Murder with Earl Grey Tea

Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery #9

by Karen Rose Smith

At Daisy's Tea Garden in Pennsylvania's Amish country, the tea of the month is Earl Grey to warm those late February days--but cold-blooded murder casts a deadly chill . . .

Even though spring in Lancaster County is still a bit far off, Daisy Swanson has much to look forward to: setting a date with her fiancé Jonas, a whimsical Alice in Wonderland tea event, and an anniversary celebration for her parents at a farm-to-table restaurant in Willow Creek.

But a grim discovery turns her thoughts to the troubled present. Meeting up for a hike with her friend, Daisy and her fiancé's dog Felix find the woman dead on a trail, a victim of an apparent hit and run. The tire tracks clearly indicate this was no accident, and now Daisy must follow a twisted trail of clues to uncover what drove someone to murder . . .

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Cozy, Tea, Fiction, Food, Amish

336 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published May 23, 2023

About the author

Award-winning author Karen Rose Smith was born in Pennsylvania. Although she was an only child, she remembers the bonds of an extended family. Family is a strong theme in her books and she suspects her childhood memories are the reason.

In college, Karen began writing poetry and also met her husband to be. They both began married life as teachers, but when their son was born, Karen decided to try her hand at a home-decorating business.

She returned to teaching for a while but changes in her life led her to writing relationship novels. Now she writes romances as well as mysteries full time. Her first book was published in 1992; her 110th novel will be published in 2024. A winner of New Jersey's Golden Leaf Award in Short Contemporary Romance, Colorado Romance Writers Award Of Excellence for short contemporary, as well as the Phoenix Desert Rose Chapter's Golden Quill for Traditional Romance, she has also been honored with Cataromance.com's award for Best Special Edition and Washington Romance Writers Career Achievement Award. Her romances have made both the USA TODAY list and the Amazon Romance and Contemporary Romance Bestseller lists. Her mysteries have made the USA TODAY and Barnes and Noble bestseller lists.

She has written for Meteor/Kismet, Kensington, Silhouette and Harlequin. Readers can contact Karen through her website, on Facebook (Karen Rose Smith Author) and on Twitter @ Karenrosesmith, on TIKTOK at karenrosesmithauthor and on Instagram. They can also follow her monthly e-zine IN TOUCH with KAREN ROSE SMITH which has the latest news about her books, recipes and contests.

Reviews

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder with Earl Grey Tea is the 9th book in the Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series, and although each mystery is solved in it's book, there is a lot of backstory and personal information that you would miss if you read it as a standalone. In this book, Daisy Swanson has a lot going on in her personal life. She and Jonas are now engaged, and they are trying to set a date, the Tea Garden is putting on an Alice in Wonderland Tea Party and she is planning an anniversary celebration for her parents. To combat stress, Daisy is planning on going hiking with a friend, but when she gets to the meeting with Felix, Jonas' golden retriever, they find her friend, Lydia, dead, a victim of a hit and run. Daisy, immediately begins asking questions and nosing around to find out what happened to her friend and why.

Daisy is a great protagonist. She is first and foremost a mom, who does what she can for her family. She is also a business woman and Daisy's Tea Garden has a great reputation. She is now a fiancée, planning her upcoming wedding. Finally, she is a reluctant sleuth. She finds bodies and gets involved in many crimes, although she doesn't understand how it always happens. The murder victim is an Amish woman, and because Daisy is friends with them, she is able to get answers that the police haven't been able to get. There are several suspects and possible motives, so Daisy works hard to get answers as well as justice for Lydia and her family. The book is well paced, with it ramping up as the reveal and showdown occur. There were twists along the way and a few red herrings to throw off Daisy as well as the readers. I always try to figure out who the culprit was and this time, I guessed well, but still enjoyed the story and the final events. The author blends the mystery of Lydia's death with everything else going on in Daisy's life with ease. The characters are well-developed, even the secondary ones, and I find them so easy to relate to. The Alice in Wonderland Tea sounded delightful and I would have taken my granddaughter to something like that. With lots of family activity, community events and the anticipation of the upcoming wedding, I once again enjoyed my visit to Willow Creek Pennsylvania.

I listened to this story, narrated by C.S.E. Cooney. Although I have become used to her voice with this series, I still find that beyond the main characters, all her voices sound the same. I do speed them up to 1.5 and find that a very enjoyable speed to listen to with this series. If you enjoy a good cozy mystery, with not only a mystery, but great personal side stories, then I recommend you give this series a try.

[Cozybooklady · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so wrapped up in Murder with Earl Grey Tea, that I read the entire book in one sitting.
Daisy and her Aunt Iris continue to keep this series exciting, there's always someone up to no good, and Daisy is usually willing to ask questions.
This story was fantastic, I couldn't figure out who the murderer was, and I was kept in suspense the entire time.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
#MurderwithEarlGreyTea #NetGalley

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting concept of twins that are separated because one chose to leave the Amish community. This series is always cute and entertaining though I do have a tough time believing that 1) Daisy has no idea why she’s always involved in investigations and 2) Jonas supports her in these investigations. I also found the whole managing the wedding reception thing strange (all those plans should have already been in place that close to the wedding day; she shouldn’t have had to worry about any of it, just step in and make sure things run to plan). But I read these mainly for the relationships between Daisy and her supporting cast of characters so those issues aside, this was a nice visit with them.

I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.

[Patrizia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Storia interessante: devo dire che, pur avendo capito quello che poi è risultato essere il movente dell'omicidio, non avevo ritenuto il colpevole di quel reato capace di commettere anche l'omicidio al centro di questo libro. Per il resto, il solito bel libro incentrato sulla famiglia e sull'amicizia.

[LORI CASWELL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dollycas's Thoughts 

Daisy’s Tea Garden is going to be the place to be for her Alice in Wonderland tea event complete with costumes and yummy treats and teas. Daisy is also planning an anniversary party for her parents but that will take place at a Willow Creek farm-to-table-restaurant, The Farm Barn, owned by her friend Lydia Aldenkamp. She and her fiancé Jonas are also trying to find the perfect date and place for their wedding. 

Daisy and Lydia have been taking little hiking jaunts regularly but one day the hike is abruptly canceled when Daisy and Jonas's dog Felix find Lydia dead on the trail. It looks like a hit-and-run but not an accident. The tracks show the victim was targeted. Who would want to kill Lydia? Daisy doesn't want to get involved but she does find herself right in the middle of another police investigation to find out who killed her friend.

_____

I was so happy to be back with Daisy and her family and friends. She always has a lot on her plate but she juggles everything like only she can. That is what makes her such a fantastic protagonist. You know her family is the most important thing in her life but if someone needs her help she will do the best she can to help them. In Murder with Earl Grey Tea, she loses a new friend that left a husband and young daughter behind. The woman had an Amish connection and Daisy knows she may be able to get answers her friend Detective Zeke Willet can't. I really enjoy the way Daisy cares so deeply. Her need to see justice served drives her so strongly that she can't not help Zeke in any way she can. All the characters Karen Rose Smith creates are so dynamic that they draw readers right into the story.

The author blends the mystery of Lydia's death with everything else going on in Daisy's life with ease. The pace ebbs and flows throughout the story but really ramps up with the suspense of the reveal and showdown. There were some nice twists and efforts to misdirect. I was following along closely and was able to determine the real culprit before it was all spelled out but that did not detract from my enjoyment at all. I was invested in some of the new characters and I needed to know how their stories played out.

I especially enjoyed the Alice in Wonderland tea. What a wonderful idea! I loved the simple costumes and the decorations used to make the event extra special. Daisy's Tea Garden is a really special place and all the events held there sound like so much fun.

I also enjoyed Daisy meeting more of Jonas's friends and the way she handled Vi and Foster's move. Jazzi will soon be headed off to college and Daisy is trying to prepare for that too. As a mom, I completely understood her feelings.

Murder With Earl Grey Tea is an excellent addition to this series. The characters are genuine and the mystery is well-plotted out. The setting is comfortable, I would love to live nearby. The author does write each book to stand on its own, but you really want to get to know these characters from the start. I can't wait for Book 10!

[Jenna (readinginjennaland) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daisy is planning an Alice and Wonderland specialty tea event. She's also planning to meet her friend Lydia to go hiking. When she gets to the meeting place she finds shes not there. So Felix and her go ahead to maybe catch up with her. When Felix takes off and finds Lydia, dead. Daisy must investigate to find out who killed her friend.

This is the ninth book in the series but my second. I was able to read it as a standalone. I really want to start the series from the beginning. Hopefully soon. I really enjoyed this book. Daisy and her relationships with the Amish and her relationship with Jonas.

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder with Earl Grey by Karen Rose Smith is book #9 in the Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series. Daisy Swanson co-owns Daisy's Tea Garden with her Aunt Iris. In the past Daisy has helped the local police solve several murders. This time Daisy is trying very hard not to get too involved. After all it is her good friend who was killed. This storyline is filled with action and suspense. Daisy asks questions and learns things which she passes on to the police. Her thought processes always seem to follow the clues to the culprit. I really like the recurring characters. Daisy and her fiance Jonas work well together and I really enjoyed the subplot here of planning their wedding. I look forward to the next book in the series.

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Valerie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The beginning of this book is confusing, I think you need to read the previous books in this series. The characters are okay although it’s not believable that a former police detective is encouraging a civilian to investigate a crime. I think the mystery itself is interesting. I am surprised by who the killer is, the explanation of why is definitely explained. The title is definitely misleading, the murder doesn’t happen with tea at all. #MurderwithEarlGreyTea #NetGalley

[Taryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Things are looking great for Daisy, she is ready to set her wedding date, the tea shop has a fun Alice and Wonderland event coming up, and she has planned a delightful anniversary party for her parents. Daisy has also taken to hiking with a new friend as often as she can bringing Felix along with her. When she goes to meet her friend Felix unexpectedly finds her body on the side of the road. It looks like a hit and run, Daisy is shocked and can't figure out who would do such a horrible thing. Knowing that she can't sit on the sidelines she starts to ask questions starting with the husband. Daisy so learns that there are a few people in her friends life that might have wished her harm. Follow along as she delves into her new friends life hoping to find d a killer before someone else ends up dead.

I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[LittleRead · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daisy is off to meet her friend Lydia for an early morning hike, only to find the woman’s body on the trail. Who would do such a thing to the kind woman? A former Amish woman who left when she met her Englischer husband, she had no enemies that anyone can tell of. But there were are a few suspects on Daisy’s radar, she just can’t find the proof to turn anyone over to the police.

While Daisy was lucky to not be there at the time of the murder, because she could have been hurt too, will her luck hold out? Or will the killer finally silence Daisy once and for all?

This is a great series. I love the weaving in of Englischers and Amish in the Pennsylvania Dutch setting. Having roots in the Amish community from an early age makes the connection to the Amish much more realistic and makes for some great mysteries. If you have not yet read a book in this series, you are missing out! Grab a mug of tea, find a cozy spot and get lost the story. Each reads fine as a stand alone, but you’ll want to read them all!

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daisy and Jonas are heading down the path to a summer wedding but not until Daisy solves another mystery, this time one of her Amish friends.

[Linda Smatzny · Rating 3 out of 5]

Daisy discovers the body of friend who has been murdered. She wants answers so starts asking questions. The book was an easy read.

[Eliana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cant help but love this series - the setting and characters are so soothing

[Teresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Daisy’s Tea Garden series I have read. And to be honest, I was not that enthralled with the story. So, I doubt I will go back and read earlier books or additional books in the series. While the characters are well developed, I felt like the mystery was a little too lightweight and didn’t feel deep enough. I just couldn’t stay focused on the story and wanted to give up many times as I trudged through the pages. I am sure I am the minority in my opinion, so I encourage you to give the series a try and see if you find it to be your “cup of tea.”

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!

[Kelsey Rhodes · Rating 2 out of 5]

2/5 stars! Ok; so this book is quaint. It is simple, quaint, and easy to get through. That's really the best thing I have to say about it. There was nothing new about this being a murder mystery and I didn't find Daisy to be likable. The story was a quick read, but I don't think I would re-read it or read further stories by this author.

I received an advance review copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m happy to return to Willow Creek, Pennsylvania, and Daisy’s Tea Garden! This is one of my favorite mysteries in the series! Many families have “good china” in display cabinets, brought out for special occasions. Daisy Swanson and her daughters, Vi and Jazzi, know better than many people the importance of making each day meaningful. For them, it involves loving people well and showing them that they are more valuable than the good china.

Life around Daisy is seldom quiet; there is almost always something going on at Daisy’s Tea Garden, with her daughters, Vi and Jazzi, and fiancé, Jonas. Vi, her husband and their toddler will move out of Daisy’s garage apartment and into a small house. Jazzi will soon leave for her first year at college. The tea garden is preparing for a special children’s Alice in Wonderland Tea. Daisy and Jonas will get married in the near future. Love, food, and laughter make up most of her waking hours, along with working hard at the business she loves.

Daisy went to visit a friend one morning before going to their respective businesses. She was briefly delayed, then found her friend dead, murdered moments earlier. That greatly effected Daisy. She had found murder victims before, but not someone she was close to. She also realized that, had she met her friend on time, she may have been killed, too.

Daisy helped solve several murders since moving back to Willow Creek, usually to prove the innocence of friends or loved ones. Her fiancé is a former detective, and they are friends with the two local detectives. Especially this time, they want her to let the police do their jobs. They know, however, that Daisy has a knack for getting information from people who would not typically talk with the police, especially the Amish.

Daisy tried to stay out of this investigation until it was impossible to let it go. Daisy is introspective about why she feels the need to help solve murders related to people she cares about. Daisy, a strong, caring woman, faces those concerns head-on. Most protagonists ask the question rhetorically. Daisy, with the encouragement of a loved one, went to see a counselor. It was interesting to read her sessions and the ideas they explored.

Daisy identified several potential suspects as she learned more about her friend’s business, her husband, and other family members. Whodunit remained elusive, and I was stumped, also, especially when warnings are sent to Daisy.

There were definitely surprises at the end! I did finally guess whodunit just before Daisy did, but not the motive. All circumstances were resolved, and I was very satisfied at the end.

It was interesting to read about the patterns and sources of the tea sets used in Daisy and Aunt Iris’s business and at their homes. I enjoyed reading about special items being prepared for the Alice in Wonderland tea and how creative Daisy and her staff are. The author’s portrayals of Daisy’s home, the tea garden, and Lancaster County in late winter, as well as people’s appearances, behaviors, and particularly Daisy’s feelings throughout made each scene come to life. Descriptives such as “swirling fog” for feelings and “wind tossed” for someone’s appearance are just a couple examples. I highly recommend this novel to those who enjoy the best of both worlds: an intriguing cozy mystery with heartwarming family, friends, and romance.

From a thankful heart: I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

[Jan Z · Rating 2 out of 5]

I picked this up from my library’s blind date with a book – wrapped in brown paper with the barest of description: “Murder plays second fiddle to a warm and charming cozy mystery complete with appended recipes.”
The murder mystery was definitely second fiddle. Most the book was devoted to the ins and outs of the day-to-day experiences of Daisy and her family, pets, and friends. Every detailed in chronicled: what the serving dishes look like, what ever person is eating, what kind or hair everybody has, what EVERY SINGLE PERSON is wearing. These are not plot points. Minutia on steroids.
Much of it is apropos to nothing. “Sometimes it seemed as if she’d known Jonas all her life. However, there were other times when she realized she still didn’t know every detail about him.”
Other writing gems, Jonas describing his reason for moving to Willow Creek: “I chose Willow Creek because of the … the willows…and the creek.” Actual quote.
The book could have used a copy editor to clean up errors in punctuation, syntax, and grammar. It could have used a good editor to clean up errors in continuity. The husband of the murder victim asked Daisy to manage an upcoming wedding reception at his restaurant. When he introduces her to the couple, they already have the same last name and are referred to as husband and wife, not fiancés. You need to store real maple syrup in a refrigerator. Daisy has a CONTRACT for an anniversary dinner at the same restaurant. Three days before the event the same man tells her the price has increased by 30% and she pays it. That is not how contracts work.
Daisy, the tea shop owner, says some very funny lines about not having decided whether she wants to get involved in investigating the murder of her friend. Her husband, a former police detective, promises to support her decision and help in any way he can. Hilarious! Just what my retired police detective husband would say to me, the CPA!
In the last 15 or 20 pages, the real killer exposes himself with no help from Daisy, but she claims credit, because of course she does. In the epilogue, the police tell Daisy they have arrested the restaurant owner and husband of the murder victim for embezzlement. Sorry, Karen Rose Smith, but unless it is a publicly owned corporation, and all discussion on the restaurant in the book would indicate otherwise, you cannot embezzle from yourself. You can commit tax fraud, but that would be an issue for the IRS, or employment tax fraud, which would be for the IRS and the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue to instigate an investigation based on fraudulent returns filed. Taking money out of the till is not in and of itself an issue for a sole proprietor. It is how you account for the withdrawal of the funds.

[Amelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Skillfully blending everyday matters into a murder case is once again expertly handled by Karen Rose Smith, and the ninth book in her Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series is just as intriguing as the first installment. The characters, whether a person featured in each story or just introduced, always come across as truly conceivable with a realistic personality. I especially like the main character of Daisy as she is so relatable being a mom or even an inquisitive sleuth. During every situation in MURDER WITH EARL GREY TEA, I was caught up in her life while also trying to deduce who wanted her friend dead.

With several significant events happening soon, Daisy Swanson knows the coming year is going to be not only exciting but also have some big changes. Getting married again will help to distract from having her daughter leave for college, and continuing to manage Daisy's Tea Garden that sells a variety of the beverage along with baked goods will keep her busy. When a friend inquires if Daisy would like to join her on a hiking trail the next morning, she accepts the offer as the woman seems to have a problem and wants to talk. When the individual cannot be located at their appointed time, Daisy is completely shocked after finding her deceased and then learning that the death was intentional. Though she has assisted the police in several previous murder cases, this time it is very personal which makes determining what happened even more important.

As the list of potential murder suspects mounted, I kept going over the clues that had been scattered throughout the story. What I thought would be revealed next was often wrong, and this led to lots of additional guesses. I really enjoy a mystery where the outcome is never certain until the very end, and Karen Rose Smith has readers contemplating numerous possibilities in MURDER WITH EARL GREY TEA.

While wanting answers to the unknowns connected to the murder, I was also interested in discovering how the daily experiences that Daisy had to live through would impact her. From interacting with fiancé Jonas Groft plus her family to all the hours spent working at the tea garden, I found her reactions to be insightful and convincing.

In this series, the author repeatedly talks about food, and the latest book certainly mentioned quite a few tasty sounding treats. I especially want to try those goodies which are often found locally in Pennsylvania. There are also several adorable animals featured in the book, and I was frequently amused at the antics of one canine and two felines.

This book was voluntarily reviewed, and all comments are my honest opinion.

[June Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book does something I've never noticed being done in other cozy mysteries I've read, it addresses the emotional and psychological impact of an amateur sleuth undertaking a murder investigation. In this case, add in the turmoil of not just finding a body but it being a friend who you very well could have been with at the time of the murder. Daisy Swanson isn't new to looking into murders but the combination of events left her feeling cold inside. All the tea in the world couldn't erase the horror from her mind, even as former detective boyfriend Jonas and her family and friends circle about her.

Quite frankly, given how slowly the story developed for me, I didn't expect to ultimately enjoy the book as much as I did. Heck, I started and stopped several times, starting and finishing other books in-between before I finally knuckled down and restarted and read the entire book. Once the murder had happened, however, things began to pick up pace and the depth of the book emerged. In other words, give this book a chance. It has thought provoking ingredients and the supporting cast was likable. True, sorting out the differences between the non-Amish, like Daisy, not to mention the difference between the stricter, more traditional Amish and those with fewer restrictions can be puzzling. That said, all are human whether we agree with their beliefs or not.

As for the murder, even aside from Daisy's involvement and close call, it's an intriguing one. Let's just say, I had two what I thought were strong suspects. Neither one was guilty. In other words, it kept me guessing until the end. In the process, Daisy is busy doing what a friend called fixing broken wings, even her own. Lots of changes going on in her life, comings and goings, and trying to find the time to finalize plans for her wedding to Jonas. She's finding little time for self-care but working on it will preparing herself for daughter Jazzi eventually heading off to college....all while trying to help find a murderer.

Bottom line, I enjoyed the book and will be looking forward to the next installment. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks- #KensingtonCozies for inviting me to hang out at Daisy's Tea Garden in Amish territory. It's fascinating to learn more about not just the Amish but how even they differ in belief and acceptance/interaction with the outside world.

[Lghiggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots is going on at Daisy’s Tea Garden in Willow Creek, Pennsylvania. The tea flavor of the month is Earl Grey—one of my favorites. Daisy and her Aunt Iris, who jointly own the tearoom, are serving up regular tea time favorites like scones with the help of their efficient and friendly staff. They also have seasonal finger foods along with soups and salads.

On the personal front, Daisy and her boyfriend Jonas, formerly a detective, are making wedding plans. Daisy’s older daughter Vi and her husband and son are moving out of Daisy’s small garage apartment into a larger home. Daisy’s youngest, Jazzi, is close to high school graduation with plans to go to college. Daisy’s life is already undergoing lots of changes when she discovers the body of a friend who was murdered, leaving behind a husband, a preschooler, and a restaurant/event center, The Farm Barn.

There are lots of suspects, but everyone in town loved and respected the victim. What happened is quite a puzzle and there are no witnesses. Friends and family ask Daisy to investigate and having been the one to find the body, Daisy feels a responsibility to unravel the mystery. Along the way, Daisy discovers secrets that several people had hidden even from those close to themselves. Her efforts put her in danger and require the rescue of one of her staff members. I didn’t guess the murderer, and the plot included an interesting twist.

All of the characters contribute to the plot development. The two detectives on the case are extremely reluctant to share information, but welcome the clues Daisy gathers, often from overhearing conversations at the Tea Garden and in talking to locals. The reader will like Jonas as he is very supportive of Daisy and her family. Aunt Iris has two suitors actively trying to pursue a relationship. Daisy and Jonas’ dog Felix is present in many scenes and they have two cats as well. Needless to say, there are always plenty of delicious treats enjoyed both at the tearoom and at home.

I always enjoy a visit to Daisy’s Tea Garden and this book is no exception. I especially liked the Alice in Wonderland themed tea event that focused on children.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Brenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Murder with Earl Grey Tea is the ninth installment in the Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series set in Willow Creek, Pennsylvania and featuring tea shop owner, Daisy Swanson. Daisy is looking forward to the arrival of Spring, working on plans for her parent's anniversary dinner, organizing her over the top Alice in Wonderland Tea party and setting a date for her wedding to Jonas Groft. That's on top of helping her daughters as Jazzi searches for colleges and Vi moves out of the garage apartment and into her new home.

Daisy and her Aunt Iris have arranged for Lydia Aldenkamp of The Farm Barn to host her parent's anniversary party. Daisy has grown quite close to Lydia, who left her Amish community during rumspringa when she met her now husband Neil. The couple seems happy running the business and raising their young daughter Frannie. Fortunately for Lydia she's also remained close to her twin sister Leah and can rely on her for babysitting.

Daisy plans to meet up with Lydia for an early morning hike and she brings along Jonas' dog Felix. When Lydia doesn't answer the door and Felix takes off down the hiking trail, Daisy has a bad feeling and following after the dog she discovers Lydia's body, showing obvious signs of tire tracks . Was Lydia the victim of a hit and run or cold blooded murder?

Despite not wanting to get involved in another investigation, Daisy finds herself being drawn in by Detective Zeke Willet as an intermediary between the English and the Amish. Things might not have been so rosy between Lydia and Neil, but there also might have been something going on between Lydia and her twin.

A well rounded storyline, featuring a returning cast of characters. The author once again does a good job including a mystery into the backdrop of Daisy's everchanging family dynamics. While the book can read as a stand alone I'd recommend picking up the series from the start to get a better understanding of the cast as well as the relationships between the Amish and English.

I received an advanced copy of Murder with Earl Grey Tea from Kensington Publishing via NetGalley. While not required to write a review, I am happy to offer my honest opinion.

[Vicky · Rating 5 out of 5]

: I love this series. But that being said, you really need to read them from the beginning in order to understand the relationships with the characters, especially Daisy and all her friends and family. Set in Pennsylvania Dutch country, there is a lot of Amish influence. And the author proves that she knows her background in both the country, the practices, the lives of the Amish and the “English” who live around them.

In this one, Daisy is planning a big anniversary dinner for her parents to be held at her friend Lydia’s restaurant, the Farm Barn. Lydia was born Amish, but left the order to marry her non-Amish husband Neil. Lydia’s parents shun her, but not her twin sister Leah who still talks with her. One day, Daisy sees the two sisters arguing, and later that day, Neil shows up at Daisy’s to hand her a revised bill for the anniversary dinner – a much higher one. She can’t cancel at this late date so she agrees. During the dinner, she sees Lydia and Neil arguing. The next day, Daisy is supposed to meet Lydia for their regular morning walk. What she finds, though is Lydia’s dead body.

And thus begins the mystery of who killed Lydia, Daisy’s friend. There are a lot of suspects and a lot of clues, some of them obscure, but they’re there. And there are several good recipes at the end of the story such as Apple Cider Pork Loin, Cider Sauce, Cabbage Walnut Salad, and Corn Cake.

Recommended (but read the other books in the series first!)

Disclaimer: Disclaimer: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

[Rita Mock-Pike · Rating 4 out of 5]

Growing up watching “Murder She Wrote” with my parents and “Matlock” with my grandma, I acquired a taste for cozy mysteries early in life. Today, as a graduate student, I don’t get to do much reading for pleasure, so when I do, it’s almost always such a book. This time, I chose the Murder With Earl Grey Tea novel by Karen Rose Smith.

I wanted a cozy read and something I could feel a connection with. My great love of tea, the title immediately grabbed me. Delightedly as I read, I learned other books on a similar theme in the series exist. Those will go onto my reading list for next year.

The setting of Willow Creek, the small farming community in Amish country in Pennsylvania, lends itself as a delightful backdrop. An almost idyllic place to stop by on a road trip or week-long vacation. Well, except for the murders, of course.

I will admit the book felt like it needed another editing pass to clean up some of the redundancies and over-explainers (I prefer to believe readers can read between the lines). But despite these minor blips, the story still managed to pull me into the small town and comfort me with a hot cuppa Earl Grey.

I’m usually someone who sees the perpetrator within the first chapter but it took me much longer (almost to the end!) in Murder With Earl Grey Tea, which took me by surprise. Cozy mysteries rarely keep me wondering, which I found truly delightful.

For a quick read over the weekend, or casual page-through on vacation, this tender, sweet small town mystery deserves a place on the list. I highly recommend delighting in the vivid town and the featured families that feel real and pull you into the tragedy and the joy within just the first pages.

Of course, I also highly recommend grabbing a good cuppa tea to enjoy along with this darling book.

[Cozy Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder with Earl Grey Tea is the ninth installment in the Daisy's Tea Garden Mystery series. This is a sweet heartwarming series set in small town Pennsylvania in Amish country. Daisy is a protagnist anyone would be lucky to call their friend. She is kind and thoughtful to others and loyal to her family. In this next in series she has a lot on her plate planning her wedding, a tea party at her tea shop and a big event for her parents anniversery. Her daughters are moving on with their lives and Daisy is having seperation anxiety as she says goodbye to Vi and her youngest daughter is to begin college soon.

Daisy finds a friend who had been murdered and more then ever before she is greatly disturbed as it occured when they were to meet up to hike together. Her friend Lydia had something on her mind and Daisy is concerned it led to her murder. The author delved into how Daisy is affected mentally and how investigating is stressful for her considering all she has going on in her life. However Daisy loved her friend and suspects foul play with her husband and others . She decides to investigate and solve her friends murder. Daisy is talented at building clues amid red herrings with the help of her firends and community.

This is a wonderful addtiion to the series. Daisy and Jonas willl soon be married and their relationship is stronger then ever. Daisy is facing moving on from being a Mother as she plans her future. The sleuth was well plotted to conclusion and kept me guessing. The Amish community is a large part of this series as Daisy has friends both Amish and English. Its nice to read about the close relationships she maintains with her Amish friends and how important they are to her. This is a endearing series that I highly recommend.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daisy and her Aunt Iris run a delightful tea room in Lancaster county, PA. The future is looking good for Daisy as she plans an Alice in Wonderland themed tea event, a party to celebrate her parents anniversary and, best of all, more plans for her upcoming wedding. As she juggles all of this, tragedy strikes. Recently she has made friends with Lydia and they spend time on a local hiking trail, taking Jonas's dog Felix along with them. On this day Daisy and Felix expect to meet Lydia at the trail but she isn't there. Felix discovers her body by the side of the road, the victim of an apparent hit and run. If it wasn't an accident then who would have wanted her dead? Daisy is no stranger to solving murders and, in this case, it's very personal. With Daisy investigating, the killer won't stay at large much longer.
The recurring cast of characters are people I would like to know and I would love to spend time at Daisy's tea room enjoying good conversation over a fresh pot of tea. Puzzling over the clues to catching a killer - I'd be right in there on her investigating team. Don't know how much help I would be as I'm usually still in the dark when the killer is revealed at the end. If you are new to this cozy series it works fine as a stand alone. I have read them all and am already counting down the days until November 28, 2023 when we can next join Daisy in Murder with Chocolate Tea.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Jane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Set in Willow Creek Pennsylvania, Daisy Swanson, co-owner of Daisy’s Tea Garden tea 🍵 🪴 which she runs and manages with her Aunt Iris is planning an anniversary dinner for her parents.

She’s planning to host the dinner in The Farm Barn run by her friend, Lydia Aldenkamp. Lydia was shunned by her Amish family after she left her childhood home to marry an *Englischer*.
Earlier during the meeting with Lydia, Daisy witnessed Daisy and her twin sister Leah arguing.

Later Neil Aldenkamp visits Daisy at her tea garden to present a revised bill for her parent's anniversary dinner.
It’s much higher than the previous bill. According to Mr. Aldenkamp, his farm is having issues with its suppliers so prices of things have gone up.
With the dinner only a few days away, canceling is out of the question. So she agrees to pay per the new contract.

At the dinner, Daisy again witnesses Lydia and her husband Neil having an altercation.

The next day Daisy heads over to Lydia's farm barn so that they can go for a hike. But Daisy finds Lydia sprawled dead on the trail she usually took with Lydia. Who killed her and why?

A well-written mystery with likable characters. Recipes include Apple Cider Pork Loin, Corn Cake 🎂 and so on. Recommend

Thank you to Karen Rose Smith, NetGalley, and Kensington for the arc of this book.,

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun cozy mystery series, but as I have said with other books, the mystery often takes a back seat to the relationships and events in the main characters' lives. I have come to really enjoy Daisy's family and her staff at her Tea Garden. How she deals with her two children and their real life problems (adoption, pregnancy, new home, marriage, etc.), as well as her own growing relationship with her new fiance, makes these characters come to life and the reader is left wanting to know more. In this story, Daisy is planning on going for an early morning hike with her friend, but when she goes to meet her, Daisy finds her murdered. This time, she swears she is not going to get involved in helping the police solve the murder, but slowly events pull her back into the investigation. The story also includes Daisy helping out the widower with a wedding reception at the Farm Barn, as well as planning her own Alice in Wonderland Tea party. I loved the details of both parties, and of course there are great recipes at the end of the story for the reader to try out. Twists and turns help keep the mystery part of the story, till Daisy finally helps nail the culprit. I can't wait to see what happens next! Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing this story and all opinions are strictly my own.

[Laura Hundley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder with Earl Grey Tea by Karen Rose Smith

This is number nine in the Daisy’s tea garden mystery’s and just as the very first one it is a very adorable and cute cozy mystery set in an Amish setting. Daisy Swanson is planning a themed party for her parents anniversary plus dealing with a wedding that she is very excited about. With everything going on in her life and juggling so many things it was a nice day to go on a hiking trail with a friend, Lydia. Unfortunately, they discovered a body on the side of the road that appeared to be the result of a hit and run. Although, things are not always what they seem. Someone now wants her dead. Daisy becomes relentless in her pursuit for answers and as in Smith’s style, you are brought into the book as well. The characters are so developed, humble, and charming. The ultimate question is can Daisy find out what happened to the man found dead on the road? Who wanted him dead and then her? I have not read all of the books in this series and you do not need to either. Definitely worth the read when this comes out on the 23rd of May 2023.

5 out of 5 stars


Thank you to NetGalley as well as the author and publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my unbiased and honest review.

[Susan Johnston · Rating 4 out of 5]

Princess Fuzzypants here: Throughout this series, we have watched Daisy and her two daughters struggle with some heavy personal issues whilst Daisy, much to the chagrin of the local constabulary, has solved murders as well as run her tea shop. Business is good. Both daughters are leading happy and fulfilling lives. Daisy is engaged to the wonderful Jonas. Life is good.

Perhaps that is why finding the body of a hiking friend who has been killed by a hit and run has shaken her so deeply. She does not believe the woman’s husband was the killer and she is saddened for their young daughter who lost her mother. She does not want to investigate but she cannot help getting involved. She begins to question what it is that drives her to do things that put her in danger and worry those who love her. It is an interesting twist to the conundrum of so many cozies. Why do intelligent women do unnecessarily dangerous things? It is just one more element to this series that explains why it is one of which I am fond.

There are the usual clues that make the reader think they have the villain identified and then some unexpected twists that then lead to the real culprit. It makes for a good read… maybe one for the cooler autumn days that are almost upon us. Four purrs and two paws up.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder with Earl Grey Tea is book 9 in Karen Rose Scott's Daisy's Tea Garden Mysteries. This is the first book I’ve read in the series, and I found it easy to read as a standalone.

Daisy co-owns a small business, Daisy’s Tea Garden, and has been involved in helping solve several murders previously. This time, the victim hits close to home, when her close friend Lydia is killed and Daisy is the one to find her body.

Daisy is torn between wanting to help find justice for her friend, and turning over a new leaf to stay out of trouble, but somehow she is still drawn into the mystery.

This was a good read, with lots of focus on the relationships between the characters. I really enjoyed the glimpses of life in the Amish community, and their interactions with the rest of the town.

There were a number of red herrings in this story, which made it impossible for me to identify the culprit and their motivation before the end of the book. I will be checking out other books in the series.

Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington books for providing an advanced copy if this book for review purposes.