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Killer Coffee #8
Dead to the Last Drop
Welcome to the Bean Hive Coffeehouse where the coffee is as hot as the gossip!
Maxine Bloom has always wanted to try her hand at acting and when Loretta Bebe is desperate for someone to fill a role in the local play she's directing for the Honey Springs Theater Company, she asks Maxi to fill in and Roxy knows Aunt Maxi's head will grow like the gossip.
Aunt Maxi leaps at the chance for big theatrical debut in the charming play.
When the producer of the play turns up dead the play comes to a complete halt until Sheriff Spencer Shepard lets Loretta reopen after the crime scene is fully swept.
In the meantime rumors are swirling like the snowflakes in Honey Springs and Roxy finds that she just can't stop from hearing the gossip and trying to figure out who killed the amateur actress... after all the show must go on!
Maxine Bloom has always wanted to try her hand at acting and when Loretta Bebe is desperate for someone to fill a role in the local play she's directing for the Honey Springs Theater Company, she asks Maxi to fill in and Roxy knows Aunt Maxi's head will grow like the gossip.
Aunt Maxi leaps at the chance for big theatrical debut in the charming play.
When the producer of the play turns up dead the play comes to a complete halt until Sheriff Spencer Shepard lets Loretta reopen after the crime scene is fully swept.
In the meantime rumors are swirling like the snowflakes in Honey Springs and Roxy finds that she just can't stop from hearing the gossip and trying to figure out who killed the amateur actress... after all the show must go on!
Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2023
354 people are currently reading
532 people want to read
About the author
Tonya Kappes
295 books3,589 followersBeloved cozy mystery author Tonya Kappes is bringing her charming world to the screen!
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Twitter
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
February 19, 2020
I loved being back in the fabulous Honey Springs, Kentucky! Even with a snowstorm, it sounds almost perfect! It is written so well, I almost felt as if I were there. Southern charm and sayings make it a fun, down-home read. The most welcoming shop in town is Roxy’s Bean Hive, where one can get the best coffee, baked goods, and gossip. Why, you can even sit with a cat or dog, depending on the Pet Palace’s most adoptable pet for the week. It is easy to get to know the delightful regulars, and the mysteries that tend to happen around Roxy are complex and challenging.
Roxy is an attorney by training, and keeps her license current, but coffee is her passion. While she does help people out with legal advice, her primary focuses are her husband, Patrick, their dogs, family, and friends, and the Bean Hive. Today’s buzz is the casting of the new community theater play.
Roxy’s Aunt Maxi is given the lead by Loretta, the producer voted on by the Southern Women’s Club. Until some surprise visitors arrive at the Bean Hive. First is Mark, a New York Times theater reviewer. The producer, Alan, and an off-Broadway actress, Gretchen, with Sydney, her personal assistant, are most of the newcomers. Favors are big in the Big Apple, as Alan owes Loretta a favor, and Gretchen owes one to Alan. Mark and Alan hate each other; Alan wants him far away from him and the play.
More surprises await the cast. Maxi is replaced by Gretchen and given a much smaller part. The sweet romance Loretta wrote is out and in its place is a murder mystery. The only person happy about the changes is Roxy’s friend Crissy, as she now has the lead. Maxi tries to suck it up and act as a professional.
Roxy was hired to deliver fresh coffee and a special pastry from the Bees Knees Bakery to Gretchen every morning and goes to the theater. Stuff seems to happen around Roxy! She is there to hear Alan dress down the cast and crew, then to – barely – save Maxi from a sandbag tumbling from the catwalk overhead. They discover that Alan is dead, hit hard by a sandbag. She is the only one to hear someone overhead immediately afterwards. Spencer, of the sheriff’s department, invites Roxy for the very first time to listen in to hear what she can about the death as people come into the Bean Hive, even though Patrick would have a fit if she gets involved in another murder. The internet is down from the heavy snow so Spencer is very limited in what he can find out about the New York folks. Those New York folks are no match against Roxy!
This is one of my two favorite series of the author. The characters are delightful, down-to-earth, and sometimes over-the-top. Roxy is so calm much of the time, perhaps in part due to her training as an attorney. She does, in my opinion, tend to tell people a little too much about the investigation, including things Spencer wanted kept quiet. This whodunit is a real challenge, and the author did a fine job of ending the story well with no loose ends, leaving me looking forward to the next visit. I really enjoyed meeting Mocha and hope to see more kitties in the series! I highly recommend this to fans of the author, Southern cozy mysteries, stage drama, and coffee.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel, and this is my honest review.
Roxy is an attorney by training, and keeps her license current, but coffee is her passion. While she does help people out with legal advice, her primary focuses are her husband, Patrick, their dogs, family, and friends, and the Bean Hive. Today’s buzz is the casting of the new community theater play.
Roxy’s Aunt Maxi is given the lead by Loretta, the producer voted on by the Southern Women’s Club. Until some surprise visitors arrive at the Bean Hive. First is Mark, a New York Times theater reviewer. The producer, Alan, and an off-Broadway actress, Gretchen, with Sydney, her personal assistant, are most of the newcomers. Favors are big in the Big Apple, as Alan owes Loretta a favor, and Gretchen owes one to Alan. Mark and Alan hate each other; Alan wants him far away from him and the play.
More surprises await the cast. Maxi is replaced by Gretchen and given a much smaller part. The sweet romance Loretta wrote is out and in its place is a murder mystery. The only person happy about the changes is Roxy’s friend Crissy, as she now has the lead. Maxi tries to suck it up and act as a professional.
Roxy was hired to deliver fresh coffee and a special pastry from the Bees Knees Bakery to Gretchen every morning and goes to the theater. Stuff seems to happen around Roxy! She is there to hear Alan dress down the cast and crew, then to – barely – save Maxi from a sandbag tumbling from the catwalk overhead. They discover that Alan is dead, hit hard by a sandbag. She is the only one to hear someone overhead immediately afterwards. Spencer, of the sheriff’s department, invites Roxy for the very first time to listen in to hear what she can about the death as people come into the Bean Hive, even though Patrick would have a fit if she gets involved in another murder. The internet is down from the heavy snow so Spencer is very limited in what he can find out about the New York folks. Those New York folks are no match against Roxy!
This is one of my two favorite series of the author. The characters are delightful, down-to-earth, and sometimes over-the-top. Roxy is so calm much of the time, perhaps in part due to her training as an attorney. She does, in my opinion, tend to tell people a little too much about the investigation, including things Spencer wanted kept quiet. This whodunit is a real challenge, and the author did a fine job of ending the story well with no loose ends, leaving me looking forward to the next visit. I really enjoyed meeting Mocha and hope to see more kitties in the series! I highly recommend this to fans of the author, Southern cozy mysteries, stage drama, and coffee.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel, and this is my honest review.
January 7, 2023
Dead to the last drop is a cozy mystery book in the series Killer Coffee by Tonya Kappes.
I was not expecting to enjoy this book so much. All the characters in this book were likeable enough and their small town of Honey Springs gave off such sweet and cozy vibes that I completely lost myself in it.
The Mc Roxy Bloom is a lawyer and owner of Bean Hive coffee shop in the small town. It is time for the winter theatre play production and a producer, an actor and a reporter arrive to the town for the same. Roxy soon finds herself embroiled in a murder mystery when the producer drops down dead during one of the rehearsals.
I like closed room mysteries in general and this one definitely did the genre justice. I started suspecting the culprit sometime after the 50% mark but DID NOT see how it would all tie up together at the end. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know all the characters and such a tight knit community of Honey Springs was an absolute delight.
4 stars.
I was not expecting to enjoy this book so much. All the characters in this book were likeable enough and their small town of Honey Springs gave off such sweet and cozy vibes that I completely lost myself in it.
The Mc Roxy Bloom is a lawyer and owner of Bean Hive coffee shop in the small town. It is time for the winter theatre play production and a producer, an actor and a reporter arrive to the town for the same. Roxy soon finds herself embroiled in a murder mystery when the producer drops down dead during one of the rehearsals.
I like closed room mysteries in general and this one definitely did the genre justice. I started suspecting the culprit sometime after the 50% mark but DID NOT see how it would all tie up together at the end. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know all the characters and such a tight knit community of Honey Springs was an absolute delight.
4 stars.
February 26, 2020
An enjoyable addition to the Killer Coffee series. The ebook needs a lot of editing.
February 17, 2020
Dead to the Last Drop by Tonya Kappes is the 8th A Killer Coffee Mystery. It can be read on its own for those who are new to this series. Roxy Bloom owns The Bean Hive in Honey Springs, Kentucky where she roasts her own beans for unique blends of coffee for her customers. She would love to expand her business to have a bigger roaster, but, at this time, there is no extra space available on the boardwalk. It is time for the local theater company to put on their winter production. Loretta Bebe is in charge of the production and she is known for collecting favors. Loretta has called in a favor from a theater actress, Gretchen Cannon who will be playing the lead. This causes an upset because Loretta had already promised Maxine Bloom the lead role. Gretchen called in a favor of her own and has brought in director, Alan Bogart. Alan has ideas of his own which causes disorder and upset egos. Alan soon finds himself dead and Loretta is a suspect. Roxy knows that Loretta would not harm anyone and sets out to prove it. Dead to the Last Drop is a light and humorous cozy mystery set in the charming town of Honey Springs. The word imagery allows us to imagine Honey Springs blanketed in snow. I could imagine the cold temperatures, the icy roads and roaring fires. The mystery had a couple of intriguing components. I liked the unique way the crime was committed. There are several suspects for Roxy to question and clues for readers to discover. As if Roxy does not have enough on her plate, she has a new feline at The Bean Hive looking for a home. The sweet girl needs a name and a good home. Then Roxy finds out that Emily, the local bakery owner, is selling her shop and relocating. Roxy needs to organize a goodbye party (while solving a murder, of course). Then Emily has a suggestion that delights Roxy. It will take a little finagling though. There are recipes at the end for the items Roxy served at The Bean Hive in Dead to the Last Drop. Dead to the Last Drop has theatrical theater folks, roasting room quandary, an annoying actress, a mocha colored moggy, a disputable director and an annoyed aunt.
February 22, 2020
I always love a visit in Honey Springs, KY with Roxy and her family/friends. It sounds like a little storybook town any time of the year, but in the winter it seems extra Hallmark-y. After a well-placed clue, I had a good idea of who the killer was, and I was right. The reason never really comes out until the end anyway. I liked the mention of having a mystery group in town, and Kayla at the Bee Farm got to be in this book a little instead of being just a mention. I like how the various friends and businesses sort of rotate around in the stories. Roxy and a friend in town were going to have exciting changes in both their lives/business, but you'll have to read and find out!
February 4, 2020
Roxy Bloom is the owner of the Bean Hive Coffeehouse and part-time lawyer and super sleuth. Her aunt, Maxine Bloom, gets the major part in a community play, but, unfortunately, loses the part to someone else. When a major person in the production of the play is murdered, it is Roxy to the rescue! There are several different things happening within the book that makes for a very fun and interesting story. I highly recommend this book!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
February 7, 2020
Dead To The Last Drop
Killer Coffee, Book #8
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Welcome to the Bean Hive Coffeehouse where the coffee is as hot as the gossip!
“Fabulous fun and fantastic! Kappes nails small town mystery with another must-read hit. Don’t miss this one!”– Darynda Jones, New York Times Bestselling Author of Eighth Grave After Dark
Maxine Bloom has always wanted to try her hand at acting and when Loretta Bebe is desperate for someone to fill a role in the local play she's directing for the Honey Springs Theater Company, she asks Maxi to fill in and Roxy knows Aunt Maxi's head will grow like the gossip.
Aunt Maxi leaps at the chance for big theatrical debut in the charming play about a posh ‘60’s fur salon and the owner trying to run an honest business while his charming, yet caddish partner, Mr. Browning, is just trying to give a fur coat to his new mistress.
When the woman playing the mistress turns up dead the play comes to a complete halt until Sheriff Spencer Shepard lets Loretta reopen after the crime scene is fully swept.
In the meantime rumors are swirling like the snowflakes in Honey Springs and Roxy finds that she just can't stop from hearing the gossip and trying to figure out who killed the amateur actress..after all the show must go on! (Goodreads)
Review:
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story right from the very beginning. Much of the time I felt like I was in Honey Spring, watching all the action taking place. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I so enjoy getting to spend time with Maxi and her family and friends. Their southern charm and southern ways make me laugh and wish I could visit them in real life. This mystery is not easily solved, there are plenty of clues to sift through and suspects to consider.
I would recommend this book, and series, to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. If you like Southern charm, you will definitely like this one.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
Killer Coffee, Book #8
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Welcome to the Bean Hive Coffeehouse where the coffee is as hot as the gossip!
“Fabulous fun and fantastic! Kappes nails small town mystery with another must-read hit. Don’t miss this one!”– Darynda Jones, New York Times Bestselling Author of Eighth Grave After Dark
Maxine Bloom has always wanted to try her hand at acting and when Loretta Bebe is desperate for someone to fill a role in the local play she's directing for the Honey Springs Theater Company, she asks Maxi to fill in and Roxy knows Aunt Maxi's head will grow like the gossip.
Aunt Maxi leaps at the chance for big theatrical debut in the charming play about a posh ‘60’s fur salon and the owner trying to run an honest business while his charming, yet caddish partner, Mr. Browning, is just trying to give a fur coat to his new mistress.
When the woman playing the mistress turns up dead the play comes to a complete halt until Sheriff Spencer Shepard lets Loretta reopen after the crime scene is fully swept.
In the meantime rumors are swirling like the snowflakes in Honey Springs and Roxy finds that she just can't stop from hearing the gossip and trying to figure out who killed the amateur actress..after all the show must go on! (Goodreads)
Review:
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story right from the very beginning. Much of the time I felt like I was in Honey Spring, watching all the action taking place. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I so enjoy getting to spend time with Maxi and her family and friends. Their southern charm and southern ways make me laugh and wish I could visit them in real life. This mystery is not easily solved, there are plenty of clues to sift through and suspects to consider.
I would recommend this book, and series, to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. If you like Southern charm, you will definitely like this one.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
February 8, 2020
Dead to the Last Drop is the 8th instalment in the A Killer Coffee Mystery Series by Tonya Kappes.
This go around Roxy’s aunt Maxine is the lead in the community theatre, or at least she thought she was .. Loretta has called in some favors, which has brought an off Broadway actress and director to Honey Springs. Roxy had a feeling something bad was going to happen with everyones tempers ya boiling point but she didn’t expect the Producer to be murdered ...
As always a Tonya’s stories are filled with humour, wonderful characters and a mystery to solve.
I love visiting Honey Springs and the Bee Hive and looks like there will be some exciting things happening in future instalments...
The mystery is interesting and well plotted. I loved the interaction with Roxy’s aunt and Loretta, right down to how everyone seems to be quirky in their own way making for loveable characters which are well developed. I also like the inclusion of fur-babies into the story, this time there is a rescue kitty named Mocha.
There are plenty of twists and turns in this story, and I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. The story moves at a steady pace, and I had a hard time putting it down.
Please note you could read as a stand alone, but you will want to read them all.
Did I mention Tonya includes recipes in the back and I am definitely wanting to try the Pecan Balls!
I cant wait to take another trip to Honey Springs, Kentucky, to see whats new with Roxy and her friends. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading cozy mysteries.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This go around Roxy’s aunt Maxine is the lead in the community theatre, or at least she thought she was .. Loretta has called in some favors, which has brought an off Broadway actress and director to Honey Springs. Roxy had a feeling something bad was going to happen with everyones tempers ya boiling point but she didn’t expect the Producer to be murdered ...
As always a Tonya’s stories are filled with humour, wonderful characters and a mystery to solve.
I love visiting Honey Springs and the Bee Hive and looks like there will be some exciting things happening in future instalments...
The mystery is interesting and well plotted. I loved the interaction with Roxy’s aunt and Loretta, right down to how everyone seems to be quirky in their own way making for loveable characters which are well developed. I also like the inclusion of fur-babies into the story, this time there is a rescue kitty named Mocha.
There are plenty of twists and turns in this story, and I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. The story moves at a steady pace, and I had a hard time putting it down.
Please note you could read as a stand alone, but you will want to read them all.
Did I mention Tonya includes recipes in the back and I am definitely wanting to try the Pecan Balls!
I cant wait to take another trip to Honey Springs, Kentucky, to see whats new with Roxy and her friends. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading cozy mysteries.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 26, 2024
This was another good mystery in the series. The characters are still lovable and keep you interested. There is play to be taking place in the town. Roxy's aunt is to be a part of it. While at rehearsal someone is killed. Roxy then spends the rest trying to figure out who is behind it.
February 8, 2020
Well Tonya Kappes has done it again! Although the "blurb" advertising the book is a little off the tale shall we say, which just makes reading the book more interesting!
Loretta Bebe is in charge of the theatre this year and they are planning on putting on a romantic comedy, Maxi has been drafted in and believes she will be playing one of the leads, the next thing though is that an off-Broadway actress (and her assistant) and a director have arrived .... oh along with a reporter from the New York Times that neither the actress or the director like! Even so this should be okay BUT Maxi's role is very much diminished, and the director has changed it from the Rom Com to a Murder Mystery! But then murder hits in the theatre and it happens during a storm which means the internet is down which means (against his better judgement) Sheriff Spencer needs Roxy to sniff around!
Alongside this Emily (the owner of the Bee's Knees Bakery) is closing up and heading to a larger place to get some hands on training and Roxy has a very frightened cat as her guest pet for the week, so arrange a "don't be gone too long" party for Emily, check, name and place the frightened feline, check, find out who the murderer is without upsetting her husband .... err, can't check that one off just yet! Just one thing niggles me and takes this from a 5 star to a 4.5 star read, a couple of books back Patrick changed the open fires to "mock" fires so Roxy shouldn't be building them or putting logs on!
Just to say I was lucky enough to get an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Loretta Bebe is in charge of the theatre this year and they are planning on putting on a romantic comedy, Maxi has been drafted in and believes she will be playing one of the leads, the next thing though is that an off-Broadway actress (and her assistant) and a director have arrived .... oh along with a reporter from the New York Times that neither the actress or the director like! Even so this should be okay BUT Maxi's role is very much diminished, and the director has changed it from the Rom Com to a Murder Mystery! But then murder hits in the theatre and it happens during a storm which means the internet is down which means (against his better judgement) Sheriff Spencer needs Roxy to sniff around!
Alongside this Emily (the owner of the Bee's Knees Bakery) is closing up and heading to a larger place to get some hands on training and Roxy has a very frightened cat as her guest pet for the week, so arrange a "don't be gone too long" party for Emily, check, name and place the frightened feline, check, find out who the murderer is without upsetting her husband .... err, can't check that one off just yet! Just one thing niggles me and takes this from a 5 star to a 4.5 star read, a couple of books back Patrick changed the open fires to "mock" fires so Roxy shouldn't be building them or putting logs on!
Just to say I was lucky enough to get an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2020
Roxy’s Aunt Maxi wanted to try acting. So when Loretta Bebe asked her to star in the community theatre winter production, Maxi can’t wait. Maxi's role as a leading lady is short-lived when Loretta calls in a favor from a well-known director. The director brings in his own leading lady. After the newcomers arrive in town, the play and everything surrounding it becomes total chaos. When a major person involved in the play is killed, Roxy, of course, is brought into the investigation.
This is the eighth book in the series and can be enjoyed as a stand-alone mystery. Having said that for you to understand some of the chemistry between certain characters you should read the previous books. I love these characters, every book feels like reading about my friends. The characters are likable, realistic, and have fun quirky personality with loads of southern charm. The mystery is fast-paced with several twists and turns along the way. I was completely surprised by who the murderer was.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced by anyone.
This is the eighth book in the series and can be enjoyed as a stand-alone mystery. Having said that for you to understand some of the chemistry between certain characters you should read the previous books. I love these characters, every book feels like reading about my friends. The characters are likable, realistic, and have fun quirky personality with loads of southern charm. The mystery is fast-paced with several twists and turns along the way. I was completely surprised by who the murderer was.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced by anyone.
February 21, 2020
Roxy Bloom is the owner of the Bean Hive Coffeehouse and part-time lawyer and super sleuth. Her aunt, Maxine Bloom, gets the major part in a community play, but, unfortunately, loses the part to someone else. When a major person in the production of the play is murdered, it is Roxy to the rescue! There are several different things happening within the book that makes for a very fun and interesting story. I highly recommend this book!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
March 1, 2020
You are simply missing out on a great time if you haven’t read Tonya Kappes. She brings to life each character in their own unwitting way. They give you a sense of home when you begin meeting each one. If you’ve never visited a small town. You don’t know what you have been missing. But after you read about Honey Springs and the Bean Hive Coffee Shop. You will plan a trip soon.
Roxy will have you in all sorts of adventures. Pre-order your copy today. Then go back and read the rest of the series to come apart of the community that we all love and enjoy!!
Roxy will have you in all sorts of adventures. Pre-order your copy today. Then go back and read the rest of the series to come apart of the community that we all love and enjoy!!
December 2, 2023
Loves it!!!!
March 1, 2020
Dead to the Last Drop earns 5/5 Mocha Meows...Entertaining Fun!
Curtains up on the new, well-written cozy from Tonya Kappes in her southern Killer Coffee Mystery series. This eighth book, “Dead to the Last Drop,” shines on egos, ambition, dimming stardom, divas, and murder! Roxy’s Aunt Maxi is a bit overzealous in her excitement about being given the lead role in the local play, but her attitude changes “drama”tically when she discovers their play has gone Broadway. It seems favors were called in, and Low-retta Bebe, the producer of the local theater group, has arranged for a big Broadway producer to be part of the production. However, he changes the play, and redeeming his own favor, he gets a “more washed up than thriving” off-Broadway actress to take center stage. Her well-developed diva persona demands her personal assistant arrange some special treatment including hiring Roxy to deliver hot coffee each morning along with a freshly-baked treat from the Bees Knees Bakery. But, it gets more contentious when Aunt Maxi loses the lead to the “diva,” and a theater reviewer has arrived revealing some hard truths about Mr. Bogart and Miss Cannon and whose opinions have not been well-received by the two. Aunt Maxi is furious, Low-retta is furious, Miss Cannon is furious, and the producer is...dead!
I personally enjoy Tonya Kappes writing style and using a first-person narrative from Roxy’s perspective gives me a vicarious role in the drama. Readers will delight in a fun sense of humor, southernisms, and insights into Roxy’s love for her husband, her quirky aunt, friends-turned-family, and a variety of animals. Tonya’s descriptive language clearly paints the café, the town in winter, the theater, characters’ looks and mannerisms, and lots of food and drink. She doesn’t rely just on the narrative penning expressive dialogue and clever banter to illustrate the different personalities along with the tone and emotions. The murder mystery was quite a page-turner. Karma landed on an appropriate victim (although Miss Cannon and her divaness seemed a good candidate, too), and adding to the imperative nature to uncover the murderer are accusations and suspicions falling too close to home. Favors owed and redeemed seem a perfect place to start for “motive,” but the ultimate ending was a nice surprise. I enjoy Roxy’s relationship with friends, family, fur friends, and law enforcement which gives an air of realism; I know most people don’t investigate murders, but cozies are my guilty pleasure! I appreciate realistic responses, choices, and interactions. Recipes from The Bean Hive are included for budding chefs to enjoy Pecan Balls, Coffee Soufflé, and the Bees Knees’ Maple Pecan Breakfast Ring. Feline “fur” friends will enjoy the Salmon Cat Treats! Whether two- or four-legged you’ll love these treats. I highly recommend the series, and newbies can start with this eighth book.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Curtains up on the new, well-written cozy from Tonya Kappes in her southern Killer Coffee Mystery series. This eighth book, “Dead to the Last Drop,” shines on egos, ambition, dimming stardom, divas, and murder! Roxy’s Aunt Maxi is a bit overzealous in her excitement about being given the lead role in the local play, but her attitude changes “drama”tically when she discovers their play has gone Broadway. It seems favors were called in, and Low-retta Bebe, the producer of the local theater group, has arranged for a big Broadway producer to be part of the production. However, he changes the play, and redeeming his own favor, he gets a “more washed up than thriving” off-Broadway actress to take center stage. Her well-developed diva persona demands her personal assistant arrange some special treatment including hiring Roxy to deliver hot coffee each morning along with a freshly-baked treat from the Bees Knees Bakery. But, it gets more contentious when Aunt Maxi loses the lead to the “diva,” and a theater reviewer has arrived revealing some hard truths about Mr. Bogart and Miss Cannon and whose opinions have not been well-received by the two. Aunt Maxi is furious, Low-retta is furious, Miss Cannon is furious, and the producer is...dead!
I personally enjoy Tonya Kappes writing style and using a first-person narrative from Roxy’s perspective gives me a vicarious role in the drama. Readers will delight in a fun sense of humor, southernisms, and insights into Roxy’s love for her husband, her quirky aunt, friends-turned-family, and a variety of animals. Tonya’s descriptive language clearly paints the café, the town in winter, the theater, characters’ looks and mannerisms, and lots of food and drink. She doesn’t rely just on the narrative penning expressive dialogue and clever banter to illustrate the different personalities along with the tone and emotions. The murder mystery was quite a page-turner. Karma landed on an appropriate victim (although Miss Cannon and her divaness seemed a good candidate, too), and adding to the imperative nature to uncover the murderer are accusations and suspicions falling too close to home. Favors owed and redeemed seem a perfect place to start for “motive,” but the ultimate ending was a nice surprise. I enjoy Roxy’s relationship with friends, family, fur friends, and law enforcement which gives an air of realism; I know most people don’t investigate murders, but cozies are my guilty pleasure! I appreciate realistic responses, choices, and interactions. Recipes from The Bean Hive are included for budding chefs to enjoy Pecan Balls, Coffee Soufflé, and the Bees Knees’ Maple Pecan Breakfast Ring. Feline “fur” friends will enjoy the Salmon Cat Treats! Whether two- or four-legged you’ll love these treats. I highly recommend the series, and newbies can start with this eighth book.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
March 16, 2020
Good to the last clue
This eighth installment of a killer coffee mystery doesn't fail to provide a great who done it. Along with clues to the murder you'll meet a cast of characters. Some you will feel sorry for and some you will not like at all. But in the end it all works out. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
This eighth installment of a killer coffee mystery doesn't fail to provide a great who done it. Along with clues to the murder you'll meet a cast of characters. Some you will feel sorry for and some you will not like at all. But in the end it all works out. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
April 17, 2024
Winter
This story takes place during the lull between New Year's Day and Valentine's Day. It has special coffee, a new roaster, property changes, a town play, an old coat and murder. The story was interesting. I liked the way the past and present murders were connected. That was the best part of the story. It's too bad it wasn't a bigger part of the story.
This story takes place during the lull between New Year's Day and Valentine's Day. It has special coffee, a new roaster, property changes, a town play, an old coat and murder. The story was interesting. I liked the way the past and present murders were connected. That was the best part of the story. It's too bad it wasn't a bigger part of the story.
February 22, 2020
Start with winter in Honey Springs, Kentucky, add the winter play, and out of towners from New York who take over. This is a perfect recipe for murder. This latest installment in the Killer Coffee Mystery Series is so much fun. The new characters from New York are so over the top that they almost overshadow the colorful characters from Honey Springs.
This was such an enjoyable read. I really enjoy the characters who live in Honey Springs and I enjoyed the new additions for this book. It was fairly obvious who had to die, but not so obvious who the killer was. With both a local and several out of towners as suspects, Roxy Bloom and Sheriff Shephard have their hands full trying to figure this out, especially with the internet down. Roxy has to travel across the lake to get brief access to the internet.
I had an idea who the killer might be but couldn’t figure out the motive. I loved the surprise ending that revealed the reason for the murder!
I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Readers Copy of the book.
This was such an enjoyable read. I really enjoy the characters who live in Honey Springs and I enjoyed the new additions for this book. It was fairly obvious who had to die, but not so obvious who the killer was. With both a local and several out of towners as suspects, Roxy Bloom and Sheriff Shephard have their hands full trying to figure this out, especially with the internet down. Roxy has to travel across the lake to get brief access to the internet.
I had an idea who the killer might be but couldn’t figure out the motive. I loved the surprise ending that revealed the reason for the murder!
I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Readers Copy of the book.
July 29, 2024
Another enjoyable cozy mystery by Tonya Kappes. Well-written, well-paced, and entertaining. I'm hoping my library obtains the other books from this series. Very well worth the time to read.
February 18, 2020
Dead to the Last Drop is another exciting addition to Kappes' Killer Coffee series. Roxy finds herself drawn into another mystery when the town's play goes from a fictional murder to a real murder of the play's director. Roxy's Aunt Maxie is at the center of the mystery as one of the actresses in the play, and Roxy's friend, Loretta, becomes a murder suspect because of her connection to the murdered director. With Roxy as a witness to the murder, she has no choice but to try to solve this mystery.
Kappes does a great job at setting up an entertaining story that captures the reader's interest from the beginning and never lets go. I always enjoying reading this series and catching up with old friends because all of the secondary characters are enjoyable and add to the story. I also liked the smaller stories such as Roxy facing a possible new business venture, and Roxy having the opportunity to solve this case with the sheriff's blessing. The mystery was well done and helps to keep the reader guessing since there are so many suspects. Overall Dead to the Last Drop was an entertaining read that I would most definitely recommend. I look forward to reading Roxy and friends next adventure.
Received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Kappes does a great job at setting up an entertaining story that captures the reader's interest from the beginning and never lets go. I always enjoying reading this series and catching up with old friends because all of the secondary characters are enjoyable and add to the story. I also liked the smaller stories such as Roxy facing a possible new business venture, and Roxy having the opportunity to solve this case with the sheriff's blessing. The mystery was well done and helps to keep the reader guessing since there are so many suspects. Overall Dead to the Last Drop was an entertaining read that I would most definitely recommend. I look forward to reading Roxy and friends next adventure.
Received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
February 15, 2020
This was first published on my Blog "Lecture toute une Aventure"
So good! It's always a pleasure to read about Roxy and her gang of friends really . This is so funny to see how they can all get together to help and at the same bickering over little things.
This book made me smile really, the investigation is very well done with false hints and everything , the romance is super sweet, the pets are too cute ( i would have loved to find a Mocha^^;;) .
This is really the kind of cozy read that bring you a sense of comfort like a good cup of coffee ( or tea in my case) could. You are immersed in the story but you feel at home with friends so it's easily read but a real page turner as well.
For once, Roxy is asked to snoop ^^ after a murder but she must stay discreet which doesn't seem easy in that area especially when she must try not to tell her protective lovers....and all that while thinking about new idea for her coffee and saying goodbye to a friend.....Roxy is for sure very busy!
The added recipes are always a wonderful bonus as well.
A great cozy mystery, can be read as stand alone ( but even better read in order). To recommend
So good! It's always a pleasure to read about Roxy and her gang of friends really . This is so funny to see how they can all get together to help and at the same bickering over little things.
This book made me smile really, the investigation is very well done with false hints and everything , the romance is super sweet, the pets are too cute ( i would have loved to find a Mocha^^;;) .
This is really the kind of cozy read that bring you a sense of comfort like a good cup of coffee ( or tea in my case) could. You are immersed in the story but you feel at home with friends so it's easily read but a real page turner as well.
For once, Roxy is asked to snoop ^^ after a murder but she must stay discreet which doesn't seem easy in that area especially when she must try not to tell her protective lovers....and all that while thinking about new idea for her coffee and saying goodbye to a friend.....Roxy is for sure very busy!
The added recipes are always a wonderful bonus as well.
A great cozy mystery, can be read as stand alone ( but even better read in order). To recommend
March 8, 2020
In Dead to the Last Drop we find ourselves back in Honey Springs, Kentucky. Aunt Maxie is all set to star in the town play which Loretta Bebe is producing. That right there let me know we were all set for some fun. When Loretta decides to bring in a real director and an actress who replaces Aunt Maxie, things just heat up quickly. Suddenly there is a body and Roxie is poking her nose everywhere.
I love the town of Honey Springs and it residents. Tonya Kappes truly brings it to life. You know an author has written well when you open up a book and instantly feel at home. That’s the feeling you get when you begin reading this book. It was fun to see so much going on with Aunt Maxie, Bunny and Low-retta Bebe. Just writing that sentence made me smile with the memory of the story. The glimpses of behind the scenes, (of the play), were so interesting. I loved reading the set up and getting to know the personalities of the new characters. The mystery had several suspects to choose from. It was hard guessing who did it and why. Now that I’m done reading, I can’t wait to see what comes next!
Dead to the Last Drop is the eighth book in the series. You could read it out of order. The mystery is complete. Frankly, though, why would you want to? While Tonya Kappes does an awesome job catching newcomers up, you still miss out on a lot of fun adventures by not reading the prior books. I highly recommend starting with the first book. You’ll fly right through them. If you have already read the prior books, you don’t want to miss the latest happenings from Honey Springs!
I almost forgot to mention, I love the way Tonya Kappes showcases an animal up for adoption in each of her Killer Coffee books. It serves as a reminder that everyone can do a little bit to help out animals in need. This is very close to my heart. In my life I was rescued, more than once, by an animal guardian who came to me through adoption. A huge thank you to the author for highlighting pet adoption and the fact that it is often the animal rescuing you as much as you do them.
I love the town of Honey Springs and it residents. Tonya Kappes truly brings it to life. You know an author has written well when you open up a book and instantly feel at home. That’s the feeling you get when you begin reading this book. It was fun to see so much going on with Aunt Maxie, Bunny and Low-retta Bebe. Just writing that sentence made me smile with the memory of the story. The glimpses of behind the scenes, (of the play), were so interesting. I loved reading the set up and getting to know the personalities of the new characters. The mystery had several suspects to choose from. It was hard guessing who did it and why. Now that I’m done reading, I can’t wait to see what comes next!
Dead to the Last Drop is the eighth book in the series. You could read it out of order. The mystery is complete. Frankly, though, why would you want to? While Tonya Kappes does an awesome job catching newcomers up, you still miss out on a lot of fun adventures by not reading the prior books. I highly recommend starting with the first book. You’ll fly right through them. If you have already read the prior books, you don’t want to miss the latest happenings from Honey Springs!
I almost forgot to mention, I love the way Tonya Kappes showcases an animal up for adoption in each of her Killer Coffee books. It serves as a reminder that everyone can do a little bit to help out animals in need. This is very close to my heart. In my life I was rescued, more than once, by an animal guardian who came to me through adoption. A huge thank you to the author for highlighting pet adoption and the fact that it is often the animal rescuing you as much as you do them.
February 21, 2020
Back once again to Honey Springs and Roxy's coffee shop! The talk of the town is the new local play production. The usually quiet town becomes abuzz with a somewhat known actress Gretchen and Broadway producer Alan coming to town to take over production which gets tempers flaring with the local actors who get downgraded in roles. When one of the rehearsals ends up with someone dead and Roxy as the only witness, of course she feels it's her duty to snoop!
The town of Honey Springs is once again the magical place of friends, family, and the hiding place of a killer! This series keeps getting better and better!
The town of Honey Springs is once again the magical place of friends, family, and the hiding place of a killer! This series keeps getting better and better!
February 21, 2020
This is a great series! Ms. Kappes is such a good Southern storyteller. I always look forward to “visiting” Honey Springs, Kentucky, and this new addition did not disappoint. Roxy is such a smart, caring, loving, hard-working addition to this small, lakeside town. The storylines in this book were intermingled beautifully. They kept my attention till the end. If you like a good Southern cozy about a strong young woman, her family and her friends, then you really should read this series.
March 5, 2020
As author Tonya Kappes, takes us back to Honey Springs, KY for this book, we get to see some of our favorite characters return. Roxanne Bloom Cane, a lawyer who has returned to Honey Springs to open her Bean Hive Coffee Shop located on the boardwalk. Aunt Maxine Bloom has been given the lead role in a romantic play to be directed by Loretta Bebe, a position given to her by The Southern Women's Club. All this changes when new people enter the Bean Hive. Mark Redding, a theater reviewer for the New York Times; Gretchen Cannon, a down and out actress; Alan Bogard, a well-known producer and Sydney O/Neil, Gretchen's personal assistant. Alan owes Loretta a favor and Gretchen owes Alan a favor. When Aunt Maxi learns she no longer has the lead role and the play has heen changed to a murder mystery, she blows her top. There is a lot going on in the book for readers to keep track of. The snowstorm has knocked out the internet. Emily Rich, the owner of Bees Knees Bakery, is leaving town to train as a pastry chef. Perry Zella and the mystery club are soaking up all of the activity.
When the producer, Alan, is killed during practice, Roxy is the only witness to someone running on the catwalk and leaving through a door. Spencer Shepard from the Sheriff's Department and Kevin Roberts, the coroner, are called to investigate what appears to be a homicide.
There are several suspects who have a motive to kill him and Roxy wants to find out who killed him against her husband, Patrick's, wishes.
This is a fun read with wonderful characters. A must read. I received an advance copy. This is my honest review.
When the producer, Alan, is killed during practice, Roxy is the only witness to someone running on the catwalk and leaving through a door. Spencer Shepard from the Sheriff's Department and Kevin Roberts, the coroner, are called to investigate what appears to be a homicide.
There are several suspects who have a motive to kill him and Roxy wants to find out who killed him against her husband, Patrick's, wishes.
This is a fun read with wonderful characters. A must read. I received an advance copy. This is my honest review.
February 21, 2020
Here we are with the eighth book in the Killer Coffee mystery series and it's just as enjoyable as the previous books. I love spending time in the small town world that is Honey Springs. Roxy has her hands full right out of the gate in this one. Her Aunt Maxi (aka her landlord) and Bunny, her employee are toe to toe, nose to nose in the middle of the Bean Hive and Roxy is trying to referee. Both have very strong opinions on the proper use of the lamp post flags, of all things. Aunt Maxi is firm that they should spend extra money and use them to advertise the upcoming local stage production. She is the star of the show but then not.Too bad things go sideways and get not only ugly but downright deadly. Strings are pulled and the role Aunt Maxi had is handed to a not all that famous actress, one who has nothing better than Off Broadway 'stardom'. Along with that news, a 'famous' producer is part of the bad news. Ouch. Watch the fur fly and lots of hissy fits too.
It's not long before the killer strikes. Roxy is on hand daily to supply her home roasted coffee and some yummy pastry to the cast. While on stage harsh words are spoken, and Gretchen, the off Broadway actress (now 'star' of the play) exits the stage just as a sand bag falls. Roxy saves Aunt Maxi from harm but Alan isn't as fortunate and becomes a corpse, center stage. Roxy is the witness and is asked by the police to help the investigation. Can she sift through the various secrets and connections amongst the out of towners to nab the killer before another corpse takes the stage? If anybody can, it's Roxy. Along the way humor joins the mystery and the puzzle kept me guessing. I guessed wrong and that's a very good thing for this reader.
It's not long before the killer strikes. Roxy is on hand daily to supply her home roasted coffee and some yummy pastry to the cast. While on stage harsh words are spoken, and Gretchen, the off Broadway actress (now 'star' of the play) exits the stage just as a sand bag falls. Roxy saves Aunt Maxi from harm but Alan isn't as fortunate and becomes a corpse, center stage. Roxy is the witness and is asked by the police to help the investigation. Can she sift through the various secrets and connections amongst the out of towners to nab the killer before another corpse takes the stage? If anybody can, it's Roxy. Along the way humor joins the mystery and the puzzle kept me guessing. I guessed wrong and that's a very good thing for this reader.
February 21, 2020
Roxy Bloom-Cane is one of my favorite heroines written by Tonya Kappes. Dead to the Last Drop is the 8th book in the Killer Coffee Mystery series. Roxy is happily running her coffee shop, The Bean Hive, and enjoying married life with Patrick Cane and their fur babies.
Honey Springs, Kentucky, is in the grip of winter and everyone is looking for a diversion - many of them are finding it in Loretta Bebe's theatre production. This is especially true for Roxy's Aunt Maxine - she is thrilled to have been cast in a significant part in the play.
Small town dramas become big city dramas when a Broadway producer and actress blow into town to add glamour to Loretta's production. It is no surprise that their arrival is upsetting to the cast and crew of Loretta's play.
Roxy is able to stay on the periphery until one of the out-of-towners is killed right in front of her while she is at the theatre, making a coffee delivery. Because she is the only eye witness, she gets the okay from the town sheriff to be her naturally nosy self and investigate the case. Roxy hits the ground running and her investigation leads her in unexpected directions. I loved following along with Roxy as she worked through the mystery. I was very happy to be proved wrong when the killer was revealed - I 100% fell for the red herring.
While Dead to the Last Drop can be read on its own, do yourself a favor and read the whole series!
Honey Springs, Kentucky, is in the grip of winter and everyone is looking for a diversion - many of them are finding it in Loretta Bebe's theatre production. This is especially true for Roxy's Aunt Maxine - she is thrilled to have been cast in a significant part in the play.
Small town dramas become big city dramas when a Broadway producer and actress blow into town to add glamour to Loretta's production. It is no surprise that their arrival is upsetting to the cast and crew of Loretta's play.
Roxy is able to stay on the periphery until one of the out-of-towners is killed right in front of her while she is at the theatre, making a coffee delivery. Because she is the only eye witness, she gets the okay from the town sheriff to be her naturally nosy self and investigate the case. Roxy hits the ground running and her investigation leads her in unexpected directions. I loved following along with Roxy as she worked through the mystery. I was very happy to be proved wrong when the killer was revealed - I 100% fell for the red herring.
While Dead to the Last Drop can be read on its own, do yourself a favor and read the whole series!
February 21, 2020
A fun story that doesn't disappoint. Tonya Kappes is a word artist and that will allow you to put any fears to rest that this is book #8. It works as a standalone. But, if you haven't already, you'll want to read the others, if for no other reason than for some character backstory; however, there is no shortage of descriptors here which will have you right in the thick of things with knowing the characters and town before you know it. Never a spoiler in any of my reviews, Dead to the Last Drop is a light and humorous cozy mystery set in the charming town of Honey Springs. In this installment, it is time for the Winter Production, and the organizer/director is no other than Low-rett-a! Who is that you may ask? Well, one-click this book for the answer! The setting is the fictional town of Honey Springs Kentucky, and our wonderful sleuth is Roxy, the coffee shop owner who is a dead body magnet and just can't help herself! Chock full of characters you'll love to love and love to hate, twist and turns you don't see coming, and many laugh-out-loud moments. Small independent shops on the boardwalk and everyone knowing everyone else, make this a true to the last drop home town setting perfectly infused with just the right amount quirky smalltown characters, and the bonus: coffee house recipes included! I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book and I am providing my honest, unsolicited, unbiased opinion.
February 27, 2020
I have enjoyed this series. I binge-read, beginning with the first and reading in order. It was nice to see the characters progress and go through normal life changes. I look forward to the next Killer Coffee Mystery but since this one was just released not even a week ago, I think I may have to wait awhile, which is ok (I have piles of books screaming for attention!).
In this last book, Roxy not only finds herself involved in a another murder but this time, Sheriff Spencer Shepherd actually asks for her help since a storm has taken out the internet in their small town. How to say this without giving away anything is difficult sometimes! That said, the murderer was one of two obvious people. The reason was the tough part and it was an interesting one this time! In fact, Roxy not only helped solve this one, but she also help solve a cold case as well.
Looking forward to the next. Thank you, Tonya Kappes for such a wonderful little town and introducing me to some great characters.
In this last book, Roxy not only finds herself involved in a another murder but this time, Sheriff Spencer Shepherd actually asks for her help since a storm has taken out the internet in their small town. How to say this without giving away anything is difficult sometimes! That said, the murderer was one of two obvious people. The reason was the tough part and it was an interesting one this time! In fact, Roxy not only helped solve this one, but she also help solve a cold case as well.
Looking forward to the next. Thank you, Tonya Kappes for such a wonderful little town and introducing me to some great characters.
December 1, 2024
Dead to the Last Drop is the eighth cozy mystery in the Killer Coffee mystery series. Honey Springs Theater Company is in the middle of putting on a big play, but when the big name producer ends up dead the play threatens to fall apart. Unable to avoid the gossip about what’s going on with the play, Roxy noses around until she is in the middle of the murder investigation, uncovering clues and finding the killer in true Roxy fashion.
I am always up for a good, quick cozy mystery and this one fits the bill. I love the town of Honey Springs and the characters in it. They are always able to get me to smile. I was hooked on this fast paced mystery from the beginning and found it hard to put down. The mystery was intriguing and kept me guessing until the very end. I can’t wait to read more in this series and see what Roxy gets up to next. If you are looking for a quick read and a great cozy mystery series check this one out!
I am always up for a good, quick cozy mystery and this one fits the bill. I love the town of Honey Springs and the characters in it. They are always able to get me to smile. I was hooked on this fast paced mystery from the beginning and found it hard to put down. The mystery was intriguing and kept me guessing until the very end. I can’t wait to read more in this series and see what Roxy gets up to next. If you are looking for a quick read and a great cozy mystery series check this one out!
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