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Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery #6
Murder with Oolong Tea
In bestselling author Karen Rose Smith's sixth delightfully devious Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery, Pennsylvania Amish country's favorite tea house proprietor, Daisy Swanson, finds herself going back to school expecting to serve tea--only to get a crash course in criminal justice!
The faculty of Willow Creek High School are having a get-together after the spring concert with refreshments provided, courtesy of Daisy's Tea Garden. Oolong tea and chocolate biscuits are just what the staff needs to help them unwind from Althea Higgins' demanding curriculum. Her lessons on such controversial subjects as school uniforms and under qualified substitute teachers are earning her an F from her colleagues.
But a failing grade was preferable to Althea falling victim to foul play. Daisy was there when her body was discovered in the school swimming pool, murdered by strangulation. Althea was certainly a strict, opinionated taskmaster, unliked by both teachers and students, but would any of them actually want to kill her? As Daisy starts asking questions, she gets a real education in Althea's history, discovering more than enough enemies with more than enough motives to cancel her classes permanently...
The faculty of Willow Creek High School are having a get-together after the spring concert with refreshments provided, courtesy of Daisy's Tea Garden. Oolong tea and chocolate biscuits are just what the staff needs to help them unwind from Althea Higgins' demanding curriculum. Her lessons on such controversial subjects as school uniforms and under qualified substitute teachers are earning her an F from her colleagues.
But a failing grade was preferable to Althea falling victim to foul play. Daisy was there when her body was discovered in the school swimming pool, murdered by strangulation. Althea was certainly a strict, opinionated taskmaster, unliked by both teachers and students, but would any of them actually want to kill her? As Daisy starts asking questions, she gets a real education in Althea's history, discovering more than enough enemies with more than enough motives to cancel her classes permanently...
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 29, 2020
161 people are currently reading
544 people want to read
About the author
Karen Rose Smith
352 books909 followersAward-winning author Karen Rose Smith was born in Pennsylvania. Although she was an only child, she remembers the bonds of an extended family. Family is a strong theme in her books and she suspects her childhood memories are the reason.
In college, Karen began writing poetry and also met her husband to be. They both began married life as teachers, but when their son was born, Karen decided to try her hand at a home-decorating business.
She returned to teaching for a while but changes in her life led her to writing relationship novels. Now she writes romances as well as mysteries full time. Her first book was published in 1992; her 110th novel will be published in 2024. A winner of New Jersey's Golden Leaf Award in Short Contemporary Romance, Colorado Romance Writers Award Of Excellence for short contemporary, as well as the Phoenix Desert Rose Chapter's Golden Quill for Traditional Romance, she has also been honored with Cataromance.com's award for Best Special Edition and Washington Romance Writers Career Achievement Award. Her romances have made both the USA TODAY list and the Amazon Romance and Contemporary Romance Bestseller lists. Her mysteries have made the USA TODAY and Barnes and Noble bestseller lists.
She has written for Meteor/Kismet, Kensington, Silhouette and Harlequin. Readers can contact Karen through her website, on Facebook (Karen Rose Smith Author) and on Twitter @ Karenrosesmith, on TIKTOK at karenrosesmithauthor and on Instagram. They can also follow her monthly e-zine IN TOUCH with KAREN ROSE SMITH which has the latest news about her books, recipes and contests.
In college, Karen began writing poetry and also met her husband to be. They both began married life as teachers, but when their son was born, Karen decided to try her hand at a home-decorating business.
She returned to teaching for a while but changes in her life led her to writing relationship novels. Now she writes romances as well as mysteries full time. Her first book was published in 1992; her 110th novel will be published in 2024. A winner of New Jersey's Golden Leaf Award in Short Contemporary Romance, Colorado Romance Writers Award Of Excellence for short contemporary, as well as the Phoenix Desert Rose Chapter's Golden Quill for Traditional Romance, she has also been honored with Cataromance.com's award for Best Special Edition and Washington Romance Writers Career Achievement Award. Her romances have made both the USA TODAY list and the Amazon Romance and Contemporary Romance Bestseller lists. Her mysteries have made the USA TODAY and Barnes and Noble bestseller lists.
She has written for Meteor/Kismet, Kensington, Silhouette and Harlequin. Readers can contact Karen through her website, on Facebook (Karen Rose Smith Author) and on Twitter @ Karenrosesmith, on TIKTOK at karenrosesmithauthor and on Instagram. They can also follow her monthly e-zine IN TOUCH with KAREN ROSE SMITH which has the latest news about her books, recipes and contests.
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December 8, 2020
Murder with Oolong Tea by Karen Rose Smith is a 2020 Kensington publication.
Marvelous Characters and a Challenging Mystery!
Daisy is asked to provide the refreshments for a school faculty gathering, when Althea, an unpopular teacher with both her students, and her colleagues, is found dead.
The emotional toll of sleuthing weighs heavily on Daisy, and she is determined not to get involved in another murder, but, by now, she has gained a bit of a reputation as a natural crime solver.
As Daisy begins to gently explore areas of Althea’s life, she discovers some shocking information, few knew about. These revelations, widens the suspect list, making it much harder to pin down whodunit.
Meanwhile, Daisy has her hands full with the tea shop, and her family life is busier than ever. Jazzy has asked if her new friend, who is mostly unsupervised by the adults in her life, can stay with them for a while, plus, Daisy is worried she may have pushed Jonas away for good.
This is one of the best culinary cozy mystery series going right now. The mystery is interesting, well-plotted, and suspenseful, and as always, the characterizations are lovely, and the delicious foods and teas, create the welcoming atmosphere that keeps me coming back for more!
Rose does a great job balancing the mystery with the trials faced by the recurring characters!! Can’t wait to touch base with Daisy and her lovely family again!!
*Recipes included!
Marvelous Characters and a Challenging Mystery!
Daisy is asked to provide the refreshments for a school faculty gathering, when Althea, an unpopular teacher with both her students, and her colleagues, is found dead.
The emotional toll of sleuthing weighs heavily on Daisy, and she is determined not to get involved in another murder, but, by now, she has gained a bit of a reputation as a natural crime solver.
As Daisy begins to gently explore areas of Althea’s life, she discovers some shocking information, few knew about. These revelations, widens the suspect list, making it much harder to pin down whodunit.
Meanwhile, Daisy has her hands full with the tea shop, and her family life is busier than ever. Jazzy has asked if her new friend, who is mostly unsupervised by the adults in her life, can stay with them for a while, plus, Daisy is worried she may have pushed Jonas away for good.
This is one of the best culinary cozy mystery series going right now. The mystery is interesting, well-plotted, and suspenseful, and as always, the characterizations are lovely, and the delicious foods and teas, create the welcoming atmosphere that keeps me coming back for more!
Rose does a great job balancing the mystery with the trials faced by the recurring characters!! Can’t wait to touch base with Daisy and her lovely family again!!
*Recipes included!
January 15, 2021
Murder with Oolong Tea is the sixth installment in the Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series by Karen Rose Smith. Daisy Swanson moved back to her hometown of Willow Creek, Pennsylvania, after the death of her husband. She has two daughters, Jasmine, who is in high school, and Violet, who has recently given birth to her first child and is married to one of Daisy's employees. Daisy co-owns a lovely tea garden with her aunt Iris, and in this installment, is hired to cater an appreciation tea for the teachers at the local high school, when Althea, an English teacher, is found dead in the school swimming pool. Althea was disliked by many of her students and colleagues, but would any of them actually want to kill her? Daisy is determined to find out.
This is a delightful series, with well-developed characters, a sense of community and family, and mouthwatering descriptions of food and teas. Daisy is a warm and genuine protagonist, and I care about her and the people in her life. While this is more of a character-driven series, the mysteries are still very interesting and always keeps me on my toes. Definitely recommend it and of course, I will be back for another visit.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a delightful series, with well-developed characters, a sense of community and family, and mouthwatering descriptions of food and teas. Daisy is a warm and genuine protagonist, and I care about her and the people in her life. While this is more of a character-driven series, the mysteries are still very interesting and always keeps me on my toes. Definitely recommend it and of course, I will be back for another visit.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2023
In this sixth book in the 'Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery' series, tearoom owner/amateur sleuth Daisy Swanson investigates the murder of a schoolteacher. The book works fine as a standalone.
*****
When she was left a widow with two teenage daughters, Daisy Swanson moved from Florida to her hometown of Willow Creek in the Amish region of Pennsylvania. There Daisy and her Aunt Iris run 'Daisy's Tea Garden', a charming eatery that serves soup, salad, sandwiches, pastries, and tea.
Daisy has a lot on her mind besides managing the tearoom. Daisy's daughter Vi and son-in-law Foster need advice about their finances and help with their 4-month-old baby Sammy;
Daisy's 16-year-old daughter Jazzi asks permission for a classmate named Brielle - a rebellious girl with a nose ring, piercings, and tattoos - to stay over for two weeks, while Brielle's parents are traveling;
and Daisy's boyfriend Jonas, a custom wood craftsman, is suffering from a friend's betrayal.
In addition, Daisy is planning a children's tea AND an event for the local high school.
Willow Creek High School is organizing a student concert followed by a teacher appreciation tea, and Daisy has been hired to cater the party. To go over the menu, Daisy meets guidance counselor Stella Cotton and principal Megan Pratt in Willow Creek High School's teachers' lounge, which is filled with faculty and staff.
While Daisy, Stella, and Megan are discussing the refreshments for the appreciation tea, sixtyish English teacher Althea Higgins - who taught Daisy in her old high school days - makes loud unkind remarks about a newly hired instructor called Claudia Moore.
Later, Althea comes to Daisy's Tea Garden and confronts Daisy because no one asked her opinion about the appreciation tea. Althea wants gluten-free choices as well as organic produce. Daisy soon learns that Althea is an opinionated, outspoken, hard-nosed woman who's always complaining about someone or something.
At the appreciation tea, which is held in Willow Creek High School, Althea has a loud confrontation with Claudia, the teacher she dislikes. Afterwards, Althea's body is found in the school pool, strangled with a rope. Claudia is an early suspect for Althea's murder, as is guidance counselor Stella Cotton, who found the body. In actuality, though, there are many possible murderers because Althea angered almost everyone she met.
Daisy has previously solved homicides in Willow Creek, and several people - who fear they or their loved ones might be accused - ask Daisy to look into Althea's murder. Daisy agrees, but emphasizes that the police are the REAL detectives.
Nevertheless, the locals tend to come to Daisy with their observations and evidence, which Daisy inevitably investigates herself, planning to tell the police if things pan out.
In between interviewing people, data mining, searching apartments, making inquiries, and so on, Daisy deals with the issues in her personal life, some of which are very serious. Daisy also serves a lot of oolong tea, blueberry coffee cake, snickerdoodles, scones, cabbage sausage soup, and other goodies to family, friends, customers, and acquaintances.
Daisy is a caring woman who helps others and sticks up for the underdog, especially if someone is unfairly criticized in her presence. Daisy also has a fine support system, including her aunt and mother; the employees at Daisy's Tea Room; friends in Willow Creek; and the town police, who appreciate her assistance.
This is a fine cozy mystery with likable characters, a good plot, and recipes at the end. Highly recommended to fans of the genre.
Thanks to Netgalley, Karen Rose Smith, and Kensington Publishing Corp. for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at http://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com/
The book includes recipes for Blueberry Coffee Cake, Cabbage Sausage Soup, and Coleslaw.
Blueberry Coffee Cake
Cabbage Sausage Soup
Coleslaw
August 31, 2024
Four and a half stars
Daisy and her adopted daughter Jasmin, known as Jazzi, live in Willow Creek. Daisy owns and operates Daisy’s Tea Garden. She is supplying the refreshments for the willow creek High School function. The staff of the school need a diversion from Althea Higgins and her demand regarding the curriculum and wearing uniforms. This is making her less than popular with other teachers. Althea had been one of Daisy’s teachers when she was at school and was strict but respected by Daisy. Now she is more of an annoyance for many people at the school.
When a strangled body is found, Dasy can’t help but be tempted to investigate. It is not the first time she has been involved in a murder investigation. As if she doesn’t have enough to do, there is the fact that Jazzi wants to invite a friend Brielle to stay with them and also Jazzi's birth mother is coming to visit. How will Daisy find time for everything and also make time for her love life with Jonas?
This is book 6 in a series. I had not read the others but there is no reason it can’t be read as a stand alone.
I liked the caring and compassionate Daisy and the good relationship she has with Jazzi. Daisy also supports her older daughter Violet as well as being a loyal friend.
This is a pleasing cosy murder mystery and I enjoyed my time in Willow Creek.
A quote that made me smile was this one. ‘Worry is like rocking in a rocking chair, it gives you something to do but you don’t get any farther doing it.’
Great setting, likable characters, romance, family relationships and friendship all with a murder and the motive for it, to be solved. What’s not to like? A fun read even if a little predictable at times but leaving me keen to read more by this author.
Daisy and her adopted daughter Jasmin, known as Jazzi, live in Willow Creek. Daisy owns and operates Daisy’s Tea Garden. She is supplying the refreshments for the willow creek High School function. The staff of the school need a diversion from Althea Higgins and her demand regarding the curriculum and wearing uniforms. This is making her less than popular with other teachers. Althea had been one of Daisy’s teachers when she was at school and was strict but respected by Daisy. Now she is more of an annoyance for many people at the school.
When a strangled body is found, Dasy can’t help but be tempted to investigate. It is not the first time she has been involved in a murder investigation. As if she doesn’t have enough to do, there is the fact that Jazzi wants to invite a friend Brielle to stay with them and also Jazzi's birth mother is coming to visit. How will Daisy find time for everything and also make time for her love life with Jonas?
This is book 6 in a series. I had not read the others but there is no reason it can’t be read as a stand alone.
I liked the caring and compassionate Daisy and the good relationship she has with Jazzi. Daisy also supports her older daughter Violet as well as being a loyal friend.
This is a pleasing cosy murder mystery and I enjoyed my time in Willow Creek.
A quote that made me smile was this one. ‘Worry is like rocking in a rocking chair, it gives you something to do but you don’t get any farther doing it.’
Great setting, likable characters, romance, family relationships and friendship all with a murder and the motive for it, to be solved. What’s not to like? A fun read even if a little predictable at times but leaving me keen to read more by this author.
January 9, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
It’s time for Daisy Swanson to go back to school. Willow Creek High School is having their spring concert and that will be followed get-together for the faculty that is being catered by Daisy’s Tea Garden. Daisy is surprised when one of her former teachers stops by the tea garden to discuss the menu because it had already been finalized, but then Althea Higgins has always been a force to be reckoned with. Students fear her and other teachers steer clear of her but when her dead body is found in the pool in the middle of the get-together no one is more shocked than Daisy. She vows not to get wrapped up in another murder case but several people ask her to get involved so she feels she has no choice. So she takes a dip into the pool of suspects in her attempt to uncover who strangled the life out of Althea Higgins.
Again this author impresses me with her ability to take on issues within her books that inform and pull you deeper into the story for more than just an excellent mystery. Relationships play a huge role in Murder with Oolong Tea. Daisy and Jonas, Jonas and Zeke, Daisy and Zeke, Vi and Foster, Tessa and Trevor, Jazzie and her new friend Brielle, Brielle and her parents, Brielle and her grandmother, Althea, and her grandson, and more. All these characters are well-crafted and strong and their interactions are never dull. There is always something happening at the tea shop, Willow Creek, and the Amish countryside to keep people on their toes.
This story was so well-plotted. Tying all the subplots to the main mystery was not an easy task but Ms. Smith does an incredible job. Equipped with her curious nature and her ability to get people to open up to her Daisy sets up several twists and uncovers some unlikely suspects. The author brings suspense in all the right places. I really enjoyed the way the whole story unfolded. The pace was brisk and I was captivated completely following along with all the clues.
The food described within these pages made my mouth water. Daisy dished up a lot of Blueberry Coffee Cake both at work and at home. Thankfully the recipe is in the back of the book and would work with a variety of fruits.
Murder with Oolong Tea is filled with great characters and a first-rate mystery. It is a wonderful addition to the must-read cozy series. The next installment, Murder with Orange Pekoe Tea will be released on August 24, 2021. I can hardly wait.
It’s time for Daisy Swanson to go back to school. Willow Creek High School is having their spring concert and that will be followed get-together for the faculty that is being catered by Daisy’s Tea Garden. Daisy is surprised when one of her former teachers stops by the tea garden to discuss the menu because it had already been finalized, but then Althea Higgins has always been a force to be reckoned with. Students fear her and other teachers steer clear of her but when her dead body is found in the pool in the middle of the get-together no one is more shocked than Daisy. She vows not to get wrapped up in another murder case but several people ask her to get involved so she feels she has no choice. So she takes a dip into the pool of suspects in her attempt to uncover who strangled the life out of Althea Higgins.
Again this author impresses me with her ability to take on issues within her books that inform and pull you deeper into the story for more than just an excellent mystery. Relationships play a huge role in Murder with Oolong Tea. Daisy and Jonas, Jonas and Zeke, Daisy and Zeke, Vi and Foster, Tessa and Trevor, Jazzie and her new friend Brielle, Brielle and her parents, Brielle and her grandmother, Althea, and her grandson, and more. All these characters are well-crafted and strong and their interactions are never dull. There is always something happening at the tea shop, Willow Creek, and the Amish countryside to keep people on their toes.
This story was so well-plotted. Tying all the subplots to the main mystery was not an easy task but Ms. Smith does an incredible job. Equipped with her curious nature and her ability to get people to open up to her Daisy sets up several twists and uncovers some unlikely suspects. The author brings suspense in all the right places. I really enjoyed the way the whole story unfolded. The pace was brisk and I was captivated completely following along with all the clues.
The food described within these pages made my mouth water. Daisy dished up a lot of Blueberry Coffee Cake both at work and at home. Thankfully the recipe is in the back of the book and would work with a variety of fruits.
Murder with Oolong Tea is filled with great characters and a first-rate mystery. It is a wonderful addition to the must-read cozy series. The next installment, Murder with Orange Pekoe Tea will be released on August 24, 2021. I can hardly wait.
October 11, 2020
It was great spending more time with Daisy and her family. While at her daughter’s school, Daisy hears some screaming and goes to investigate, only to find the body of one of her old teacher’s. Poor Daisy. So much going on in her life already, and now she gets involved in another murder. I enjoyed reading about teas I had never heard of before and the recipes in the back of the book look fabulous! I love this series and hope it never ends!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
March 4, 2021
Another well crafted cozy mystery by Karen Rose Smith. Not only are the characters engaging but the setting is enviable and you will want to visit a tea garden as soon as possible! Better yet, recreate one of the mouthwatering recipes included in the book! I am looking forward to the next cozy in this series!
January 2, 2021
In this installment of the series, four or five people begged Daisy to solve the murder of her high school English teacher, because, of course, she has solved so many mysteries before. As I've said in previous reviews, Daisy has actually never solved anything, but has only ever managed to find the murderer by getting nearly killed by them in the end. Near the end of this one I thought she had possibly solved this one(!), but as always her clue-following, while actually somewhat impressive in this book, leads only to red herrings. I have no doubt that everyone in Willow Creek thinks Daisy solved the murder, however. Unlike Daisy, I did solve this one, but not with any clues, and only with the logic of what sort of dispensable and not-particularly-suspected character this author always picks to be the murderer.
If all this sounds like a complaint, it isn't really. I haven't been reading this series for clever crime solving, but for something utterly comforting during a stressful time, and this definitely delivered. It's so sweetly wholesome it almost makes my teeth hurt, but there's definitely something about knowing that everything will work out, loving relationships abound, and there will always be tea and cats that makes these books so soothing. If that's what you are looking for, this book delivers!
*I received a free ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
If all this sounds like a complaint, it isn't really. I haven't been reading this series for clever crime solving, but for something utterly comforting during a stressful time, and this definitely delivered. It's so sweetly wholesome it almost makes my teeth hurt, but there's definitely something about knowing that everything will work out, loving relationships abound, and there will always be tea and cats that makes these books so soothing. If that's what you are looking for, this book delivers!
*I received a free ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 22, 2020
Murder with Oolong Tea is the 6th in Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery Series by Karen Rose Smith. Ms. Smith always guarantees her readers a well written plot with the most enjoyable characters in each story. Daisy, the namesake for the Tea Garden, and her Aunt Iris return as well as Daisy's girls, Jazzy and Violet. We are given the chance to attempt to figure out who murdered a long-time teacher, Althea Higgins, while Daisy asked to cater a tea for the falculty to show the district's appreciation for their service. In addition to figuring out who might have wanted Althea out of the way, we also get a look into the lives of a young married couple, a mother-daughter relationship, and also a relationship between friends. As always I enjoyed each page from beginning to end.
October 31, 2020
Delicious mystery set in a tearoom in the heart of Amish country. This was my first book I’ve read in this series but it won’t be my last! The author did a good job of introducing characters so that I wasn’t confused as someone who started several books into the series. The book was fast paced, but delightful cozy and wholesome. As a bonus it included some yummy looking recipes.
March 22, 2022
Anche stavolta ero più interessata a quanto stava succedendo nella vita privata della protagonista che al giallo vero e proprio. Devo dire che il colpevole è stato una vera sorpresa perché non lo avevo proprio considerato...
April 10, 2021
Daisy is finding that school teachers aren’t what they appear to be. In the latest addition to the “A Daisy’s Tea Garden Mystery” series, Murder with Oolong Tea, one teacher is murdered, and evidence points to the possibility that another teacher may be the culprit.
Daisy is a wonderful character, as are most of the recurring cast in this series. The setting could be in any town in America; it feels intimate and comforting. The tea garden, although it doesn’t play a tremendous role in this story, is inviting and sounds yummy. The victim in this book, long-time teacher Althea Higgin’s isn’t exactly a beloved member of the community, nor is she hated by most people. Yet, she is hard to take, and students and teachers won’t miss her all that much. But as with most people, Althea wasn’t what she seemed.
Suspects range from teachers and students, family members, and a possible ex-lover. Evidence is scarce. This may be a failing of the story in general but does not detract from the reader’s enjoyment. The killer, once revealed, was not hard to figure out, mainly since the character falls into that “not what they seem” category, and the motive was made apparent earlier in the book. It’s too bad that Daisy isn’t in more peril and her tea garden at the center of the action. It would have made the story more interesting. Instead, the primary setting this time is the high school and Althea’s farm. This in and of itself isn’t an issue, but readers may not feel the same connection to the locations they have for Daisy’s tea garden.
Murder with Oolong Tea is a nice read for a quiet time. The action is minimal; the characters are well developed and familiar. The suspects, including the teachers and family members, are believable, and the murder is well thought out, and there are wonderful tea flavors. I am happy to recommend this cozy to readers who can relax and enjoy a story without too much detail or complications.
Daisy is a wonderful character, as are most of the recurring cast in this series. The setting could be in any town in America; it feels intimate and comforting. The tea garden, although it doesn’t play a tremendous role in this story, is inviting and sounds yummy. The victim in this book, long-time teacher Althea Higgin’s isn’t exactly a beloved member of the community, nor is she hated by most people. Yet, she is hard to take, and students and teachers won’t miss her all that much. But as with most people, Althea wasn’t what she seemed.
Suspects range from teachers and students, family members, and a possible ex-lover. Evidence is scarce. This may be a failing of the story in general but does not detract from the reader’s enjoyment. The killer, once revealed, was not hard to figure out, mainly since the character falls into that “not what they seem” category, and the motive was made apparent earlier in the book. It’s too bad that Daisy isn’t in more peril and her tea garden at the center of the action. It would have made the story more interesting. Instead, the primary setting this time is the high school and Althea’s farm. This in and of itself isn’t an issue, but readers may not feel the same connection to the locations they have for Daisy’s tea garden.
Murder with Oolong Tea is a nice read for a quiet time. The action is minimal; the characters are well developed and familiar. The suspects, including the teachers and family members, are believable, and the murder is well thought out, and there are wonderful tea flavors. I am happy to recommend this cozy to readers who can relax and enjoy a story without too much detail or complications.
December 29, 2020
In this sixth book of the series Daisy is preparing refreshments for the faculty at Willow Creek High for a small party they are holding after the spring concert. The staff is hoping to take a moment away from teaching and enjoy themselves but teacher Althea makes it difficult. She always has a problem with something whether it be substitute teachers or the clothing that the teens wear. When Althea is found dead and Daisy among the first to find her she knows she must figure out what happened. Even though she was found in the pool she was strangled to death. Althea had quite a few enemies from other faculty to students but who among them hated the woman enough to kill her. While digging into Althea's life Daisy soon learns there were quite a few motives for people to want her dead. Follow along as Daisy puts all the pieces together in hopes of figuring out who killed Althea and why. This is such a great series that keeps you guessing the whole way through.
September 7, 2021
I have no idea how Daisy gets so much done in a day - she runs her tea shop, helps with her granddaughter, mediates fights between her daughter and son-in-law, supervises her other daughter and her friend that's staying with them for two weeks, and still has time for a relationship and to investigate a murder. I get tired just thinking about all of it. Still, she's a testament to busy working moms everywhere who manage to find time during the day for all the things they need to do. The mystery was interesting and well paced. Another good addition to this series.
December 29, 2020
It is a delight to visit Daisy’s Tea Garden in Willow Creek, Lancaster County, PA! Sixth in the series, it is a welcome addition. The characters are like old friends and are defined well through realistic dialog and actions. Picturesque descriptions invited me into each scene, and the mystery kept me guessing. Some relationships are challenged and stretched while some grow and flourish.
Daisy and her teenage daughters moved to her hometown about three years ago. Daisy and her aunt Iris own Daisy’s Tea Garden, a full-service tea house that serves various teas, soups, sandwiches, and baked goods. They offer full afternoon tea, either in the special tearoom or catered to a customer’s location.
Daisy is going to cater a tea for the high school in appreciation of the teachers. Daisy saw the English teacher she had in high school, Althea Higgins, when planning the tea with Stacy, the counselor. Althea is planning for her retirement for the following year. Mrs. Higgins was liked by very few folks, whether students or fellow teachers. She could be strict, even overbearing, and many students were afraid of her. At the next school board meeting, the topic of students wearing uniforms is on the agenda. Althea wants students to wear uniforms as she believes when students wear good clothes, they think better about themselves and tend to apply themselves more.
On the day of the tea, several of Daisy’s employees came to help serve. All was going well until Althea and a teacher she didn’t approve of had words at their table. Both women left the table. Not long afterwards Daisy was in the hallway and heard a scream. Arriving where the swimming pool is, she saw Stella, the counselor, leaning into the pool, trying to drag Althea out of the water, but it was too late. The person who wrapped the pool lane ropes around her neck made sure of that.
Daisy has helped solve murders in the past, particularly the time she was a suspect, and another when Aunt Iris was a suspect. She has no plan of getting involved this time. The Tea Garden is busy as tourist season gears up. Her older daughter, Vi, has four-month-old Sammy, and she loves spending time with them. Her younger daughter, Jazzi, is having a friend from school spend a couple weeks with them, and her birth mother will be there for a visit.
Against her best intentions, Daisy became involved in the process of gathering information from those who knew Althea, due to her friendship with one of the suspects. One of her employees has a personal interest and was willing to help with the process.
I enjoyed catching up with Daisy and her family; there is always something going on with her daughters, boyfriend, and other family members. I also enjoyed the special entertainment for one of the events at the tea garden and reading about the oolong tea and blueberry coffee cake that are highlights. The mystery kept this armchair sleuth busy trying to determine whodunit. Unfortunately, I had considered – and rejected – the real bad guy, so well are the clues planted toward other people. The resolution was satisfactory, with no outstanding items. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries, tea and food pairings, family relationships, and sweet romance.
From a thankful heart: I received a review copy from the publisher and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
Daisy and her teenage daughters moved to her hometown about three years ago. Daisy and her aunt Iris own Daisy’s Tea Garden, a full-service tea house that serves various teas, soups, sandwiches, and baked goods. They offer full afternoon tea, either in the special tearoom or catered to a customer’s location.
Daisy is going to cater a tea for the high school in appreciation of the teachers. Daisy saw the English teacher she had in high school, Althea Higgins, when planning the tea with Stacy, the counselor. Althea is planning for her retirement for the following year. Mrs. Higgins was liked by very few folks, whether students or fellow teachers. She could be strict, even overbearing, and many students were afraid of her. At the next school board meeting, the topic of students wearing uniforms is on the agenda. Althea wants students to wear uniforms as she believes when students wear good clothes, they think better about themselves and tend to apply themselves more.
On the day of the tea, several of Daisy’s employees came to help serve. All was going well until Althea and a teacher she didn’t approve of had words at their table. Both women left the table. Not long afterwards Daisy was in the hallway and heard a scream. Arriving where the swimming pool is, she saw Stella, the counselor, leaning into the pool, trying to drag Althea out of the water, but it was too late. The person who wrapped the pool lane ropes around her neck made sure of that.
Daisy has helped solve murders in the past, particularly the time she was a suspect, and another when Aunt Iris was a suspect. She has no plan of getting involved this time. The Tea Garden is busy as tourist season gears up. Her older daughter, Vi, has four-month-old Sammy, and she loves spending time with them. Her younger daughter, Jazzi, is having a friend from school spend a couple weeks with them, and her birth mother will be there for a visit.
Against her best intentions, Daisy became involved in the process of gathering information from those who knew Althea, due to her friendship with one of the suspects. One of her employees has a personal interest and was willing to help with the process.
I enjoyed catching up with Daisy and her family; there is always something going on with her daughters, boyfriend, and other family members. I also enjoyed the special entertainment for one of the events at the tea garden and reading about the oolong tea and blueberry coffee cake that are highlights. The mystery kept this armchair sleuth busy trying to determine whodunit. Unfortunately, I had considered – and rejected – the real bad guy, so well are the clues planted toward other people. The resolution was satisfactory, with no outstanding items. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries, tea and food pairings, family relationships, and sweet romance.
From a thankful heart: I received a review copy from the publisher and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
November 24, 2020
Investigating the murder of a school employee no one liked, a visit from her daughter's birth mother, temporarily taking in a teen with family problems and managing the tea shop has Daisy on the run!
The book was a fun read and I enjoyed the pleasant and positive personality of Daisy. A mystery that had "red herrings" and interesting supporting characters, kept me reading. The tea shop was charming and the pastries and read sounded delicious. Be sure and have a snack and a cup of tea while reading!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my.
The book was a fun read and I enjoyed the pleasant and positive personality of Daisy. A mystery that had "red herrings" and interesting supporting characters, kept me reading. The tea shop was charming and the pastries and read sounded delicious. Be sure and have a snack and a cup of tea while reading!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my.
September 4, 2020
Daisy Swanson is the co-owner of Daisy’s Tea Garden which she runs with her aunt Iris. They cater to events as well as manage operations at the tea garden.
Her tea garden is also preparing for the spring and summer Amish country has tourist trade in Lancaster County.
Willow Creek High School is having a get-together—after the spring concert—in appreciation of the teachers and the school has hired Daisy’s tea garden to cater the appreciation tea event. She will be working with Megan Pratt , the principal of Willow Creek High School, and Stella Conton, the school’s guidance counselor to create the menu for the event.
Some recipes Daisy suggests are Daisy’s Spring Garden, avocado-cucumber soup and tomato aspic; egg and olive sandwiches; beef on rye squares, cucumber watercress triangles; and desserts—cake with mini shoofly pies and lemon tarts. To name a few.
One of the teachers named Althea Higgins—and Daisy’s former English teacher has been opposed to the school hiring a teacher named Claudia Moore is filling a vacant spot in the math department because the current teacher is on maternity leave. Althea is quite opinionated and is not well liked by her faculty members.
Following an altercation between Althea and Claudia at the tea event, Althea is found dead floating in the school’s swimming pool with a rope wrapped around her neck.
Daisy starts asking questions trying to find out who would hate Althea enough to want to kill her.
Overall, good read. Included in this book are delicious recipes such as Blueberry Coffee Cake, Cabbage Sausage Soup, and Coleslaw. Would recommend.
Her tea garden is also preparing for the spring and summer Amish country has tourist trade in Lancaster County.
Willow Creek High School is having a get-together—after the spring concert—in appreciation of the teachers and the school has hired Daisy’s tea garden to cater the appreciation tea event. She will be working with Megan Pratt , the principal of Willow Creek High School, and Stella Conton, the school’s guidance counselor to create the menu for the event.
Some recipes Daisy suggests are Daisy’s Spring Garden, avocado-cucumber soup and tomato aspic; egg and olive sandwiches; beef on rye squares, cucumber watercress triangles; and desserts—cake with mini shoofly pies and lemon tarts. To name a few.
One of the teachers named Althea Higgins—and Daisy’s former English teacher has been opposed to the school hiring a teacher named Claudia Moore is filling a vacant spot in the math department because the current teacher is on maternity leave. Althea is quite opinionated and is not well liked by her faculty members.
Following an altercation between Althea and Claudia at the tea event, Althea is found dead floating in the school’s swimming pool with a rope wrapped around her neck.
Daisy starts asking questions trying to find out who would hate Althea enough to want to kill her.
Overall, good read. Included in this book are delicious recipes such as Blueberry Coffee Cake, Cabbage Sausage Soup, and Coleslaw. Would recommend.
March 16, 2024
This book could have been a lot shorter. It is chockfull of gems like:
“All right,” Althea agreed. “I suppose we could sit while we talk.”
Daisy had no idea what they were going to talk about.
That superfluous information. Of course Daisy doesn’t know what Althea wants to talk about. The two women never talk and Althea hasn’t mentioned yet what she wants to talk about. It would be news, and worth to mention, if Daisy knows what Althea wants to talk about.
Or what about this one:
Jonas arrived before the girls did. He rang the bell and Daisy checked the camera app on her phone. It was Jonas.
Is this book written for five-year-olds? Or people with the attention span of a goldfish?
Considering that my to be read pile is about as tall as I am, giving this book a definitive miss.
“All right,” Althea agreed. “I suppose we could sit while we talk.”
Daisy had no idea what they were going to talk about.
That superfluous information. Of course Daisy doesn’t know what Althea wants to talk about. The two women never talk and Althea hasn’t mentioned yet what she wants to talk about. It would be news, and worth to mention, if Daisy knows what Althea wants to talk about.
Or what about this one:
Jonas arrived before the girls did. He rang the bell and Daisy checked the camera app on her phone. It was Jonas.
Is this book written for five-year-olds? Or people with the attention span of a goldfish?
Considering that my to be read pile is about as tall as I am, giving this book a definitive miss.
September 23, 2020
Daisy Swanson is hired to host a teacher appreciation tea for the local high school. When one of the teachers that was not liked by most ends up dead she takes on the case. Running her and her aunts Daisy’s Tea Garden, having issues with her boyfriend Jonas and having her daughters friend stay over for a few weeks Daisy is busy. She dives in to help find the murderer. There is lots of side stories with the main mystery that I really enjoyed. The characters are fun, relatable and makes you want to have a cup of tea with them.
#MurderwithOolongTea #NetGalley
#MurderwithOolongTea #NetGalley
December 29, 2020
Murder with Oolong Tea by Karen Rose Smith
(A Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery Book 6)
In Pennsylvania's Amish country, Daisy Swanson finds herself going back to school expecting to serve tea--only to get a crash course in criminal justice . . .
The faculty of Willow Creek High School are having a get-together after the spring concert with refreshments provided, courtesy of Daisy's Tea Garden. Oolong tea and chocolate biscuits are just what the staff needs to help them unwind from Althea Higgins' demanding curriculum. Her lessons on such controversial subjects as school uniforms and underqualified substitute teachers are earning her an F from her colleagues.
But a failing grade was preferable to Althea falling victim to foul play. Daisy was there when her body was discovered in the school swimming pool, murdered by strangulation. Althea was certainly a strict, opinionated taskmaster, unliked by both teachers and students, but would any of them actually want to kill her? As Daisy starts asking questions, she gets a real education in Althea's history, discovering more than enough enemies with more than enough motives to cancel her classes permanently . . .
Includes delicious recipes
This is Daisy Swanson and Jonas's story.
This is Althea's story.
This is Daisy’s friends and family's story.
“Claudia never should have been hired,” Althea Higgins proclaimed loudly enough for everyone in the teachers’ lounge to hear.
Daisy Swanson, who was consulting with the principal of Willow Creek High School along with the guidance counselor, listened in spite of herself. Mrs. Higgins had been one of her English teachers when she’d been in high school. Daisy particularly remembered Mrs. Higgins’s love of Shakespeare.
The older teacher, who Daisy gauged to be around sixty, wore her gray hair in a long ponytail that trailed down her back. With her high-necked white blouse and her midi-length tan skirt, she looked like a schoolmarm from olden days except . . . she more resembled an unhappy schoolmarm with her mouth pursed as if she’d tasted rhubarb and didn’t like it.
Daisy hurried out the door from the all-purpose room and hurried past the pool and other meeting rooms to the outside door and her van. She opened the door of the vehicle and climbed inside. The thermometer in the refrigeration unit said the temperature was on point. Relieved, she removed the mini tarts in their pastry boxes, closed the door to the van, and carried the boxes inside. As March in Pennsylvania was wont to do, the day had begun with a cold chill and it hadn’t dissipated. Wind blew across the portico leading to the inside of the building and Daisy shivered. She hadn’t bothered with her jacket to run in and out.
However, as she reentered the building, she heard a piercing scream that sent a frisson of fear up her spine. The sound had come from the pool.
Daisy dropped the boxes of tarts and ran for the double doors leading into the pool area. The frosted glass revealed nothing.
I recommend reading.
Murder with Oolong Tea by Karen Rose Smith is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Karen Rose Smith.
I read a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
(A Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery Book 6)
In Pennsylvania's Amish country, Daisy Swanson finds herself going back to school expecting to serve tea--only to get a crash course in criminal justice . . .
The faculty of Willow Creek High School are having a get-together after the spring concert with refreshments provided, courtesy of Daisy's Tea Garden. Oolong tea and chocolate biscuits are just what the staff needs to help them unwind from Althea Higgins' demanding curriculum. Her lessons on such controversial subjects as school uniforms and underqualified substitute teachers are earning her an F from her colleagues.
But a failing grade was preferable to Althea falling victim to foul play. Daisy was there when her body was discovered in the school swimming pool, murdered by strangulation. Althea was certainly a strict, opinionated taskmaster, unliked by both teachers and students, but would any of them actually want to kill her? As Daisy starts asking questions, she gets a real education in Althea's history, discovering more than enough enemies with more than enough motives to cancel her classes permanently . . .
Includes delicious recipes
This is Daisy Swanson and Jonas's story.
This is Althea's story.
This is Daisy’s friends and family's story.
“Claudia never should have been hired,” Althea Higgins proclaimed loudly enough for everyone in the teachers’ lounge to hear.
Daisy Swanson, who was consulting with the principal of Willow Creek High School along with the guidance counselor, listened in spite of herself. Mrs. Higgins had been one of her English teachers when she’d been in high school. Daisy particularly remembered Mrs. Higgins’s love of Shakespeare.
The older teacher, who Daisy gauged to be around sixty, wore her gray hair in a long ponytail that trailed down her back. With her high-necked white blouse and her midi-length tan skirt, she looked like a schoolmarm from olden days except . . . she more resembled an unhappy schoolmarm with her mouth pursed as if she’d tasted rhubarb and didn’t like it.
Daisy hurried out the door from the all-purpose room and hurried past the pool and other meeting rooms to the outside door and her van. She opened the door of the vehicle and climbed inside. The thermometer in the refrigeration unit said the temperature was on point. Relieved, she removed the mini tarts in their pastry boxes, closed the door to the van, and carried the boxes inside. As March in Pennsylvania was wont to do, the day had begun with a cold chill and it hadn’t dissipated. Wind blew across the portico leading to the inside of the building and Daisy shivered. She hadn’t bothered with her jacket to run in and out.
However, as she reentered the building, she heard a piercing scream that sent a frisson of fear up her spine. The sound had come from the pool.
Daisy dropped the boxes of tarts and ran for the double doors leading into the pool area. The frosted glass revealed nothing.
I recommend reading.
Murder with Oolong Tea by Karen Rose Smith is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Karen Rose Smith.
I read a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
September 4, 2023
With the 10th Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery coming out in November this year, I realized that I had several to catch up. Saying that, it is not necessary to read all the previous books in this series to enjoy them all, but the personal stories carry on from previous books, so that part might be spoiled if you go back to read previous books, but each mystery is self-contained in the book. In Murder with Oolong Tea, Daisy has been hired to provide tea and desserts in appreciation for the faculty of Willow Creek High School after the spring concert. One of the staff, Althea Higgins's has been lecturing the staff on such controversial subjects as school uniforms and under qualified substitute teachers and it is aggravating many of the staff. Daisy is at the school when a body is found in the swimming pool, and it is Althea. She was strangled and thrown in the pool. There are way too many suspects in this one. Meanwhile, Daisy's daughter, Jazzy, has asked her mom if a friend can stay with them while her parents are in Europe. Daisy does her due diligence and talks to the girl's parents and the guidance counsellor before agreeing. You know two teenage girls are bound to get into something.
This book reminded me what I have been missing while getting behind in this series. I really like Daisy's character. She is a widow with two daughters, Jazzy, who is adopted and still in high school, and Violet who is married and recently gave birth to her first child. She runs the tea house with her aunt, is involved in school activities and is a great mom. Somehow, she fits sleuthing into her schedule. She is a hard worker, a loving mother and a smart cookie. As Daisy begins to poke around in Althea's life, she finds several people who disliked Althea, but was it enough to kill her. It turns out that the young lady's grandmother who is staying with them, lives right near Althea's home, so she gets some information from her and other neighbours. The culprit was not on my radar, but it was a fitting ending to this mystery. I enjoy this series, with its great characters, well plotted mystery and fun stories. It is more of a character driven mystery than others I have read, but I enjoy seeing what Daisy, her family and friends are up to in each book. C.S.E. Cooney narrated the audiobook and does a nice job. She has narrated the series and I have listened to her many times. She has an easy to listen to voice, with expression and tone to fit the story.
This book reminded me what I have been missing while getting behind in this series. I really like Daisy's character. She is a widow with two daughters, Jazzy, who is adopted and still in high school, and Violet who is married and recently gave birth to her first child. She runs the tea house with her aunt, is involved in school activities and is a great mom. Somehow, she fits sleuthing into her schedule. She is a hard worker, a loving mother and a smart cookie. As Daisy begins to poke around in Althea's life, she finds several people who disliked Althea, but was it enough to kill her. It turns out that the young lady's grandmother who is staying with them, lives right near Althea's home, so she gets some information from her and other neighbours. The culprit was not on my radar, but it was a fitting ending to this mystery. I enjoy this series, with its great characters, well plotted mystery and fun stories. It is more of a character driven mystery than others I have read, but I enjoy seeing what Daisy, her family and friends are up to in each book. C.S.E. Cooney narrated the audiobook and does a nice job. She has narrated the series and I have listened to her many times. She has an easy to listen to voice, with expression and tone to fit the story.
December 28, 2020
This is the sixth book in a series by Karen Rose Smith about Daisy Swanson who runs a tea garden she co-owns with her aunt. Daisy moved back to her hometown of Willow Creek, Pennsylvania, after the death of her husband. Daisy is hired by Willow Creek High School to provide refreshments for a meeting of the faculty which is due to take place after the spring concert. The event gets underway but then a long-serving, very opinionated English teacher's dead body - Althea Higgins - is found floating in the school swimming pool. Daisy takes it upon herself to investigate.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder with Oolong Tea and found it compelling. It was easy to read, and I thought protagonist Daisy was a great character as she was personable as well as being compassionate, level-headed, and showed brilliant sleuthing skills.
The mystery itself included more than enough twists and variety to keep me guessing and turning the pages until the big reveal. A good bunch of people surrounded Daisy, the tea shop was charming and the cakes and pastries sounded scrummy, especially the blueberry coffee cake. Daisy's family issues felt real and the author spotlighted topics of trust and kindness.
This is a great, very high quality, fun read, and I intend to catch up with the other books in the series. Also, I can’t wait to see what’s next for Daisy in book seven, Murder with Orange Pekoe Tea. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder with Oolong Tea and found it compelling. It was easy to read, and I thought protagonist Daisy was a great character as she was personable as well as being compassionate, level-headed, and showed brilliant sleuthing skills.
The mystery itself included more than enough twists and variety to keep me guessing and turning the pages until the big reveal. A good bunch of people surrounded Daisy, the tea shop was charming and the cakes and pastries sounded scrummy, especially the blueberry coffee cake. Daisy's family issues felt real and the author spotlighted topics of trust and kindness.
This is a great, very high quality, fun read, and I intend to catch up with the other books in the series. Also, I can’t wait to see what’s next for Daisy in book seven, Murder with Orange Pekoe Tea. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
December 30, 2020
Murder with Oolong Tea is the 6th in the charming Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery Series by Karen Rose Smith. I love returning to this series with wonderful charcters that feel like old friends. The receipes included are divine . This next in series is my favorite of the series with a well crafted sleuth that kept me guessing to conclusion.
Daisy is hosting a tea for a teacher appreciation event. One of her own previous teachers is attending who is contentious and difficult for everyone to get alone with. She has already had words with Daisy over her complaints about the menu. . When she is found murdered Daisy is on the case and soon clues abound of possible suspects.
I love the charcter of Daisy and her morals that she lives by. She is kind, helpful and someone we would all want to be friends with. She is savvy about solving crimes and finding clues . She works kindly with the local law enforcement. Her relationship with Jonas took a turn in this book that is promising for the future by the end. I loved how Daisy took in a neglected teen and mentored her in this book as well as cared for her own children , her new Grandson and runs the lovely tea garden . All the characters are old dear friends to readers and featured here as well as a lovely new feisty Grandmother I hope to see regularly in future books . A delightful read that i enjoyed and look forward to the next in series. This is one of my top 3 favorite cozies of 2020 ! Much gratitude to the author for continuing this wonderful series that we all adore.
Daisy is hosting a tea for a teacher appreciation event. One of her own previous teachers is attending who is contentious and difficult for everyone to get alone with. She has already had words with Daisy over her complaints about the menu. . When she is found murdered Daisy is on the case and soon clues abound of possible suspects.
I love the charcter of Daisy and her morals that she lives by. She is kind, helpful and someone we would all want to be friends with. She is savvy about solving crimes and finding clues . She works kindly with the local law enforcement. Her relationship with Jonas took a turn in this book that is promising for the future by the end. I loved how Daisy took in a neglected teen and mentored her in this book as well as cared for her own children , her new Grandson and runs the lovely tea garden . All the characters are old dear friends to readers and featured here as well as a lovely new feisty Grandmother I hope to see regularly in future books . A delightful read that i enjoyed and look forward to the next in series. This is one of my top 3 favorite cozies of 2020 ! Much gratitude to the author for continuing this wonderful series that we all adore.
January 20, 2021
I adore this series. The setting of a small town tea shop, the cast of characters, and the sweet and sinister plot lines have made the Daisy's Tea Garden Mysteries one of my top series.
First and foremost, I love any book, especially a cozy, that has a middle aged (give or take a few years) protagonist. Also, when said protagonist is a single woman battling her own insecurities while trying to keep it together for her family, that's the perfect recipe to connect emotionally with the books.
In this series, Daisy, a widow with 2 daughters, returns to her small, home town to be closer to her family. In need of a fresh start, Daisy and her aunt Iris open a Tea Shop. Although the business is very successful, its seems a dark cloud has been hovering around the town, especially the tea shop. With murder and mystery popping up in town, Daisy or someone she cares about always seem to be a suspect.
In this installment, Daisy is investigating a murder, taking care of a neglected friend of Jazzi, Vi and her family, and dealing with her own relationship with Jonas. I enjoy the family element of this series so much and that after everything Daisy has to deal with, she is there to help others in need. Although she spreads herself thin, she is strong enough for everyone. There were some relationship issues that I did not like in this novel bit they had to be addressed so I understand. This was book 6 so I am really going to need Daisy and Jonas's relationship to step it up a notch at this point lol.
I received this book in digital format from Netgalley in return for an honest review. I cannot wait for book 7, Murder with Orange Pekoe Tea, releasing later this year.
First and foremost, I love any book, especially a cozy, that has a middle aged (give or take a few years) protagonist. Also, when said protagonist is a single woman battling her own insecurities while trying to keep it together for her family, that's the perfect recipe to connect emotionally with the books.
In this series, Daisy, a widow with 2 daughters, returns to her small, home town to be closer to her family. In need of a fresh start, Daisy and her aunt Iris open a Tea Shop. Although the business is very successful, its seems a dark cloud has been hovering around the town, especially the tea shop. With murder and mystery popping up in town, Daisy or someone she cares about always seem to be a suspect.
In this installment, Daisy is investigating a murder, taking care of a neglected friend of Jazzi, Vi and her family, and dealing with her own relationship with Jonas. I enjoy the family element of this series so much and that after everything Daisy has to deal with, she is there to help others in need. Although she spreads herself thin, she is strong enough for everyone. There were some relationship issues that I did not like in this novel bit they had to be addressed so I understand. This was book 6 so I am really going to need Daisy and Jonas's relationship to step it up a notch at this point lol.
I received this book in digital format from Netgalley in return for an honest review. I cannot wait for book 7, Murder with Orange Pekoe Tea, releasing later this year.
December 23, 2020
Murder with Oolong Tea is the sixth book in the series: Daisy’s Tea Garden Mystery, but the first one I’ve read. The setting is the Lancaster, Pennsylvania area, so the influence of the Amish is prominent but the main characters are not followers of the Amish way of life. Daisy Swanson runs a tea “garden” in a small town and has been helpful to the local police in solving previous murders, as explained in the book. I’m sure it would have been a richer, more satisfying read if I’d been more familiar with the characters, but it still was an enjoyable read. Daisy, because of experience, doesn’t take undue or stupid risks, as some amateur sleuths do in “cozy” mystery series, so that was also a good feature. Daisy comes off as a bit of a “goody two shoes” (weird idiom, am I right?) but she is essentially just a good person. The mystery of who murdered Althea Higgins was the focus of the story and we eventually find out more about the murder victim, softening her from our initial view of her as a demanding teacher with an obnoxious personality. Recipes are included in the back of the book for items mentioned along the way. I just might try to make that blueberry coffee cake!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
June 15, 2025
Was the teacher killed because she was grumpy and opinionated or did have a secret life?
This cozy mystery had plenty of twists and turns to keep you flipping the pages long into the night. Daisy and crew has been hired to host a teacher appreciation tea at the high school. All is going well until the counselor and Daisy find the very opinionated Althea floating in the school pool. While Daisy is working on finding out who is responsible for the ghastly act she is also hosting her youngest daughter’s new friend for a couple of weeks. It is not without ups and downs. Daisy finds herself trying to help the young girl with a touchy situation.
And, let’s not forget flaky Jonas, Daisy’s boyfriend. What is his problem? I get it, he suffered a horrific loss of his girlfriend/partner and their unborn baby, he has beef with the local detective but geez he takes it out on Daisy with his hot and cold affection. At times I feel Daisy needs to move on until he comes to terms with his past but then when he is “on” he is perfect for her. Hopefully, he will make the decision to live in the present and treat Daisy like she deserves.
Daisy has a big heart but it sure gets her in some pickles. I was happy to see her and her mother are continuing to work on their relationship. It seems to give Daisy a bit of peace she was missing.
This cozy mystery had plenty of twists and turns to keep you flipping the pages long into the night. Daisy and crew has been hired to host a teacher appreciation tea at the high school. All is going well until the counselor and Daisy find the very opinionated Althea floating in the school pool. While Daisy is working on finding out who is responsible for the ghastly act she is also hosting her youngest daughter’s new friend for a couple of weeks. It is not without ups and downs. Daisy finds herself trying to help the young girl with a touchy situation.
And, let’s not forget flaky Jonas, Daisy’s boyfriend. What is his problem? I get it, he suffered a horrific loss of his girlfriend/partner and their unborn baby, he has beef with the local detective but geez he takes it out on Daisy with his hot and cold affection. At times I feel Daisy needs to move on until he comes to terms with his past but then when he is “on” he is perfect for her. Hopefully, he will make the decision to live in the present and treat Daisy like she deserves.
Daisy has a big heart but it sure gets her in some pickles. I was happy to see her and her mother are continuing to work on their relationship. It seems to give Daisy a bit of peace she was missing.
December 14, 2020
Daisy is excited about catering the spring tea event for the local school district. But when one of the teachers is found dead in the pool, she is once again in the middle of a murder investigation. To make things more complicated, she had tried to mediate between Zeke and Jonas, and this put a definite strain on her relationship with Jonas. And then there’s her daughter’s houseguest, Brielle. Is she a good or bad influence on Jazzi? A fun cozy mystery, with characters that are more centered on family and values. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing this book received through NetGalley and all opinions are strictly my own.
February 1, 2024
This was another excellent read in this series. Daisy is back and pulled into another murder when her tea shop is hired to provide a tea for a teacher appreciation lunch. On the home front she is dealing with one of Jazzi’s friends staying for a few weeks and the issues that came with that. Her and Jonas have hit a rough patch with no light at the end of the tunnel. Daisy handles it all and more as usual.
January 16, 2021
Another good addition to this beloved series.
I was happy to catch up with the well written characters and follow their evolution.
The mystery is solid , full of twists and turns, and kept me guessing.
Can’t wait to read the next installment, highly recommended
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this arc, all opinions are mine
I was happy to catch up with the well written characters and follow their evolution.
The mystery is solid , full of twists and turns, and kept me guessing.
Can’t wait to read the next installment, highly recommended
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this arc, all opinions are mine
Read
October 11, 2020So, you know a book is enjoyable when as soon as you finish it you search for the other books in the series and download them all. Murder with Oolong Tea was the first book in Daisy's Tea Garden mystery series that I've had the pleasure of reading, but it won't be the last. Perhaps I just needed a cozy mystery escape this weekend. Or maybe I needed to revisit my favorite Lancaster county. Or maybe I just wanted a fun read with smart, sensible characters. Whatever the reason, I was happy to visit Willow Creek, and follow Daisy as she navigates life, love, family and of course, a mystery.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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