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A Spice Shop Mystery #4
Chai Another Day
Seattle Spice Shop owner Pepper Reece probes murder while juggling a troubled employee, her mother’s house hunt, and a fisherman who’s set his hook for her. As owner of the Spice Shop in Seattle's famed Pike Place Market, Pepper Reece is always on the go. Between conjuring up new spice blends and serving iced spice tea to customers looking to beat the summer heat, she finally takes a break for a massage. But the Zen moment is shattered when she overhears an argument in her friend Aimee's vintage home decor shop that ends in murder. Wracked by guilt over her failure to intervene, Pepper investigates, only to discover a web of deadly connections that could ensnare a friend - and Pepper herself.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 11, 2019
83 people are currently reading
660 people want to read
About the author
Leslie Budewitz
33 books795 followers*Also publishes as Alicia Beckman*
Leslie Budewitz is the three-time Agatha Award winner and bestselling author of the Food Lovers’ Village and Spice Shop mysteries, continuing with the 9th installment, LAVENDER LIES BLEEDING (July 2025). Her historical short mystery collection, ALL GOD'S SPARROWS AND OTHER STORIES: A STAGECOACH MARY FIELDS COLLECTION (September 2024), featuring a remarkable figure from Montana history, is a finalist in the 2025 High Plains International Book Awards. She also writes standalone moody suspense as Alicia Beckman.
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What a delight to return to the Spice Shop, a fictional shop in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, a place I fell in love ages ago as a college freshman. I made it my mission to eat my way through the place, and since it’s constantly changing, I’ll never be done!
In LAVENDER LIES BLEEDING, Spice Shop owner Pepper Reece is shocked when vandals destroy the greenhouse at her friend Liz Giacometti’s lavender farm. But then Liz is killed, and Pepper digs in to solve the crimes. As her questions threaten to unearth secrets others desperately want to keep buried, danger creeps closer to her and those she loves. Can Pepper root out the killer, before someone nips her in the bud?
Writing about Seattle and its surroundings never gets old. Plus it's an excuse to keep up with places I love, and to make regular research trips. And by research, you know I mean eat!
ALL GOD’S SPARROWS AND OTHER STORIES imagines the life and heart of Mary Fields (1832-1914), a real-life woman born into slavery who spent her last 30 years in Montana, where she found freedom and community, and her own place in the West, bringing solace and justice to those in need. The collection brings together three stories originally published in Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine, and a new novella, “A Bitter Wind,” set in 1897 and 1914, in which Mary helps a young picture bride solve the mystery of her fiancé’s death, his homesteading neighbors’ bitterness, and her own future. The title story won the 2018 Agatha Award for Best Short Story; others were finalists for awards from the Short Mystery Fiction Society and the Western Writers of America. The collection is a finalist for the 2025 High Plains International Book Awards.
I’m also the author of the Food Lovers' Village Mysteries, set in fictional Jewel Bay, Montana. DEATH A DENTE, first in the series, won the 2013 Agatha Award for Best First novel. My guide for writers, BOOKS, CROOKS & COUNSELORS: How to Write Accurately About Criminal Law & Courtroom Procedure, drawing on my long career as a lawyer, won the 2011 Agatha for Best Nonfiction.
I’m a past president of Sisters in Crime and former regional and national board member of Mystery Writers of America. I love to cook, eat, hike, travel, garden, and paint—not necessarily in that order. My husband and I live in northwest Montana.
For regular updates, please visit my website, http://www.LeslieBudewitz.com, and click on the newsletter tab to sign up for emails crammed with book news, peeks inside the writing life, and more, along with two free short stories.
Readers are my favorite people. Drop me a line at Leslie at LeslieBudewitz.com. Join me at my website, LeslieBudewitz.com, or on Facebook at Leslie Budewitz & Alicia Beckman.
Leslie Budewitz is the three-time Agatha Award winner and bestselling author of the Food Lovers’ Village and Spice Shop mysteries, continuing with the 9th installment, LAVENDER LIES BLEEDING (July 2025). Her historical short mystery collection, ALL GOD'S SPARROWS AND OTHER STORIES: A STAGECOACH MARY FIELDS COLLECTION (September 2024), featuring a remarkable figure from Montana history, is a finalist in the 2025 High Plains International Book Awards. She also writes standalone moody suspense as Alicia Beckman.
–
What a delight to return to the Spice Shop, a fictional shop in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, a place I fell in love ages ago as a college freshman. I made it my mission to eat my way through the place, and since it’s constantly changing, I’ll never be done!
In LAVENDER LIES BLEEDING, Spice Shop owner Pepper Reece is shocked when vandals destroy the greenhouse at her friend Liz Giacometti’s lavender farm. But then Liz is killed, and Pepper digs in to solve the crimes. As her questions threaten to unearth secrets others desperately want to keep buried, danger creeps closer to her and those she loves. Can Pepper root out the killer, before someone nips her in the bud?
Writing about Seattle and its surroundings never gets old. Plus it's an excuse to keep up with places I love, and to make regular research trips. And by research, you know I mean eat!
ALL GOD’S SPARROWS AND OTHER STORIES imagines the life and heart of Mary Fields (1832-1914), a real-life woman born into slavery who spent her last 30 years in Montana, where she found freedom and community, and her own place in the West, bringing solace and justice to those in need. The collection brings together three stories originally published in Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine, and a new novella, “A Bitter Wind,” set in 1897 and 1914, in which Mary helps a young picture bride solve the mystery of her fiancé’s death, his homesteading neighbors’ bitterness, and her own future. The title story won the 2018 Agatha Award for Best Short Story; others were finalists for awards from the Short Mystery Fiction Society and the Western Writers of America. The collection is a finalist for the 2025 High Plains International Book Awards.
I’m also the author of the Food Lovers' Village Mysteries, set in fictional Jewel Bay, Montana. DEATH A DENTE, first in the series, won the 2013 Agatha Award for Best First novel. My guide for writers, BOOKS, CROOKS & COUNSELORS: How to Write Accurately About Criminal Law & Courtroom Procedure, drawing on my long career as a lawyer, won the 2011 Agatha for Best Nonfiction.
I’m a past president of Sisters in Crime and former regional and national board member of Mystery Writers of America. I love to cook, eat, hike, travel, garden, and paint—not necessarily in that order. My husband and I live in northwest Montana.
For regular updates, please visit my website, http://www.LeslieBudewitz.com, and click on the newsletter tab to sign up for emails crammed with book news, peeks inside the writing life, and more, along with two free short stories.
Readers are my favorite people. Drop me a line at Leslie at LeslieBudewitz.com. Join me at my website, LeslieBudewitz.com, or on Facebook at Leslie Budewitz & Alicia Beckman.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
July 28, 2020
Chai Another day is the 4th book in the 'Spice Shop' mystery series written by Leslie Budewitz. The book was published in 2019 and takes place in the Pike's Place Market in Seattle. The only bad thing about being caught up in a series is that you have to wait a long time for the next book, and that's exactly how I feel now that I've finished this issue. What!?!?! Another year or so... I guess it's only fair. Writers need time to fully craft the next story, so I can let it go. Ever since I visited the market again last June, I've been waiting to read this one. It finally hit my TBR queue last week, so let's review this wonderful book.
Pepper overhears an argument through a closed door, but she's only certain of one speaker's identity. In the middle of her massage, the masseuse is interrupted and has to attend to a medical issue in the store below her apartment. Only then does Pepper learn one of the store's employees has been killed. Could she have prevented it? Pepper feels guilty and jumps full force into solving the crime. The suspect list keeps growing as we meet the victim's husband, friends, family, enemies, and a few other strangers that might not be so strange after all. Budewitz takes us through a challenging crime, but we land safely on our feet. Luckily, Pepper escapes being killed herself this time.
Chai figures prominently. I loved learning more about tea. Pepper's relationship heats up in a good and bad way. One of Pepper's employees has a personal issue, and trying to solve it was fun, then sad. Hopefully it all works out for her. Pepper's mom is also moving back to town... how's that gonna work out? And let's not forget Arf, the wonderful dog companion who goes everywhere with Pepper. I highly recommend this series. The subplots are strong. The mysteries are complex. Everything weaves together well. Overall, I really enjoyed this one and will continue with the series. 4.5 stars!
Pepper overhears an argument through a closed door, but she's only certain of one speaker's identity. In the middle of her massage, the masseuse is interrupted and has to attend to a medical issue in the store below her apartment. Only then does Pepper learn one of the store's employees has been killed. Could she have prevented it? Pepper feels guilty and jumps full force into solving the crime. The suspect list keeps growing as we meet the victim's husband, friends, family, enemies, and a few other strangers that might not be so strange after all. Budewitz takes us through a challenging crime, but we land safely on our feet. Luckily, Pepper escapes being killed herself this time.
Chai figures prominently. I loved learning more about tea. Pepper's relationship heats up in a good and bad way. One of Pepper's employees has a personal issue, and trying to solve it was fun, then sad. Hopefully it all works out for her. Pepper's mom is also moving back to town... how's that gonna work out? And let's not forget Arf, the wonderful dog companion who goes everywhere with Pepper. I highly recommend this series. The subplots are strong. The mysteries are complex. Everything weaves together well. Overall, I really enjoyed this one and will continue with the series. 4.5 stars!
June 8, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Again, Pepper has a lot on her plate and the last thing she needs is another murder, but that is exactly what she finds when she tries to take a little time for herself. She heard an argument erupting from the vintage shop as she climbed the steps for a relaxing massage. Before she gets any of the benefits the massage ends when her massage therapist, Seetha is summoned downstairs for a medical emergency. The emergency was murder! Aimee McGillvray, the owner of Rainy Day Vintage, found her employee Joelle bleeding on the floor of the store but she died before help could arrive.
Pepper is distraught, if only she had ventured into the store before going upstairs she may have saved Joelle’s life. Warned by Detective Tracy to stay out of the investigation, she feels responsible and can’t help but to do her own inquiries.
_____
I am so happy this series has new life with a new publisher. If you missed the prior books, no fear, the author provides a cast list at the front of the book and provides plenty of background within these pages.
The author has created a strong protagonist in Pepper Reece. She is smart and caring with a background in human relations. Pepper has learned a lot about spices since this series began. She is a wonderful cook and has developed a great palate which helps her create some fantastic blends with the help of her staff. She has also developed a palate for sleuthing and that could be her downfall as sometimes she leaps into the fray without regard for her own safety.
Thankfully there is a great supporting cast who has saved her bacon time and time again. The supporting cast is her mother, friends, employees, a certain fisherman, and Detectives Tracy, Spencer, and new in this book Armstrong. Also, usually by her side is her lovable dog, Arf, who has great instincts. All are genuine and relatable. They each have a purpose and add to the story as a whole.
I do enjoy that Ms. Budewitz doesn’t back away from social issues. Pepper’s family has always been involved in helping people and doing the right thing and she lives her life the same way.
The story does blend the happenings of real life with the mystery of murder seamlessly. Readers will find a well-written and very well-plotted mystery. There are plenty of suspects and plenty of twists. Surprisingly I honed in on the right guilty party this time but didn’t understand the full motivation until it was spelled out for me. The author did her best to give up on my suspect in favor of another but I held tight to my choice.
The setting of this series, Seattle’s famed Pike Place Market, is such a unique place and a treasure trove for this series. With each visit, we find new shops, nooks, and places I would love to visit. The author’s descriptive style really brings the place alive. Someday, I hope to see it in person.
This is an excellent addition to this series. The characters are like old friends and they are wrapped up in a fine mystery. There are also mouth-watering recipes and spice notes at the back of the book I can’t wait to try. I will be anxiously awaiting book #5 and another trip to the Seattle Market. I hope we don’t have to wait too long.
Again, Pepper has a lot on her plate and the last thing she needs is another murder, but that is exactly what she finds when she tries to take a little time for herself. She heard an argument erupting from the vintage shop as she climbed the steps for a relaxing massage. Before she gets any of the benefits the massage ends when her massage therapist, Seetha is summoned downstairs for a medical emergency. The emergency was murder! Aimee McGillvray, the owner of Rainy Day Vintage, found her employee Joelle bleeding on the floor of the store but she died before help could arrive.
Pepper is distraught, if only she had ventured into the store before going upstairs she may have saved Joelle’s life. Warned by Detective Tracy to stay out of the investigation, she feels responsible and can’t help but to do her own inquiries.
_____
I am so happy this series has new life with a new publisher. If you missed the prior books, no fear, the author provides a cast list at the front of the book and provides plenty of background within these pages.
The author has created a strong protagonist in Pepper Reece. She is smart and caring with a background in human relations. Pepper has learned a lot about spices since this series began. She is a wonderful cook and has developed a great palate which helps her create some fantastic blends with the help of her staff. She has also developed a palate for sleuthing and that could be her downfall as sometimes she leaps into the fray without regard for her own safety.
Thankfully there is a great supporting cast who has saved her bacon time and time again. The supporting cast is her mother, friends, employees, a certain fisherman, and Detectives Tracy, Spencer, and new in this book Armstrong. Also, usually by her side is her lovable dog, Arf, who has great instincts. All are genuine and relatable. They each have a purpose and add to the story as a whole.
I do enjoy that Ms. Budewitz doesn’t back away from social issues. Pepper’s family has always been involved in helping people and doing the right thing and she lives her life the same way.
The story does blend the happenings of real life with the mystery of murder seamlessly. Readers will find a well-written and very well-plotted mystery. There are plenty of suspects and plenty of twists. Surprisingly I honed in on the right guilty party this time but didn’t understand the full motivation until it was spelled out for me. The author did her best to give up on my suspect in favor of another but I held tight to my choice.
The setting of this series, Seattle’s famed Pike Place Market, is such a unique place and a treasure trove for this series. With each visit, we find new shops, nooks, and places I would love to visit. The author’s descriptive style really brings the place alive. Someday, I hope to see it in person.
This is an excellent addition to this series. The characters are like old friends and they are wrapped up in a fine mystery. There are also mouth-watering recipes and spice notes at the back of the book I can’t wait to try. I will be anxiously awaiting book #5 and another trip to the Seattle Market. I hope we don’t have to wait too long.
July 8, 2019
Pepper owns a spice store in Seattle. She hears an argument in her friend Aimee’s vintage decor shop. She stays out of it and is later upset to hear that it ended in murder. From an employee who is having health trouble to a lawyer who was brought down along with his company to her own worries about her long distance boyfriend she stays busy and puts herself in danger. Interesting sides about spices and the different ways you can use them.
June 16, 2019
The much-loved Spice Shop Mysteries are back with a fourth mystery starring Pepper Reece—amateur detective and spice shop owner living in Seattle. I loved this book—it was easy to jump right into the series and I found Pepper completely delightful!
About the Book
Seattle Spice Shop owner Pepper Reece probes murder while juggling a troubled employee, her mother’s house hunt, and a fisherman who’s set his hook for her.
As owner of the Spice Shop in Seattle's famed Pike Place Market, Pepper Reece is always on the go. Between conjuring up new spice blends and serving iced spice tea to customers looking to beat the summer heat, she finally takes a break for a massage. But the Zen moment is shattered when she overhears an argument in her friend Aimee's vintage home decor shop that ends in murder.
Wracked by guilt over her failure to intervene, Pepper investigates, only to discover a web of deadly connections that could ensnare a friend - and Pepper herself.
Reflection
This mystery was really fun!! I really liked the setting, and not just Seattle but the shop as well. I adored Pepper—I’d like to go back and read more about her!
The case was really interesting to me. I found the mystery in Chai Another Day to be intricately-plotted and filled with the blend of cozy subplots and suspicious figures to make this a truly engaging mystery.
I also loved how the book touched on some socially-conscious issues—race relations, discrimination, and bullying—in a bold move that is not often seen in cozy mysteries.
Thank you to Seventh Street Books for my copy. Opinions are my own.
About the Book
Seattle Spice Shop owner Pepper Reece probes murder while juggling a troubled employee, her mother’s house hunt, and a fisherman who’s set his hook for her.
As owner of the Spice Shop in Seattle's famed Pike Place Market, Pepper Reece is always on the go. Between conjuring up new spice blends and serving iced spice tea to customers looking to beat the summer heat, she finally takes a break for a massage. But the Zen moment is shattered when she overhears an argument in her friend Aimee's vintage home decor shop that ends in murder.
Wracked by guilt over her failure to intervene, Pepper investigates, only to discover a web of deadly connections that could ensnare a friend - and Pepper herself.
Reflection
This mystery was really fun!! I really liked the setting, and not just Seattle but the shop as well. I adored Pepper—I’d like to go back and read more about her!
The case was really interesting to me. I found the mystery in Chai Another Day to be intricately-plotted and filled with the blend of cozy subplots and suspicious figures to make this a truly engaging mystery.
I also loved how the book touched on some socially-conscious issues—race relations, discrimination, and bullying—in a bold move that is not often seen in cozy mysteries.
Thank you to Seventh Street Books for my copy. Opinions are my own.
September 7, 2019
Chai Another Day is the 4th installment in the Spice Shop Mystery series. Pepper Reece finds herself drawn into a murder when she goes for a relaxing massage. Feeling guilty that the murder occurred so close to where you she was laying, Pepper digs into what happened while still running her spice shop and working on her own budding romance. An enjoyable cozy read in a good series.
October 28, 2020
I was so bummed when I couldn't afford the new books in this series, though now I am wondering why. Not horrible [less quirky sayings, which is good], but not great. I do not need to know about the MC's sex life either. Ergh. Just average for me. I hope the next one is better. The spice information is really the best part of the book, though the murder/reveal was very sad. Its tough when you really feel bad for the "bad guy".
August 13, 2019
Excellent!
August 3, 2019
Another Great Spice shop Mystery. I love the characters, the setting, really wish this place was real, i would love to be in there smelling all the tea. I love all 3 previous books as well. Great fresh new read, new story, something fun for anyone.
May 17, 2019
CHAI ANOTHER DAY, the fourth book in the Spice Shop Mystery series by Leslie Budewitz, is a welcomed and long anticipated addition to a delightful series! The author whets the appetite of the reader from the beginning, by providing a list of characters. I love referring back to the list as I read through the book, to get an added sense of the author’s descriptions and relationships between the characters. From there, the reader is treated to a variety of quotes which start each chapter off. I enjoyed trying to see how they tied in to the theme of the chapters. Ms. Budewitz creates a sensory-filled story that manages to bring the tastes, smells, sounds, and sights of Pike’s Place Market, located in Seattle, to life. I especially love protagonist, Pepper Reece, and her darling Spice Shop and her adorable dog, Arf. I would dearly love to spend time in her store, exploring the spices, perusing the recipes and books, and chatting with the staff members. The author truly brings the charming setting to life while including bits and pieces of interesting spice facts and spice pairings.
The reader is treated to a well-plotted mystery with a multitude of subplots woven in to provide growth for the characters alongside warm, human relationships. Pepper’s character is a caring, empathetic friend and employer. She’s also brave and is willing to step in and help her friends out in dangerous situations. I appreciated the author’s portrayal of racial discrimination and bullying. It’s a social issue that is often overlooked by fiction writers but is important nonetheless. Pepper uses her people skills to ask questions and piece together the clues to find justice for victims of all types of crimes, not just murder. Ms. Budewitz writes a tight mystery that provides enough suspects and clues to keep the reader guessing while providing characters and settings that invite the reader in and makes them want to stay.
Pepper is an accomplished cook and she often creates dishes to serve to her friends and family. She also has several friends, including a chef at her favorite restaurant, who all create delectable meals. And lastly, she allows her staff at the Spice Shop to develop recipes based around seasonally themed spice blends. The author includes a collection of these recipes at the back of the book and I was drooling over the descriptions as I read the many recipes.
I was provided an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The reader is treated to a well-plotted mystery with a multitude of subplots woven in to provide growth for the characters alongside warm, human relationships. Pepper’s character is a caring, empathetic friend and employer. She’s also brave and is willing to step in and help her friends out in dangerous situations. I appreciated the author’s portrayal of racial discrimination and bullying. It’s a social issue that is often overlooked by fiction writers but is important nonetheless. Pepper uses her people skills to ask questions and piece together the clues to find justice for victims of all types of crimes, not just murder. Ms. Budewitz writes a tight mystery that provides enough suspects and clues to keep the reader guessing while providing characters and settings that invite the reader in and makes them want to stay.
Pepper is an accomplished cook and she often creates dishes to serve to her friends and family. She also has several friends, including a chef at her favorite restaurant, who all create delectable meals. And lastly, she allows her staff at the Spice Shop to develop recipes based around seasonally themed spice blends. The author includes a collection of these recipes at the back of the book and I was drooling over the descriptions as I read the many recipes.
I was provided an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 1, 2019
Pepper is trying to take some time for herself and is getting a massage when she hears an argument in the vintage shop below. Seetha, her masseuse is summoned downstairs for an emergency, only that emergency is murder. Their friend, Aimee, owner of the Rainy Day Vintage Shop has found her employee, Joelle, bleeding out on the floor where she dies. Pepper is upset that she ignored the argument and might have been able to prevent the murder. Even though she is warned to stay out of the investigation, Pepper can't help but start asking questions.
I did not read the earlier books in this series, but had no problems following this story. There was enough back story given about the characters, however, when I get the time, I would like to go back and read the previous three books in this series. Pepper is a lawyer, who has stopped practising and opened a spice shop. She has a great staff and she offers, spices, spice blends, recipes and a lot of advice to cooks. She juggles her business well with her sleuthing, which adds to the story. The rest of the supporting cast includes her mother, friends, a certain fisherman who she is romantically involved with, and Detectives Tracy, Spencer, and Armstrong. I can't forget her dog Arf. He is often by her side when investigating and throughout the day. The story is set in Seattle’s famed Pike Place Market, where the reader can picture the boutiques and stores that are a unique shopping experience. The author’s descriptive writing brought the place alive. This is a well-written and plotted mystery. There are plenty of suspects and twists. I thought I had this one figured out, but the author did a wonderful job of having me change my mind several times until the final reveal. Embedded in the story are some social issues, race relations, discrimination, and bullying which were handled nicely and brought awareness to these issues. Overall, this was a fun, interesting mystery which I enjoyed. I recommend this book to those who enjoy a good cozy mystery.
I listened to the audiobook of this book that I received from Tantor Media. Dara Rosenberg has a pleasant voice with wonderful expression. As she performed this book, I enjoyed listening to her voices which made the story come alive for me. I will definitely listen to other books narrated by this talented artist. I received a copy of this audiobook upon request from the publisher. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
I did not read the earlier books in this series, but had no problems following this story. There was enough back story given about the characters, however, when I get the time, I would like to go back and read the previous three books in this series. Pepper is a lawyer, who has stopped practising and opened a spice shop. She has a great staff and she offers, spices, spice blends, recipes and a lot of advice to cooks. She juggles her business well with her sleuthing, which adds to the story. The rest of the supporting cast includes her mother, friends, a certain fisherman who she is romantically involved with, and Detectives Tracy, Spencer, and Armstrong. I can't forget her dog Arf. He is often by her side when investigating and throughout the day. The story is set in Seattle’s famed Pike Place Market, where the reader can picture the boutiques and stores that are a unique shopping experience. The author’s descriptive writing brought the place alive. This is a well-written and plotted mystery. There are plenty of suspects and twists. I thought I had this one figured out, but the author did a wonderful job of having me change my mind several times until the final reveal. Embedded in the story are some social issues, race relations, discrimination, and bullying which were handled nicely and brought awareness to these issues. Overall, this was a fun, interesting mystery which I enjoyed. I recommend this book to those who enjoy a good cozy mystery.
I listened to the audiobook of this book that I received from Tantor Media. Dara Rosenberg has a pleasant voice with wonderful expression. As she performed this book, I enjoyed listening to her voices which made the story come alive for me. I will definitely listen to other books narrated by this talented artist. I received a copy of this audiobook upon request from the publisher. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
June 14, 2019
Leslie Budewitz is back with book number four in the Spice Shop Mystery series and with a new publisher, Seventh Street Books. I sure hope there are a lot more in the series. I'd really miss the characters, Seattle, Pike Place Market and the Spice Shop!
July 6, 2020
Only a certified nut case would take a yoga class at noon then head for a massage on a day hotter than a freshly pulled shot of espresso.
Pepper overhears an argument as she heads for a massage. She slips into sleuth mode when a body is found in the shop below her destination.
I enjoy the tidbits about spices that the author shares. I love the recipe for the chai. I was happy to see that Pepper and Nate are involved in a mature relationship. The setting is always a pleasure.
Having said all that, this one didn't hold my interest as much as previous books in the series. There was noting that I could quite put my finger on but it just didn't resonant with me. I'm sure I will try a couple of the recipes in the back and I will definitely try the chai. Chai is one of my favorite things so I was a bit disappointed that I didn't love this.
It is still a good series and I will continue to read it.
Pepper overhears an argument as she heads for a massage. She slips into sleuth mode when a body is found in the shop below her destination.
I enjoy the tidbits about spices that the author shares. I love the recipe for the chai. I was happy to see that Pepper and Nate are involved in a mature relationship. The setting is always a pleasure.
Having said all that, this one didn't hold my interest as much as previous books in the series. There was noting that I could quite put my finger on but it just didn't resonant with me. I'm sure I will try a couple of the recipes in the back and I will definitely try the chai. Chai is one of my favorite things so I was a bit disappointed that I didn't love this.
It is still a good series and I will continue to read it.
October 10, 2019
I'm so thrilled that the spice shop mystery series is back and better than ever! If you haven't read this entire series, you are so missing out! This series was one of the first cozy mystery series that I stumbled upon and it led me to falling in love with the genre! You could just read this one book, but you'll miss out on nuances in relationships and other points of interest that help flesh out the characters and the setting. Once again we have been treated to a wonderful plot wrought with plenty of villain options, red herrings and twists in the storyline to keep you guessing while leading you to the conclusion of the book! The only negative is that now I have to wait for the author to write another book in the series!
July 4, 2019
Tea is a beverage known around the globe. Another name for tea is Chai. This novel explores the roots and different recipes for Chai. Whether you are a tea or coffee drinker, this novel quickly reminds you that life and death continues and sometimes not as you expect.
Pepper has a new love, and her Spice Shop is running smoothly, and her main concern is whether or not to invite her mother to her girl's flick night. That is until she goes to a friends home for a massage. Downstairs there is a commotion and a shot is heard. Just as quickly, Pepper finds her world shifting...another death.
Pepper finds herself in the thick of the investigation of her former employer, current friends, and acquaintances. When Pepper receives a threat herself, the crime takes on a stronger urgency.
Pepper also has to deal with a long-distance romance...is it right for her or not? Also, there is something serious happening to one of her clerks at the spice emporium. Pepper needs answers and this novel has you turning the pages to help her solve the mysteries.
A good read.
Pepper has a new love, and her Spice Shop is running smoothly, and her main concern is whether or not to invite her mother to her girl's flick night. That is until she goes to a friends home for a massage. Downstairs there is a commotion and a shot is heard. Just as quickly, Pepper finds her world shifting...another death.
Pepper finds herself in the thick of the investigation of her former employer, current friends, and acquaintances. When Pepper receives a threat herself, the crime takes on a stronger urgency.
Pepper also has to deal with a long-distance romance...is it right for her or not? Also, there is something serious happening to one of her clerks at the spice emporium. Pepper needs answers and this novel has you turning the pages to help her solve the mysteries.
A good read.
November 14, 2022
3.5 stars, rounded up
Book #4 in the Spice Shop series was every bit as good as the previous three books in the series. I’ve never been to Seattle, but this series paints a good picture, so I feel like I’m there. I like the way the Market is portrayed almost as a living thing, and the way the merchants all look out for one another. Pepper has a good support group of friends and family around her and even has a relatively good relationship with her ex, which is a nice change of pace.
Unlike many books, we didn’t have to wait long for the murder to occur, which left a lot of time to think about suspects and motives. The victim was well-liked, so the suspect list was relatively short, which made it more of a puzzle for me. I should have figured out who the killer was earlier in the book, but instead only worked it out just before it was revealed in the book. The motive made sense given that information, but I don’t think I would have worked it out on my own.
I’m glad I have two books (maybe more?) left to read in this series, and I look forward to my next visit to Pike Place Market.
Book #4 in the Spice Shop series was every bit as good as the previous three books in the series. I’ve never been to Seattle, but this series paints a good picture, so I feel like I’m there. I like the way the Market is portrayed almost as a living thing, and the way the merchants all look out for one another. Pepper has a good support group of friends and family around her and even has a relatively good relationship with her ex, which is a nice change of pace.
Unlike many books, we didn’t have to wait long for the murder to occur, which left a lot of time to think about suspects and motives. The victim was well-liked, so the suspect list was relatively short, which made it more of a puzzle for me. I should have figured out who the killer was earlier in the book, but instead only worked it out just before it was revealed in the book. The motive made sense given that information, but I don’t think I would have worked it out on my own.
I’m glad I have two books (maybe more?) left to read in this series, and I look forward to my next visit to Pike Place Market.
June 24, 2019
I love the entire series, even if some of the story is fairly predictable. There is an odd sense of comfort in that. I've never been into mysteries before, but since this one takes place in my own backyard, I gave it chance. It's fun to read of the places I've been and grown up around, although Seattle is a much different place now than it was then. And I almost always guess who done it.
June 17, 2019
Love this series!
I love this series: the setting, the characters and the overall plot. The character development throughout the series has been wonderful to witness. I'm glad to see that the series has a new home and will continue!
I love this series: the setting, the characters and the overall plot. The character development throughout the series has been wonderful to witness. I'm glad to see that the series has a new home and will continue!
July 25, 2022
such fun!
This was a fun trip to Seattle and I’d love to go back and explore the market myself as Pepper really brings it to life. The mystery was good and I enjoyed investigating with Pepper. I can’t wait to try the pumpkin snickerdoodle recipe from this book.
This was a fun trip to Seattle and I’d love to go back and explore the market myself as Pepper really brings it to life. The mystery was good and I enjoyed investigating with Pepper. I can’t wait to try the pumpkin snickerdoodle recipe from this book.
August 18, 2019
This mystery series sounded like the perfect cozy book to read with a warm up of tea! I loved that it was set in a tea shop in Seattle’s famous Pike’s Place Market. A place that I have visited on a number of occasions.
I thought that a book set in that quirky little market would be idyllic and something very ‘Pacific Northwest’. It was and easy yes for me and I was thrilled when it arrived.
Even though it was the fourth book in a series, it sounded like it was going to be more mystery focused rather than focusing on the characters and their lives. So I didn’t worry too much about starting late in the game.
First of all, I loved the setting for this book! Having it at a place that I am so familiar with was fun and exciting. I had little moments when I felt like I was actually there at the market. The author writes with authority and authenticity on the area and it made the story feel realistic. There was also a nod to the culture of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest in general. I know that here in Oregon we are forever complaining about all the Californians moving into our state and in this book there is a little bit of that which I found charming and fun but not over done to the point of irritation.
Pepper was a likable heroine and I thought I could see myself hanging out with her and grabbing a cup of tea or something. She has a very ‘home town girl’ feel to her personality. She was warm and open without being mushy. I did feel that there was a lot of backstory I was missing from the previous books and I noticed that a lot of people re-read the books in the series before this one.
Apparently there was quite a break in between books so some readers felt the need to go back and re-read the other books. For me, I was a blank slate and while at times I felt a little lost, I focused on the mystery itself as much as I could which probably left me a little detached from the characters and Pepper, but I still liked them just fine.
The mystery had enough turns and red herrings to keep me guessing and wondering if I was on the right path or not and in the end I felt more than satisfied with the mystery and outcome.
Overall this was a pleasant mystery with lovable characters and an incredible setting. The descriptions of the market and the city were perfect and truly the authors crown and glory!
See my full review here
I thought that a book set in that quirky little market would be idyllic and something very ‘Pacific Northwest’. It was and easy yes for me and I was thrilled when it arrived.
Even though it was the fourth book in a series, it sounded like it was going to be more mystery focused rather than focusing on the characters and their lives. So I didn’t worry too much about starting late in the game.
First of all, I loved the setting for this book! Having it at a place that I am so familiar with was fun and exciting. I had little moments when I felt like I was actually there at the market. The author writes with authority and authenticity on the area and it made the story feel realistic. There was also a nod to the culture of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest in general. I know that here in Oregon we are forever complaining about all the Californians moving into our state and in this book there is a little bit of that which I found charming and fun but not over done to the point of irritation.
Pepper was a likable heroine and I thought I could see myself hanging out with her and grabbing a cup of tea or something. She has a very ‘home town girl’ feel to her personality. She was warm and open without being mushy. I did feel that there was a lot of backstory I was missing from the previous books and I noticed that a lot of people re-read the books in the series before this one.
Apparently there was quite a break in between books so some readers felt the need to go back and re-read the other books. For me, I was a blank slate and while at times I felt a little lost, I focused on the mystery itself as much as I could which probably left me a little detached from the characters and Pepper, but I still liked them just fine.
The mystery had enough turns and red herrings to keep me guessing and wondering if I was on the right path or not and in the end I felt more than satisfied with the mystery and outcome.
Overall this was a pleasant mystery with lovable characters and an incredible setting. The descriptions of the market and the city were perfect and truly the authors crown and glory!
See my full review here
October 30, 2019
Another great mystery and 4th in the series for the Spice shop. Murder takes place and it is quite a mystery to figure out who could have done it with many suspects. Pepper and Nate become a lot closer and really love spending the quality time they can together. Romance happens and all turns out well in the end.
November 10, 2019
Nothing sounds my peaceful than going to a yoga class and then to a massage, and Pepper Reece is looking forward to both of those events. In Chai Another Day by Leslie Budewitz, Pepper's tranquil massage is interrupted by a medical emergency.
As her friend and massage therapist Seetha rushes downstairs to help, Pepper struggles into her clothes and goes downstairs to her other friend Aimee's vintage decor shop. There she finds Seetha covered in blood, Aimee looking like she is going to faint and someone surrounded by emergency medical technicians. The victim turns out to be Aimee's employee, Joelle, and she has been stabbed to death.
As her friend and massage therapist Seetha rushes downstairs to help, Pepper struggles into her clothes and goes downstairs to her other friend Aimee's vintage decor shop. There she finds Seetha covered in blood, Aimee looking like she is going to faint and someone surrounded by emergency medical technicians. The victim turns out to be Aimee's employee, Joelle, and she has been stabbed to death.
September 21, 2019
Between the intriguing mystery and the yummy spice recipe references, this is an engaging book.
July 29, 2019
Pepper is trying to get to her Zen place with yoga and a massage, but as she heads to the massage, she hears an argument going on in her friends store. She decides not to intervene and heads to the massage. Half way through her massage is interrupted with a call for help from the shop owner, someone has been stabbed. This leads Pepper on the search for the killer and leads her in many interesting directions. This fourth installment of the Spice Shop Mystery is a delight and I enjoyed reading it! Cannot wait to see what happens next with Pepper and all the friends in the shop.
July 29, 2019
I love this series.
These books are fun, short reads. The series has been enjoyable so far, as is her other series. This one is my favorite.
These books are fun, short reads. The series has been enjoyable so far, as is her other series. This one is my favorite.
July 29, 2019
So glad to have Pepper and the gang back!
A great new book in a wonderful series.
A great new book in a wonderful series.
July 19, 2019
Seattle Spice Shop owner Pepper Reece probes murder while juggling a troubled employee, and a fisherman who’s set his hook for her. When she overhears an argument in her friend Aimee's vintage home decor shop that ends in murder and doesn't stop it she is wracked by guilt over her failure to intervene, Pepper investigates, only to discover a web of deadly connections that could ensnare a friend - and Pepper herself.
This book had a good story line and I love the descriptions of the market that I have to go visit. I love the characters and the love story of Nate and Pepper. That being said the story seemed to drag a little and it took me a while to get deep into it. The little side stories are what makes this book good. What is wrong with Pepper's assistant that she keeps dropping things. Will Pepper and Nate make a long distance relationship work. Will Pepper's mother find a house to live in and a community that she can work for. All those little story lines make this book into a great read.
This book had a good story line and I love the descriptions of the market that I have to go visit. I love the characters and the love story of Nate and Pepper. That being said the story seemed to drag a little and it took me a while to get deep into it. The little side stories are what makes this book good. What is wrong with Pepper's assistant that she keeps dropping things. Will Pepper and Nate make a long distance relationship work. Will Pepper's mother find a house to live in and a community that she can work for. All those little story lines make this book into a great read.
February 25, 2020
I love this series! It's intelligently written and I love the characters and the setting of Pikes Place Market in Seattle. If you like non-cutesy cozy mysteries, this series (and author!) is for you.
July 20, 2019
I was glad to hear that a new spice shop mystery was coming out and couldn't wait to read it. Since it had been so long since reading the first three books in the series I decided to read them again before starting Chai Another Day. I'm glad I did. I recently visited Seattle for the first time and fell in love with the Pikes Market area, Bainbridge Island.... it was fun to imagine these fictional places amongst the area I spent several days walking around.
This was well written and kept me guessing until the end.
This was well written and kept me guessing until the end.
July 22, 2019
So glad the spice shop series is continuing
I really enjoy this series, and am so glad it is continuing. The characters are well developed and easy to identify with, and I love the setting. When Leslie Budewitz describes a walk through the Pike Place Market area, you feel like you are there with her. These books are well crafted and I highly recommend them.
I really enjoy this series, and am so glad it is continuing. The characters are well developed and easy to identify with, and I love the setting. When Leslie Budewitz describes a walk through the Pike Place Market area, you feel like you are there with her. These books are well crafted and I highly recommend them.
July 19, 2019
Not long ago I read Killing Thyme and Chai Another Day by Leslie Budewitz – I read the first two when they came out, so it’s been a while but it only took a chapter or two and it all came back. I want to go to Seattle and become friends with Pepper. This is such a wonderful series with delightful characters you want to be friends with. The story lines are intriguing and the mystery keeps you guessing until the end. Once you start reading, be careful – you won’t want to stop.
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