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Tea Shop Mystery #23
Twisted Tea Christmas
While catering a Victorian Christmas party for Drucilla Heyward, one of the wealthiest women in town who is about to make a huge announcement, tea maven Theodosia Browning finds herself steeped in murder when she stumbles upon Drucilla’s dead body. (mystery & detective0. Simultaneous.
459 pages, Library Binding
First published October 5, 2021
239 people are currently reading
1625 people want to read
About the author
Laura Childs
93 books2,252 followersLaura Childs is a pseudonym for Gerry Schmitt and she is the best-selling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, the Scrapbook Mysteries, and the Cackleberry Club Mysteries.
Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fund raising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.
Laura specializes in cozy mysteries that have the pace of a thriller (a thrillzy!) Her three series are:
The Tea Shop Mysteries - set in the historic district of Charleston and featuring Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia is a savvy entrepreneur, and pet mom to service dog Earl Grey. She's also an intelligent, focused amateur sleuth who doesn't rely on coincidences or inept police work to solve crimes. This charming series is highly atmospheric and rife with the history and mystery that is Charleston.
The Scrapbooking Mysteries - a slightly edgier series that take place in New Orleans. The main character, Carmela, owns Memory Mine scrapbooking shop in the French Quarter and is forever getting into trouble with her friend, Ava, who owns the Juju Voodoo shop. New Orleans' spooky above-ground cemeteries, jazz clubs, bayous, and Mardi Gras madness make their presence known here!
The Cackleberry Club Mysteries - set in Kindred, a fictional town in the Midwest. In a rehabbed Spur station, Suzanne, Toni, and Petra, three semi-desperate, forty-plus women have launched the Cackleberry Club. Eggs are the morning specialty here and this cozy cafe even offers a book nook and yarn shop. Business is good but murder could lead to the cafe's undoing! This series offers recipes, knitting, cake decorating, and a dash of spirituality.
Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fund raising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.
Laura specializes in cozy mysteries that have the pace of a thriller (a thrillzy!) Her three series are:
The Tea Shop Mysteries - set in the historic district of Charleston and featuring Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia is a savvy entrepreneur, and pet mom to service dog Earl Grey. She's also an intelligent, focused amateur sleuth who doesn't rely on coincidences or inept police work to solve crimes. This charming series is highly atmospheric and rife with the history and mystery that is Charleston.
The Scrapbooking Mysteries - a slightly edgier series that take place in New Orleans. The main character, Carmela, owns Memory Mine scrapbooking shop in the French Quarter and is forever getting into trouble with her friend, Ava, who owns the Juju Voodoo shop. New Orleans' spooky above-ground cemeteries, jazz clubs, bayous, and Mardi Gras madness make their presence known here!
The Cackleberry Club Mysteries - set in Kindred, a fictional town in the Midwest. In a rehabbed Spur station, Suzanne, Toni, and Petra, three semi-desperate, forty-plus women have launched the Cackleberry Club. Eggs are the morning specialty here and this cozy cafe even offers a book nook and yarn shop. Business is good but murder could lead to the cafe's undoing! This series offers recipes, knitting, cake decorating, and a dash of spirituality.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 326 reviews
October 4, 2021
Full time teashop owner and part-time amateur sleuth, Theodosia Browning is back in this 23rd installment to solve another mystery in picturesque Charleston, South Carolina. While catering a Victorian Christmas party for the wealthy and philanthropic Drucilla Heyward, Theodosia finds the hostess dead with a syringe protruding from her neck, a valuable ring missing from her finger and a stolen Renoir. As busy as she is running her teashop and hosting holiday themed events, Theodosia becomes embroiled in solving this latest crime. Along with her sommelier, Drayton Conneley, and the local police detective Burt Tidwell, Theodosia soon has a list of possible suspects and must work to eliminate them one by one to find the real killer!
This cozy mystery series is abundant in local flavor and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. Theodosia and the recurring cast of local residents never fail to entertain. As usual, the back of the book contains plenty of themed party ideas and delicious recipes. Try the Pumpkin-Pecan Dump Cake for a delicious sweet treat!
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the e-ARC.
This cozy mystery series is abundant in local flavor and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. Theodosia and the recurring cast of local residents never fail to entertain. As usual, the back of the book contains plenty of themed party ideas and delicious recipes. Try the Pumpkin-Pecan Dump Cake for a delicious sweet treat!
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the e-ARC.
January 4, 2022
It's the lead-up to Christmas, a busy time of year for the Indigo Tea Shop. When Theodosia and her staff cater a private event for the elderly Drucilla Hayward, Theodosia finds the woman dead with a syringe in her throat. A Renoir painting is missing nearby and the woman's 5 gold and diamond rings are missing from her hand. Suspects abound, and just when Theodosia about settles on one, something changes her mind. Detective Burt Tidwell is on the case. Riley is out of town--in Vermont so another detective is assisting. Will they get this one solved before Christmas Day? The food, as always, sounds scrumptious! I always wish the Indigo Tea Shop was not a fictional place. I would love to dine there and meet the staff. I found this one more satisfying than some of the recent installments and would place it among the better series installments. Yes--Theodosia does the stupid things amateur sleuths always do, but with such glorious descriptions of food and one of my favorite cities, how can I not forgive her?
March 26, 2022
With tea and cozy mysteries as some of my favorites what could be better than to have those combined?
Christmas time is nearing in Charleston and an elegant Victorian Christmas party is being catered for the wealthiest woman in town, Drucilla Heywood.
Drucilla plans to make a major announcement. She's brought together Charleston's finest to make this spectacular announcement. The champagne is flowing freely and the tea is brewing ,the wealthy socialite is having a marvelous time.
Before she's able to announce her plan she's found dead on the floor. Has the excitement been too much for this elderly woman or is it something else?
This long running series will have you eager to brew your own cup of tea and get started reading.
Delightful tip on hosting your own tea party included.
Pub Date: 05 Oct 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Christmas time is nearing in Charleston and an elegant Victorian Christmas party is being catered for the wealthiest woman in town, Drucilla Heywood.
Drucilla plans to make a major announcement. She's brought together Charleston's finest to make this spectacular announcement. The champagne is flowing freely and the tea is brewing ,the wealthy socialite is having a marvelous time.
Before she's able to announce her plan she's found dead on the floor. Has the excitement been too much for this elderly woman or is it something else?
This long running series will have you eager to brew your own cup of tea and get started reading.
Delightful tip on hosting your own tea party included.
Pub Date: 05 Oct 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 9, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
The week leading up to Christmas is one of the busiest weeks of the year at the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia Browning and Drayton Conneley have several special tea events planned and they are catering a Victorian Christmas party for Drucilla Heyward at her mansion in downtown Charleston. All the preparations have been made for a perfect evening. An evening when Drucilla plans to make a major announcement. She is bringing together the Charleston elite to announce that she plans to give her fortune away to several charitable organizations.
The big evening arrives and Drucilla is having a blast at her reception. Champagne corks are popping, Drayton has the tea brewing, the musicians are playing, and the amazing food is ready to be served. She tells Theodosia she is so excited to announce her plans. She leaves the kitchen giddy with her plan. Responding to an alarm going off Theodosia set out to find the philanthropist hostess and finds her down on the floor in the hallway unconscious with a syringe protruding from her neck.
The holidays do not get off to a great start with Drucilla’s murder and a mansion full of suspects. Theodosia needs to put on her running shoes because finding a killer while serving tea to everyone at their special events to going to require her to move at top speed. I have full confidence she is up to the task.
The Nutcracker Tea
The White Christmas Tea
The Old-Fashioned Southern Tea
Drucilla’s Victorian Christmas Tea
Grand Illumination Tea
Plus the Everday Morning Tea and the people that drop in for lunch and a booth at the Holiday Market.
Oh, my stars Theodosia has an overflowing plate, and yet she squeezes in a dinner with her tea sommelier, Drayton. He is the Watson to her Sherlock in this murder investigation. He, Haley, and Mrs. Dimple keep the tea flowing at the tea shop while Theodosia follows the clues.
These cozy characters are some of my favorites. Theodosia is such a great protagonist. She has grown so much over the course of this series. She is always all-in for every murder investigation that comes her way. She’s tough and doesn’t give up. Drayton is a wonderful sounding board and the person that tries to keep the investigation on a calm even keel, tries is the optimum word. Haley is a sounding board for Drayton and the person that rocks out the fantastic food served by the staff of the Indigo Tea Shop. They all work together like a well-oiled machine. It truly does feel like I am visiting old friends when I open each Tea Shop Mystery.
I have never been to South Carolina but hope to in the future. This author’s descriptions do take me there virtually bringing each scene to life. I was super excited to see that one of Drucilla’s guests resides in “the old Caswell Mansion.”
Twisted Tea Christmas contains a very twisted mystery. There are tons of suspects that need to be pared down. Who had a motive to kill the Grande Dame? She seemed to be such a nice lady. It was fun to trail along with Theo as she did all she could to catch a killer. She did have a few different theories but letting down her guard she found out how easily she could have become the killer’s next victim. That said the reveal was scary until it turned into a marvelous capture. Detective Tidwell’s reactions were absolutely priceless.
Escaping to Charleston at Christmastime was delightful, I wish I could have read it in December because it did get me in a holiday spirit but it is much too early to get out the lights and garland. If you like strong characters and a well-plotted mystery Twisted Tea Christmas is the perfect book for you. Don’t worry that this is a long-running series because Laura Childs writes each book to be read on its own. You can jump into this series at any time and then go back and read previous installments while you are waiting for the next Tea Shop Mystery.
The week leading up to Christmas is one of the busiest weeks of the year at the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia Browning and Drayton Conneley have several special tea events planned and they are catering a Victorian Christmas party for Drucilla Heyward at her mansion in downtown Charleston. All the preparations have been made for a perfect evening. An evening when Drucilla plans to make a major announcement. She is bringing together the Charleston elite to announce that she plans to give her fortune away to several charitable organizations.
The big evening arrives and Drucilla is having a blast at her reception. Champagne corks are popping, Drayton has the tea brewing, the musicians are playing, and the amazing food is ready to be served. She tells Theodosia she is so excited to announce her plans. She leaves the kitchen giddy with her plan. Responding to an alarm going off Theodosia set out to find the philanthropist hostess and finds her down on the floor in the hallway unconscious with a syringe protruding from her neck.
The holidays do not get off to a great start with Drucilla’s murder and a mansion full of suspects. Theodosia needs to put on her running shoes because finding a killer while serving tea to everyone at their special events to going to require her to move at top speed. I have full confidence she is up to the task.
The Nutcracker Tea
The White Christmas Tea
The Old-Fashioned Southern Tea
Drucilla’s Victorian Christmas Tea
Grand Illumination Tea
Plus the Everday Morning Tea and the people that drop in for lunch and a booth at the Holiday Market.
Oh, my stars Theodosia has an overflowing plate, and yet she squeezes in a dinner with her tea sommelier, Drayton. He is the Watson to her Sherlock in this murder investigation. He, Haley, and Mrs. Dimple keep the tea flowing at the tea shop while Theodosia follows the clues.
These cozy characters are some of my favorites. Theodosia is such a great protagonist. She has grown so much over the course of this series. She is always all-in for every murder investigation that comes her way. She’s tough and doesn’t give up. Drayton is a wonderful sounding board and the person that tries to keep the investigation on a calm even keel, tries is the optimum word. Haley is a sounding board for Drayton and the person that rocks out the fantastic food served by the staff of the Indigo Tea Shop. They all work together like a well-oiled machine. It truly does feel like I am visiting old friends when I open each Tea Shop Mystery.
I have never been to South Carolina but hope to in the future. This author’s descriptions do take me there virtually bringing each scene to life. I was super excited to see that one of Drucilla’s guests resides in “the old Caswell Mansion.”
Twisted Tea Christmas contains a very twisted mystery. There are tons of suspects that need to be pared down. Who had a motive to kill the Grande Dame? She seemed to be such a nice lady. It was fun to trail along with Theo as she did all she could to catch a killer. She did have a few different theories but letting down her guard she found out how easily she could have become the killer’s next victim. That said the reveal was scary until it turned into a marvelous capture. Detective Tidwell’s reactions were absolutely priceless.
Escaping to Charleston at Christmastime was delightful, I wish I could have read it in December because it did get me in a holiday spirit but it is much too early to get out the lights and garland. If you like strong characters and a well-plotted mystery Twisted Tea Christmas is the perfect book for you. Don’t worry that this is a long-running series because Laura Childs writes each book to be read on its own. You can jump into this series at any time and then go back and read previous installments while you are waiting for the next Tea Shop Mystery.
October 3, 2021
Twisted Tea Christmas by Laura Childs has Theodosia Browning and Drayton Conneley catering a swanky event for society mavin Miss Drucilla Heyward. Unfortunately, they end up witnessing the demise of society Grand Dame. Theodosia cannot get the image of the dead woman out of her mind and begins to do a little snooping around. It seems that someone is not happy with her prowling. Theodosia will need to keep her wits about her if she is going to survive to celebrate Christmas with her friends. Twisted Tea Christmas is the first holiday themed A Tea Shop Mystery. Laura Childs brought the Christmas atmosphere in this story. I loved the themed tea events that included a nutcracker tea and a Victorian illumination tea. A Tea Shop Mysteries are what got me hooked on cozy mysteries. I always love visiting Charleston, South Carolina to check in on Theodosia, Drayton, and Haley. Theodosia is a strong, smart female character. She owns the charming Indigo Tea Shop where Drayton serves tasty teas and Haley whips up delectable delights. I thought Twisted Tea Christmas was well-written with developed, relatable characters. The author captured the setting of Charleston. I enjoyed the local flavor. The mystery was well-plotted. There are multiple suspects in this whodunit. I enjoyed following the clues to solve the mystery. There are twists and turns that keep the mystery entertaining. I loved the reveal which had me laughing. I was sorry for Twisted Tea Christmas to end. Twisted Tea Christmas can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series, but I do recommend reading all of the books in this charming Southern cozy mystery series. There are yummy recipes at the end along with tea time tips from the author. Twisted Tea Christmas provides a jolly good time with tasty teas, a dead Grand Dame, a pilfered painting, a surplus of pooches, and a resolute tea shop sleuth.
September 3, 2021
Theodosia Browning and Drayton Conneley are catering a fancy Christmas party in Charleston for Drucilla Heyward. Drucilla is very well-known and one of the wealthiest ladies in town. During her party, she was planning to announce her idea to give her money to different charities. But before she can, Theodosia finds Drucilla unconscious with a syringe in her neck!! Was this planned? Who and why would someone do this to her?
This was my first book by Laura Childs. It was a great little mystery. I really enjoyed the setting since Charleston is one of my favorite places to visit. I will be looking into Laura Childs’ other books in this series and I would highly recommend this one to those who enjoy a good little mystery.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was my first book by Laura Childs. It was a great little mystery. I really enjoyed the setting since Charleston is one of my favorite places to visit. I will be looking into Laura Childs’ other books in this series and I would highly recommend this one to those who enjoy a good little mystery.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 27, 2021
Years ago I got on a kick reading a number of Laura Child's tea mysteries. After awhile, the amount of fluff and details that had nothing to do with the story got tedious. I thought I'd give this newest holiday one a try. While this installment was enjoyable to some extent, I found nothing has changed. I'll set these mysteries aside for good now.
October 13, 2021
Read this review on Fresh Fiction
One of my favorite Cozy Mystery authors, Laura Childs, is back with another installment in the Teashop Mystery series. The thing I love about this book the most is that Childs never strays from what she knows works. There’s an excellent way in which she unfolds this story and with each book, I am amazed by how she is able to tell her story quickly and efficiently while also giving readers a wild ride!
This book does have a Christmas theme to it, which is a nice added touch. What can I say? I’m a sucker for holiday-themed novels. But in addition to that, Childs tosses Theodosia and Drayton into yet another murder mystery when the Grande Dame, Drucilla, throws a party and is going to announced which charities she wishes to donate large sums of her money to. However, before that could happen, Theodosia finds her dead with a syringe sticking out of her neck!
The crazy but still believable nature of her stories are what keep me coming back for more. There’s just enough thrill and secrets to keep me entertained. But most of all, Drayton and Theodosia are always very down-to-earth and personable, making me interested to read more of them. I think that’s why Childs is able to continue with so many books in this series. As you can tell, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. TWISTED TEA MURDER definitely doesn’t disappoint!
One of my favorite Cozy Mystery authors, Laura Childs, is back with another installment in the Teashop Mystery series. The thing I love about this book the most is that Childs never strays from what she knows works. There’s an excellent way in which she unfolds this story and with each book, I am amazed by how she is able to tell her story quickly and efficiently while also giving readers a wild ride!
This book does have a Christmas theme to it, which is a nice added touch. What can I say? I’m a sucker for holiday-themed novels. But in addition to that, Childs tosses Theodosia and Drayton into yet another murder mystery when the Grande Dame, Drucilla, throws a party and is going to announced which charities she wishes to donate large sums of her money to. However, before that could happen, Theodosia finds her dead with a syringe sticking out of her neck!
The crazy but still believable nature of her stories are what keep me coming back for more. There’s just enough thrill and secrets to keep me entertained. But most of all, Drayton and Theodosia are always very down-to-earth and personable, making me interested to read more of them. I think that’s why Childs is able to continue with so many books in this series. As you can tell, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. TWISTED TEA MURDER definitely doesn’t disappoint!
November 5, 2021
So poorly written. But I enjoy the over the top tea parties and descriptions of Charleston. Plus I feel like I know the characters, even though they are very 2-dimensional
October 18, 2021
I always enjoy these cozy mysteries and the recipes in the back of the book. Fun, quick reads.
December 19, 2025
I have read this entire series. It has its problems, but the murder usually keeps me involved because the stories are quite good, but it was such an abrupt ending, with no true answers except for one and what happened to the six dogs???
September 15, 2021
I love this series, and each book just keeps getting better. Theodosia is a great character and her relationship with Drayton and Haley adds fun to the story.
A sudden death really hits Theo hard and she refuses to let the culprit get away with murder.
This is a perfect book to get you ready for the holidays.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#TwistedTeaChristmas #NetGalley
A sudden death really hits Theo hard and she refuses to let the culprit get away with murder.
This is a perfect book to get you ready for the holidays.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#TwistedTeaChristmas #NetGalley
December 19, 2021
I am starting to feel like Charleston is a bit like Cabot's Cove (Murder She Wrote television series) and if you have Theodosia cater an event you are likely to end up dead. Smile. Anyway, I like that Delaine does not have a large part in this book. I am glad Drayton has been more involved in the detective work in the last few books. The holiday tea events sounded lovely and made me wish there a local tea room near me that did such things. But, somehow I feel like there was something missing. Maybe just too much repetition from previous books? For someone who hasn't read all the books it might be nice to get background again, but I knew most of that information and it felt like it was just slapped in the book to make it long enough to go ahead and publish. I have been in the habit of getting on the waiting list at the library to get her Tea Shop mystery books as soon as I possibly can but my enthusiasm is fading (I never found her other series particularly interesting). The stagnant characters are dampening my desire to get my hands on the next book as soon as I can.
December 13, 2021
I've been looking for holiday books so I thought I'd try this one. My biggest complaint about it is that the main character doesn't actually solve the mystery. She didn't seem unusually perceptive or able to make great leaps of logic. She didn't ask outstanding questions or reach out to people that the police missed. It was more like she was on the periphery of a homicide investigation and mirrored some of it.
Otherwise the descriptions of the teas and goodies was lovely. Also she has a TOWER READING ROOM. So I kinda hate her.
Otherwise the descriptions of the teas and goodies was lovely. Also she has a TOWER READING ROOM. So I kinda hate her.
December 3, 2023
Twisted Tea Christmas by Laura Childs is the 23rd book in the Tea Shop Mystery series. The Indigo Tea Shop is catering a Victorian Christmas party at a Charleston mansion when the hostess Drucilla Heywood is murdered and a valuable Renoir painting goes missing. It is interesting to learn of the various tea events leading up to Christmas and recipes and tea tips are included. The mystery seems to take up only a small part of the book with most taken up with the tea events which seemed rather too formal and elaborate. A charming cozy mystery.
November 10, 2021
Perhaps I am getting jaded, but I didn't think this book was up to this series standards. The murder happens in the first chapter, not giving us any time to acclimate. I am always amazed at how much these characters can fit into a day, especially at Christmas. It leaves me exhausted. That said, I didn't feel like the murderer was given much time for us to get to know, so the solution seemed rushed, even after the book took longer than it should have.
November 19, 2021
Not her best. Seems rushed. Theodosia obviously doesn’t seem to know various plans for her own tea shop anymore and acts like she has a badge. The assistant wants Theo to look into the murder? What authority does the assistant have? You mean to tell me this woman was so rich and this 20 year old is in charge of taking care of everything when she dies in the house. No lawyer is involved? The ending was silly.
November 26, 2025
This has been one of my go-to series for quite some time, and I love visiting Theodosia, Drayton and Hayley with each book. Most of the recurring characters are like old friends by now, and it's been fun watching their relationships change as the series progresses.
We barely got to know the murder victim before she was killed, so we had to learn what we could about her as the investigation continued. Although she's been warned to stay out of it, Theodosia doesn't listen and puts herself into dangerous situations more than once. But she's determined and is able to provide Det. Tidwell with information relevant to the case. Thanks to multiple red herrings, I kept changing my mind about who the killer was, but was able to put it all together before it was revealed in the book.
The next book in this series is in my audio library, and I look forward to returning to Charleston for another visit with the folks from the Indigo Tea Shop.
We barely got to know the murder victim before she was killed, so we had to learn what we could about her as the investigation continued. Although she's been warned to stay out of it, Theodosia doesn't listen and puts herself into dangerous situations more than once. But she's determined and is able to provide Det. Tidwell with information relevant to the case. Thanks to multiple red herrings, I kept changing my mind about who the killer was, but was able to put it all together before it was revealed in the book.
The next book in this series is in my audio library, and I look forward to returning to Charleston for another visit with the folks from the Indigo Tea Shop.
June 23, 2022
What a great Christmas cozy mystery, don’t get me started on the descriptions of the decorations and all the fancy teas Theo, Drayton and Haley were putting on. I would love to visit the Indigo Tea Shop and Charleston during the week leading up to Christmas. The story had me wrapped up in trying to solve who killed Miss Drucilla from the get go.
There were lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing and I didn’t know who the killer was till just before Theo did.
We not only had a White Christmas tea and a Nutcracker tea in this story we also had a Victorian Illumination Tea. I’m always craving a scone with Devonshire cream and jam while reading as the descriptions Haley’s menus sound so yummy. Good thing there are recipes from the tea shop at the end of the book.
If you are looking for a light, fun read then this series fits the bill. Highly recommend to all my cozy mystery loving friends.
All thoughts and opinions are my own
There were lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing and I didn’t know who the killer was till just before Theo did.
We not only had a White Christmas tea and a Nutcracker tea in this story we also had a Victorian Illumination Tea. I’m always craving a scone with Devonshire cream and jam while reading as the descriptions Haley’s menus sound so yummy. Good thing there are recipes from the tea shop at the end of the book.
If you are looking for a light, fun read then this series fits the bill. Highly recommend to all my cozy mystery loving friends.
All thoughts and opinions are my own
August 28, 2023
Another good mystery set in Charleston and featuring tea shop owner Theodora and her tea sommelier Drayton. When they are catering an upper-crust event at the home of one of the wealthiest women in town, they do not expect to find her murdered body right before their eyes. There are many suspects and many red herrings, but lots of good recipes and tea talks for the reader who likes cozy foodie mysteries.
November 18, 2021
Very cute and charming Christmas cozy mystery. However about halfway through I had the mystery all but solved, resulting in my loss of interest halfway through. But I continued on because I loved reading about the tea parties, recipes and cozy Christmas decor. The recipes at the end of the book is also what had me bump this up to 3 ⭐️ s.
November 21, 2021
This is the 23rd book in the Tea Shop Mystery series. It’s great to be back in Charleston having tea at the Indigo Tea Shop, owned by Theodosia and staffed by her friends Drayton and Haley, the chef.
The shop is catering at the fabulous home of Drucilla Heyward when she suddenly collapses. When Theo reaches her, she sees that all her diamond rings are gone, and the Monet that hung above her has disappeared.
Of course, Theo wants to investigate but is warned to stay away from the case. With Drayton’s help, she gathers some clues but is shocked when someone takes a shot at her while she’s running one evening. Can Theo solve the case without putting her life, and the lives of her friends, in danger?
In my opinion, these books get better and better as the characters age and have more life experience. The killer is never obvious, and there are lots of suspects to choose from. The characters are charming and familiar, and the descriptions of Charleston are so appealing you’ll want to book a vacation there. I really enjoyed this book, 4 stars.
The shop is catering at the fabulous home of Drucilla Heyward when she suddenly collapses. When Theo reaches her, she sees that all her diamond rings are gone, and the Monet that hung above her has disappeared.
Of course, Theo wants to investigate but is warned to stay away from the case. With Drayton’s help, she gathers some clues but is shocked when someone takes a shot at her while she’s running one evening. Can Theo solve the case without putting her life, and the lives of her friends, in danger?
In my opinion, these books get better and better as the characters age and have more life experience. The killer is never obvious, and there are lots of suspects to choose from. The characters are charming and familiar, and the descriptions of Charleston are so appealing you’ll want to book a vacation there. I really enjoyed this book, 4 stars.
January 23, 2022
After the last Tea Shop mystery, I decided to take a break from them for awhile. I was getting so annoyed with Theodosia. I won this on NetGalley a year ago and finally decided to read it. Theodosia wasn’t quite so ridiculous in this one, but still had her moments. If you are out walking your dog and see someone you suspect of murder standing outside of their apartment smoking a cigarette, would you take your dog and enter the apartment looking for evidence? I mean, come on, that was completely unbelievable and just plain stupid. Once again, Haley is left in charge while Theo and Drayton go off sleuthing. When Miss Dimple calls in sick, the first response from Theo and Drayton isn’t “gosh, can we do anything to help? “ Instead, their response is “how are they going to sleuth”
if they have to work…
Another thing I am always confused about is Drayton’s wardrobe. He is a Tea Sommelier in a Tea Room, not in a 5 star NYC hotel. How can he afford Ferragamo loafers and Brooks Brothers coats? Maybe he inherited money. I might reread the first book, just to refresh everybody’s background.
The actual murderer and thief was caught very quickly at the very end of the book, with no explanation of why the crime was committed. I had hoped for some reason why this person killed two people and stole a priceless painting. Maybe in debt to the mob or something? But nothing, the story ends and the recipes begin.
if they have to work…
Another thing I am always confused about is Drayton’s wardrobe. He is a Tea Sommelier in a Tea Room, not in a 5 star NYC hotel. How can he afford Ferragamo loafers and Brooks Brothers coats? Maybe he inherited money. I might reread the first book, just to refresh everybody’s background.
The actual murderer and thief was caught very quickly at the very end of the book, with no explanation of why the crime was committed. I had hoped for some reason why this person killed two people and stole a priceless painting. Maybe in debt to the mob or something? But nothing, the story ends and the recipes begin.
December 27, 2025
'Twas the week before Christmas and Theodosia and Drayton are catering a swanky Victorian themed Christmas party hosted by wealthy philanthropist Miss Drusilla Heyward. As the guests in their St. John knits and low-heeled Manolos sip tea from bone china cups and Miss Drusilla shows off her five golden rings, the security alarm seems to be malfunctioning, interrupting the elegant tea. As Theo heads out of the kitchen to find Miss Drusilla, she spies Miss Drusilla lying crumpled on the floor unresponsive. Before the first responders can arrive, Theodosia and Drayton discover someone plunged a bright orange syringe deep in Miss Drusilla's throat. Her five golden rings were also stolen and as it turns out, the real target was a priceless Renoir painting hanging on her wall! Miss Drusilla's personal assistant, Pauline, is beside herself and asks Theodosia to look into things and find out who killed Miss Drusilla. Theo tries to leave it in the hands of Det. Bert Tidwell but he doesn't seem to be on the right track. Theo will just have to ask around and see what she can find out. She'll have to do it without Riley who is on vacation. This is her darkest, deadliest case yet. Can she find the killer before Christmas is ruined?
This story didn't have as much Christmas as I expected. The Victorian Christmas tea comes at the end but it sounds like fun. I would also like the Nutcracker tea. I need recipes for some of the treats Haley bakes! Eggnog scones sound delicious and I was pleased a recipe for her grandmother's fried coffee cake was included. There's more food that has nothing to do with Victorian or Christmas which is kind of weird. There are surprise guest appearances by historical figures that would have delighted me to no end when I was younger.
The mystery is pretty twisty. I had my suspect list narrowed down to two people Theodosia didn't suspect or else I never would have solved it. The motive is missing and I would like a little more info on the crime and how/when/why it was planned or just a crime of opportunity. I also would have expected Tidwell AND Riley to lecture Theodosia about getting involved when the murder weapon turned out to be .
Theo behaves a little bit better in this one. She doesn't go rushing off into danger or barging in accusing people without proof. When she gets into trouble it is not her fault. The criminal was really dumb. Drayton is more practical and sensible but has to come along to keep Theodosia alive. He's still a luddite and is back to pretending he doesn't know a thing about technology. Haley is relegated to the kitchen and mainly just shares menu plans and cooks. She hasn't had her own subplot in awhile. Delaine is obnoxious as usual. She thinks Theo is Charleston's very own Nancy Drew, forgetting Nancy Drew is fictional.
Pauline was hired to do just about everything to keep Miss Drusilla organized and her life running smoothly but I fail to see how this young woman could do that. She's very overwhelmed, upset (understandably) and doesn't remember anything she really should know. Is she really that scatterbrained or is she a good actress? Her boyfriend, Wade, is very supportive and almost too good to be true. The police seem to have their sights set on Smokey Pruitt, an odd jobs man who has helped Miss Drusilla and other neighbors. It figures. Blame the poor guy. He's living in the carriage house of Donny Bragg, one of Miss Drusilla's neighbors. He might be rough around the edges but I doubt he's a murderer. Donny Bragg, on the other hand, wouldn't get his own hands dirty, he'd just pay a hitman to do it for him. He's wealthy, influential, seems to know a lot about everyone's business and tries to direct Theodosia's investigation in the direction he wants. I think she's right not to trust him.
I would be looking at Sawyer Daniels, the numbers guy who helped Miss Drusilla select her charities. I suspect he's crooked, mainly because he has a smug smile and Delaine likes him. She has a bad track record with men! Delaine is still searching for her sugar daddy and Theo thinks likely Sawyer isn't the one because old Charleston money people like to hang on to their money tightly.
A better suspect might be Julian Wolf-Knapp, the so-called art dealer who facilitated the sale of the Renoir painting for Miss Drusilla. He claims he was the go-between but he surely had to know who the seller was and where the painting came from. This guy does not sound like he is on the up and up to me. Miss Drusilla's nephew, Coy Cooper, likes to party hard and claims to have an alibi for the time of her death. He claims a lot of things that can't be proven and acts like a spoiled, entitled rich kid. However, he shows signs of a softer side and I think he truly loved his aunt. He doesn't come from the world where people do things for free, especially just to see justice done, so he may come across as rude and antagonistic to Theo. Another suspect is Majel Mercer, head of a charity and friendly with Delaine. She oozes money and I think there's something off-putting about her. I wouldn't put it past Monica Gerber, the tabloid TV news anchor to manufacture a crime for ratings. I don't think the murder weapon points to her though.
How can Theo survive this one?
This story didn't have as much Christmas as I expected. The Victorian Christmas tea comes at the end but it sounds like fun. I would also like the Nutcracker tea. I need recipes for some of the treats Haley bakes! Eggnog scones sound delicious and I was pleased a recipe for her grandmother's fried coffee cake was included. There's more food that has nothing to do with Victorian or Christmas which is kind of weird. There are surprise guest appearances by historical figures that would have delighted me to no end when I was younger.
The mystery is pretty twisty. I had my suspect list narrowed down to two people Theodosia didn't suspect or else I never would have solved it. The motive is missing and I would like a little more info on the crime and how/when/why it was planned or just a crime of opportunity. I also would have expected Tidwell AND Riley to lecture Theodosia about getting involved when the murder weapon turned out to be .
Theo behaves a little bit better in this one. She doesn't go rushing off into danger or barging in accusing people without proof. When she gets into trouble it is not her fault. The criminal was really dumb. Drayton is more practical and sensible but has to come along to keep Theodosia alive. He's still a luddite and is back to pretending he doesn't know a thing about technology. Haley is relegated to the kitchen and mainly just shares menu plans and cooks. She hasn't had her own subplot in awhile. Delaine is obnoxious as usual. She thinks Theo is Charleston's very own Nancy Drew, forgetting Nancy Drew is fictional.
Pauline was hired to do just about everything to keep Miss Drusilla organized and her life running smoothly but I fail to see how this young woman could do that. She's very overwhelmed, upset (understandably) and doesn't remember anything she really should know. Is she really that scatterbrained or is she a good actress? Her boyfriend, Wade, is very supportive and almost too good to be true. The police seem to have their sights set on Smokey Pruitt, an odd jobs man who has helped Miss Drusilla and other neighbors. It figures. Blame the poor guy. He's living in the carriage house of Donny Bragg, one of Miss Drusilla's neighbors. He might be rough around the edges but I doubt he's a murderer. Donny Bragg, on the other hand, wouldn't get his own hands dirty, he'd just pay a hitman to do it for him. He's wealthy, influential, seems to know a lot about everyone's business and tries to direct Theodosia's investigation in the direction he wants. I think she's right not to trust him.
I would be looking at Sawyer Daniels, the numbers guy who helped Miss Drusilla select her charities. I suspect he's crooked, mainly because he has a smug smile and Delaine likes him. She has a bad track record with men! Delaine is still searching for her sugar daddy and Theo thinks likely Sawyer isn't the one because old Charleston money people like to hang on to their money tightly.
A better suspect might be Julian Wolf-Knapp, the so-called art dealer who facilitated the sale of the Renoir painting for Miss Drusilla. He claims he was the go-between but he surely had to know who the seller was and where the painting came from. This guy does not sound like he is on the up and up to me. Miss Drusilla's nephew, Coy Cooper, likes to party hard and claims to have an alibi for the time of her death. He claims a lot of things that can't be proven and acts like a spoiled, entitled rich kid. However, he shows signs of a softer side and I think he truly loved his aunt. He doesn't come from the world where people do things for free, especially just to see justice done, so he may come across as rude and antagonistic to Theo. Another suspect is Majel Mercer, head of a charity and friendly with Delaine. She oozes money and I think there's something off-putting about her. I wouldn't put it past Monica Gerber, the tabloid TV news anchor to manufacture a crime for ratings. I don't think the murder weapon points to her though.
How can Theo survive this one?
January 23, 2022
I enjoy this series very much. The author does a great job in each book without sacrificing any quality in terms of the plot and characters. As usual I was not disappointed! And of course I never can figure out who did it! I love the focal point of Christmas around this story. Drayton is one of my favorite characters. Some day I would like to visit the Tea shop and taste Haley’s cooking! I can’t wait for the next one!
December 9, 2022
This is one of my favorite authors. Love the tea house setting, the plot, and the recipes at the end of the book. Wish I could find a tea house near me that hosted Christmas and theme related events, along with the menus that are always so enticing and woven into the plot. The stories have different settings and victims but always play out with the main character almost killed as she solves the murder. Do enjoy sitting myself in her shop though and envisioning the decor, food and ambiance.
November 29, 2021
Trite, predictable writing. A true cozy mystery. Enjoy it for what it is.
May 10, 2025
way too much tea party planning and not enough mystery
October 13, 2021
https://openbooksociety.com/article/t...
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Author Laura Childs brings plenty of holiday swag to Twisted Tea Christmas, the twenty-third entry in the charming Tea Shop Mystery Series. Full to the brim with talk of festive themed tea parties and Christmas spirit, with a couple of murders thrown into the holiday eggnog, it is a truly satisfying, cozy mystery.
It’s the week before Christmas and all through the Indigo Tea Shop festivities are planned and decorations are hung. To start this busy holiday schedule, proprietor Theodosia, trusted tea-sommelier Drayton, and chef Haley are catering a lavish party thrown by one of Charleston’s premier society matrons Drucilla Heyward. Just as the hostess is about to gather her guests to announce her plans for distributing her fortune, Theo finds her deceased, her diamond rings missing and a valuable Renoir painting stolen. Theo once again finds herself putting on her sleuthing cap at Drucilla’s personal assistant Pauline’s request. As the body count rises, Theo, with the help of Drayton and the police, tracks down the killer.
After twenty-three books, I still find these mysteries featuring Theo fresh and inviting. The joy of a long running series is that recurring characters begin to feel like friends and family, and, oh, how I wish I could spend a leisurely afternoon with these folks lingering over tea and tasty goodies. Since this book takes place during the Christmas season, there are even more themed teas than usual to drool over. I love all the talk about linens, china patterns, food and tea, and I hope readers appreciate as much as I do the inclusion of recipes and tea ideas and resources in the back of the book. The author’s love of Charleston comes through, and the spirit of the city is beautifully captured within these pages.
As much as I enjoy the theme of this series, the mysteries are always the main draw. That said, I feel like the murders here, though always on Theo’s mind, take a bit of a backseat to all the other goings on. Drucilla seems like a wonderful character, and I feel like she was not the emphasis of the investigation. It seems much more about the missing painting than her unfortunate death. There are quite a few suspects for Theo to weed through, but I was surprised by the killer’s identity…and their motive is a bit lackluster. Don’t take this to mean I did not enjoy this book – I very much did.
Twisted Tea Christmas is ideal reading for readers looking for a book to get them into the holiday spirit. I guarantee you will walk away hungry, both for the glorious tea treats and more adventures featuring Theo and Drayton. Highly recommended!
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Author Laura Childs brings plenty of holiday swag to Twisted Tea Christmas, the twenty-third entry in the charming Tea Shop Mystery Series. Full to the brim with talk of festive themed tea parties and Christmas spirit, with a couple of murders thrown into the holiday eggnog, it is a truly satisfying, cozy mystery.
It’s the week before Christmas and all through the Indigo Tea Shop festivities are planned and decorations are hung. To start this busy holiday schedule, proprietor Theodosia, trusted tea-sommelier Drayton, and chef Haley are catering a lavish party thrown by one of Charleston’s premier society matrons Drucilla Heyward. Just as the hostess is about to gather her guests to announce her plans for distributing her fortune, Theo finds her deceased, her diamond rings missing and a valuable Renoir painting stolen. Theo once again finds herself putting on her sleuthing cap at Drucilla’s personal assistant Pauline’s request. As the body count rises, Theo, with the help of Drayton and the police, tracks down the killer.
After twenty-three books, I still find these mysteries featuring Theo fresh and inviting. The joy of a long running series is that recurring characters begin to feel like friends and family, and, oh, how I wish I could spend a leisurely afternoon with these folks lingering over tea and tasty goodies. Since this book takes place during the Christmas season, there are even more themed teas than usual to drool over. I love all the talk about linens, china patterns, food and tea, and I hope readers appreciate as much as I do the inclusion of recipes and tea ideas and resources in the back of the book. The author’s love of Charleston comes through, and the spirit of the city is beautifully captured within these pages.
As much as I enjoy the theme of this series, the mysteries are always the main draw. That said, I feel like the murders here, though always on Theo’s mind, take a bit of a backseat to all the other goings on. Drucilla seems like a wonderful character, and I feel like she was not the emphasis of the investigation. It seems much more about the missing painting than her unfortunate death. There are quite a few suspects for Theo to weed through, but I was surprised by the killer’s identity…and their motive is a bit lackluster. Don’t take this to mean I did not enjoy this book – I very much did.
Twisted Tea Christmas is ideal reading for readers looking for a book to get them into the holiday spirit. I guarantee you will walk away hungry, both for the glorious tea treats and more adventures featuring Theo and Drayton. Highly recommended!
October 17, 2021
TWISTED TEA CHRISTMAS by Laura Childs
The Twenty Third Tea Shop Mystery
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and the citizens of Charleston, South Carolina are ready to party. Theodosia Browning and her tea sommelier and friend, Drayton, are catering an elegant party at the home of Miss Drucilla. Sadly, even before the food is presented, Theo discovers the elderly woman's body. The rings have been taken off her fingers and a Renoir is missing from the wall. When Miss Drucilla's personal assistant practically begs Theo to investigate, how can she say no? But could the young assistant actually be the killer?
The beauty of Christmas is tarnished by the cruel murder of a sprightly and generous doyenne of Charleston in this, the twenty third tea shop mystery. Once again tea shop owner Theodosia manages to investigate a murder while providing charming tea events and entertaining citizens and tourists alike. I liked the variety of suspects and how Theo truly wasn't sure who the killer was for practically the whole book. I admit to catching the clue that revealed the killer well before Theo figured it out, although I still had questions at the end. Although I've never been a fan of Delaine, and I dislike her behavior, I do appreciate her machinations on behalf of the animal rescue. I also want to give a special nod to a new canine with whom I fell in love. I hope we get to see more of him in the future.
It's easy to get swept away in the holiday mystery with delectable food and teas, delightful decorations, and plenty of action. That's a good thing, because there's a lot here you need to willingly suspend your disbelief. A police officer, at least one that's not corrupt, will not run people through police databases for a civilian, even if the civilian asking is his girlfriend. At twenty three mysteries in I can begrudge Theodosia for feeling she's qualified to investigate-but going into people's houses without their knowledge to snoop? She tends to take things a little to far these days. Laura Childs is a master of pacing and all of your concerns quickly fall to the wayside as she unfolds the mystery.
Fast paced and filled with holiday fun TWISTED TEA CHRISTMAS is a knotty mystery that will delight both tea and dog lovers while sparking a festive mood.
The Twenty Third Tea Shop Mystery
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and the citizens of Charleston, South Carolina are ready to party. Theodosia Browning and her tea sommelier and friend, Drayton, are catering an elegant party at the home of Miss Drucilla. Sadly, even before the food is presented, Theo discovers the elderly woman's body. The rings have been taken off her fingers and a Renoir is missing from the wall. When Miss Drucilla's personal assistant practically begs Theo to investigate, how can she say no? But could the young assistant actually be the killer?
The beauty of Christmas is tarnished by the cruel murder of a sprightly and generous doyenne of Charleston in this, the twenty third tea shop mystery. Once again tea shop owner Theodosia manages to investigate a murder while providing charming tea events and entertaining citizens and tourists alike. I liked the variety of suspects and how Theo truly wasn't sure who the killer was for practically the whole book. I admit to catching the clue that revealed the killer well before Theo figured it out, although I still had questions at the end. Although I've never been a fan of Delaine, and I dislike her behavior, I do appreciate her machinations on behalf of the animal rescue. I also want to give a special nod to a new canine with whom I fell in love. I hope we get to see more of him in the future.
It's easy to get swept away in the holiday mystery with delectable food and teas, delightful decorations, and plenty of action. That's a good thing, because there's a lot here you need to willingly suspend your disbelief. A police officer, at least one that's not corrupt, will not run people through police databases for a civilian, even if the civilian asking is his girlfriend. At twenty three mysteries in I can begrudge Theodosia for feeling she's qualified to investigate-but going into people's houses without their knowledge to snoop? She tends to take things a little to far these days. Laura Childs is a master of pacing and all of your concerns quickly fall to the wayside as she unfolds the mystery.
Fast paced and filled with holiday fun TWISTED TEA CHRISTMAS is a knotty mystery that will delight both tea and dog lovers while sparking a festive mood.
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