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Misty Bay Tearoom #1
In Hot Water
In bestselling author Kate Kingsbury's Misty Bay Tearoom series debut, the proprietress of a British-style tea shop must draw on her love for mystery novels to sleuth a murder.
Vivian Wainwright is living her dream. The middle-aged widow owns the Misty Bay Tearoom, a quaint, English-accented shop on the Oregon coast. But on the eve of the tearoom's second anniversary, the dream turns nightmarish when a man falls to his death from a hotel balcony.
The body belongs to Dean Ramsey, ex-husband of Vivian's assistant, Jenna. Detective Tony Messina quickly zeroes in on Jenna as prime suspect, since she was seen leaving the hotel shortly before the body was found.
Vivian and her other assistant, Gracie, set out to help clear Jenna's name, using their wit and a bit of criminology know-how Vivian picked up from her late attorney husband. Detective Messina is on board, but he's starting to develop feelings for his number one suspect. Puzzling questions persist--chief among them, whose clothes was Dean wearing when he landed on the rocky shore?
To complicate matters, Vivian's friend, pet shop owner Hal Douglass, seems to know some secrets about the hotel that could add a long list of names to the suspect list...including Hal's own. Vivian must work quickly because if she can't, Jenna faces a murder rap...or worse.
Vivian Wainwright is living her dream. The middle-aged widow owns the Misty Bay Tearoom, a quaint, English-accented shop on the Oregon coast. But on the eve of the tearoom's second anniversary, the dream turns nightmarish when a man falls to his death from a hotel balcony.
The body belongs to Dean Ramsey, ex-husband of Vivian's assistant, Jenna. Detective Tony Messina quickly zeroes in on Jenna as prime suspect, since she was seen leaving the hotel shortly before the body was found.
Vivian and her other assistant, Gracie, set out to help clear Jenna's name, using their wit and a bit of criminology know-how Vivian picked up from her late attorney husband. Detective Messina is on board, but he's starting to develop feelings for his number one suspect. Puzzling questions persist--chief among them, whose clothes was Dean wearing when he landed on the rocky shore?
To complicate matters, Vivian's friend, pet shop owner Hal Douglass, seems to know some secrets about the hotel that could add a long list of names to the suspect list...including Hal's own. Vivian must work quickly because if she can't, Jenna faces a murder rap...or worse.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published October 12, 2021
101 people are currently reading
511 people want to read
About the author
Kate Kingsbury
85 books569 followersKate Kingsbury grew up in London, England, and at a very early age began telling stories to her school friends during the London Blitz of WW II while huddling in bomb shelters. Kate moved to the U.S. in the early sixties, and had passed her 50th birthday when she published her first book. Writing as Doreen Roberts, (her real name at the time) she published 26 romance novels for Harlequin/Silhouette. In 1991 her first Pennyfoot Hotel book was published and since then Kate has written 35 mysteries, including the Manor House mysteries, the Bellehaven House mysteries(written as Rebecca Kent) and the Raven's Nest mysteries, (written as Allison Kingsley.) Her new series, The Merry Ghost Inn Mysteries debuted in January, 2017 with Dead and Breakfast, featuring a B & B on the Oregon coast. She has one son, Regan, and lives with her husband, Bill, in the beautiful state of Oregon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
October 8, 2021
This is the first book in a new series by a very well established author of many other series. As such I had hoped for a bit more.
In Hot Water features Vivian, owner of the Misty Bay Tearoom, and her two assistants Jenna and Gracie. When Jenna's separated husband is found dead she is suspected of his murder. Vivian and Gracie jump in to help her find the real culprit. I thought the mystery aspect of the book was interesting and the reveal at the end was exciting.
I had a few problems with the characters who did not seem fully formed to me. I felt as though I was joining a series at book 2 or 3 and had missed all the background details. Their methods of sleuthing were more effective than they deserved to be, and their reasons for not telling the police several important facts were weak and in the end dangerous.
Basically a readable and interesting book but lacking that certain something which makes me rush out to look for the follow up.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
In Hot Water features Vivian, owner of the Misty Bay Tearoom, and her two assistants Jenna and Gracie. When Jenna's separated husband is found dead she is suspected of his murder. Vivian and Gracie jump in to help her find the real culprit. I thought the mystery aspect of the book was interesting and the reveal at the end was exciting.
I had a few problems with the characters who did not seem fully formed to me. I felt as though I was joining a series at book 2 or 3 and had missed all the background details. Their methods of sleuthing were more effective than they deserved to be, and their reasons for not telling the police several important facts were weak and in the end dangerous.
Basically a readable and interesting book but lacking that certain something which makes me rush out to look for the follow up.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 8, 2021
Vivian Wainwright had had her tea rooms open for almost two years in Misty Bay and was loving it. The Misty Bay Tearoom was popular in town and her two helpers, Jenna and Gracie, kept things running smoothly. With Vivian’s mother originally from England, she had set her tearoom up with a lot of English ways, food and items for sale. But the morning a body was found near the beach was when the nightmare began for the three women in the Misty Bay Tearooms.
The victim was Jenna’s ex-husband Dean, and she was immediately in the sights of the police. Detective Messina was determined to prove Jenna was guilty of Dean’s murder; Vivian was equally determined to prove Jenna’s innocence. As the three women questioned many locals, the secrets they learned was putting them in danger. And with Jenna’s tyre slashed and a note on her windscreen, then Vivian’s kitchen window smashed, and a death threat written, the women were nervous. Would they discover who killed Dean, or would it be too late?
In Hot Water is the 1st in the Misty Bay Tearoom series by Kate Kingsbury and I quite enjoyed it as they took some incredible risks and didn’t ring the police when they should have. Vivian is a widowed middle-aged woman so should have known better, but her heart is definitely in the right spot. Plenty of twists, a burgeoning love interest and a sweet pup called Felix make In Hot Water an entertaining cozy mystery which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The victim was Jenna’s ex-husband Dean, and she was immediately in the sights of the police. Detective Messina was determined to prove Jenna was guilty of Dean’s murder; Vivian was equally determined to prove Jenna’s innocence. As the three women questioned many locals, the secrets they learned was putting them in danger. And with Jenna’s tyre slashed and a note on her windscreen, then Vivian’s kitchen window smashed, and a death threat written, the women were nervous. Would they discover who killed Dean, or would it be too late?
In Hot Water is the 1st in the Misty Bay Tearoom series by Kate Kingsbury and I quite enjoyed it as they took some incredible risks and didn’t ring the police when they should have. Vivian is a widowed middle-aged woman so should have known better, but her heart is definitely in the right spot. Plenty of twists, a burgeoning love interest and a sweet pup called Felix make In Hot Water an entertaining cozy mystery which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2022
This series has been on my "I want to read this'' list for several months. I was at the library a few days ago and saw the second book on the shelf. I didn't see the first one so I pulled out my phone and looked it up. Yes...library has a copy it...but checked out and one other person in line waiting. Drat. Went to speak to a librarian to see if another library in the system had it. None available. But then the librarian smiled and said the magic words - "It is available through our inter-library loan system from another nearby library though!" Huzzah! Hold placed....and I picked it up the following Friday. I told you that lengthy library saga just to add these next sentences: I had to wait a week to get my hands on a copy of this book, and I'm glad I did. This story was worth the extra effort and the wait time!!
The basics: Following the death of her husband, Vivian Wainright fulfills a life-long dream and opens a British style tea shop, the Willow Pattern Tearoom, in Misty Bay, Oregon.Vivian is living her best life and doing her best to deal with her grief and loss. Problems arise when the ex-husband of her assistant is found dead on the beach. Apparently he fell from a balcony of a nearby hotel. And it wasn't an accident. When suspicion falls on her employee, Vivian and her staff jump in to do some amateur sleuthing. After all, they can't let Jenna go to prison for a murder she didn't commit!
This cozy mystery is entertaining and fun to read. I like the characters, the setting, and the plot. There is plenty of action, investigation, and suspects. The plot moves at a nice pace and the tearoom setting is an enjoyable background for a cozy mystery. I'm a huge fan of tea, so I loved the title and the premise.
Glad I finally got around to starting this series! It is a relatively new series..as I write this, there are only two books. I already have book 2, In Too Steep, on hold at the library!
The basics: Following the death of her husband, Vivian Wainright fulfills a life-long dream and opens a British style tea shop, the Willow Pattern Tearoom, in Misty Bay, Oregon.Vivian is living her best life and doing her best to deal with her grief and loss. Problems arise when the ex-husband of her assistant is found dead on the beach. Apparently he fell from a balcony of a nearby hotel. And it wasn't an accident. When suspicion falls on her employee, Vivian and her staff jump in to do some amateur sleuthing. After all, they can't let Jenna go to prison for a murder she didn't commit!
This cozy mystery is entertaining and fun to read. I like the characters, the setting, and the plot. There is plenty of action, investigation, and suspects. The plot moves at a nice pace and the tearoom setting is an enjoyable background for a cozy mystery. I'm a huge fan of tea, so I loved the title and the premise.
Glad I finally got around to starting this series! It is a relatively new series..as I write this, there are only two books. I already have book 2, In Too Steep, on hold at the library!
November 30, 2021
In Hot Water is the first book in a new cozy mystery series. Since, I am still new to the genre I am on a constant lookout for brand new series which I can follow from the start. The blurb of this book sounded interesting so I decided to give it a try but it fell flat for me. The plot line was weak and rushed with a lot of points not explained satisfactorily. There were also too many repetitive scenes of running the tea shop, drinking large amounts of tea and eating scones which took away from the mystery aspect of the story.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author for the e-Arc of the book.
Rating: Lower side of 3⭐.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author for the e-Arc of the book.
Rating: Lower side of 3⭐.
June 29, 2021
Being a police detective in Misty Bay, Oregon must be the most frustrating job around. It’s an area with not much serious crime, so when a man falls of a hotel balcony dressed only in a pink negligee, it’s the biggest case around. The dead man’s ex-wife hated him, and her employer and co-worker are determined to investigate the crime. (The identity of the murderer was obvious to me almost from the beginning). Two of the women get death threats, and they find out that the deceased was involved with a shady escort service-- but they don’t bother to inform the police. They go into a lingerie shop, and the clerk gives them the names of people who purchased negligees, and a working escort discloses the names of her clients. This requires a major suspension of disbelief—why would anyone provide this kind of personal information to a tea shop owner and her employees? I did like the characters and the seaside setting, but not the lame plot. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
January 11, 2022
⭐⭐
I really have little to say about this one. It wasn't horrible, but it wasn't all that great either. I didn't find any of the characters likable. They all just blended together and were one dimensional. The plot itself was slow and bogged down by too much "tearoom" talk. It is what it is. Can't love them all, right? 🤷🏻♀️
**ARC Via NetGalley**
I really have little to say about this one. It wasn't horrible, but it wasn't all that great either. I didn't find any of the characters likable. They all just blended together and were one dimensional. The plot itself was slow and bogged down by too much "tearoom" talk. It is what it is. Can't love them all, right? 🤷🏻♀️
**ARC Via NetGalley**
July 16, 2021
i enjoyed In Hot Water. The main characters, Vivian Wainwright owner of Willow Pattern Tearoom and her assistants, Jenna and Gracie lead the reader on a wonderful adventure full of suspense and laughter. The other characters were perfect for the story. The death of Jenna's ex-husband;, Dean Ramsey falling to his death from the balcony of the Blue Surf Hotel wearing a woman's nightgown was a great opener on the first page. From there with all it's twists and turns kept the reader enjoying the book to the end. I look forward to reading more about Vivian, Jenna and Gracie's adventures and following the romance between Vivian and Hal develop as well as following the relationship begin between Jenna and the detective, Tony Messina.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC.
April 2, 2021
I was really excited to get started on In Hot Water by Kate Kingsbury.
Vivian is a good character, she’s very likable and has a good sense of humor.
I enjoyed the mystery, I was able to follow some of the clues, but the ending was still a surprise.
I’m looking forward to reading more books in this series.
#InHotWater #NetGalley
Vivian is a good character, she’s very likable and has a good sense of humor.
I enjoyed the mystery, I was able to follow some of the clues, but the ending was still a surprise.
I’m looking forward to reading more books in this series.
#InHotWater #NetGalley
July 17, 2021
I was hoping that a tearoom mystery set in Oregon would be a winner, but I was quite mistaken.
First off, the story follows Vivian and her 2 assistances, Jenna and Gracie. It was so hard to tell the women apart, even though there were all suppose to be different ages. They didn't have personalities of their own, so I found it hard to care for the characters.
Don't get me started on the supposed police force in the town. I lost faith in them right from the beginning when the head detective didn't question why the dead man had a substantial amount in his bank account even though he was a cleaner at a hotel. No red flags? No following the money? Ok, let's just wait until the old woman from the tea room solves the mystery.
Sadly a disappointing read and I won't be continuing with the series.
Thank you to Netgallery and Crooked Lane Books for an ARC in exchange for my honest review
First off, the story follows Vivian and her 2 assistances, Jenna and Gracie. It was so hard to tell the women apart, even though there were all suppose to be different ages. They didn't have personalities of their own, so I found it hard to care for the characters.
Don't get me started on the supposed police force in the town. I lost faith in them right from the beginning when the head detective didn't question why the dead man had a substantial amount in his bank account even though he was a cleaner at a hotel. No red flags? No following the money? Ok, let's just wait until the old woman from the tea room solves the mystery.
Sadly a disappointing read and I won't be continuing with the series.
Thank you to Netgallery and Crooked Lane Books for an ARC in exchange for my honest review
October 11, 2022
I’m torn on this one because I sort of like the book and I sort of am ehhh about it. The mystery was nothing special in that there just wasn’t much to grab you throughout. Vivian is a middle aged tea room owner who is also a surrogate mom to her two employees Gracie and Jenna. When a man is killed at the new hotel in town and he turns out to be Jenna’s ex-husband. Jenna is immediately named the main suspect. Vivian,Jenna and Gracie proceed to investigate in order to clear Jenna’s name.
In between investigating, the book sets up Vivian’s relationship/friendship with Hal a fellow retiree/ widower/ shipowner, delves into Jenna’s tragic background, and Gracie’s way to peppy.
Overall it’s an okay book, right in line for a cozy, nothing outstanding but not bad
In between investigating, the book sets up Vivian’s relationship/friendship with Hal a fellow retiree/ widower/ shipowner, delves into Jenna’s tragic background, and Gracie’s way to peppy.
Overall it’s an okay book, right in line for a cozy, nothing outstanding but not bad
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February 1, 2025I actually finished this audiobook several days ago but now I'm addicted to falling asleep listening to it at night! Linda Jones has the most ideal voice for narrating cozies and her presentation of this wonderful story is spot-on perfect. She brings Kate Kingsbury's creation to its full potential with the unique way she lovingly handles each main character. While listening, you have no doubt in your mind that she is enjoying the story and the characters!
I'm so glad I have found this series. Kate Kingsbury is definitely a new favorite author. This book is so well-written, with fun, sweet friendships between women of varying ages. The main character is an older woman who's sharp as a tack, talented, and very likable. I can't wait to read more.
I'm so glad I have found this series. Kate Kingsbury is definitely a new favorite author. This book is so well-written, with fun, sweet friendships between women of varying ages. The main character is an older woman who's sharp as a tack, talented, and very likable. I can't wait to read more.
June 1, 2021
In Hot Water is the first in a new series by author Kate Kingsbury and the first book I've read by this author. This series does have some promise but, in my opinion, with some tweaks. To begin with, I did not care for the character of Jenna - the main suspect in the murder of her ex-husband. She was rude and frankly unlikeable. I thought the reason for making Jenna the main suspect was tenuous and frankly a bit sexist. I thought the reason the trio decided to investigate the murder was in keeping with the cozy tradition. However, I found the trio to be too reckless in their sleuthing from my tastes, jumping into unrealistic situations without any real thought. I also thought it was fairly easy to figure out one of the main players in the investigation and this person's involvement.
I'm not sure this series is for me, but there are plenty who will enjoy the author and the series.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I'm not sure this series is for me, but there are plenty who will enjoy the author and the series.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 17, 2021
"In Hot Water” the first instalment in A Misty Bay Tea Room Mystery series by Kate Kingsbury set in the town of Misty Bay, Oregon. A good start to a new series, I did have trouble getting into it at first but do recommend going past the 20% mark as it does pick up.
Vivian Wainwright the proprietress of a British-style tea shop must draw on her love for mystery novels to sleuth a murder.
I enjoyed this story, and it has made me want to give book 2 a try. I liked how it was centred around an older protagonist and a tea room. Vivian, Jenna and Gracie are all from different age groups so we see the different perspectives, I also like the banter between Jenna and Gracie almost like sisters. We also get the perspective of detective Tony which was kind of neat to see how his mind was working.
There are two possible romances forming which I look forward to seeing how they develop in the next book. Close to the end we have an addition of a furbaby named Felix which I always enjoy.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and I liked the characters. I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit but in the end I was correct.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Crooked Lane and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Vivian Wainwright the proprietress of a British-style tea shop must draw on her love for mystery novels to sleuth a murder.
I enjoyed this story, and it has made me want to give book 2 a try. I liked how it was centred around an older protagonist and a tea room. Vivian, Jenna and Gracie are all from different age groups so we see the different perspectives, I also like the banter between Jenna and Gracie almost like sisters. We also get the perspective of detective Tony which was kind of neat to see how his mind was working.
There are two possible romances forming which I look forward to seeing how they develop in the next book. Close to the end we have an addition of a furbaby named Felix which I always enjoy.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and I liked the characters. I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit but in the end I was correct.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Crooked Lane and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 4, 2021
The Willow Pattern tea house is getting ready to celebrate their second anniversary and Vivian Wainwright’s dream of owning a tea house has been fulfilled. Her two assistants, Jenna and Gracie, are like daughters to her. When Jenna’s ex husband is murdered and the police view her as the primary suspect, the three women agree to find who killed the man so that Jenna doesn’t get put away for a crime she didn’t commit. Vivian’s heart is in the right place, but will they save Jenna or doom all three of themselves for interfering in a police investigation…or even face the wrath of the murderer?
I really liked Kate’s Merry Ghost Inn series and was sorry not to see a new entry for awhile. Then I came across the first book in a new series from this author and was really excited. She didn’t let me down either! I really like the protagonist and her posse. This series has great promise and I cannot wait for the continued development of the characters and the whodunits to come.
I really liked Kate’s Merry Ghost Inn series and was sorry not to see a new entry for awhile. Then I came across the first book in a new series from this author and was really excited. She didn’t let me down either! I really like the protagonist and her posse. This series has great promise and I cannot wait for the continued development of the characters and the whodunits to come.
September 21, 2021
If you enjoy reading cozy mysteries set in tearooms you won't want to miss this one! I have enjoyed other cozy mysteries by this author so I was eager to read this new first in series! The main character is likeable and an older sleuth which sets it apart from many other cozies. I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters and this well-planned mystery kept me guessing until the very end. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
October 16, 2021
What an awesome mystery featuring three otherwise unlikely friends who were coworkers to begin with at Vivian's tearoom. Vivian was settled into life as a widow but still missed her husband a lot. Jenna was divorced and somewhat jaded, but she was overall an awesome friend and worker for Vivian. And Gracie was like the bubbling-over, super happy little sister, who I guessed was about twenty-something. (and Jenna maybe thirty-something with Vivian around ten years older than Jenna.) I loved Gracie's character, and when they started investigating the murder, she reminded me of Scrappy Doo with her enthusiasm lol! All three ladies had each others' backs and would've done anything for the others.
I really enjoyed Vivian's friendship with Hal, a super sweet, somewhat-older-than-her, man who had the pet store. He was so kind to her and gave her friendship and platonic companionship when she needed it. I have a feeling they'd both like to explore a more serious relationship though, so it'll be interesting to see how it plays out in the next book. The usual trope switch-up was Jenna and the detective seeming to like each other. And Gracie was cheerleader for both of them. She had a fun little side story going on that turned out very sweet.
It was easy to be torn between some good suspect candidates as the threats ramped up and the ladies got closer to the answer. When Vivian had the answer, it was a race to the showdown. I enjoyed this book so much and can't wait now for the next to come along.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed Vivian's friendship with Hal, a super sweet, somewhat-older-than-her, man who had the pet store. He was so kind to her and gave her friendship and platonic companionship when she needed it. I have a feeling they'd both like to explore a more serious relationship though, so it'll be interesting to see how it plays out in the next book. The usual trope switch-up was Jenna and the detective seeming to like each other. And Gracie was cheerleader for both of them. She had a fun little side story going on that turned out very sweet.
It was easy to be torn between some good suspect candidates as the threats ramped up and the ladies got closer to the answer. When Vivian had the answer, it was a race to the showdown. I enjoyed this book so much and can't wait now for the next to come along.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
April 18, 2022
First in a series. The characters are likable and interesting. The main character Vivian is a bit older than the traditional cozy sleuths. Vivian’s two assistants are very different in personalities and age groups. Somehow this trio works. This mystery was a little slow to start but when it took off it moved at a good pace and was full of surprises. Recommended for cozy mysteries lovers.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
October 13, 2021
In Hot Water by Kate Kingsbury is the beginning of A Misty Bay Tearoom Mysteries. Vivian Wainwright owns Willow Pattern Tearoom in Misty Bay, Oregon. Jenna and Gracie are her two employees. When Jenna’s ex-husband, Dean is found dead on the cliffs under the Blue Surf Hotel, Jenna becomes Detective Lieutenant Tony Messina’s prime suspect. Vivian, Jenna, and Gracie work to clear Jenna and find the guilty party. I thought In Hot Water was easy to read with good characters. The characters suited the story. I liked Vivian Wainwright who is an older protagonist (in her 60s). I like that we are seeing more mature characters in cozy mysteries. Normally in the first book in a series, we are introduced to our characters and given their background. I found that lacking in this book. We are given some background information, but I wanted more. The point-of-view alternates between Vivian and Messina. I am not sure how I like this format. It is unique and it does allow readers to see how the police investigation is progressing (which was slow). The mystery is straightforward. It can be solved early in the book. I wish it had been more of a challenge to solve. I was easily able to discern the who and why. There was a detail that came out later that was a surprise. The three ladies kept busy asking questions. They were able to obtain some helpful details. They do receive threats which, of course, they ignore. The mystery is wrapped up at the end. I like the humor in the story. I also like how well Jenna, Vivian, and Gracie get along. I enjoy the friendship between Hal and Vivian as well. In Hot Water is a lighthearted cozy mystery that provides a nice diversion from real life. In Hot Water is a cute cozy mystery with teatime treats, a pink negligee, a nosedive death, a direct detective, hotel happenings, bothersome reporters, and three snoopy amateur sleuths.
August 15, 2021
I really enjoyed this. As far as cozies go, the plot was interesting. I actually had the villain pegged incorrectly. I also expected a certain storyline to develop that did not. It was fun to be wrong.
Things I liked:
*The main character was older. The other two primary characters referred to her as a second mom.
*I liked the setting of the tea shop.
*The side stories weren't the same things you see in so many other cozies.
*Chunks of "down time" were skipped. The author did not drag it out with unnecessary descriptions.
Things I didn't like:
*I would have like to see more of the tea shop business. The story referenced the characters being at work, but we didn't hear much about what happened.
*The police seemed to be bored with the case and not really working on it at all.
*The primary characters of Gracie and Jenna could have been developed more. I had a difficult time picturing them.
Things I liked:
*The main character was older. The other two primary characters referred to her as a second mom.
*I liked the setting of the tea shop.
*The side stories weren't the same things you see in so many other cozies.
*Chunks of "down time" were skipped. The author did not drag it out with unnecessary descriptions.
Things I didn't like:
*I would have like to see more of the tea shop business. The story referenced the characters being at work, but we didn't hear much about what happened.
*The police seemed to be bored with the case and not really working on it at all.
*The primary characters of Gracie and Jenna could have been developed more. I had a difficult time picturing them.
October 12, 2021
As a longtime fan of Kate Kingsbury’s Pennyfoot Hotel Mysteries and her Belle Haven House Mysteries written as Rebecca Kent, I was eager to read this debut in a new series. In Hot Water is about Vivian Wainwright who runs a British-style tea room, with the help of her two assistants, Jenna and Gracie. Vivian is shocked when Jenna is questioned by Detective Tony Messina for the murder of Vivian’s ex-husband who fell to his death from a balcony of the hotel at which he worked. The three women decide they are going to investigate the murder to keep Jenna from going to prison for a crime she didn’t commit.
This is a light, fun cozy mystery that fans of the author will really enjoy. The three women find out there are several motives for the murder of Dean Ramsey and are determined to get to the bottom of it, even when there is the potential for danger. Vivian is smart and loyal and makes a likable main character. I like that there are several chapters from Detective Tony Messina’s point-of-view, as well, which unlike in some cozies, makes him a vivid, relatable character and not just the stereotypical small-town detective who gets the investigation wrong. I also like that even though Jenna is the prime suspect, there are some sparks between Jenna and Tony. Jenna isn’t the only one with a possible romance in her future. Vivian enjoys spending time with Hal Douglass who owns a pet shop. I like that their growing friendship could lead to romance in the future. My least favorite character is Gracie who is very sweet, but sometimes so clueless she gets annoying. Hopefully, more of her positive qualities will come out in future books. I think the book is a great start to the new Misty Bay Tea Room series and one that cozy mystery readers will enjoy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing an advance copy of this ebook. The book was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
This is a light, fun cozy mystery that fans of the author will really enjoy. The three women find out there are several motives for the murder of Dean Ramsey and are determined to get to the bottom of it, even when there is the potential for danger. Vivian is smart and loyal and makes a likable main character. I like that there are several chapters from Detective Tony Messina’s point-of-view, as well, which unlike in some cozies, makes him a vivid, relatable character and not just the stereotypical small-town detective who gets the investigation wrong. I also like that even though Jenna is the prime suspect, there are some sparks between Jenna and Tony. Jenna isn’t the only one with a possible romance in her future. Vivian enjoys spending time with Hal Douglass who owns a pet shop. I like that their growing friendship could lead to romance in the future. My least favorite character is Gracie who is very sweet, but sometimes so clueless she gets annoying. Hopefully, more of her positive qualities will come out in future books. I think the book is a great start to the new Misty Bay Tea Room series and one that cozy mystery readers will enjoy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing an advance copy of this ebook. The book was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
June 17, 2021
In Hot Water by Kate Kingsbury is the first in a new cozy series and I was excited to read new book by Ms. Kingsbury.
Unfortunately, I was somewhat disappointed in this book. Vivian, Jenna and Gracie are all likable characters but their investigation seemed to be all over the place. They would start on one path, then divert to another and another. Although the plot moved smoothly the trio got themselves into some tight situations which shouldn't have happened if they had progressed in a more logical manner. Yes, I know they are amateur sleuths but it became almost comical to see them stumbling into one situation after another usually ill prepared to handle the situations. I really wanted to like this book but I was disappointed. An interesting mystery for an afternoon read.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.0 stars
Unfortunately, I was somewhat disappointed in this book. Vivian, Jenna and Gracie are all likable characters but their investigation seemed to be all over the place. They would start on one path, then divert to another and another. Although the plot moved smoothly the trio got themselves into some tight situations which shouldn't have happened if they had progressed in a more logical manner. Yes, I know they are amateur sleuths but it became almost comical to see them stumbling into one situation after another usually ill prepared to handle the situations. I really wanted to like this book but I was disappointed. An interesting mystery for an afternoon read.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.0 stars
June 18, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, Kate Kingsbury and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC of In Hot Water. This is my personal review.
This is the first book in the new series A Misty Bay Tea Room Mystery.
Vivian owns a tearoom in the small town of Misty Bay, Oregon. The tearoom is getting ready to celebrate its second anniversary when a body is found, and it is the ex-husband of one of the employees of the tearoom. Jenna is thought to be the one who killed him, but Vivian and her other employee Gracie know that Jenna could not have done the deed. So, the three of them set out to solve the murder and clear Jenna’s name.
The twists and turns in the mystery left me wondering a few times what exactly was happening. I am looking forward to the next book in the series to get to know the characters a little better.
This is the first book in the new series A Misty Bay Tea Room Mystery.
Vivian owns a tearoom in the small town of Misty Bay, Oregon. The tearoom is getting ready to celebrate its second anniversary when a body is found, and it is the ex-husband of one of the employees of the tearoom. Jenna is thought to be the one who killed him, but Vivian and her other employee Gracie know that Jenna could not have done the deed. So, the three of them set out to solve the murder and clear Jenna’s name.
The twists and turns in the mystery left me wondering a few times what exactly was happening. I am looking forward to the next book in the series to get to know the characters a little better.
August 22, 2021
Congratulations to the author on this debut series. It is charming and a well crafted sleuth with fun charcters. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley. My review opinions are my own.
We are introduced to a charming British style tearoom. The protagnist Vivian is a widow who opened the shop on the picturesque Oregon coast. The tea room is doing well until a murder occurs of the ex husband of her assistant who is now under suspicion. Vivian and her friends must clear her assistants name to save her and the tearoom from further scandal. Vivian proves to have a talent to find clues and suspects and soon is on track of a killer.
This was a excellent debut cozy mystery with all the right elements readers enjoy. The author has likable characters, a fun sleuth and a atmospheric setting. Well done to the author. I look forward to the next in series.
We are introduced to a charming British style tearoom. The protagnist Vivian is a widow who opened the shop on the picturesque Oregon coast. The tea room is doing well until a murder occurs of the ex husband of her assistant who is now under suspicion. Vivian and her friends must clear her assistants name to save her and the tearoom from further scandal. Vivian proves to have a talent to find clues and suspects and soon is on track of a killer.
This was a excellent debut cozy mystery with all the right elements readers enjoy. The author has likable characters, a fun sleuth and a atmospheric setting. Well done to the author. I look forward to the next in series.
June 26, 2022
Main Character: Vivian Wainright- 5 - finally, a widowed, sexagenarian female lead!
Business Managed: Tearoom - 3
Home Town: moved to a small, tourist town for a change of scenery- 5
Townsfolk Support: other small businesses; two assistants - 2
Pet: Dog (rescue), new owner - 5
Mystery / Plot Twist: Solved - easy to deduce - 2
Love Triangle - none - lead is widowed - 4
Something Different:
a) Lead, at her age, takes on solving the crime as one of her assistants was accused. Did not even think of going to the police - 0
b) Not feeling the 'family' with the two shop assistants, no other support cast except other business owners - 1
c) Will not have a love triangle in the series - 5
So I picked this up because I inadvertently requested book 2 in Net Galley. The OC in me refuses to start with book 2 in a series, even if stories are stand-alone. I don't like Vivian going all Nancy Drew to solve the mystery and not even being concerned about any danger.
Business Managed: Tearoom - 3
Home Town: moved to a small, tourist town for a change of scenery- 5
Townsfolk Support: other small businesses; two assistants - 2
Pet: Dog (rescue), new owner - 5
Mystery / Plot Twist: Solved - easy to deduce - 2
Love Triangle - none - lead is widowed - 4
Something Different:
a) Lead, at her age, takes on solving the crime as one of her assistants was accused. Did not even think of going to the police - 0
b) Not feeling the 'family' with the two shop assistants, no other support cast except other business owners - 1
c) Will not have a love triangle in the series - 5
So I picked this up because I inadvertently requested book 2 in Net Galley. The OC in me refuses to start with book 2 in a series, even if stories are stand-alone. I don't like Vivian going all Nancy Drew to solve the mystery and not even being concerned about any danger.
Read
November 20, 2023Vivian Wainwright and her two assistants, Jenna and Gracie, have worked hard to make her Willow Pattern Tearoom a success. However, when Jenna’s ex-husband, Dean, is found murdered at a nearby hotel, she’s bumped right to the top of the list of suspects. To clear her name, Vivian and the team must set off on their own investigation that soon has them steeped in trouble.
Kate Kingsbury has authored multiple cozy mystery series, and that’s evident here. Vivian and the gang are immediately embroiled in the action from the first pages and Kingsbury runs them at a clip that doesn’t let up. Between the pacing, a tight plot, and a solid mystery, it’s clear Kingsbury has cracked the code for what makes a good cozy.
That’s not to suggest In Hot Water is formulaic or without surprises. Kingsbury occasionally swaps away from Vivian to write from the perspective of the actual lead detective on the case, Tony Messina. It’s a fresh change and it’s interesting to see how Vivian and her crew are able to uncover clues as Messina stumbles in his own investigation.
The only real issue I have is with the murder itself. When Dean is found after having been thrown from a hotel balcony, he’s wearing a pink negligee, a fact characters either treat as the most shocking thing in the world or something to joke about. Or if you’re Jenna, you breathlessly defend him as too macho to wear ‘women’s clothes’. Ultimately, this treatment feels outdated and it’s the weakest part of the book.
A straightforward cozy with a couple of new tricks, In Hot Water is strongest when it moves past worn out tropes.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
Kate Kingsbury has authored multiple cozy mystery series, and that’s evident here. Vivian and the gang are immediately embroiled in the action from the first pages and Kingsbury runs them at a clip that doesn’t let up. Between the pacing, a tight plot, and a solid mystery, it’s clear Kingsbury has cracked the code for what makes a good cozy.
That’s not to suggest In Hot Water is formulaic or without surprises. Kingsbury occasionally swaps away from Vivian to write from the perspective of the actual lead detective on the case, Tony Messina. It’s a fresh change and it’s interesting to see how Vivian and her crew are able to uncover clues as Messina stumbles in his own investigation.
The only real issue I have is with the murder itself. When Dean is found after having been thrown from a hotel balcony, he’s wearing a pink negligee, a fact characters either treat as the most shocking thing in the world or something to joke about. Or if you’re Jenna, you breathlessly defend him as too macho to wear ‘women’s clothes’. Ultimately, this treatment feels outdated and it’s the weakest part of the book.
A straightforward cozy with a couple of new tricks, In Hot Water is strongest when it moves past worn out tropes.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
July 27, 2021
In Hot Water by Kate Kingsbury A cozy mystery set in a tea shop. Vivian, Jenna and Gracie are all likable characters but they come across as scatterbrained and flighty. A few of the threads in the mystery seemed to be unsolved. Why was the victim wearing a pink negligee? A good start to a new series with plenty of opportunity for the trio to evolve into a crime solving team. Will Felix have more of a role next time?
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.
October 24, 2021
Great first installment in the new Misty Bay Tearoom series from cozy mystery author Kate Kingsbury. When her assistant Jenna is suspected in the suspicious death of her ex-husband, Misty Bay Tearoom's owner, Vivian, is determined to clear her name - In Hot Water was an enjoyable read with lots of suspects, and it kept me guessing! I can't wait to return to Misty Bay! A+++
December 18, 2022
This was a sweet cozy mystery. It had interesting characters and it was fun to read.
I do however agree with other people who say that this felt more like a second or third book in a series instead of the first one. I would personally have liked a little more depth for the characters and story.
But overall a fun read.
I do however agree with other people who say that this felt more like a second or third book in a series instead of the first one. I would personally have liked a little more depth for the characters and story.
But overall a fun read.
December 31, 2021
This is my first book by this author and I'm sorry to say probably my last. I felt the story moved too slowly and was verbose. Characters needed to have more depth and characterization. I was unable to complete this book in its entirety.
I received an ebook ARC from Netgalley but read a hardback version and this is my voluntary, honest review.
I received an ebook ARC from Netgalley but read a hardback version and this is my voluntary, honest review.
May 21, 2025
I think it really deserves 3.5 stars, but I couldn't quite give it a 4-star rating. It's a light cozy mystery, making it an easy read. I liked how the author occasionally switched between telling the story from Vivian's point of view to Detective Tony Messina's point of view. That made Tony an easy character to like, and much less formidable! I enjoyed the book enough to want to read the second book in the series. I want to see what happens in the lives of Vivian, Jenna, Gracie, and Tony.
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