in a touristy town being brought back to life. But it wasn’t just all cinema, popcorn and chocolate covered raisins. What could be worse than a dead body in the audience on opening night. Read My Fair Latte to find out what happens.
June 3, 2020
A bit formulaic, though the characters, especially Halley, were interesting. The murder plot was weak and the murderer not that much of a surprise. The ending seemed rushed and somehow just fell flat.
December 6, 2019
I received a digital ARC of this title from Edelweiss for an honest review
Halley is a barista that's just stumbling through life. When she inherits an old movie theatre from the great uncle she hasn't seen since she was right years old, she decides to move to Utopia Springs in Arkansas and make a go of it. But on her opening night, a patron is found dead in his seat at intermission and suddenly Halley feels like the main suspect.
You'll root for Halley as she builds up her business, makes friends, and solves a murder in this start to a new series by Vickie Fee. The characters are fun and the plot is solid.
However, I felt the writing left a lot to be desired here. Most of the time, the characters felt very one-dimensional and the dialogue was stilted. However, the plot and setting were good.
Halley is a barista that's just stumbling through life. When she inherits an old movie theatre from the great uncle she hasn't seen since she was right years old, she decides to move to Utopia Springs in Arkansas and make a go of it. But on her opening night, a patron is found dead in his seat at intermission and suddenly Halley feels like the main suspect.
You'll root for Halley as she builds up her business, makes friends, and solves a murder in this start to a new series by Vickie Fee. The characters are fun and the plot is solid.
However, I felt the writing left a lot to be desired here. Most of the time, the characters felt very one-dimensional and the dialogue was stilted. However, the plot and setting were good.
October 23, 2019
Halley Greer’s Great-Uncle Leon bequeathed the Star Movie Palace to her. Far past it’s prime, the theater is a faded princess that time has not been kind to. But there is something about the small town of Utopia Springs and the hopes of reviving the theater that makes Halley want to stay. She has dreams of playing old classic movies and serving wine and coffees in the lobby. She is a great barista and wants to use her talents to support herself doing something she loves.
After a rocky start, she begins making friends and connections in the tourist laden town. When someone vandalizes her newly renovated theater, she begins to wonder if her dreams will be dashed, but she perseveres. Having high hopes for opening night, Halley was elated when locals and tourists filled the theater. Unfortunately, during the intermission, one of the patrons was found dead in his seat.
When the police department focuses on her as their main suspect, Halley and her new friends begin a bit of sleuthing. Will she become the next victim by getting too close to the truth?
Ms. Fee drew me into the story immediately. The characters are quirky, funny and realistic. I was amused by the hotel owner who pretends to be British. And who doesn’t like a cat with the name Eartha Kitty? Like all cozies, there is a bit of romance flirting at the edge of the mystery. There is also a great historical twist featuring the infamous outlaw Jesse James that is totally plausible.
The small-town setting is perfect for a new cozy series. It is vintage but not old fashioned. There is entertainment for tourists and locals alike as well as eateries and shops. The nostalgic nod to the past with classic movies is interesting and fun. It reminded me of more than one classic film I would love to see again on the big screen.
Vicki Fee is the author of the A Liv and Di in Dixie Mystery Series. My Fair Latte is the first book in the Café Cinema Mystery Series and the first one I have read from this author. Her sharp wit, interesting story and fun characters are perfectly balanced and I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy for free from Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review. Copyright © 2019 Laura Hartman
After a rocky start, she begins making friends and connections in the tourist laden town. When someone vandalizes her newly renovated theater, she begins to wonder if her dreams will be dashed, but she perseveres. Having high hopes for opening night, Halley was elated when locals and tourists filled the theater. Unfortunately, during the intermission, one of the patrons was found dead in his seat.
When the police department focuses on her as their main suspect, Halley and her new friends begin a bit of sleuthing. Will she become the next victim by getting too close to the truth?
Ms. Fee drew me into the story immediately. The characters are quirky, funny and realistic. I was amused by the hotel owner who pretends to be British. And who doesn’t like a cat with the name Eartha Kitty? Like all cozies, there is a bit of romance flirting at the edge of the mystery. There is also a great historical twist featuring the infamous outlaw Jesse James that is totally plausible.
The small-town setting is perfect for a new cozy series. It is vintage but not old fashioned. There is entertainment for tourists and locals alike as well as eateries and shops. The nostalgic nod to the past with classic movies is interesting and fun. It reminded me of more than one classic film I would love to see again on the big screen.
Vicki Fee is the author of the A Liv and Di in Dixie Mystery Series. My Fair Latte is the first book in the Café Cinema Mystery Series and the first one I have read from this author. Her sharp wit, interesting story and fun characters are perfectly balanced and I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy for free from Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review. Copyright © 2019 Laura Hartman
February 18, 2020
Vickie Fee gives us a fun cozy mystery with lots of friendly characters and enough suspects to keep the reader busy trying to solve the crimes before the author reveals the guilty parties.
Halley Greer has just inherited her Uncle Leon’s single-screen movie theater. The theater had seen better days - and now needed some work if it was return to a functioning business. Halley Greer and the community of Utopia Springs AR were willing to invest their time and energy cleaning, painting, and re-modeling to make the space useable, if not quite up to its former glory. Along with classic films, Halley chose to make the theater a showcase of local cuisine - coffee, wine, bread, and pastries.
Opening night appeared to be a success. The three-hour movie My Fair Lady was the opening show, the theater was sold out, patrons were indulging in the available snacks, and Halley was excited. At least until the intermission - that was when the body was found sitting in the auditorium, the dead body.
The story held this reader’s interest. Suspects ranged from Halley to the son of the family who owned the Chinese restaurant. The police kept searching for clues - but it was the work of Halley and her friends that would finally allow the pieces to fall into place.
Though the community of Utopia Springs was nice, I was disappointed that the beverages of choice were beer and wine - though the theater had its own coffee bar and also served fountain drinks to those too young to imbibe. Coffee and soda were available, but we rarely see individuals drinking anything but beer and wine - lots of beer and wine. It would be enough to keep this reader from wanting to visit this tourist-centered village. And it is enough that this reader would not consider adding this book to his personal library. It is also why I would only give this book 3-½ stars.
______________
This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Halley Greer has just inherited her Uncle Leon’s single-screen movie theater. The theater had seen better days - and now needed some work if it was return to a functioning business. Halley Greer and the community of Utopia Springs AR were willing to invest their time and energy cleaning, painting, and re-modeling to make the space useable, if not quite up to its former glory. Along with classic films, Halley chose to make the theater a showcase of local cuisine - coffee, wine, bread, and pastries.
Opening night appeared to be a success. The three-hour movie My Fair Lady was the opening show, the theater was sold out, patrons were indulging in the available snacks, and Halley was excited. At least until the intermission - that was when the body was found sitting in the auditorium, the dead body.
The story held this reader’s interest. Suspects ranged from Halley to the son of the family who owned the Chinese restaurant. The police kept searching for clues - but it was the work of Halley and her friends that would finally allow the pieces to fall into place.
Though the community of Utopia Springs was nice, I was disappointed that the beverages of choice were beer and wine - though the theater had its own coffee bar and also served fountain drinks to those too young to imbibe. Coffee and soda were available, but we rarely see individuals drinking anything but beer and wine - lots of beer and wine. It would be enough to keep this reader from wanting to visit this tourist-centered village. And it is enough that this reader would not consider adding this book to his personal library. It is also why I would only give this book 3-½ stars.
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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
February 18, 2020
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 3.0 of 5
Halley Greer has inherited a movie theatre in Utopia Spring, Arkansas from an uncle that she hasn't seen in a very long time. With no other decent prospect (business or romantic) happening in her life, she visits the theatre and decides to try to restore it to its previous glory.
Halley makes some good friends with neighboring businesses (and a possible romantic partner?) and everything seems to be going well ... until a patron dies in her theatre on opening night. She doesn't know the patron, but given the way the local police respond to the incident, Halley feels like she is the prime suspect in their eyes. This clearly means that she needs to provide them an alternative possible suspect. But finding a suspect who has already proven they are willing to commit murder is dangerous.
I've really been enjoying the mystery books published by Henery Press. I haven't read all their titles or series, but those that I have read I find to be well-written with charming characters. This title is no different. Halley, a bit of an innocent goody-two-shoes steps into something a little bigger than she can possibly imagine. But she finds support from new-found friends and her natural drive to follow through (as well as some nicely timed luck) help her to safely succeed.
I was interested in this title because of the themes suggested by the title. I'm interested in old films, musicals, and coffee. This seemed like a sure winner!
But I found that the similarities between this book and another in Henery Press's own catalog, just a little too close. I read and reviewed Murder at the Palace by Margaret Dumas back in July of 2019, and that particular title was strong enough to have made a very good impression on me and I couldn't help but constantly compare the two as I read. And in this case, Dumas's book was just a little stronger.
While I really liked the deeper story here, the whole Jesse James connection really didn't tie very well with the "My Fair Latte" title and theme. I also didn't think that the 'latte' theme was very well realized here.
I like the idea of a mystery with movie theatres and coffee and I like the idea of a mystery with historical figures such as Jesse James and possible hidden treasure. But perhaps trying to do all of this is just a little too much for one cozy mystery of 250 pages.
Looking for a good book? My Fair Latte by Vickie Fee holds the promise of an interesting new mystery series but this first title tries to do a little too much.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.
Halley Greer has inherited a movie theatre in Utopia Spring, Arkansas from an uncle that she hasn't seen in a very long time. With no other decent prospect (business or romantic) happening in her life, she visits the theatre and decides to try to restore it to its previous glory.
Halley makes some good friends with neighboring businesses (and a possible romantic partner?) and everything seems to be going well ... until a patron dies in her theatre on opening night. She doesn't know the patron, but given the way the local police respond to the incident, Halley feels like she is the prime suspect in their eyes. This clearly means that she needs to provide them an alternative possible suspect. But finding a suspect who has already proven they are willing to commit murder is dangerous.
I've really been enjoying the mystery books published by Henery Press. I haven't read all their titles or series, but those that I have read I find to be well-written with charming characters. This title is no different. Halley, a bit of an innocent goody-two-shoes steps into something a little bigger than she can possibly imagine. But she finds support from new-found friends and her natural drive to follow through (as well as some nicely timed luck) help her to safely succeed.
I was interested in this title because of the themes suggested by the title. I'm interested in old films, musicals, and coffee. This seemed like a sure winner!
But I found that the similarities between this book and another in Henery Press's own catalog, just a little too close. I read and reviewed Murder at the Palace by Margaret Dumas back in July of 2019, and that particular title was strong enough to have made a very good impression on me and I couldn't help but constantly compare the two as I read. And in this case, Dumas's book was just a little stronger.
While I really liked the deeper story here, the whole Jesse James connection really didn't tie very well with the "My Fair Latte" title and theme. I also didn't think that the 'latte' theme was very well realized here.
I like the idea of a mystery with movie theatres and coffee and I like the idea of a mystery with historical figures such as Jesse James and possible hidden treasure. But perhaps trying to do all of this is just a little too much for one cozy mystery of 250 pages.
Looking for a good book? My Fair Latte by Vickie Fee holds the promise of an interesting new mystery series but this first title tries to do a little too much.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2020
Here’s an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a new cozy mystery series by an established author, Vickie Fee. In My Fair Latte, Halley Greer inherits an old theater from an uncle she barely knew. Immediately, the reason for this bequest to Halley arises as a background puzzle, but the real mystery centers around vandalism and murder in the theater that Halley is working hard to resurrect as a business that combines her two passions—old movies and coffee.
The residents of the little tourist town of Utopia Springs, Arkansas, welcome Halley and encourage her in her new business. She has to clean up both the theater and the upstairs apartment, quite an undertaking as her uncle was a hoarder. Favorite characters are George and Trudy, local artists who take her under their wing, and Kendra who owns the escape room business across the street. There are several romantic interests as well.
I enjoyed meeting the residents of Utopia Springs and watching Halley develop her creative ideas on a shoe string budget. It was great to witness her new friends pitching in to help, building community around her. As the police seem to suspect Halley, she and Kendra investigate to try to put the focus on other possibilities. I found myself doing that myself, but missed the mark until the end. Eartha Kitty, another inheritance from Uncle Leon, has an important role in the story. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, but hoping that I won’t gain weight just reading about the huge, fresh cinnamon rolls that are a staple in Halley’s breakfast routine.
I would like to extend my thanks to Edelweiss and to Henery Press for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The residents of the little tourist town of Utopia Springs, Arkansas, welcome Halley and encourage her in her new business. She has to clean up both the theater and the upstairs apartment, quite an undertaking as her uncle was a hoarder. Favorite characters are George and Trudy, local artists who take her under their wing, and Kendra who owns the escape room business across the street. There are several romantic interests as well.
I enjoyed meeting the residents of Utopia Springs and watching Halley develop her creative ideas on a shoe string budget. It was great to witness her new friends pitching in to help, building community around her. As the police seem to suspect Halley, she and Kendra investigate to try to put the focus on other possibilities. I found myself doing that myself, but missed the mark until the end. Eartha Kitty, another inheritance from Uncle Leon, has an important role in the story. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, but hoping that I won’t gain weight just reading about the huge, fresh cinnamon rolls that are a staple in Halley’s breakfast routine.
I would like to extend my thanks to Edelweiss and to Henery Press for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 29, 2020
📖 BOOK REVIEW⠀📚
BOOK: My Fair Latte
AUTHOR: Vickie Fee
#VickieFee
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Published: March 3, 2020
https://amzn.to/2VyJefM
Vickie is a new cozy detective author to me and I was so glad to discover her. This is the first book in a new series, and I am literally so excited to read more of these characters. Alongside the fact that I too have always wanted to own a movie theater, the story pulled me in and made me fall in love with the community of characters.
This aspect always draws me into these types of stories, and more importantly, do I want to really invest my time in them. In this case… YES!!!! It’s an easy read with an enjoyable twist. Plus coffee.. Because a book without coffee is just not fair….
Small Summary:
Broke, unemployed barista Halley Greer is shocked when she inherits an Art Deco movie palace from the great uncle she remembers meeting once as a child. She moves to the charming tourist town of Utopia Springs, Arkansas to claim her legacy.
In addition to the timeworn theater, she discovers she's also inherited a trash-heaped apartment, family secrets, her uncle's friends, a stealthy calico kitty-and an adversary.
With a whole latte help from her new friends, the feisty barista fixes up and re-opens the theater as a coffee and wine bar, showing classic films. She generates some steam with a hunky local - and risks getting burned. The opening night of My Fair Lady looks like a big hit, and her new life feels like a bit of movie magic until a customer turns up dead during intermission.
*****
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Received from Edelweiss.
BOOK: My Fair Latte
AUTHOR: Vickie Fee
#VickieFee
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Published: March 3, 2020
https://amzn.to/2VyJefM
Vickie is a new cozy detective author to me and I was so glad to discover her. This is the first book in a new series, and I am literally so excited to read more of these characters. Alongside the fact that I too have always wanted to own a movie theater, the story pulled me in and made me fall in love with the community of characters.
This aspect always draws me into these types of stories, and more importantly, do I want to really invest my time in them. In this case… YES!!!! It’s an easy read with an enjoyable twist. Plus coffee.. Because a book without coffee is just not fair….
Small Summary:
Broke, unemployed barista Halley Greer is shocked when she inherits an Art Deco movie palace from the great uncle she remembers meeting once as a child. She moves to the charming tourist town of Utopia Springs, Arkansas to claim her legacy.
In addition to the timeworn theater, she discovers she's also inherited a trash-heaped apartment, family secrets, her uncle's friends, a stealthy calico kitty-and an adversary.
With a whole latte help from her new friends, the feisty barista fixes up and re-opens the theater as a coffee and wine bar, showing classic films. She generates some steam with a hunky local - and risks getting burned. The opening night of My Fair Lady looks like a big hit, and her new life feels like a bit of movie magic until a customer turns up dead during intermission.
*****
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Received from Edelweiss.
March 3, 2020
This is a really great start to a new fun mystery series. It is set in an old-time movie cinema in the town of Utopia Springs, Arkansas.
Halley Greer has just inherited the cinema from her uncle who she just barely remembers from a visit when she was quite young. She is both shocked at the bequest and then shocked again at the the condition of the cinema and the apartment she moves into which is on the upper floor of the cinema.
Let’s just say that Uncle Leon was the best housekeeper on the block. Maybe the worst but certainly not the best.
Halley doesn’t have much choice as she is unemployed and her former roommate had left her in the lurch without paying two months of rent.
While the town is small, there are tourists and Halley determines a way to make a go of the cinema and to add a coffee counter as well, which utilizes her barista skills. She gets a lot of help from neighbors who knew Leon well. George and Trudy are two older individuals who seem to almost adopt her and give her a lot of sage advice.
Not everything is rosy but things seem going well until a customer drops dead during the fantastic first showing of a great classic movie. Suspicion falls on Halley and then others. Halley works to clear her name and the suspicion that falls on her new business.
This was a fun book to read and I look forward to others in the series in the future. I was left wondering what was going to happen to individuals which is always a great sign that I enjoyed the book.
I was provided a digital advance reader copy of this book by the publisher via Edelweiss.
Halley Greer has just inherited the cinema from her uncle who she just barely remembers from a visit when she was quite young. She is both shocked at the bequest and then shocked again at the the condition of the cinema and the apartment she moves into which is on the upper floor of the cinema.
Let’s just say that Uncle Leon was the best housekeeper on the block. Maybe the worst but certainly not the best.
Halley doesn’t have much choice as she is unemployed and her former roommate had left her in the lurch without paying two months of rent.
While the town is small, there are tourists and Halley determines a way to make a go of the cinema and to add a coffee counter as well, which utilizes her barista skills. She gets a lot of help from neighbors who knew Leon well. George and Trudy are two older individuals who seem to almost adopt her and give her a lot of sage advice.
Not everything is rosy but things seem going well until a customer drops dead during the fantastic first showing of a great classic movie. Suspicion falls on Halley and then others. Halley works to clear her name and the suspicion that falls on her new business.
This was a fun book to read and I look forward to others in the series in the future. I was left wondering what was going to happen to individuals which is always a great sign that I enjoyed the book.
I was provided a digital advance reader copy of this book by the publisher via Edelweiss.
March 27, 2020
My Fair Latte is the first book in the Cafe Cinema mystery series by author Vickie Fee. I had previously read a couple of books in Fee’s other series, Liv and Di in Dixie, and enjoyed those so I was looking forward to this book when I heard about it’s upcoming release.
I am happy to say that I was not disappointed. I really enjoyed this book and loved that the setting was an old movie theater and coffee/wine bar. I think Fee did a terrific job creating characters that I immediately identified with and came to care deeply about what happens to them. I thought the mystery was also well done and was blown away when the killer was revealed. It was definitely not someone that was on my radar.
I highly recommend this book and hope that this is a series that will continue for many books. I look forward to reading more books in the Cafe Cinema mystery series.
I am happy to say that I was not disappointed. I really enjoyed this book and loved that the setting was an old movie theater and coffee/wine bar. I think Fee did a terrific job creating characters that I immediately identified with and came to care deeply about what happens to them. I thought the mystery was also well done and was blown away when the killer was revealed. It was definitely not someone that was on my radar.
I highly recommend this book and hope that this is a series that will continue for many books. I look forward to reading more books in the Cafe Cinema mystery series.
June 23, 2024
This book cover is SO cute. Very sweet how there was a use of a classic like My Fair Lady and coffee culture mixed into the title, it’s truly why I picked up this book! I enjoyed the use of language around food and liquids in this novel. I could picture making, eating, and consuming the large cinnamon rolls that Halley ate at the Muffin Man almost daily. What took me out of the world of this novel was the transitions. I did not enjoy the disconnect I felt with the character moving from place to place. I also felt there could have been a bigger emphasis on My Fair Lady used in this book. I felt it was more of an after thought to remind the audience the stories connection to its title than a realized story arch throughout. This book had an awesome idea! I personally do not feel its potential was realized 🌂
April 17, 2020
Halley Greer has just inherited an art deco movie palace and is turning it into a classic movie theater that serves coffee and wine. Sadly, on opening night (My Fair Lady is showing), one of the patrons is found dead in his seat. And the police are suspecting newcomer Halley.
The characters in this novel are some of the most interesting and delightful I've met in a long time. The plot was a little slow to get started, but the author made up for the slow start and provided a couple of twists I didn't see coming.
I enjoy both coffee and wine, and I loved the food descriptions. Perhaps the novel is best read with one or the other in hand.
The characters in this novel are some of the most interesting and delightful I've met in a long time. The plot was a little slow to get started, but the author made up for the slow start and provided a couple of twists I didn't see coming.
I enjoy both coffee and wine, and I loved the food descriptions. Perhaps the novel is best read with one or the other in hand.
March 24, 2020
An excellent start for a new series that kept me hooked till the end.
It's well written, entertaining and engrossing.
The cast of characters is likeable and well written, the setting lovely and I like to read about old movies and the old stories.
The plot is full of red herring, twists and turns and the solution came as a surprise. The mystery is solid and there's no plot hole.
An excellent read, can't wait to read the next instalment.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Henery Press and Edelweiss for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
It's well written, entertaining and engrossing.
The cast of characters is likeable and well written, the setting lovely and I like to read about old movies and the old stories.
The plot is full of red herring, twists and turns and the solution came as a surprise. The mystery is solid and there's no plot hole.
An excellent read, can't wait to read the next instalment.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Henery Press and Edelweiss for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
October 6, 2020
First book in a new cozy mystery series. It was a pleasant read and I really like the setting of a reclaimed movie theatre being set up to show classic movies combined with a coffee/wine bar. Halley Greer inherits the old building in Utopia Springs, Arkansas from her uncle Leon and it couldn't have happened at a better time....broke and unemployed this is maybe her chance to start over. Course finding a dead man during intermission of her opening of Cafe Cinema is not what Halley was looking for!
May 22, 2021
As a fan of Fee's other series, I was excited to read this book, and it didn't disappoint. The idea of an old movie theatre with a wine and coffee bar is brilliant (wish someone would open on near me). The characters were well written, and the setting was quaint. The historical tie-in was interesting, if extremely far-fetched. The solution eluded me until the same moment (maybe a few pages before) that it hit Halley, which is also a good sign in a mystery for me. I sincerely hope there is a follow-up book coming.
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