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Death By Mysteries #2
Death by Latte
Coffee can kill.
It was only a few weeks ago that Aphra Connolly’s life changed completely. She had been living a quiet existence on her father’s secluded island resort, until Seth Mulo turned up, stole her heart - and provided information that led to her mom in Seattle. But the reunion isn’t quite what she expected. Aphra’s mom, Natalie, doesn’t seem happy to see Aphra; and Natalie’s partner, Joe, insists that Aphra go home. Even worse, Seth shows up, only to ask her to return the ring he gave her a few weeks ago. At least Natalie’s hunky neighbor is sympathetic. But when Joe is found dead at a nearby coffee shop, Aphra discovers her whole trip to Seattle has been based on a lie. And now someone just might be trying to kill her. . . .
It was only a few weeks ago that Aphra Connolly’s life changed completely. She had been living a quiet existence on her father’s secluded island resort, until Seth Mulo turned up, stole her heart - and provided information that led to her mom in Seattle. But the reunion isn’t quite what she expected. Aphra’s mom, Natalie, doesn’t seem happy to see Aphra; and Natalie’s partner, Joe, insists that Aphra go home. Even worse, Seth shows up, only to ask her to return the ring he gave her a few weeks ago. At least Natalie’s hunky neighbor is sympathetic. But when Joe is found dead at a nearby coffee shop, Aphra discovers her whole trip to Seattle has been based on a lie. And now someone just might be trying to kill her. . . .
203 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 18, 2008
40 people are currently reading
1164 people want to read
About the author
Linda Gerber
15 books293 followersLinda Gerber recently returned to life in the Midwest after four years in Japan where she served as the RA for SCBWI Tokyo. Her books include SASS: Now and Zen, SASS: The Finnish Line, Death by Bikini, Death by Latte, Death by Denim and the upcoming novel, Trance.
She currently lives and writes in Dublin, Ohio, blissfully ignoring her husband, four kids, and one very naughty puppy"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
January 27, 2022
It would probably be more like 3.5. It was an okay book. I liked it more towards the end. I might have liked it more if I read death by bikini - the book before this one but yeah. It was ok
November 15, 2012
Death by Latte by Linda Gerber begins with Aphra, the main character, booking a flight to see her mother whom she has not seen for four years. Aphra goes to Seattle to find her mother, but her welcome is not what she expected or hoped to have. Rather her mother is busy and is less than thrilled to see Aphra, so the twists and turns begin.
I can't quite put my finger on why, but for some reason this book didn't work too well for me. Perhaps it is due to the mother's treatment of her own daughter. Perhaps it is due to an unexpected and seemingly (for me) unbelievable death of one of the character's. Or it might even be due to the plot, or lack thereof, itself.
Aphra is a young teen, but I still find myself exasperated with her behavior or lack thereof. She is one of those people who does all those things that make me ask, "What is WRONG with you?"
I don't hate the book, nor do I strongly dislike it, so I gave it 3 stars. I felt the plot was not very strong and, for me, the characters not all that believable.
I can't quite put my finger on why, but for some reason this book didn't work too well for me. Perhaps it is due to the mother's treatment of her own daughter. Perhaps it is due to an unexpected and seemingly (for me) unbelievable death of one of the character's. Or it might even be due to the plot, or lack thereof, itself.
Aphra is a young teen, but I still find myself exasperated with her behavior or lack thereof. She is one of those people who does all those things that make me ask, "What is WRONG with you?"
I don't hate the book, nor do I strongly dislike it, so I gave it 3 stars. I felt the plot was not very strong and, for me, the characters not all that believable.
January 20, 2019
Edited to fix typos.
Fast-paced, action-packed, and "clean" middle school mystery. I liked this book a little more than the first one. It's refreshing to read a teen book that's not filled with bullying and teen angst.
Fast-paced, action-packed, and "clean" middle school mystery. I liked this book a little more than the first one. It's refreshing to read a teen book that's not filled with bullying and teen angst.
August 13, 2025
3.25 ⭐️
that ending of aphra saying goodbye to seth was so sad
this was good but i think it would’ve been better if i actually understood what was happening. most of the time i was confused about the talk of the agency and the mole
that ending of aphra saying goodbye to seth was so sad
this was good but i think it would’ve been better if i actually understood what was happening. most of the time i was confused about the talk of the agency and the mole
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2024
There we some parts that were a little boring but its still a good book.
January 28, 2009
Ah, zeroing in once again on the Death By series. The first installment, Death By Bikini, didn’t impress me in any way, be it positive or negative. My mixed feelings were because, while the story was cute and competently written, the events were all crammed together making the pace in which I moved through the story feel fit for a race designed to render me breathless—and not in a good way. I mean, there’s tight writing and then there’s size-2-spandex-to-your-size-6-body writing.
Anyway, what can be deduced from that paragraph is that Death By Bikini earned neither frowns nor smiles from me. But now, moving on to this book.
I liked it. Great improvement.
There was a defined pause here that allowed for character growth, something I missed in the first novel. Characters, in my opinion, make any book: their feelings, dreams, hopes, etc. are what shape plots and create motivators. So I ask you, how does a mysterious affair form (in order for a novel to be categorized as a mystery) if there aren’t substantial characters? I get that these are supposed to be a light books, but still. Like I said, there was allowed room for character growth and I felt like Aphra was more rounded, as were the backup characters. Probably cos the setup’s already there from the first novel.
Some details of the mystery were a bit iffy for me because they were either based on stretches or coincidences. But looking at the overall picture, it was another great improvement. The buildup was quite good and the mystery itself, when you got up to it, was adorably knotting. (Yes, such a thing is possible. You know, beachy-baffling?) And while like I said before some details were sketchy, others were immaculate and clever; Ms Gerber clearly saw all the opportune moments in which to include clues and twists in.
But still, my favoritest (dumb neologism *grin*) part was the fact the pacing was just right—not too fast, not too slow.
If you’re looking for a light read, knock yourself out. You can read this without reading the first and not miss much, so...yeah. Have fun, kids.
Blog review link: http://reviewerx.blogspot.com/2008/08...
Anyway, what can be deduced from that paragraph is that Death By Bikini earned neither frowns nor smiles from me. But now, moving on to this book.
I liked it. Great improvement.
There was a defined pause here that allowed for character growth, something I missed in the first novel. Characters, in my opinion, make any book: their feelings, dreams, hopes, etc. are what shape plots and create motivators. So I ask you, how does a mysterious affair form (in order for a novel to be categorized as a mystery) if there aren’t substantial characters? I get that these are supposed to be a light books, but still. Like I said, there was allowed room for character growth and I felt like Aphra was more rounded, as were the backup characters. Probably cos the setup’s already there from the first novel.
Some details of the mystery were a bit iffy for me because they were either based on stretches or coincidences. But looking at the overall picture, it was another great improvement. The buildup was quite good and the mystery itself, when you got up to it, was adorably knotting. (Yes, such a thing is possible. You know, beachy-baffling?) And while like I said before some details were sketchy, others were immaculate and clever; Ms Gerber clearly saw all the opportune moments in which to include clues and twists in.
But still, my favoritest (dumb neologism *grin*) part was the fact the pacing was just right—not too fast, not too slow.
If you’re looking for a light read, knock yourself out. You can read this without reading the first and not miss much, so...yeah. Have fun, kids.
Blog review link: http://reviewerx.blogspot.com/2008/08...
October 26, 2008
Now that Aphra knows where to find her mom, it seems inevitable that she would go seek her out. And so she tells her father that she will be visiting a friend in South Carolina, but instead Aphra boards a plane to Seattle.
The reunion, is far from what Aphra expected. No sooner does she finally find her mother, and she informs her to board another plane back to the island. Even though Aphra’s mom stopped working for the CIA it seems that the drama hasn’t stopped. When her mother’s partner, Joe, ends up dead, it only confirms Aphra’s fears. She is in over her head again!
Just when she thinks things can’t get worse, Seth, her Seth, shows up demanding the ring that he had given her. Why does he want to ring so badly and why does Aphra’s mom want her out of the picture?
Full of action, suspense, and mystery, Death by Latte is a thrilling edition to the Death by series! I enjoyed the change of scenery is this novel! And is there any better way to associate Seattle than with a latte!! I enjoyed the authentic relationship dynamic between Aphra and her mother and of course the sentimental moments between Seth and Aphra. The plot twists where a plenty and they kept me guessing throughout the entire novel! Even though I really enjoyed Death by Bikini, I have to say that Death by Latte was a step up! And Death by Denim looks to continue the trend!
The reunion, is far from what Aphra expected. No sooner does she finally find her mother, and she informs her to board another plane back to the island. Even though Aphra’s mom stopped working for the CIA it seems that the drama hasn’t stopped. When her mother’s partner, Joe, ends up dead, it only confirms Aphra’s fears. She is in over her head again!
Just when she thinks things can’t get worse, Seth, her Seth, shows up demanding the ring that he had given her. Why does he want to ring so badly and why does Aphra’s mom want her out of the picture?
Full of action, suspense, and mystery, Death by Latte is a thrilling edition to the Death by series! I enjoyed the change of scenery is this novel! And is there any better way to associate Seattle than with a latte!! I enjoyed the authentic relationship dynamic between Aphra and her mother and of course the sentimental moments between Seth and Aphra. The plot twists where a plenty and they kept me guessing throughout the entire novel! Even though I really enjoyed Death by Bikini, I have to say that Death by Latte was a step up! And Death by Denim looks to continue the trend!
October 19, 2010
This was a really good book about how a girl, Aphra gets on a plane to Seattle to find her mom. She then finds out that her mom is still a CIA agent. Then after finding her mom, her mom, Natalie, tries to push Aphra away because Natalie is scared that the criminal wanted by the CIA, the Mole will see who Natalie is close to and try to kill them. Aphra and her mom travel together for a bit to try to find a safe place for Aphra to go to. But then, Seth, a person wanted by the Mole pops out because he wants the ring he gave to Aphra because the ring has a list of names engraved on the ring are names of people who are bad guys. the Sleepers. Seth has to get the ring back because the Mole is holding Seth's dad as a hostage. This book goes through a lot of twists and turns because there are spies and traps. Also, I should have started with the first bok but I still got the idea of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2012
When I reviewed the first novel in the series (Death by Bikini) I had only given it 4 stars becasue I felt the ending was rushed. In the second novel it was perfectly excuted. This fast pased action novel keeps you on the edge of your seat and makes you want to the read the third book right then. The protaganist is likeable and independent - an atribute that most female main characters have seemed to lost of the past years.The antiganist is not just one person - wich adds an air of reality. (I mean when in life will there be only ONE bad guy.)
All in all, great book and I can't wait to read the third one (Death by Denim).
All in all, great book and I can't wait to read the third one (Death by Denim).
November 15, 2012
Hmph. It's a 2.5, really. This book just felt - contrived.
I like the general idea of spies, secret CIA agents, mystery/action, female teenage protagonists, and tense mother/daughter relationships, but I don't appreciate easily projecting what will happen, predicting which characters are "bad," and getting a sense of Deja Vu - as though I could've already read this cookie cutter book in my lifetime.
I do think some hesitant readers may like it, however. It does have action and rocky mother/daughter relationship that some kids can certainly identify with.
I like the general idea of spies, secret CIA agents, mystery/action, female teenage protagonists, and tense mother/daughter relationships, but I don't appreciate easily projecting what will happen, predicting which characters are "bad," and getting a sense of Deja Vu - as though I could've already read this cookie cutter book in my lifetime.
I do think some hesitant readers may like it, however. It does have action and rocky mother/daughter relationship that some kids can certainly identify with.
November 6, 2017
Very interesting, especially as Aphra digs up her past.
February 6, 2021
My sister gave this to me to read because I was bored and I have to say, I'm pretty disappointed.
Now, I didn't know that it was a sequel, so the fact that she handed me a book that clearly required knowledge that had to be gathered in the first book. So that threw me off.
I know my sister and I have very different interests, but I saw the word death and thought "well this might be leaning more towards my style. Maybe it's a murder mystery or some detective story." It was not. It felt like a cheap, poorly-made action movie, made by a director whose only done tiny indie movies, with actors that nobody has heard of or cares about. The entire vibe of the book felt off. The action scenes felt slightly forces and I didn't like the extreme amount of backstabbing and double-agents made it annoying and hard to keep track of.
The writing style was also simple and made me roll my eyes a few times. Now, I'm all for simplistic writing, as long as I'm not reading a book that was written for someone much younger than me. While this book didn't have that exact feel, it certainly had an extremely similar feel that made me upset.
I don't like how the relationships between characters changed overnight. The main character's mom went from being cold and distant to suddenly protective and caring in just a matter of moments, which felt incredibly forced to me. I want to see growth, not fairy-godmother type change. I know it's a short book, so it didn't have a lot of time for growth, but the author could have handled it differently. Maybe shown that the mother had this motherly vibe that she was trying to repress or anything like that. But that wasn't the case and I was stuck groaning and pleading for this book to be over quicker.
Overall, I feel like I wasted my time and energy with this story, but it was also nice to have something to focus on and get annoyed at.
1/5 stars
Now, I didn't know that it was a sequel, so the fact that she handed me a book that clearly required knowledge that had to be gathered in the first book. So that threw me off.
I know my sister and I have very different interests, but I saw the word death and thought "well this might be leaning more towards my style. Maybe it's a murder mystery or some detective story." It was not. It felt like a cheap, poorly-made action movie, made by a director whose only done tiny indie movies, with actors that nobody has heard of or cares about. The entire vibe of the book felt off. The action scenes felt slightly forces and I didn't like the extreme amount of backstabbing and double-agents made it annoying and hard to keep track of.
The writing style was also simple and made me roll my eyes a few times. Now, I'm all for simplistic writing, as long as I'm not reading a book that was written for someone much younger than me. While this book didn't have that exact feel, it certainly had an extremely similar feel that made me upset.
I don't like how the relationships between characters changed overnight. The main character's mom went from being cold and distant to suddenly protective and caring in just a matter of moments, which felt incredibly forced to me. I want to see growth, not fairy-godmother type change. I know it's a short book, so it didn't have a lot of time for growth, but the author could have handled it differently. Maybe shown that the mother had this motherly vibe that she was trying to repress or anything like that. But that wasn't the case and I was stuck groaning and pleading for this book to be over quicker.
Overall, I feel like I wasted my time and energy with this story, but it was also nice to have something to focus on and get annoyed at.
1/5 stars
February 15, 2021
Not as great as part 1, but still really decent. Nonstop action that leaves you wondering what will happen next.
Aphra goes on a hunt to find her mom. Little does she know this meeting with cause some serious implications once again. Aphra soon realizes she's being followed by someone, and happens to run into Seth again. Coincidence? Setup?
After running into Seth, her world gets flipped upside down once more. During this mess, Aphra is trying to reestablish a relationship with her mom, whom she hasn't seen in for years. After being shut down several times, Aphra meets Ryan. She sees Ryan as a vessel to vent. Little does she know, Ryan may not be what he appears.
After a struggle of explosions, wilderness hiking, car hijackings, and more...Aphra discovers she has a natural talent for agency work, like her mom. But will she take that route? Will she survive this round of adventures? Will she lose her mom for good?
Aphra goes on a hunt to find her mom. Little does she know this meeting with cause some serious implications once again. Aphra soon realizes she's being followed by someone, and happens to run into Seth again. Coincidence? Setup?
After running into Seth, her world gets flipped upside down once more. During this mess, Aphra is trying to reestablish a relationship with her mom, whom she hasn't seen in for years. After being shut down several times, Aphra meets Ryan. She sees Ryan as a vessel to vent. Little does she know, Ryan may not be what he appears.
After a struggle of explosions, wilderness hiking, car hijackings, and more...Aphra discovers she has a natural talent for agency work, like her mom. But will she take that route? Will she survive this round of adventures? Will she lose her mom for good?
December 4, 2024
Like the first one, this is cute and fun, with nothing especially notable one way or another. It was fun to revisit this book from my childhood, and I'll easily finish the series. It had a few twists and turns, which is more than I expected based on my memory of it. Three stars feels fair, but it's not a bad thing.
Content warnings for violence, injury, family trauma, and murder.
Content warnings for violence, injury, family trauma, and murder.
September 18, 2018
Enjoyed the continuation...
May 8, 2019
Loving this series.
September 18, 2020
Cozy mystery
These books may not be the best written mysteries I've read, but they are the most fun! Looking forward to reading the next one.
These books may not be the best written mysteries I've read, but they are the most fun! Looking forward to reading the next one.
Read
January 14, 2021*gasps*
August 23, 2024
The series has me hooked! I could read this kind of stuff all day every day
December 30, 2024
Fun to read. A cross between Nancy Drew & James Bond. Not a bit of realism.
January 31, 2025
2.5 I got this from a free little library
October 14, 2016
Very Quick Read
Over and done in a few hours. I have lots of questions left. It was fun but certainly not meaty.
Over and done in a few hours. I have lots of questions left. It was fun but certainly not meaty.
June 13, 2012
Aphra Connolly returns in the sequel to DEATH BY BIKINI. Readers of the first will not be disappointed by this continuation and new readers will be able to pick it up without being lost. Though the DEATH BY series is currently three books long (a girl can hope for more), DEATH BY LATTE does far more than set the scene for the end of the trilogy.
Due to the events of DEATH BY BIKINI, Aphra now knows her mom's location. She immediately hops on a plane just like any curious teenager would. While she may not think of her action's consequences, she does have reasons. Her mom did put Aphra in danger, if indirectly. But now Aphra has put her mom in danger.
What's more, Seth shows up in Seattle looking for Aphra, but only to retrieve the extremely ugly ring he gave her in the first book. He acts like they never began a relationship. (Of course, Aphra started flirting with the cute boy who lives next door to her mom while Seth was away . . . ) Unfortunately, the group being together makes them an easier target for The Mole.
Linda Gerber effortlessly combines summer fling-type romance with spy action. The characters hide their true motives, even from those on the same side. (A good practice, since they never know who is on their side.) There are explosions, chases, and simple sleight-of-hand. In the end Gerber once more leaves the reader eager for the next book. There's a complete adventure and many questions answered, but the book ends with much still to be resolved.
DEATH BY LATTE looks like a basic lightweight read. The design is nothing less than adorable and baby blue and bright pink grace the cover. But it's not a little piece of cotton candy. It's rather bittersweet and full of morally ambiguous choices. Aphra's not just growing up, she's growing up in a situation where her decisions can save lives or kill. And no, lives aren't always saved.
I adore this series. (I can say that with full confidence since I've already read the third.) It's morally complex and lacks fairy tale endings, but Gerber still keeps things appropriate for younger teens. (A little violent, but no sex or language.) Aphra and her mother are resourceful, intelligent female characters. Tough concepts are addressed without the bood becoming depressing, angsty, or too serious. (It's not cotton candy but that doesn't mean it's not fun.)
As many have said, one of the great things about YA is how it can bend genres. Pick up the DEATH BY series if you like some hardcore action with your romance, mystery, and coming of age.
Due to the events of DEATH BY BIKINI, Aphra now knows her mom's location. She immediately hops on a plane just like any curious teenager would. While she may not think of her action's consequences, she does have reasons. Her mom did put Aphra in danger, if indirectly. But now Aphra has put her mom in danger.
What's more, Seth shows up in Seattle looking for Aphra, but only to retrieve the extremely ugly ring he gave her in the first book. He acts like they never began a relationship. (Of course, Aphra started flirting with the cute boy who lives next door to her mom while Seth was away . . . ) Unfortunately, the group being together makes them an easier target for The Mole.
Linda Gerber effortlessly combines summer fling-type romance with spy action. The characters hide their true motives, even from those on the same side. (A good practice, since they never know who is on their side.) There are explosions, chases, and simple sleight-of-hand. In the end Gerber once more leaves the reader eager for the next book. There's a complete adventure and many questions answered, but the book ends with much still to be resolved.
DEATH BY LATTE looks like a basic lightweight read. The design is nothing less than adorable and baby blue and bright pink grace the cover. But it's not a little piece of cotton candy. It's rather bittersweet and full of morally ambiguous choices. Aphra's not just growing up, she's growing up in a situation where her decisions can save lives or kill. And no, lives aren't always saved.
I adore this series. (I can say that with full confidence since I've already read the third.) It's morally complex and lacks fairy tale endings, but Gerber still keeps things appropriate for younger teens. (A little violent, but no sex or language.) Aphra and her mother are resourceful, intelligent female characters. Tough concepts are addressed without the bood becoming depressing, angsty, or too serious. (It's not cotton candy but that doesn't mean it's not fun.)
As many have said, one of the great things about YA is how it can bend genres. Pick up the DEATH BY series if you like some hardcore action with your romance, mystery, and coming of age.
October 26, 2008
This review is copy-paste from the Charybdis. You can see it in it's natural habitat here:
I think some of you may know of my previous lurrrrve for this series, but if you don’t than I reviewed Death By Bikini in May. If you haven’t read the first book yet, than that might give you some background.
Aphra is back and she is still awesome, still funny, and still getting into trouble. Determined to find her elusive mother, Natalie, she hops a plane to Seattle without permission. But when she discovers her mother she also realizes her timing couldn’t be worse. Something big is up and Natalie and her secretive fellow agents can hardly wait to get Aphra away from the trouble. But when Agent Watts appears out of nowhere and Seth Mulo steps rather rapidly… and urgently… back into her life, things get more complicated. And when one of Natalie’s close friends and partners is poisoned through basic morning routine, leaving only a garbled cryptic message in his wake, there is no turning back.
As I said before, I really really like the first book in this series. The SASS books of Linda Gerber are also really fun and quick reads. But I couldn’t help but feel that Death By Latte was just a tad bit too quick. Some events seemed kind of crushed together to make space for a large, fabulously dramatic scene. Nyah. All the same, I LOVE Aphra. She’s easy to relate to and consistently witty, although not to the point of being irritating. Also, there is Seth. Oh Seth. He is so difficult to read (haha..bad pun…) which makes him a more engaging beautiful boy character than in alot of books. Veddy nice. The dialogue makes me jealous. I can’t write dialogue to save my life, but Linda Gerber rattles out hilarious and taut conversations in turn, like it’s nothing.
Like it’s predecessor, Death By Latte is a great beach or AGH-I-must-finish-this-paper-but-must-read-something-in-between-so-that-my-head-doesn’t-explode-with-unnecessary-knowledge read (NOT like I’ve ever been there) and reminds me why I loved mystery books growing up. 6 out of 7 Poisoned Cups of Orange Mocha Frappucino (time for another round of naaaamee thaaaaat reference!!!)!
Does anyone have any good mystery novels to recommend for a lonely and Nancy-Drewless reader?
Waiting impatiently for Death by TK,
Aella
I think some of you may know of my previous lurrrrve for this series, but if you don’t than I reviewed Death By Bikini in May. If you haven’t read the first book yet, than that might give you some background.
Aphra is back and she is still awesome, still funny, and still getting into trouble. Determined to find her elusive mother, Natalie, she hops a plane to Seattle without permission. But when she discovers her mother she also realizes her timing couldn’t be worse. Something big is up and Natalie and her secretive fellow agents can hardly wait to get Aphra away from the trouble. But when Agent Watts appears out of nowhere and Seth Mulo steps rather rapidly… and urgently… back into her life, things get more complicated. And when one of Natalie’s close friends and partners is poisoned through basic morning routine, leaving only a garbled cryptic message in his wake, there is no turning back.
As I said before, I really really like the first book in this series. The SASS books of Linda Gerber are also really fun and quick reads. But I couldn’t help but feel that Death By Latte was just a tad bit too quick. Some events seemed kind of crushed together to make space for a large, fabulously dramatic scene. Nyah. All the same, I LOVE Aphra. She’s easy to relate to and consistently witty, although not to the point of being irritating. Also, there is Seth. Oh Seth. He is so difficult to read (haha..bad pun…) which makes him a more engaging beautiful boy character than in alot of books. Veddy nice. The dialogue makes me jealous. I can’t write dialogue to save my life, but Linda Gerber rattles out hilarious and taut conversations in turn, like it’s nothing.
Like it’s predecessor, Death By Latte is a great beach or AGH-I-must-finish-this-paper-but-must-read-something-in-between-so-that-my-head-doesn’t-explode-with-unnecessary-knowledge read (NOT like I’ve ever been there) and reminds me why I loved mystery books growing up. 6 out of 7 Poisoned Cups of Orange Mocha Frappucino (time for another round of naaaamee thaaaaat reference!!!)!
Does anyone have any good mystery novels to recommend for a lonely and Nancy-Drewless reader?
Waiting impatiently for Death by TK,
Aella
August 16, 2008
Aphra Connolly is back in another danger-filled adventure. This time, she’s off to find her mom in Seattle, something she’s never been able to do until she met the Mulos, the family Aphra’s mother swore to protect. But the familial reunion isn’t as happy as Aphra thought it would be. Instead, her mother seems cold and disconnected while her partner Joe insists Aphra be send home immediately. Plus, Seth Mulo, the boy she fell in love with when he visited her father’s island resort, shows up again in Aphra’s life, this time to ask for something back. It turns out he needs the ring he gave to her back, but he won’t tell her why. And when Joe turns up dead at a coffee shop, what started out as an innocent trip turns into a deadly nightmare. Aphra, her mother, and Seth are now on the run from their enemies, with little supplies and knowledge of what they can do next. Their lives are on the line – especially because they don’t even know who they are running from.
In this sequel to the fantastic and fast-paced Death by Bikini, Linda Gerber brings readers back into a dangerous world of rogue CIA agents and sleeper cells. This novel is just filled with suspense and excitement, especially when Aphra is on the run. The fact that Aphra doesn’t even know who to trust only adds to this effect. I was immediately sucked into this story from the very first line and was hooked all the way until the end. The story does rely a lot on the plot, which isn’t an issue since the plot is so exciting, but Aphra’s character is also well-developed. I could really hear the gears in her head turning as she tried to figure out how to get out of various dangerous situations and felt her confusion over where several people’s loyalties lied. I admire her determination, especially in the face of death. Death by Latte, much like its prequel Death by Bikini, has much to look forward to: great characters, plot twists, and non-stop action and excitement.
Death by Latte appeals to readers who enjoy spy and action novels, although I think pretty much any girl can get into this short but fun read. If you haven’t already read Death by Bikini, I recommend you do so and then pick up Death by Bikini to read too. I definitely look forward to the continuation of this great series.
reposted from http://thebookmuncher.blogspot.com
In this sequel to the fantastic and fast-paced Death by Bikini, Linda Gerber brings readers back into a dangerous world of rogue CIA agents and sleeper cells. This novel is just filled with suspense and excitement, especially when Aphra is on the run. The fact that Aphra doesn’t even know who to trust only adds to this effect. I was immediately sucked into this story from the very first line and was hooked all the way until the end. The story does rely a lot on the plot, which isn’t an issue since the plot is so exciting, but Aphra’s character is also well-developed. I could really hear the gears in her head turning as she tried to figure out how to get out of various dangerous situations and felt her confusion over where several people’s loyalties lied. I admire her determination, especially in the face of death. Death by Latte, much like its prequel Death by Bikini, has much to look forward to: great characters, plot twists, and non-stop action and excitement.
Death by Latte appeals to readers who enjoy spy and action novels, although I think pretty much any girl can get into this short but fun read. If you haven’t already read Death by Bikini, I recommend you do so and then pick up Death by Bikini to read too. I definitely look forward to the continuation of this great series.
reposted from http://thebookmuncher.blogspot.com
November 21, 2013
DEATH BY LATTE by LINDA GERBER
By: Lizzie Lemone 75
“I lied to my dad, that’s how the whole thing started,” As I read the first line of Death by Latte by Linda Gerber I couldn't put the book down for a second. This book is a 4 star book in my opinion; it has tons of action and so much description and dialog, but it also has it's sensitive side.
As I was reading this book I felt like I was the main character Aphra. Whenever she was upset or mad I was too. The book was so descriptive I felt like I wasn't in my room instead I was with them witnessing everything happening. I especially loved chapter 5, it was filled with all emotions. At some parts it was love then it was anger and scary moments.
The adventures begin when Aphra flew to Seattle, Washington to find her mom. Her mom was forced to run away form Aphra when she was young, due to her job as a CIA agent. Aphra wanted to see her mom again and get to know her mom. When she found her mom, Aphra realized she was in the right place, at the wrong time. Aphra felt like her mom tries to ignore her and get her to go home. Aphra was devastated that she did all that and her mom wasn't exited to see her. At the end of chapter 6 Aphra’s mother said that she loved her and I thought that that was the sweetest thing ever. This book is not only action packed but very sweet all at the same time.
“The world first spun sideways then upside down,” The first line of chapter 7 made my heart skip a beat. Aphra, Aphra’s mom, Seth, Stewart and Ryan (some of the main characters) were trying to escape the bad guy named Watts. Ryan (someone Aphra meets who turns out to be bad) helps them by taking them on his plane, that later crashed. I would be surprised at the reader who wasn't the least but scared when the plane crashed in the middle of no where.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes action with a touch of romance. If you have read this book already and liked it as much as me then I suggest reading Death by Denim to find out what happens next. Death by Latte is an amazing easy lovable book that keeps your eyes glued to the pages and your fingers turning the pages like a cheetah runs after his prey.
By: Lizzie Lemone 75
“I lied to my dad, that’s how the whole thing started,” As I read the first line of Death by Latte by Linda Gerber I couldn't put the book down for a second. This book is a 4 star book in my opinion; it has tons of action and so much description and dialog, but it also has it's sensitive side.
As I was reading this book I felt like I was the main character Aphra. Whenever she was upset or mad I was too. The book was so descriptive I felt like I wasn't in my room instead I was with them witnessing everything happening. I especially loved chapter 5, it was filled with all emotions. At some parts it was love then it was anger and scary moments.
The adventures begin when Aphra flew to Seattle, Washington to find her mom. Her mom was forced to run away form Aphra when she was young, due to her job as a CIA agent. Aphra wanted to see her mom again and get to know her mom. When she found her mom, Aphra realized she was in the right place, at the wrong time. Aphra felt like her mom tries to ignore her and get her to go home. Aphra was devastated that she did all that and her mom wasn't exited to see her. At the end of chapter 6 Aphra’s mother said that she loved her and I thought that that was the sweetest thing ever. This book is not only action packed but very sweet all at the same time.
“The world first spun sideways then upside down,” The first line of chapter 7 made my heart skip a beat. Aphra, Aphra’s mom, Seth, Stewart and Ryan (some of the main characters) were trying to escape the bad guy named Watts. Ryan (someone Aphra meets who turns out to be bad) helps them by taking them on his plane, that later crashed. I would be surprised at the reader who wasn't the least but scared when the plane crashed in the middle of no where.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes action with a touch of romance. If you have read this book already and liked it as much as me then I suggest reading Death by Denim to find out what happens next. Death by Latte is an amazing easy lovable book that keeps your eyes glued to the pages and your fingers turning the pages like a cheetah runs after his prey.
November 10, 2012
Reviewed by Cana Rensberger for TeensReadToo.com
Aphra Connolly lies to her dad and flies to Seattle just to see her mother, Natalie. But Natalie can't wait to get Aphra on the next plane home. Sure, she hadn't told her mom she was coming, and maybe it wasn't the best timing, but it had been four years since she'd seen her! As Natalie takes Aphra back to the airport, a phone call changes Natalie's mind and instead of being boomeranged back home, Aphra becomes embroiled in the dangerous world of Natalie's work as a covert ex-CIA agent.
While Natalie talks with her co-workers, Joe and Stuart, Aphra is isolated on the balcony of Natalie's apartment, where, soon after, she meets Ryan, Natalie's hunky neighbor, on the rooftop. But before the day is out Aphra's boyfriend, Seth, arrives in Seattle and demands she return his ring; she witnesses Joe's death; she is stalked by a blond man; and she ends up stranded on a mountain top with Natalie, Seth, and Stuart.
Will they be able to escape whoever is trailing them? Will Seth be able to save his dad by returning the ring? And will Aphra ever be able to connect with her mother again?
DEATH BY LATTE is the type of book that causes you to forget you have cookies in the oven, or that you need to turn out the light because it's three in the morning and you know you have to get up early. You simply won't care. You will be so engrossed in the twists and turns of the story that you won't want to stop reading, especially since Linda Gerber is a master at writing chapter endings that compel you to read on.
DEATH BY LATTE is Linda Gerber's second murder mystery/thriller, and I cannot wait to read her other titles. My thirteen-year-old daughter read this book, insisted I read it, and asked me to buy all of her books for her birthday. What better praise can an author receive than that?
I only regret that when I give Ms. Gerber's books to my daughter, I'll have to wait for her to read them first.
Aphra Connolly lies to her dad and flies to Seattle just to see her mother, Natalie. But Natalie can't wait to get Aphra on the next plane home. Sure, she hadn't told her mom she was coming, and maybe it wasn't the best timing, but it had been four years since she'd seen her! As Natalie takes Aphra back to the airport, a phone call changes Natalie's mind and instead of being boomeranged back home, Aphra becomes embroiled in the dangerous world of Natalie's work as a covert ex-CIA agent.
While Natalie talks with her co-workers, Joe and Stuart, Aphra is isolated on the balcony of Natalie's apartment, where, soon after, she meets Ryan, Natalie's hunky neighbor, on the rooftop. But before the day is out Aphra's boyfriend, Seth, arrives in Seattle and demands she return his ring; she witnesses Joe's death; she is stalked by a blond man; and she ends up stranded on a mountain top with Natalie, Seth, and Stuart.
Will they be able to escape whoever is trailing them? Will Seth be able to save his dad by returning the ring? And will Aphra ever be able to connect with her mother again?
DEATH BY LATTE is the type of book that causes you to forget you have cookies in the oven, or that you need to turn out the light because it's three in the morning and you know you have to get up early. You simply won't care. You will be so engrossed in the twists and turns of the story that you won't want to stop reading, especially since Linda Gerber is a master at writing chapter endings that compel you to read on.
DEATH BY LATTE is Linda Gerber's second murder mystery/thriller, and I cannot wait to read her other titles. My thirteen-year-old daughter read this book, insisted I read it, and asked me to buy all of her books for her birthday. What better praise can an author receive than that?
I only regret that when I give Ms. Gerber's books to my daughter, I'll have to wait for her to read them first.
June 30, 2010
Aphra Connolly lies to her dad and flies to Seattle just to see her mother, Natalie. But Natalie can’t wait to get Aphra on the next plane home. Sure, she hadn’t told her mom she was coming, and maybe it wasn’t the best timing, but it had been four years since she’d seen her! As Natalie takes Aphra back to the airport, a phone call changes Natalie’s mind and instead of being boomeranged back home, Aphra becomes embroiled in the dangerous world of Natalie’s work as an covert ex-CIA agent.
While Natalie talks with her co-workers, Joe and Stuart, Aphra is isolated on the balcony of Natalie’s apartment, where, soon after, she meets Ryan, Natalie’s hunky neighbor, on the rooftop. But before the day is out Aphra’s boyfriend, Seth, arrives in Seattle and demands she return his ring; she witnesses Joe’s death; she is stalked by a blond man; and she ends up stranded on a mountain top with Natalie, Seth and Stuart. Will they be able to escape whoever is trailing them? Will Seth be able to save his dad by returning the ring? And will Aphra ever be able to connect with her mother again?
DEATH BY LATTE is the type of book that causes you to forget you have cookies in the oven, or that you need to turn out the light because it’s three in the morning and you know you have to get up early. You simply won’t care. You will be so engrossed in the twists and turns of the story that you won’t want to stop reading, especially since Linda Gerber is a master at writing chapter endings that compel you to read on.
DEATH BY LATTE is Linda Gerber’s second murder mystery thriller and I cannot wait to read her other titles. My thirteen-year-old daughter read this book, insisted I read it, and asked me to buy all of her books for her birthday. What better praise can an author receive than that? I only regret that when I give Ms. Gerber’s books to my daughter, I’ll have to wait for her to read them first.
While Natalie talks with her co-workers, Joe and Stuart, Aphra is isolated on the balcony of Natalie’s apartment, where, soon after, she meets Ryan, Natalie’s hunky neighbor, on the rooftop. But before the day is out Aphra’s boyfriend, Seth, arrives in Seattle and demands she return his ring; she witnesses Joe’s death; she is stalked by a blond man; and she ends up stranded on a mountain top with Natalie, Seth and Stuart. Will they be able to escape whoever is trailing them? Will Seth be able to save his dad by returning the ring? And will Aphra ever be able to connect with her mother again?
DEATH BY LATTE is the type of book that causes you to forget you have cookies in the oven, or that you need to turn out the light because it’s three in the morning and you know you have to get up early. You simply won’t care. You will be so engrossed in the twists and turns of the story that you won’t want to stop reading, especially since Linda Gerber is a master at writing chapter endings that compel you to read on.
DEATH BY LATTE is Linda Gerber’s second murder mystery thriller and I cannot wait to read her other titles. My thirteen-year-old daughter read this book, insisted I read it, and asked me to buy all of her books for her birthday. What better praise can an author receive than that? I only regret that when I give Ms. Gerber’s books to my daughter, I’ll have to wait for her to read them first.
December 4, 2013
by: Linda Gerber
Mystery
Pages: 202
Death by Latte is about a 13 year old girl named Aphra Connolly who has been living with her father in a secluded island resort. Aphra has never seen her aged boys in her resort before so she never had experienced the feeling of "puppy love or crush", but one day this peculiar family comes to Aphra's resort for a stay, and she comes across a cute boy named Seth a little older than her. She immediately starts having mixed feelings for this boy and the story gets to a point where Seth starts to love Aphra. In the last book Death by Bikini, Seth gives Aphra his fathers old wedding ring and puts it on Aphra's finger. Now in this book Seth finds Aphra who traveled to Seattle to see her mother who happens to work for the CIA, and he asks Aphra to give the ring back. Aphra, who always has the ring on besides when taking a shower, looses the ring. Later in the book she finds out that the ring is really important and Seth's dad is getting blackmailed if he doesn't get the ring back in time. I really liked both Death by Bikini and Death by Latte because first, they are both short and easy reads and every chapter was filled with suspense and action which made me get engaged to what is going to happen next. Second the author did not use complex vocabulary in this book which made me understand a lot better and the author also did a great job on describing the characters feelings and situation which made me visualize what is happening in the story a lot better. I would definitely recommend this book to children who love mysteries and are ages 11-14, because of some violent content. Overall, this book was great and I am planning to read the third book after this called Death by Denim!
Mystery
Pages: 202
Death by Latte is about a 13 year old girl named Aphra Connolly who has been living with her father in a secluded island resort. Aphra has never seen her aged boys in her resort before so she never had experienced the feeling of "puppy love or crush", but one day this peculiar family comes to Aphra's resort for a stay, and she comes across a cute boy named Seth a little older than her. She immediately starts having mixed feelings for this boy and the story gets to a point where Seth starts to love Aphra. In the last book Death by Bikini, Seth gives Aphra his fathers old wedding ring and puts it on Aphra's finger. Now in this book Seth finds Aphra who traveled to Seattle to see her mother who happens to work for the CIA, and he asks Aphra to give the ring back. Aphra, who always has the ring on besides when taking a shower, looses the ring. Later in the book she finds out that the ring is really important and Seth's dad is getting blackmailed if he doesn't get the ring back in time. I really liked both Death by Bikini and Death by Latte because first, they are both short and easy reads and every chapter was filled with suspense and action which made me get engaged to what is going to happen next. Second the author did not use complex vocabulary in this book which made me understand a lot better and the author also did a great job on describing the characters feelings and situation which made me visualize what is happening in the story a lot better. I would definitely recommend this book to children who love mysteries and are ages 11-14, because of some violent content. Overall, this book was great and I am planning to read the third book after this called Death by Denim!
May 8, 2009
Aphra now knows where her mother has been for the past four years. She knows that she must go to Seattle to seek her out before it's too late, and her mother moves on to a new city.
When Aphra shows up in the markets looking for her mom, she doesn't receive the warm welcome she was hoping for. Actually, she's told to get on a plane and go back home, and treated rudely by her mother's partner Joe.
When Joe dies suddenly, Aphra knows that things haven't changed at all with her mother. She knows that even though she isn't working for the CIA anymore, that danger is imminent. Things don't get any better once Seth shows up rudely brushing Aphra off, and demanding that she give him his father's ring back. What secret does the ring hold, and what trouble has Aphra caused by showing up in Seattle wanting to reunite with her mother?
Death by Latte is definitely ACTION packed, it almost never stops. It keeps the story moving along, but makes it difficult to get to know the characters better. The relationship between Aphra and her mother is strained at first, but mostly because her mom wants to keep her guard up for impending dangers towards Aphra. There are a few moments when you see her mom's nurturing side, and it was nice to see her support finally Aphra's decisions and ideas while trying to find their way out of the forest. Even though Seth shows up and is cold towards Aphra, they end up working really well together and sharing some gentle touching moments.
Overall I thought Death by Latte was good Young Adult book. It's a short read, and definitely has a lot going on plot wise. I recommend picking up the first book Death by Bikini, if you want to start this series.
When Aphra shows up in the markets looking for her mom, she doesn't receive the warm welcome she was hoping for. Actually, she's told to get on a plane and go back home, and treated rudely by her mother's partner Joe.
When Joe dies suddenly, Aphra knows that things haven't changed at all with her mother. She knows that even though she isn't working for the CIA anymore, that danger is imminent. Things don't get any better once Seth shows up rudely brushing Aphra off, and demanding that she give him his father's ring back. What secret does the ring hold, and what trouble has Aphra caused by showing up in Seattle wanting to reunite with her mother?
Death by Latte is definitely ACTION packed, it almost never stops. It keeps the story moving along, but makes it difficult to get to know the characters better. The relationship between Aphra and her mother is strained at first, but mostly because her mom wants to keep her guard up for impending dangers towards Aphra. There are a few moments when you see her mom's nurturing side, and it was nice to see her support finally Aphra's decisions and ideas while trying to find their way out of the forest. Even though Seth shows up and is cold towards Aphra, they end up working really well together and sharing some gentle touching moments.
Overall I thought Death by Latte was good Young Adult book. It's a short read, and definitely has a lot going on plot wise. I recommend picking up the first book Death by Bikini, if you want to start this series.
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