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Tea Shop Mystery #21
Lavender Blue Murder
Tea-Maven Theodosia Browning brews up trouble in the latest Tea Shop Mystery from
New York Times
bestselling author Laura Childs.
Tea maven Theodosia Browning and her tea sommelier Drayton Conneley are guests at a bird hunt styled in the precise manner of an English shooting party. Which means elevenses (sloe gin fizzes), gun loaders, the drawing of pegs, fine looking bird dogs, and shooting costumes of tweed, herringbone, and suede.
But as gunshots explode like a riff of Black Cat firecrackers, another shot sounds too close for comfort to Theodosia and Drayton. Intrigued but worried, Theodosia wanders into the neighbor's lavender field where she discovers their host, Reginald Doyle, bleeding to death.
His wife, Meredith, is beside herself with grief and begs Theodosia and Drayton to stay the night. But Theodosia awakens at 2:00A.M. to find smoke in her room and the house on fire. As the fire department screams in and the investigating sheriff returns, Meredith again pleads with Theodosia for help.
As Theodosia investigates, fingers are pointed, secrets are uncovered, Reginald's daughter-in-law goes missing presumed drowned, and Meredith is determined to find answers via a s�ance. All the while Theodosia worries if she's made a mistake in inviting a prime suspect to her upscale Lavender Lady Tea.
INCLUDES DELICIOUS RECIPES AND TEA TIME TIPS!
Tea maven Theodosia Browning and her tea sommelier Drayton Conneley are guests at a bird hunt styled in the precise manner of an English shooting party. Which means elevenses (sloe gin fizzes), gun loaders, the drawing of pegs, fine looking bird dogs, and shooting costumes of tweed, herringbone, and suede.
But as gunshots explode like a riff of Black Cat firecrackers, another shot sounds too close for comfort to Theodosia and Drayton. Intrigued but worried, Theodosia wanders into the neighbor's lavender field where she discovers their host, Reginald Doyle, bleeding to death.
His wife, Meredith, is beside herself with grief and begs Theodosia and Drayton to stay the night. But Theodosia awakens at 2:00A.M. to find smoke in her room and the house on fire. As the fire department screams in and the investigating sheriff returns, Meredith again pleads with Theodosia for help.
As Theodosia investigates, fingers are pointed, secrets are uncovered, Reginald's daughter-in-law goes missing presumed drowned, and Meredith is determined to find answers via a s�ance. All the while Theodosia worries if she's made a mistake in inviting a prime suspect to her upscale Lavender Lady Tea.
INCLUDES DELICIOUS RECIPES AND TEA TIME TIPS!
450 pages, Library Binding
First published March 3, 2020
660 people are currently reading
1390 people want to read
About the author
Laura Childs
93 books2,253 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 345 reviews
April 8, 2020
3.5 Stars!
Loved the dynamics between Theodosia and Riley. Scenes between them were so entertaining and comical. I loved her snarky attitude.
Lots of characters that I definitely lost track of who was who, leaving me totally surprised who the killer was. I didn’t even really remember the person to be totally honest.
This was #21 in a series and I read it without reading any of the previous books. I thought it worked well as a standalone but I think I would have liked it better if I would have grown with the characters.
The mystery was okay. Really enjoyed the recipes and the tea time tips.
Love that title and the cover is so pretty!
Loved the dynamics between Theodosia and Riley. Scenes between them were so entertaining and comical. I loved her snarky attitude.
Lots of characters that I definitely lost track of who was who, leaving me totally surprised who the killer was. I didn’t even really remember the person to be totally honest.
This was #21 in a series and I read it without reading any of the previous books. I thought it worked well as a standalone but I think I would have liked it better if I would have grown with the characters.
The mystery was okay. Really enjoyed the recipes and the tea time tips.
Love that title and the cover is so pretty!
February 5, 2020
In this 21st installment of Child’s Tea Shop mysteries, we once again find Theodosia Browning and her friends caught up in solving another murder. While attending a British themed bird hunt at the Creekmore Plantation, tea shop owner Theodosia and her tea sommelier, Drayton Conneley, hear a gunshot not meant for the birds. They soon discover the body of Reginald Doyle, the owner of the plantation, in a nearby lavender field. When the widow asks them to spend the night, they narrowly escape a suspicious fire that burns the plantation house to the ground. When Doyle’s widow asks Theodosia to investigate, she readily accepts and is soon on a chase to find the killer, before he or she strikes again.
With a plethora of suspects and even more southern charm, this latest addition to the series won’t fail to entertain. The Gone With the Wind tea and a Lavender Lady tea, along with all the recipes and entertaining tips at the end, will inspire the readers to at least throw their own tea party if they don’t have a ready-made murder of their own to solve.
Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the e-ARC
With a plethora of suspects and even more southern charm, this latest addition to the series won’t fail to entertain. The Gone With the Wind tea and a Lavender Lady tea, along with all the recipes and entertaining tips at the end, will inspire the readers to at least throw their own tea party if they don’t have a ready-made murder of their own to solve.
Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the e-ARC
March 4, 2020
For me, it’s a no brainer when a new book from author Laura Childs is released. I get the book. They have become “go to” reads. So I was excited to finally read LAVENDER BLUE MURDER.
As with the rest of the Tea Shop Mystery series, this was a well written (author Laura Childs doesn’t know how to do it any other way) tale that was so vivid, I could see the images, hear the sounds, and smell the delightful food. From one scene to the next, there was a mixture of fun, drama, and excitement. The mystery aspect of the story was wonderfully plotted, leading me down many wrong paths before the surprising reveal.
As would have been with Theo’s aunt Libby, the theme of this one, a bird hunt styled English shooting party, didn’t excite me. I deplore hunting. That being said, I read the book and certainly enjoyed it. I did want to stop reading at one point, but instead skimmed past it. This view is my personal opinion. It’s not meant to deter you away from the book.
The Tea Shop Mysteries are like a good, strong cup of tea. The longer you let it steep, the stronger it becomes. At book twenty-one in the series, LAVENDAR BLUE MURDER is the strongest brewed to date.
As with the rest of the Tea Shop Mystery series, this was a well written (author Laura Childs doesn’t know how to do it any other way) tale that was so vivid, I could see the images, hear the sounds, and smell the delightful food. From one scene to the next, there was a mixture of fun, drama, and excitement. The mystery aspect of the story was wonderfully plotted, leading me down many wrong paths before the surprising reveal.
As would have been with Theo’s aunt Libby, the theme of this one, a bird hunt styled English shooting party, didn’t excite me. I deplore hunting. That being said, I read the book and certainly enjoyed it. I did want to stop reading at one point, but instead skimmed past it. This view is my personal opinion. It’s not meant to deter you away from the book.
The Tea Shop Mysteries are like a good, strong cup of tea. The longer you let it steep, the stronger it becomes. At book twenty-one in the series, LAVENDAR BLUE MURDER is the strongest brewed to date.
February 2, 2020
I have enjoyed this series and these characters in previous novels. The author, Laura Childs does an excellent job of weaving Charleston throughout the book, so you can feel as if you are there. While I’m not positive about every twist and turn, most of her descriptions of streets and names are accurate and leave me with the sense of once again visiting the city.
The same interesting characters of Theodosia, tea shop owner, Drayton, tea sommelier, and Haley, chef to the tea room are present here, but they take a back seat to the ever growing series of disasters that befall the widow of the murder victim. While some of these additional disasters were easily accepted, after a point they begin to feel not only contrived but excessive to the point of straining belief beyond where it could go.
It didn’t help any that I could not develop any sense of sympathy for the widow. In one paragraph, she is described as elegantly dressed and imperious while in the next paragraph she becomes a weeping, shaking mess who cannot keep her emotions in check and must rely on Theodosia, a virtual strange, to provide assistance and comfort. My suspension of disbelief was stretched beyond it’s limit when Childs involved the Charleston police department in the kidnapping portion of the book (did I mention there were an overabundance of crises?). It is inconceivable to me that a police department would set up surveillance to try and catch a kidnapper in the midst of a ticketed tea party and that the owner of the tea shop would allow them to do so at the risk of her businesses’ reputation.
Theodosia’s actions also become increasingly frantic and unbelievable as the book continues. While it is easy to accept in the realm of cozy fiction that a tea shop owner could take an interest in solving murders, some of her actions, culminating in a mad car chase through the wetlands of the low country stretched that acceptance too far.
I had figured out the murderer long before the end of the book, but wanted to read to the end to see how everything was resolved and revealed. The murder itself was well plotted, and would have been more enjoyable to me without the trite overworked phrases that were included throughout the book.
My thanks to Berkley Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced digital reader copy of this novel in exchange for an unbiased review.
The same interesting characters of Theodosia, tea shop owner, Drayton, tea sommelier, and Haley, chef to the tea room are present here, but they take a back seat to the ever growing series of disasters that befall the widow of the murder victim. While some of these additional disasters were easily accepted, after a point they begin to feel not only contrived but excessive to the point of straining belief beyond where it could go.
It didn’t help any that I could not develop any sense of sympathy for the widow. In one paragraph, she is described as elegantly dressed and imperious while in the next paragraph she becomes a weeping, shaking mess who cannot keep her emotions in check and must rely on Theodosia, a virtual strange, to provide assistance and comfort. My suspension of disbelief was stretched beyond it’s limit when Childs involved the Charleston police department in the kidnapping portion of the book (did I mention there were an overabundance of crises?). It is inconceivable to me that a police department would set up surveillance to try and catch a kidnapper in the midst of a ticketed tea party and that the owner of the tea shop would allow them to do so at the risk of her businesses’ reputation.
Theodosia’s actions also become increasingly frantic and unbelievable as the book continues. While it is easy to accept in the realm of cozy fiction that a tea shop owner could take an interest in solving murders, some of her actions, culminating in a mad car chase through the wetlands of the low country stretched that acceptance too far.
I had figured out the murderer long before the end of the book, but wanted to read to the end to see how everything was resolved and revealed. The murder itself was well plotted, and would have been more enjoyable to me without the trite overworked phrases that were included throughout the book.
My thanks to Berkley Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced digital reader copy of this novel in exchange for an unbiased review.
July 8, 2020
I have enjoyed this series for a long time and own copies of the first 13 books; so I feel badly for only rating it 3 stars. I really like the setting of Charleston, the Indigo Tea Shop, and the cast of regular characters (but coming to not like Theo so much anymore, and Haley is a super chef and deserves more attention IMHO). I love the themed tea parties and functions, the tea lore, and the delicious recipes and for that reason will continue reading this series. But the suspension of disbelief was so overwhelming in this book that it left a bad taste in my mouth-think I need another glass of iced tea! In the words of the widow, Meridith, in this story, "Just so ..... bizarre."
March 5, 2020
Laura Childs returns with yet another amazing installment in the Teashop Mystery series. This time, Theodosia and Drayton are invited to a bird hunt that goes wrong. As always, the murder happens quite early on in the book and this is honestly one of my favorite things that about this series. The pacing is always upfront and center, pushing the rest of the plot and intrigue further. I always rave about Childs writing because of this. Despite it being a Cozy Mystery, she definitely does not waste any time in engaging her readers.
I was hooked from the very first page and stayed up all night to read this book. I just love the quaint style of writing that this series has and the elegance of it all. It’s a great juxtaposition for all the mystery that happens in the series. I honestly think that Childs can come up with so many different plots for this series because the characters are just so versatile. There’s really no stopping Theodosia when it comes to solving mysteries!
It’s really no secret that I adore this series and I am definitely always on the lookout for more books by Laura Childs!
Read my review on Fresh Fiction
October 2, 2020
There's nothing like a nicely-written cozy mystery to take the stress away. This series is delightful in that it's set in a tea shop, which even if there's a murder and a disappearance to investigate, gives a sense of gentility and calm. Even though, I'm personally partial to coffee, I do appreciate a good strong cup of tea. This time, Theodosia works more closely with her tea sommelier, Drayton, since they were both present when the murder occurred. The descriptions of the foods made by Theodosia's chef Haley and served with the tea are scrumptious as usual. And bonus on these genre of books, there are recipes at the end when one has the urge to try to be like Haley.
February 28, 2020
Coming soon from Berkley Publishing, the 21st book Lavender Blue Murder in the tasty tea cozy series, "A Tea Shop Mystery" from author Laura Childs.
"A Tea Shop Mystery" tea cozy series and the latest addition in this series is a fantastic read by a talented and ingenious writer who knows how to describe her subject and makes tea into a mystery everyone will want to solve.
Theo and Drayton are captivating characters that readers will want to spend endless hours with. Other characters play a smaller role but are equally impressive. And Earl Gray is just adorable. The setting of Charleston is romantic, historical and gives readers a sense of stepping back in time into the high society days of the Victorian and Gilded age. This book could have used a bit more of Theo's boyfriend and could have benefitted from a more in-depth background on Theo and other characters for those who have not read the series from the beginning.
The suspects in this tea cozy book are intriguing, the motives understandable and straightforward, but curious enough that readers have to pay attention to the evidence. When the murderer and the kidnapper are finally revealed, it becomes apparent who did it and why. I figured out who the killer was almost from the beginning but had enough doubt to keep reading to the end to verify my guess. Unfortunately, I did not buy the car chase scene and felt that Theo's carelessness with Drayton and an injured Fawn's well being was foolish and dangerous. The solution to the kidnapping was too obvious.
Some say that tea is a way of life, in my case, it is in my DNA. Tea is enjoyed around the world by people from all walks of life. Lavender Blue Murder is sumptuous, compelling, and built around a good old fashioned mystery. Readers should sit back with a hot cup of their favorite blend and enjoy a couple of peaceful hours. In the end, this tea cozy is worth the read. The recipes at the end are so good you can almost taste them.
"A Tea Shop Mystery" tea cozy series and the latest addition in this series is a fantastic read by a talented and ingenious writer who knows how to describe her subject and makes tea into a mystery everyone will want to solve.
Theo and Drayton are captivating characters that readers will want to spend endless hours with. Other characters play a smaller role but are equally impressive. And Earl Gray is just adorable. The setting of Charleston is romantic, historical and gives readers a sense of stepping back in time into the high society days of the Victorian and Gilded age. This book could have used a bit more of Theo's boyfriend and could have benefitted from a more in-depth background on Theo and other characters for those who have not read the series from the beginning.
The suspects in this tea cozy book are intriguing, the motives understandable and straightforward, but curious enough that readers have to pay attention to the evidence. When the murderer and the kidnapper are finally revealed, it becomes apparent who did it and why. I figured out who the killer was almost from the beginning but had enough doubt to keep reading to the end to verify my guess. Unfortunately, I did not buy the car chase scene and felt that Theo's carelessness with Drayton and an injured Fawn's well being was foolish and dangerous. The solution to the kidnapping was too obvious.
Some say that tea is a way of life, in my case, it is in my DNA. Tea is enjoyed around the world by people from all walks of life. Lavender Blue Murder is sumptuous, compelling, and built around a good old fashioned mystery. Readers should sit back with a hot cup of their favorite blend and enjoy a couple of peaceful hours. In the end, this tea cozy is worth the read. The recipes at the end are so good you can almost taste them.
March 21, 2020
I thought I would try one more time with this series but was very disappointed . The writing has gone down hill. She has whole parts that seem appear in every book ie Theodosia jogs at night and the long description of these jogs.
In at least three books the widow is someone that Theo and Drayton did not know but are then asked by that person to investigate. This book has Theo and Drayton helping pick out a coffin which occurred in a former story. I like a cozy mystery but this series has lost me.
In at least three books the widow is someone that Theo and Drayton did not know but are then asked by that person to investigate. This book has Theo and Drayton helping pick out a coffin which occurred in a former story. I like a cozy mystery but this series has lost me.
March 21, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Theodosia Browning and her tea sommelier Drayton Conneley are on a hunt, a bird hunt. They are guests at an English shooting party. Theo is having a great time and even bagged a quail. Drayton is mostly just along for her company. As they are sojourning across the field they hear shots ring out. Shots very close to them. Theo takes off to check things out and she finds their host Reginald Doyle, bleeding to death in the neighbor’s lavender field. By the time the ambulance arrives there is nothing they can do to save the man.
Reginald’s wife Meredith is distraught and begs Theo and Dayton to stay the night and they can’t refuse. In the middle of the night, Theo wakes up to find the mansion on fire and rushes to clear everyone out of the house. Not trusting the local Sheriff Meredith asks Theodosia to investigate too.
Shortly thereafter, Theo surprising meets Reginald’s daughter-in-law not far from Drayton’s house and she is clearly not herself. She then learns the young woman went missing shortly after their meeting. She was out on her husband’s sailboat and is thought to have drowned and the Coast Guard is searching for her body. Theo starts pressing harder in her investigation ruffling more than a few feathers.
What an awesome story! It starts with a bang and ends with a crash!! Loved it!
All the characters we love are back. Theo, Drayton, Haley, Riley, Miss Dimple, Detective Tidwell and of course Earl Grey fill these pages with drama, laughter, Southern charm, and some exciting action too. This is the 21st book in this series and these characters still are fresh and continue to evolve in fantastic ways. Theo never disappoints as she gets down and dirty smack dab in the middle of another murder investigation. Riley tries to reel her in but that is near impossible. Haley and Mrs. Dimple take care of the Indigo Tea Shop while Theo and Drayton chase down leads. But Theo is still front and center for all the special tea events put on at the shop, like the Lavender Lady Tea. She keeps her ears wide open because you never know who will provide a clue that catapults the case forward.
Ms. Childs has not only created a great group of core characters but she introduces a stellar group of new characters to fit this story. Most are suspects but they are all interesting in their own way. She describes them so vividly they are so easy to visualize.
The author’s vivid descriptions also bring each scene clearly into focus, from the field of lavender, the Doyle Mansion, Drayton’s home and Theo’s, which is undergoing a kitchen renovation, to the tea shop itself with each type of china, silverware, and candlestick used. The descriptions of the scones, soups, and sandwiches will make your mouth water. Ms. Childs has perfected the way to bring each scene alive, never going overboard or getting too wordy.
The mystery builds to a fast-pace with a plethora of suspects. Twists, turns, red herrings, this story has it all. Theo is so smart and thinks on her feet. She has so much experience she knows a crime scene must be protected. I was afraid this time she may have had to get physical to protect that scene. Talk about physical the ending had me breathing hard, my blood pressure rising and me sitting right up at the end of my seat.
Amongst this cozy mystery is all kinds of tidbits of information. I love lavender and have a spray I use on my pillow each night that helps me sleep like a baby. I loved all the lavender facts scattered through this book, I would love to live near a field of lavender. Readers are also treated to tea time tips, Drayton is a very knowledgeable tea sommelier and very creative with his blends. There are more tea tips at the end of the book along with several recipes for food served in the story.
I loved everything about this story. It is one of the best books I have read this year! It is so worth a Paradise Rating.
Theodosia Browning and her tea sommelier Drayton Conneley are on a hunt, a bird hunt. They are guests at an English shooting party. Theo is having a great time and even bagged a quail. Drayton is mostly just along for her company. As they are sojourning across the field they hear shots ring out. Shots very close to them. Theo takes off to check things out and she finds their host Reginald Doyle, bleeding to death in the neighbor’s lavender field. By the time the ambulance arrives there is nothing they can do to save the man.
Reginald’s wife Meredith is distraught and begs Theo and Dayton to stay the night and they can’t refuse. In the middle of the night, Theo wakes up to find the mansion on fire and rushes to clear everyone out of the house. Not trusting the local Sheriff Meredith asks Theodosia to investigate too.
Shortly thereafter, Theo surprising meets Reginald’s daughter-in-law not far from Drayton’s house and she is clearly not herself. She then learns the young woman went missing shortly after their meeting. She was out on her husband’s sailboat and is thought to have drowned and the Coast Guard is searching for her body. Theo starts pressing harder in her investigation ruffling more than a few feathers.
What an awesome story! It starts with a bang and ends with a crash!! Loved it!
All the characters we love are back. Theo, Drayton, Haley, Riley, Miss Dimple, Detective Tidwell and of course Earl Grey fill these pages with drama, laughter, Southern charm, and some exciting action too. This is the 21st book in this series and these characters still are fresh and continue to evolve in fantastic ways. Theo never disappoints as she gets down and dirty smack dab in the middle of another murder investigation. Riley tries to reel her in but that is near impossible. Haley and Mrs. Dimple take care of the Indigo Tea Shop while Theo and Drayton chase down leads. But Theo is still front and center for all the special tea events put on at the shop, like the Lavender Lady Tea. She keeps her ears wide open because you never know who will provide a clue that catapults the case forward.
Ms. Childs has not only created a great group of core characters but she introduces a stellar group of new characters to fit this story. Most are suspects but they are all interesting in their own way. She describes them so vividly they are so easy to visualize.
The author’s vivid descriptions also bring each scene clearly into focus, from the field of lavender, the Doyle Mansion, Drayton’s home and Theo’s, which is undergoing a kitchen renovation, to the tea shop itself with each type of china, silverware, and candlestick used. The descriptions of the scones, soups, and sandwiches will make your mouth water. Ms. Childs has perfected the way to bring each scene alive, never going overboard or getting too wordy.
The mystery builds to a fast-pace with a plethora of suspects. Twists, turns, red herrings, this story has it all. Theo is so smart and thinks on her feet. She has so much experience she knows a crime scene must be protected. I was afraid this time she may have had to get physical to protect that scene. Talk about physical the ending had me breathing hard, my blood pressure rising and me sitting right up at the end of my seat.
Amongst this cozy mystery is all kinds of tidbits of information. I love lavender and have a spray I use on my pillow each night that helps me sleep like a baby. I loved all the lavender facts scattered through this book, I would love to live near a field of lavender. Readers are also treated to tea time tips, Drayton is a very knowledgeable tea sommelier and very creative with his blends. There are more tea tips at the end of the book along with several recipes for food served in the story.
I loved everything about this story. It is one of the best books I have read this year! It is so worth a Paradise Rating.
April 30, 2025
can’t decide if i want to rate it a 2.5 or a 3 ⭐️
this was a cute, cozy read. i loved the setting of the tea shop. theodosia is such a girl boss, solving crime AND running a whole business. the little thing between her & riley, i love as well.
it was very much a fun, easy read
this was a cute, cozy read. i loved the setting of the tea shop. theodosia is such a girl boss, solving crime AND running a whole business. the little thing between her & riley, i love as well.
it was very much a fun, easy read
July 30, 2022
I am somewhat ashamed to admit that this author’s prolific Tea Shop Mystery series has 21 books and Lavender Blue Murder is the first one I’ve read. It will not, however, be the last one I read – and if I can find the time I’ll be going back to read the 20 previous books some day. The writing pace is calming (in spite of the murder lol) and engaging, and you just want to immerse yourself into this world for a while. Especially if it involves lunch at the tea shop (hold the tea… sorry, Drayton) and the yummy food there!
The mystery unfolds with a couple of different layers and, of course, a host of suspects – set against the lovely Charleston backdrop in both the city and the countryside. A murder. Arson. A missing person. Just another week in the life of Theodosia and her trusty sidekick (and tea sommelier) Drayton. All while trying to organize her upcoming special Lavender Lady tea which any number of the suspects might attend. I especially loved the lavender references throughout as my late mother-in-law worked for a lavender farm, so the theme is meaningful to me personally as well as just interesting all around.
Bottom Line: I really enjoyed my introduction (on the 21st book lol) to the Tea Shop Mystery by Laura Childs. Theodosia and her sidekick Drayton are fun characters you’ll love hanging out with on the pages of Lavender Blue Murder. The suspect list is nearly endless and, while I figured out part of the case before the end, some of it still surprised me. While I wished we got to see Theodosia’s boyfriend more (I felt like I wasn’t able to get any kind of read on him because we just saw him so little), I’m looking forward to spending more time with these characters and hopefully getting to know him better too. A fun, quaint cozy mystery with murder and suspects …and tea… around every corner!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
The mystery unfolds with a couple of different layers and, of course, a host of suspects – set against the lovely Charleston backdrop in both the city and the countryside. A murder. Arson. A missing person. Just another week in the life of Theodosia and her trusty sidekick (and tea sommelier) Drayton. All while trying to organize her upcoming special Lavender Lady tea which any number of the suspects might attend. I especially loved the lavender references throughout as my late mother-in-law worked for a lavender farm, so the theme is meaningful to me personally as well as just interesting all around.
Bottom Line: I really enjoyed my introduction (on the 21st book lol) to the Tea Shop Mystery by Laura Childs. Theodosia and her sidekick Drayton are fun characters you’ll love hanging out with on the pages of Lavender Blue Murder. The suspect list is nearly endless and, while I figured out part of the case before the end, some of it still surprised me. While I wished we got to see Theodosia’s boyfriend more (I felt like I wasn’t able to get any kind of read on him because we just saw him so little), I’m looking forward to spending more time with these characters and hopefully getting to know him better too. A fun, quaint cozy mystery with murder and suspects …and tea… around every corner!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
September 7, 2020
Theodosia, owner of the Indigo Tea Shoppe, and her best friend and tea sommelier are invited to participate in a bird hunt styled after an English shooting party. But when shots ring out and their host is killed, Theo is pulled into helping solve who killed him by his new widow.
April 6, 2020
Horrible. I have read every book in this series, this is my last. I'm not even sure the same author wrote the last 3 or 4. Theo has become so narcissistic, no one can solve the crimes but her. the cops are stupid including the one she's dating. Another chase through the back swampland again, an empty building.
No more for me.
No more for me.
March 1, 2020
Lavender Blue Murder earns 5/5 Tweed Jackets...Engaging Entertainment!
Theodosia Browning and her tea sommelier Drayton Conneley are enjoying their participation in an English-inspired shooting party at Creekmore Plantation hosted by Drayton’s good friend, Reginald Doyle, CEO of a major pharmaceutical company. He and his wife are self-professed Anglophiles and went all out with shooting costumes, gun loaders, bird dogs, and a traditional “elevenses” of bourbon and gin fizzes. Theodosia knows her way around a gun bagging herself a grouse, but Drayton, however, needs lessons in gun safety and a lot more practice with accuracy. Ready to bag another, Theodosia hears a distinct “Pop,” more associated with a handgun rather than the shotguns everyone had been using, coming from an area not suppose to used for the party. Theodosia goes off to explore, and finds a terrible sight...Reginald Doyle has been shot! She goes into rescue-mode: yelling for help, putting pressure on the wound, and making a 9-1-1 call. Drayton, the caretaker, and a party guest show up; an ambulance is dispatched. But, his injury was too grave. He’s dead, and his son and now-widow demand answers. Theodosia stops the men who wish to move the body; it’s now a crime scene.
Laura Childs and her Tea Shop Mystery series is a favorite and instrumental in reenergizing my passion with tea blends and accoutrements. Her writing style, using a third-person narrative, is well-written and descriptive bringing to life the elements of the South Carolina low country, Southern phrases and manners, costumes, tea shop, and the tea party. The interactions, reactions, and personalities are illustrated well through her expressive dialogue, and I was fascinated by all the lavender information and tea talk. I am taken with language and its use to show personalities and motives, and although Theodosia has found countless bodies over twenty-one books, she isn’t flippant or look at death in a dismissive “oh, well, there’s another one” manner. She still seems shocked and often disturbed. However, her actions to secure the crime scene and the subsequent investigation with questioning, theorizing, and concluding show growth, in a way, maturity and experience. The murder investigation with which Theodosia gets involved was clever...Centuries-old land dispute? Business conflicts? Family problems? And with suspects aplenty, further capital crimes, perilous predicaments, and a final solution I almost saw coming, this is a page turner I totally recommend!
What a bonus treat...a mini Tea Shop cookbook! Favorite Recipes From The Indigo Tea Shop include some easy-to-follow and tempting treats: Hayley’s Hawaiian Tea Sandwiches, Pear Butter, Drayton’s Ham and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta, Ginger-Cardamom Tea Cookies, Chicken Breast with Lemon Caper Sauce, Cream Cheese and Green Olive Tea Sandwiches, Poogan’s Porch Buttermilk Biscuits, Parsley and Bacon Tea Rounds, Drayton’s London Fog Latte, Chai-spiced Fruit Compote, Parmesan and Prosciutto Puff Baby, and Candied Edible Flowers. Also included are Tea Time Tips From Laura Childs for Lavender Lady Tea, Queen’s Tea, Music Tea, Paint and Sip Tea, Color Me Pink Tea, and Flowering Tea Party. I appreciated the Tea Resources for further personal exploration: Tea Magazines and Publications, American Tea Plantations, Tea Websites and Interesting Blogs, Purveyors of Fine Tea, and Visiting Charleston. There’s also a Sneak Peek into the next Cackleberry Club Mystery “Egg Shooter” with an intriguing excerpt. Totally enjoyable!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Berkley thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Theodosia Browning and her tea sommelier Drayton Conneley are enjoying their participation in an English-inspired shooting party at Creekmore Plantation hosted by Drayton’s good friend, Reginald Doyle, CEO of a major pharmaceutical company. He and his wife are self-professed Anglophiles and went all out with shooting costumes, gun loaders, bird dogs, and a traditional “elevenses” of bourbon and gin fizzes. Theodosia knows her way around a gun bagging herself a grouse, but Drayton, however, needs lessons in gun safety and a lot more practice with accuracy. Ready to bag another, Theodosia hears a distinct “Pop,” more associated with a handgun rather than the shotguns everyone had been using, coming from an area not suppose to used for the party. Theodosia goes off to explore, and finds a terrible sight...Reginald Doyle has been shot! She goes into rescue-mode: yelling for help, putting pressure on the wound, and making a 9-1-1 call. Drayton, the caretaker, and a party guest show up; an ambulance is dispatched. But, his injury was too grave. He’s dead, and his son and now-widow demand answers. Theodosia stops the men who wish to move the body; it’s now a crime scene.
Laura Childs and her Tea Shop Mystery series is a favorite and instrumental in reenergizing my passion with tea blends and accoutrements. Her writing style, using a third-person narrative, is well-written and descriptive bringing to life the elements of the South Carolina low country, Southern phrases and manners, costumes, tea shop, and the tea party. The interactions, reactions, and personalities are illustrated well through her expressive dialogue, and I was fascinated by all the lavender information and tea talk. I am taken with language and its use to show personalities and motives, and although Theodosia has found countless bodies over twenty-one books, she isn’t flippant or look at death in a dismissive “oh, well, there’s another one” manner. She still seems shocked and often disturbed. However, her actions to secure the crime scene and the subsequent investigation with questioning, theorizing, and concluding show growth, in a way, maturity and experience. The murder investigation with which Theodosia gets involved was clever...Centuries-old land dispute? Business conflicts? Family problems? And with suspects aplenty, further capital crimes, perilous predicaments, and a final solution I almost saw coming, this is a page turner I totally recommend!
What a bonus treat...a mini Tea Shop cookbook! Favorite Recipes From The Indigo Tea Shop include some easy-to-follow and tempting treats: Hayley’s Hawaiian Tea Sandwiches, Pear Butter, Drayton’s Ham and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta, Ginger-Cardamom Tea Cookies, Chicken Breast with Lemon Caper Sauce, Cream Cheese and Green Olive Tea Sandwiches, Poogan’s Porch Buttermilk Biscuits, Parsley and Bacon Tea Rounds, Drayton’s London Fog Latte, Chai-spiced Fruit Compote, Parmesan and Prosciutto Puff Baby, and Candied Edible Flowers. Also included are Tea Time Tips From Laura Childs for Lavender Lady Tea, Queen’s Tea, Music Tea, Paint and Sip Tea, Color Me Pink Tea, and Flowering Tea Party. I appreciated the Tea Resources for further personal exploration: Tea Magazines and Publications, American Tea Plantations, Tea Websites and Interesting Blogs, Purveyors of Fine Tea, and Visiting Charleston. There’s also a Sneak Peek into the next Cackleberry Club Mystery “Egg Shooter” with an intriguing excerpt. Totally enjoyable!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Berkley thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
March 18, 2020
If I'm honest, my review would be 2 stars for part of this book, and 4 stars for the rest. I enjoyed the story. I love cozies, and overall I've loved the Tea Shop series from Laura Childs.
But I did feel a bit 'meh' through parts of this book.
One of the joys of cozies is that you suspend reality a little. Things tend to be a little over the top. In this one, I found moments where I was like--no, just no, that definitely wouldn't happen like that.
So overall, I enjoyed the book but it wasn't my favourite in the series.
But I did feel a bit 'meh' through parts of this book.
One of the joys of cozies is that you suspend reality a little. Things tend to be a little over the top. In this one, I found moments where I was like--no, just no, that definitely wouldn't happen like that.
So overall, I enjoyed the book but it wasn't my favourite in the series.
March 19, 2022
I really enjoyed a return to Charleston and the Indigo Tea Shop. This series always begins with a murder in the first chapter that immediately engages the reader. Theodosia and her tea sommelier, Drayton, were participating in a traditional English hunt on the grounds of one of Drayton's friends, Reginald Doyle. Shortly after talking with Doyle, Theodosia hears a pistol, not rifle, shot in their vicinity and discovers their host lying on the ground, gasping his last breaths. Because of her amateur investigative skills, Theo is naturally asked to investigate. As the clues unfold it is always fun to try to guess the culprit before the murderer is revealed. Another treat in this series is the descriptions of Charleston's homes and shops. And of course there are always the delicious teas and baked goods, some of which are featured in the appendix.
February 15, 2021
When Theodosia and Drayton visit an area plantation for an English-style hunting party, they hear an odd gunshot which sounded like it came from a pistol rather than a shotgun. Theodosia sets out to investigate and comes across the dying body of their host Reginald Doyle. He was shot at close range directly in the heart. The widow begs them to stay the night, and against their better judgment, they do so. They awaken when the house is afire. With two incidents happening so closely together, there's no question a party attendee wishes evil upon the host's family. Back in Charleston, Theodosia continues to investigate at the urging of various persons connected with the case and against the wishes of her detective boyfriend and his boss. She continues about her tea shop business, planning for and hosting themed teas involving Gone with the Wind and Lavender, as well as catered events. This installment returns Theodosia and Drayton to the teashop where the atmosphere is cozy and charming. The food descriptions make one's mouth water. As usual, Theodosia takes too many risks which could endanger her and those with her. This installment returns to the charm of earlier installments--a great improvement over the last several. (3.5 stars)
April 30, 2024
So I'm pretty sure Theo is supposed to be in her mid 30s and this is all taking place real time, so I can't understand the references to millennials being on their phones all the time and Theo always turning hers off or forgetting to bring it with her. Otherwise, a nice old fashioned heist and car chase with a seance thrown in for size.
April 8, 2025
While out at Creekmore Plantation enjoying an old-fashioned English style shooting party, Theodosia thinks she hears the pop of a pistol shooting. When she races to the location, the shooter is gone but the host, wealthy businessman Reginald Doyle, is lying on the ground with a gaping wound in his chest. Theodosia tries to save him and get help but as everyone else arrives on the scene before 911 is even called, it becomes clear Reginald Doyle is no more. His widow, Meredith, is distraught and begs Theodosia and Drayton to spend the night. That night the house catches on fire and Theo fears someone tried to hide evidence of the murder. When Meredith requests Theodosia look into things, Theo can't help herself. She's not getting much out of Riley so she'll have to question people and report back to the sheriff on her own. Curiously, Reginald's daughter-in-law, Fawn, provides a wealth of information on the family dynamic and seems afraid of her husband. When Fawn disappears, everyone fears the worst but Theodosia suspects Fawn is alive and well somewhere. Family dysfunction aside, there was also the matter of a water dispute with a neighbor, a land dispute with another neighbor and his Olde English pub style restaurant possibly losing money. Not to mention some business rivals and partners! Meanwhile, Haley is busy cooking up a storm and planning their themed teas for the month in addition to trying her hand at sugar sculpture for an upcoming contest. Can Theodosia manage to figure out the solution to the mystery before someone else gets hurt AND do her regular job without anyone causing a scene?
I really enjoyed this mystery. As a mystery it was quite well done. There were a lot of suspects with varying motives. At first I suspected one person but when they became a suspect early on, I knew I was wrong. Then I guessed it must be someone they never suspected so I thought another person was the murderer. That person didn't seem like a murderer to me and I was confused until another character was introduced late in the story. I only guessed who but there were some twists I didn't see coming. There are a lot of impractical and unrealistic details in Theo's investigation but she at least admits she needs to satisfy her own idle curiosity and doesn't do anything really TSTL until the very end when she just shuts off her phone!
What I don't like about this series is the setting. The glorification of the Old South is unacceptable and we know better than to romanticize Gone With the Wind. The idea of a Gone With the Wind tea makes me want to throw up. Why not a Victorian tea? Did it have to be specifically Gone With the Wind with the staff portraying the characters? Ew. The shooting party didn't sit right with me either. I'm with Aunt Libby on the bird issue. Birds are beautiful and deserve to live free. I thought there would be rules about that sort of thing. Plus guns kill people as well as animals.
Theodosia managed not to annoy me this time. She only really badgers one suspect she doesn't like and she was justified in not liking that suspect. Pete Riley seems to be a keeper - for now. Theo seems to care about him more than any of her previous boyfriends and they do more than talk about murder. Plus he has a healthy fear of Tidwell so won't share much information with Theo. He's sweet but I don't get much chemistry with them. Earl Grey doesn't have much to do. Theo seems to forget he exists when she's invited to spend the night after the shooting party. Um how about a "Well, I have to go let my dog out and feed him. Then we usually go for a run." Or "I have to call my neighbor to ask her to come walk my dog and feed him dinner." Poor doggie! Drayton's magazine spread is finally out and while he was anxious about it ahead of time, NOW he's casually not casually tooting his own horn. "Oh by the way... the latest edition of Southern Living magazine is out. You might want to take a look." Right... real subtle. He should be proud of show off his home but including him was a little much. The review of their Beaux Arts tea is also in so I was glad to have those storylines followed up on. Drayton and Haley still fight like children. She winds him up and he responds and sometimes gets her going on purpose. I hate that. They're all adults running a business and should behave like it. I like Haley for the most part. She's a creative culinary genius. I love her sugar sculpture and I want to see a picture.
We don't get much of a picture of Reginald Doyle. He seemed to be a devoted husband and maybe a tough father. He may have been hard on Alex but Alex deserved it. Alex is a ne'er do well type, I can tell. He's lazy and wants to be a 19th century English gentleman and live off the money his father worked hard for. I wouldn't put it past him to make sure he gets his inheritance now rather than later. Hold the phone there! Timothy Neville claims Reginald promised to leave Creekmore to the Heritage Society. Um what will they do with the land if the house is gone? The loss of a historic home guts me as it should Timothy but he could care less! I suppose he plans to sell the land and replenish the Heritage Society coffers? Perhaps... if he resigned and allowed new blood to come forward and realize it's a new century with new ideas and new ways of telling history, people would want to visit and donate!
Most of the time Meredith seems genuinely distraught over her husband's murder but something about her doesn't quite ring true to me. She's back at work quickly and seems to alternate between grieving widow and upbeat. I don't see why she needed Theo to break her date, drop everything and come help pick out a casket (again). Theo is not family or even a close friend. She's also a smothering mother to Alex. She spoils him dreadfully. Delaine claims to be Meredith's friend but doesn't come to the funeral or remember right away the funeral was this morning. All Delanie cares about is herself and her business. She goes as far as being sympathetic and suggesting an unusual method of locating the murderer. As usual she railroads Theo to get her way. . Meredith seems to like her daughter-in-law, Fawn. Both of them are waiflike in appearance and pale. Fawn is especially doe-like and timid. She seems to fear her husband and his family. She's stuck in a toxic environment trying to find a way out. Yet Meredith seems to be under the impression Alex and Fawn are so much in love and very lovey dovey with each other. Is that what they want her to think? Or is she lying?
Guy Thorne, Reginald's business partner in Trollope's restaurant, an Olde English style pub, is kind of a sleazy character. He's arrogant and his ego is as big as the servings of food. The food is rich and heavy and not very good. Is he skimping on quality? I don't trust this Thorne guy and neither does Theo. Carl Clewis, Reginald's neighbor, had a dispute over land and water rights. His plan for the water might be OK but building condos is not. What a slimeball! He's about as charming as a rattlesnake and a bit hot tempered. Reginald's longtime employee, Jack Grimes, is the primary suspect. He sure has a short fuse but it's quick to burn out. He was conspicuously absent from the scene of the crime. Grimes is adamant in his innocence. His long service to the family should be evidence enough of his loyalty, according to him, and his innocence. I don't think Sheriff Burney believes it. Bill Jacoby, Reginald's business partner in his pharmaceutical company, is an affable man. He's friendly and helpful. I'm not sure he's a little too solicitous of Meredith though. Was he Reginald's friend or just business?
Susan Monday, the Lavender Lady, seems lovely. She wouldn't hurt an insect, even going so far as to report a neighbor for using pesticides. She's a good businesswoman too but I would stay far away from her farm and the Indigo Tea Shop. Don't they understand the concept of allergies? All that lavender would make my nose itch like crazy. I don't think Susan is the murderer and Theo shouldn't suspect her just because she's an environmentalism. Aunt Libby would agree with Susan yet Theo doesn't think Aunt Libby would murder anyone! Sheriff Burney seems fair and I'm sure he'll figure this out on his own. Tidwell, on the other hand, goes off half cocked without a plan. It makes Theo nervous, it makes me nervous and it's very unlike him.
There are a lot of great recipes here and some new tea websites to check out! I will probably continue with the series because I do like the tea and because this mystery was much better than most of the others. If we can only refrain from Theo being TSTL and the glorification of the Old South...
I really enjoyed this mystery. As a mystery it was quite well done. There were a lot of suspects with varying motives. At first I suspected one person but when they became a suspect early on, I knew I was wrong. Then I guessed it must be someone they never suspected so I thought another person was the murderer. That person didn't seem like a murderer to me and I was confused until another character was introduced late in the story. I only guessed who but there were some twists I didn't see coming. There are a lot of impractical and unrealistic details in Theo's investigation but she at least admits she needs to satisfy her own idle curiosity and doesn't do anything really TSTL until the very end when she just shuts off her phone!
What I don't like about this series is the setting. The glorification of the Old South is unacceptable and we know better than to romanticize Gone With the Wind. The idea of a Gone With the Wind tea makes me want to throw up. Why not a Victorian tea? Did it have to be specifically Gone With the Wind with the staff portraying the characters? Ew. The shooting party didn't sit right with me either. I'm with Aunt Libby on the bird issue. Birds are beautiful and deserve to live free. I thought there would be rules about that sort of thing. Plus guns kill people as well as animals.
Theodosia managed not to annoy me this time. She only really badgers one suspect she doesn't like and she was justified in not liking that suspect. Pete Riley seems to be a keeper - for now. Theo seems to care about him more than any of her previous boyfriends and they do more than talk about murder. Plus he has a healthy fear of Tidwell so won't share much information with Theo. He's sweet but I don't get much chemistry with them. Earl Grey doesn't have much to do. Theo seems to forget he exists when she's invited to spend the night after the shooting party. Um how about a "Well, I have to go let my dog out and feed him. Then we usually go for a run." Or "I have to call my neighbor to ask her to come walk my dog and feed him dinner." Poor doggie! Drayton's magazine spread is finally out and while he was anxious about it ahead of time, NOW he's casually not casually tooting his own horn. "Oh by the way... the latest edition of Southern Living magazine is out. You might want to take a look." Right... real subtle. He should be proud of show off his home but including him was a little much. The review of their Beaux Arts tea is also in so I was glad to have those storylines followed up on. Drayton and Haley still fight like children. She winds him up and he responds and sometimes gets her going on purpose. I hate that. They're all adults running a business and should behave like it. I like Haley for the most part. She's a creative culinary genius. I love her sugar sculpture and I want to see a picture.
We don't get much of a picture of Reginald Doyle. He seemed to be a devoted husband and maybe a tough father. He may have been hard on Alex but Alex deserved it. Alex is a ne'er do well type, I can tell. He's lazy and wants to be a 19th century English gentleman and live off the money his father worked hard for. I wouldn't put it past him to make sure he gets his inheritance now rather than later. Hold the phone there! Timothy Neville claims Reginald promised to leave Creekmore to the Heritage Society. Um what will they do with the land if the house is gone? The loss of a historic home guts me as it should Timothy but he could care less! I suppose he plans to sell the land and replenish the Heritage Society coffers? Perhaps... if he resigned and allowed new blood to come forward and realize it's a new century with new ideas and new ways of telling history, people would want to visit and donate!
Most of the time Meredith seems genuinely distraught over her husband's murder but something about her doesn't quite ring true to me. She's back at work quickly and seems to alternate between grieving widow and upbeat. I don't see why she needed Theo to break her date, drop everything and come help pick out a casket (again). Theo is not family or even a close friend. She's also a smothering mother to Alex. She spoils him dreadfully. Delaine claims to be Meredith's friend but doesn't come to the funeral or remember right away the funeral was this morning. All Delanie cares about is herself and her business. She goes as far as being sympathetic and suggesting an unusual method of locating the murderer. As usual she railroads Theo to get her way. . Meredith seems to like her daughter-in-law, Fawn. Both of them are waiflike in appearance and pale. Fawn is especially doe-like and timid. She seems to fear her husband and his family. She's stuck in a toxic environment trying to find a way out. Yet Meredith seems to be under the impression Alex and Fawn are so much in love and very lovey dovey with each other. Is that what they want her to think? Or is she lying?
Guy Thorne, Reginald's business partner in Trollope's restaurant, an Olde English style pub, is kind of a sleazy character. He's arrogant and his ego is as big as the servings of food. The food is rich and heavy and not very good. Is he skimping on quality? I don't trust this Thorne guy and neither does Theo. Carl Clewis, Reginald's neighbor, had a dispute over land and water rights. His plan for the water might be OK but building condos is not. What a slimeball! He's about as charming as a rattlesnake and a bit hot tempered. Reginald's longtime employee, Jack Grimes, is the primary suspect. He sure has a short fuse but it's quick to burn out. He was conspicuously absent from the scene of the crime. Grimes is adamant in his innocence. His long service to the family should be evidence enough of his loyalty, according to him, and his innocence. I don't think Sheriff Burney believes it. Bill Jacoby, Reginald's business partner in his pharmaceutical company, is an affable man. He's friendly and helpful. I'm not sure he's a little too solicitous of Meredith though. Was he Reginald's friend or just business?
Susan Monday, the Lavender Lady, seems lovely. She wouldn't hurt an insect, even going so far as to report a neighbor for using pesticides. She's a good businesswoman too but I would stay far away from her farm and the Indigo Tea Shop. Don't they understand the concept of allergies? All that lavender would make my nose itch like crazy. I don't think Susan is the murderer and Theo shouldn't suspect her just because she's an environmentalism. Aunt Libby would agree with Susan yet Theo doesn't think Aunt Libby would murder anyone! Sheriff Burney seems fair and I'm sure he'll figure this out on his own. Tidwell, on the other hand, goes off half cocked without a plan. It makes Theo nervous, it makes me nervous and it's very unlike him.
There are a lot of great recipes here and some new tea websites to check out! I will probably continue with the series because I do like the tea and because this mystery was much better than most of the others. If we can only refrain from Theo being TSTL and the glorification of the Old South...
July 11, 2023
I’ve been reading this series for a lot of years now, and I still enjoy it as much as I did when it first began. I’ve never been to Charleston, but it’s on our bucket list of places to spend some time.
I like the Indigo Tea Shop team – Theo, Drayton Haley and the occasional Miss Dimple – and many of their regular customers. They work well together, both in the shop and while conducting investigations. I only drink tea occasionally, but I enjoy reading about the specialty teas they put on. I wonder, though, how big their shop is, that they have room to store so many accessories and decorations for all these special events. The food that Haley prepares sounds divine, and I love that the books include so many recipes.
There is a murder in this book, although it takes a while to get to that part. There were several suspects worthy of investigation, and my list kept changing as the story progressed. I was surprised when the killer’s identity was revealed, but not by the motive. The confrontation scene was written well, and it kept me reading until the end of the book.
There are only a few books left to read before I’m caught up, then I’ll have to join all the others who must wait a year between visits to Charleston and the Tea Shop.
I like the Indigo Tea Shop team – Theo, Drayton Haley and the occasional Miss Dimple – and many of their regular customers. They work well together, both in the shop and while conducting investigations. I only drink tea occasionally, but I enjoy reading about the specialty teas they put on. I wonder, though, how big their shop is, that they have room to store so many accessories and decorations for all these special events. The food that Haley prepares sounds divine, and I love that the books include so many recipes.
There is a murder in this book, although it takes a while to get to that part. There were several suspects worthy of investigation, and my list kept changing as the story progressed. I was surprised when the killer’s identity was revealed, but not by the motive. The confrontation scene was written well, and it kept me reading until the end of the book.
There are only a few books left to read before I’m caught up, then I’ll have to join all the others who must wait a year between visits to Charleston and the Tea Shop.
January 6, 2020
I’ve read all of the books in this series, and I’m still always excited when a new one is released.
In Lavender Blue Murder, Theodosia, Drayton and Haley are once again involved in another murder investigation, where the tragic death of a husband leaves a wife begging for answers.
Besides the great storyline, I enjoy reading about the unique tea parties, the specialty blends Drayton creates, and the delectable treats Haley whips up in the kitchen.
In Lavender Blue Murder, Theodosia, Drayton and Haley are once again involved in another murder investigation, where the tragic death of a husband leaves a wife begging for answers.
Besides the great storyline, I enjoy reading about the unique tea parties, the specialty blends Drayton creates, and the delectable treats Haley whips up in the kitchen.
March 1, 2020
Laura Child's 21st offering in her Tea Shop Mystery series, finds Theodosia and Drayton on an English-styled bird hunt. That ends in murder.
Pharmaceutical CEO, Reginald Doyle presents himself as nothing less than the aging lord of the manner. When he opens his plantation home to friends and family on the beautiful autumn day of his hunt. Little did she or anyone know that he was the intended prey.
Of course as fate and Ms. Child's formulaic writing style would have it. Theodosia and Drayton are first on the scene. Doing all they can to rescue a fatally wounded Reginald.
Only to have him succumb to said wounds. Leaving them to begin the search for his killer.
Making matters worse for the characters, and a bit more interesting for readers. Is the subsequent fire which damages the main house and nearly costs Reginald's son Alex his life. Before his father's body is even cold.
At which point...
Readers, Theodosia, Drayton, and crew are off.
Compiling suspects, alibis, and motives.
Some of which include:
-Business deals
-A strip of land separating his plantation from the lavender far next door.
And more.
And once again...
Here come the layers.
When the sudden disappearance of Reginald's daughter-in-law, Fawn.
And back to the formula we go.
The wonderful descriptions of the people and places of Charleston, S.C.
The Lavender-themed event hosted at Theodosia's Indigo Tea Shop.
The admonishment from Tidwell and Riley. Aka the police. To stay out of the literal and figurative lines of fire.
The Theodosia saves the day at her own reckless peril "ending".
All in all...
This book is simply "more of the same". As far as the series is concerned. As was mentioned above. There were more than a few layers that proved unnecessary in the grand scheme of things.
**Thanks to Netgalley and Berkley for providing the review copy of the above referenced literary work.
Pharmaceutical CEO, Reginald Doyle presents himself as nothing less than the aging lord of the manner. When he opens his plantation home to friends and family on the beautiful autumn day of his hunt. Little did she or anyone know that he was the intended prey.
Of course as fate and Ms. Child's formulaic writing style would have it. Theodosia and Drayton are first on the scene. Doing all they can to rescue a fatally wounded Reginald.
Only to have him succumb to said wounds. Leaving them to begin the search for his killer.
Making matters worse for the characters, and a bit more interesting for readers. Is the subsequent fire which damages the main house and nearly costs Reginald's son Alex his life. Before his father's body is even cold.
At which point...
Readers, Theodosia, Drayton, and crew are off.
Compiling suspects, alibis, and motives.
Some of which include:
-Business deals
-A strip of land separating his plantation from the lavender far next door.
And more.
And once again...
Here come the layers.
When the sudden disappearance of Reginald's daughter-in-law, Fawn.
And back to the formula we go.
The wonderful descriptions of the people and places of Charleston, S.C.
The Lavender-themed event hosted at Theodosia's Indigo Tea Shop.
The admonishment from Tidwell and Riley. Aka the police. To stay out of the literal and figurative lines of fire.
The Theodosia saves the day at her own reckless peril "ending".
All in all...
This book is simply "more of the same". As far as the series is concerned. As was mentioned above. There were more than a few layers that proved unnecessary in the grand scheme of things.
**Thanks to Netgalley and Berkley for providing the review copy of the above referenced literary work.
April 10, 2020
I am a big fan of the Tea Shop Mystery series, so I was excited to read this new one. As always, I was drawn back into the life of Theodosia Browning, Drayton, Hailey, Riley, Detective Tidwell (who is not in this story as much) and her lovely dog, Earl Grey. Theodosia is the owner of the Indigo Tea Shop in Charleston, SC. The author does such a remarkable job of transporting the reader to Charleston. Having been to Charleston before, I can picture many of the streets and landmarks that she mentions in the book. This is one of the reasons I love this series so much!
In this book, Theodosia and Drayton are attending a hunting party, when the host is shot and killed. Was it an accident or murder? That same night, Theodosia and Drayton are staying over at the mansion at the request of the widow, when they are awakened by the smell of smoke and discover that the house is on fire! This is too much of a coincidence for Theodosia and she starts to investigate the crimes. Theodosia, who has assisted in solving many other crimes, quickly comes up with a list of suspects, whom she investigates throughout the book. She finally stumbles on the answer and sets off on a high speed chase to track down the killer!
Laura Childs has once again written a carefully plotted mystery that leaves you guessing until the end. This book is exciting and suspenseful. What I love about these books is that they are filled with facts about Charleston and also many facts about different teas. Although you could, I probably wouldn't start the series with this book. But definitely check out the earlier ones in the series to really get to know all the characters and their backgrounds. It's such a great series and I can't wait for next year's installment!
In this book, Theodosia and Drayton are attending a hunting party, when the host is shot and killed. Was it an accident or murder? That same night, Theodosia and Drayton are staying over at the mansion at the request of the widow, when they are awakened by the smell of smoke and discover that the house is on fire! This is too much of a coincidence for Theodosia and she starts to investigate the crimes. Theodosia, who has assisted in solving many other crimes, quickly comes up with a list of suspects, whom she investigates throughout the book. She finally stumbles on the answer and sets off on a high speed chase to track down the killer!
Laura Childs has once again written a carefully plotted mystery that leaves you guessing until the end. This book is exciting and suspenseful. What I love about these books is that they are filled with facts about Charleston and also many facts about different teas. Although you could, I probably wouldn't start the series with this book. But definitely check out the earlier ones in the series to really get to know all the characters and their backgrounds. It's such a great series and I can't wait for next year's installment!
February 10, 2020
LAVENDER BLUE MURDER, the twenty-first book in The Tea Shop Mysteries is another entertaining addition to an endearing series by Laura Childs. You can always count on Ms. Childs to start her stories off with a bang, and in this newest release, it is quite a literal bang! I love the descriptive settings the author evokes, from a proper English shooting party being hosted by a local plantation, to the quaint, genteel Southern city of Charleston, to the charming Indigo Tea Shop. The reader is immediately immersed into both the atmosphere and the mystery. There is non-stop action, whether protagonist, Theodosia Browning, is hosting a themed tea party at her shop, or involved in zany antics as she tries to solve the murder of the plantation owner. With plenty of clues and suspects provided, the book progressed quickly, making it difficult to set it down for any length of time
Along with a fast-paced story, Ms. Child’s creates memorable characters. While Theodosia may be a Southern genteel woman, she’s also a force of nature to be reckoned with. Her sidekick, elderly tea sommelier Drayton Conneley, provides a calming influence on her while creating the perfect tea blend for the guests who come through Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia and Drayton have a sweet relationship and I admire the respect they show for each other, no matter what kind of scrapes they find themselves in. We don’t see much of Theodosia’s handsome detective fiancé in this book, and I hope he has a greater presence in the next story.
Not only does the Indigo Tea Shop host themed tea party events, but each one has plenty of delicious dishes to match the theme. I appreciate that Ms. Childs includes recipes at the back of the book, along with numerous tea party tips to help plan your own.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Along with a fast-paced story, Ms. Child’s creates memorable characters. While Theodosia may be a Southern genteel woman, she’s also a force of nature to be reckoned with. Her sidekick, elderly tea sommelier Drayton Conneley, provides a calming influence on her while creating the perfect tea blend for the guests who come through Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia and Drayton have a sweet relationship and I admire the respect they show for each other, no matter what kind of scrapes they find themselves in. We don’t see much of Theodosia’s handsome detective fiancé in this book, and I hope he has a greater presence in the next story.
Not only does the Indigo Tea Shop host themed tea party events, but each one has plenty of delicious dishes to match the theme. I appreciate that Ms. Childs includes recipes at the back of the book, along with numerous tea party tips to help plan your own.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 14, 2020
Lavender Blue Murder by Laura Childs. (a Tea Shop Mystery)
My favorites among the Tea Shop Mysteries include those in which Drayton is the main character second only to Theodosia. He's such an entertaining person with so much to add to the storyline. In this latest entry, Theodosia and Drayton are among the invitees at a bird hunt. Drayton himself chooses not to participate, however, Theo does. That's when an unfamiliar and unexpected gunshot rings out. Theo ventures out to find their host shot dead.
There were a few characters that took a backseater in this story such as Tidwell, Riley & Delaine. The twosome of Drayton and Theodosia kept me focused on the mystery of uncovering the murderer.
Another excellent addition to this series.
My favorites among the Tea Shop Mysteries include those in which Drayton is the main character second only to Theodosia. He's such an entertaining person with so much to add to the storyline. In this latest entry, Theodosia and Drayton are among the invitees at a bird hunt. Drayton himself chooses not to participate, however, Theo does. That's when an unfamiliar and unexpected gunshot rings out. Theo ventures out to find their host shot dead.
There were a few characters that took a backseater in this story such as Tidwell, Riley & Delaine. The twosome of Drayton and Theodosia kept me focused on the mystery of uncovering the murderer.
Another excellent addition to this series.
July 18, 2020
I love this tea shop series. The characters, the shop and the food all sound amazing. Theodosia and Drayton go to a shooting party where someone winds up dead. Even after numerous warnings, Theodosia just cannot resist the puzzle of who did it. With the help of her friends, and her dog, Earl Gray...the murderer is eventually found out.
November 30, 2025
damn that’s crazy I absorbed none of this book. cheers!
June 29, 2020
Always a quick, fun read -- love the recipes in the back of each book! I really want to visit this "tea shop"!
February 8, 2021
Overall I liked this book. Theodosia is at a hunting party and someone is shot. Of course now everyone is trying to figure out if it was an accident or murder. Also, someone goes missing and then this complicates things. Thankfully Theodosia is able to find out the truth and all is well for now.
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