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Tea Shop Mystery #11
The Teaberry Strangler
It was the Dickensian evening Theodosia Browning had been hoping for. Charleston shop-owners dressed in cloaks of yore threw open their back doors to visitors, who took advantage of bargains and Theodosia's delicious teas.
But later, the alleys clear except for one body- which a horrified Theodosia discovers. It's Daria, the map store's owner. Locals have shown interest in buying her shop-but enough to kill? Plus there's been a customer hell-bent on acquiring a not-forsale map. Most alarming of all theories, however, is Detective Tidwell's: the killer mistook Daria for Theodosia. And if that theory holds, the killer's work isn't done.
But later, the alleys clear except for one body- which a horrified Theodosia discovers. It's Daria, the map store's owner. Locals have shown interest in buying her shop-but enough to kill? Plus there's been a customer hell-bent on acquiring a not-forsale map. Most alarming of all theories, however, is Detective Tidwell's: the killer mistook Daria for Theodosia. And if that theory holds, the killer's work isn't done.
303 pages, Hardcover
First published March 1, 2010
27 people are currently reading
1725 people want to read
About the author
Laura Childs
93 books2,253 followersLaura Childs is a pseudonym for Gerry Schmitt and she is the best-selling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, the Scrapbook Mysteries, and the Cackleberry Club Mysteries.
Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fund raising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.
Laura specializes in cozy mysteries that have the pace of a thriller (a thrillzy!) Her three series are:
The Tea Shop Mysteries - set in the historic district of Charleston and featuring Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia is a savvy entrepreneur, and pet mom to service dog Earl Grey. She's also an intelligent, focused amateur sleuth who doesn't rely on coincidences or inept police work to solve crimes. This charming series is highly atmospheric and rife with the history and mystery that is Charleston.
The Scrapbooking Mysteries - a slightly edgier series that take place in New Orleans. The main character, Carmela, owns Memory Mine scrapbooking shop in the French Quarter and is forever getting into trouble with her friend, Ava, who owns the Juju Voodoo shop. New Orleans' spooky above-ground cemeteries, jazz clubs, bayous, and Mardi Gras madness make their presence known here!
The Cackleberry Club Mysteries - set in Kindred, a fictional town in the Midwest. In a rehabbed Spur station, Suzanne, Toni, and Petra, three semi-desperate, forty-plus women have launched the Cackleberry Club. Eggs are the morning specialty here and this cozy cafe even offers a book nook and yarn shop. Business is good but murder could lead to the cafe's undoing! This series offers recipes, knitting, cake decorating, and a dash of spirituality.
Laura Childs is the New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbook Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. In her previous life she was CEO/Creative Director of her own marketing firm and authored several screenplays. She is married to a professor of Chinese art history, loves to travel, rides horses, enjoys fund raising for various non-profits, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.
Laura specializes in cozy mysteries that have the pace of a thriller (a thrillzy!) Her three series are:
The Tea Shop Mysteries - set in the historic district of Charleston and featuring Theodosia Browning, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop. Theodosia is a savvy entrepreneur, and pet mom to service dog Earl Grey. She's also an intelligent, focused amateur sleuth who doesn't rely on coincidences or inept police work to solve crimes. This charming series is highly atmospheric and rife with the history and mystery that is Charleston.
The Scrapbooking Mysteries - a slightly edgier series that take place in New Orleans. The main character, Carmela, owns Memory Mine scrapbooking shop in the French Quarter and is forever getting into trouble with her friend, Ava, who owns the Juju Voodoo shop. New Orleans' spooky above-ground cemeteries, jazz clubs, bayous, and Mardi Gras madness make their presence known here!
The Cackleberry Club Mysteries - set in Kindred, a fictional town in the Midwest. In a rehabbed Spur station, Suzanne, Toni, and Petra, three semi-desperate, forty-plus women have launched the Cackleberry Club. Eggs are the morning specialty here and this cozy cafe even offers a book nook and yarn shop. Business is good but murder could lead to the cafe's undoing! This series offers recipes, knitting, cake decorating, and a dash of spirituality.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
November 17, 2023
the drastic steps needed to stretch the life of a tea bag... beyond the drownings
April 16, 2024
2.5 stars rounded up for the tea resource list
After a successful evening back alley crawl through the shops of the historic district, Theodosia leaves her shop to bring tea and scones to her friend Daria at the Antiquarian Map Shop just down the street. Unfortunately Theodosia arrives in time to see Daria struggling with an unknown assailant and Daria's lifeless body fall to the ground as the murderer runs off. Theodosia gets a hint of a scent but doesn't see the murderer's face. Detective Tidwell wonders whether the murder was a case of mistaken identity since Daria and Theo have similar colored hair and were both wearing cloaks. Theodosia dismisses the notion and tries to stay out of things but her Aunt Libby is close friends with Daria's mother and thanks to Aunt Libby's bragging, the family wants Theodosia to solve Daria's murder. Theodosia also has to attend to the fallout from her breakup with Jory - still - and delayed attempts to move into her new home. Not to mention several catering events lined up, including a children's tea that has Drayton running for the hills!
This plot was a little light on tea and plausibility. It seemed too easy at first and then halfway through I realized there could be a plot twist Theo doesn't see coming. Then she does see it so I had no idea who the murderer was. Just before the killer comes after Theo, I realized who it must be. I just had a feeling that person seemed off. Plus there were clues. I didn't really like those clues I'm allergic to scents so I don't even think I could go sit down and have tea at the Indigo Tea Shop and the addition of a perfume shop to the neighborhood would kill me. I didn't enjoy reading about it.
This story lacks a second victim but old bones are found in Theodosia's new yard and the author totally does away with reality. First Theodosia has to contact the police, which she does. Then the state lab tests the bones to see if they're ancient and only THEN do the archeologists come out to dig. I've read that process in other mysteries and this one skipped from finding the bones to full on dig. It was very weird. We never got a full explanation for some of things that happen around Theo's new home. Is it actually haunted? That was weird. I missed the detailed descriptions of tea and where/how it is grown and what it tastes like. I was perplexed by the reference to Timothy's great-grandmother's Tollhouse Cookie Bar recipe. He's in his 80s! Ruth Wakefield didn't even come up with chocolate chips and publish her signature cookie recipe until the 1940s, which I think is around the time Timothy was born or even later. I highly doubt his GREAT-grandmother was still alive let alone clipping recipes. I really enjoyed the list of resources in the back and thankfully there are many more tea suppliers now so we don't have to drink Bigelow or Stash. Drayton would not approve!
Theodosia finally learns to stand up for herself, a bit anyway. She still needs to learn to say no once in awhile. Like, the fact she's nearly been killed should motivate her to say no when people ask her to investigate. She's really not a good detective. Plus, in this instance, the killer could have been after her in the first place! The police don't have to update civilians, they don't usually, and they are capable of solving murders, especially Tidwell. He's good at his job. Theo? Not so much. I don't think her relationship with Parker is going anywhere but she has Drayton and Haley anyway. Her relationship with Jory is kaput for good. He's selfish and clueless about women. He has a lot of work to do before he should marry anyone. He still does NOT understand Theo's passion for her business and how much work it takes to run. He expects her to drop everything and do an errand for him. She should have told him where to go and stayed strong with a firm NO!
I'm tired of Haley's needling of Drayton and their constant bickering. She's like an annoying little sister. Although it was stated previously that Drayton grew up in China, he's a South Carolina born and bred gentleman in this book. He's very proper and stuffy. I do understand his aversion to children but a children's tea sounds super fun! He's great with the kids. Yeah... I don't see that happening in real life but maybe if the kids are young enough they'll be fascinated by this weird, fussy old man. Delaine doesn't totally annoy me in this book but she is a little pushy with Theo and rude too. Her sister Nadine is visiting again. Nadine is a little more subdued but eager for the fashion show. Bill Glass, the annoying tabloid editor/photographer is even more annoying than usual. At least until someone steals his camera! Was it someone teaching him a lesson or someone who didn't want their photo published because they weren't supposed to be there?
Daria's sister Fallon seems to really be grieving the loss of her sister. She's determined to see justice done but somehow thinks Theodosia is the answer. Daria seems a little lost in her grief. Joe Don Hunter was Daria's boyfriend. He, too, seems to be lost and mourning Daria but I get the impression either he's cozying up to Fallon or vice versa or they were already cozy. I hope they're just leaning on each other in their grief. Joe Don comes across as an aw shucks kind of guy but Theo is given some information that places him on the suspect list. He may be smarter than he appears and his motive seems valid but why destroy things in the shop? That part doesn't make sense. Maybe his cronies are behind the situation at Theo's house though. Daria's assistant, Jason Pritchard, wants to keep running the shop on his own. He doesn't have enough to buy it but he's determined.
There's a client, a potential buyer, Daria was working with outside of Charleston. That pings warning bells in my mind. A wealthy collector might come after the shop owner if she didn't give him what he wanted. Who is he and does he have an alibi? Another wealthy collector and local, Jack Brux, is cranky and rude to Theodosia. He's antagonistic and more stuffy than Drayton and Timothy put together.
Newcomers Cinnamon St. John and her aunt, Miss Kitty, are opening up a perfumerie near Theo's shop. These ladies are even worse than Delaine. They don't want to get involved in giving to Charleston society, they just want to take people's money. They keep bugging Theo for something and only want to know the best people. It won't be long before they ask for her frequent customer list! Miss Kitty is the brains behind the operation. She's the creative genius and the business guru. And also very scary. She's pushy to the point of extreme rudeness. She dismisses antique maps as not worth anyone's time or interest and desires to get her hands on Daria's shop ASAP. I wouldn't put it past her to have murdered Daria. Jory's ex, Beth Ann, is super unhinged. She lives in her own fantasy world and won't let go of Jory. He callously dumped her so I think he deserves her. She's scary and weird - scary-weird. I sort of feel bad for her but she may be out to kill Theo because Jory isn't over her. I would feel bad if I knew Jory lied to her and I wouldn't put it past him but she's unhinged.
Tred Pascal from the State Archeology Office is Theo's new nemesis. He's young, passionate and idealistic. I think he means well and he's excited to dig but he isn't thinking about the cost to Theo, or the fact that he's digging before the lab identifies the bones! Could he be haunting Theo's house to make sure she can't move in before he gets to dig up the yard?
The recipes are disappointing. Where's Haley's chocolate recipes?!
I'm going to take a break from this series for a week and return to it later. I think.
After a successful evening back alley crawl through the shops of the historic district, Theodosia leaves her shop to bring tea and scones to her friend Daria at the Antiquarian Map Shop just down the street. Unfortunately Theodosia arrives in time to see Daria struggling with an unknown assailant and Daria's lifeless body fall to the ground as the murderer runs off. Theodosia gets a hint of a scent but doesn't see the murderer's face. Detective Tidwell wonders whether the murder was a case of mistaken identity since Daria and Theo have similar colored hair and were both wearing cloaks. Theodosia dismisses the notion and tries to stay out of things but her Aunt Libby is close friends with Daria's mother and thanks to Aunt Libby's bragging, the family wants Theodosia to solve Daria's murder. Theodosia also has to attend to the fallout from her breakup with Jory - still - and delayed attempts to move into her new home. Not to mention several catering events lined up, including a children's tea that has Drayton running for the hills!
This plot was a little light on tea and plausibility. It seemed too easy at first and then halfway through I realized there could be a plot twist Theo doesn't see coming. Then she does see it so I had no idea who the murderer was. Just before the killer comes after Theo, I realized who it must be. I just had a feeling that person seemed off. Plus there were clues. I didn't really like those clues I'm allergic to scents so I don't even think I could go sit down and have tea at the Indigo Tea Shop and the addition of a perfume shop to the neighborhood would kill me. I didn't enjoy reading about it.
This story lacks a second victim but old bones are found in Theodosia's new yard and the author totally does away with reality. First Theodosia has to contact the police, which she does. Then the state lab tests the bones to see if they're ancient and only THEN do the archeologists come out to dig. I've read that process in other mysteries and this one skipped from finding the bones to full on dig. It was very weird. We never got a full explanation for some of things that happen around Theo's new home. Is it actually haunted? That was weird. I missed the detailed descriptions of tea and where/how it is grown and what it tastes like. I was perplexed by the reference to Timothy's great-grandmother's Tollhouse Cookie Bar recipe. He's in his 80s! Ruth Wakefield didn't even come up with chocolate chips and publish her signature cookie recipe until the 1940s, which I think is around the time Timothy was born or even later. I highly doubt his GREAT-grandmother was still alive let alone clipping recipes. I really enjoyed the list of resources in the back and thankfully there are many more tea suppliers now so we don't have to drink Bigelow or Stash. Drayton would not approve!
Theodosia finally learns to stand up for herself, a bit anyway. She still needs to learn to say no once in awhile. Like, the fact she's nearly been killed should motivate her to say no when people ask her to investigate. She's really not a good detective. Plus, in this instance, the killer could have been after her in the first place! The police don't have to update civilians, they don't usually, and they are capable of solving murders, especially Tidwell. He's good at his job. Theo? Not so much. I don't think her relationship with Parker is going anywhere but she has Drayton and Haley anyway. Her relationship with Jory is kaput for good. He's selfish and clueless about women. He has a lot of work to do before he should marry anyone. He still does NOT understand Theo's passion for her business and how much work it takes to run. He expects her to drop everything and do an errand for him. She should have told him where to go and stayed strong with a firm NO!
I'm tired of Haley's needling of Drayton and their constant bickering. She's like an annoying little sister. Although it was stated previously that Drayton grew up in China, he's a South Carolina born and bred gentleman in this book. He's very proper and stuffy. I do understand his aversion to children but a children's tea sounds super fun! He's great with the kids. Yeah... I don't see that happening in real life but maybe if the kids are young enough they'll be fascinated by this weird, fussy old man. Delaine doesn't totally annoy me in this book but she is a little pushy with Theo and rude too. Her sister Nadine is visiting again. Nadine is a little more subdued but eager for the fashion show. Bill Glass, the annoying tabloid editor/photographer is even more annoying than usual. At least until someone steals his camera! Was it someone teaching him a lesson or someone who didn't want their photo published because they weren't supposed to be there?
Daria's sister Fallon seems to really be grieving the loss of her sister. She's determined to see justice done but somehow thinks Theodosia is the answer. Daria seems a little lost in her grief. Joe Don Hunter was Daria's boyfriend. He, too, seems to be lost and mourning Daria but I get the impression either he's cozying up to Fallon or vice versa or they were already cozy. I hope they're just leaning on each other in their grief. Joe Don comes across as an aw shucks kind of guy but Theo is given some information that places him on the suspect list. He may be smarter than he appears and his motive seems valid but why destroy things in the shop? That part doesn't make sense. Maybe his cronies are behind the situation at Theo's house though. Daria's assistant, Jason Pritchard, wants to keep running the shop on his own. He doesn't have enough to buy it but he's determined.
There's a client, a potential buyer, Daria was working with outside of Charleston. That pings warning bells in my mind. A wealthy collector might come after the shop owner if she didn't give him what he wanted. Who is he and does he have an alibi? Another wealthy collector and local, Jack Brux, is cranky and rude to Theodosia. He's antagonistic and more stuffy than Drayton and Timothy put together.
Newcomers Cinnamon St. John and her aunt, Miss Kitty, are opening up a perfumerie near Theo's shop. These ladies are even worse than Delaine. They don't want to get involved in giving to Charleston society, they just want to take people's money. They keep bugging Theo for something and only want to know the best people. It won't be long before they ask for her frequent customer list! Miss Kitty is the brains behind the operation. She's the creative genius and the business guru. And also very scary. She's pushy to the point of extreme rudeness. She dismisses antique maps as not worth anyone's time or interest and desires to get her hands on Daria's shop ASAP. I wouldn't put it past her to have murdered Daria. Jory's ex, Beth Ann, is super unhinged. She lives in her own fantasy world and won't let go of Jory. He callously dumped her so I think he deserves her. She's scary and weird - scary-weird. I sort of feel bad for her but she may be out to kill Theo because Jory isn't over her. I would feel bad if I knew Jory lied to her and I wouldn't put it past him but she's unhinged.
Tred Pascal from the State Archeology Office is Theo's new nemesis. He's young, passionate and idealistic. I think he means well and he's excited to dig but he isn't thinking about the cost to Theo, or the fact that he's digging before the lab identifies the bones! Could he be haunting Theo's house to make sure she can't move in before he gets to dig up the yard?
The recipes are disappointing. Where's Haley's chocolate recipes?!
I'm going to take a break from this series for a week and return to it later. I think.
August 27, 2010
This is book #11 in the Tea Shop Mysteries. These are my 'brain candy' books - a fast, usually entertaining read. What I enjoy about these books are the setting in the historic district of Charleston (which I have visited), some of the tidbits of history and the tea trivia.
What I am becoming annoyed with is the unrealistic daily operations of the Tea Shop itself seriously, the amount and type of food coming out of "that tiny kitchen" is just not realistic or plausible for just one chef in addition to the number of catering jobs they do), the heroine and her hair, and how the characters involved are all going, "Theo, don't do that!" and she does it anyway. Doh.
This one seemed to push the boundaries of believability more than some of the others. For example - Theo is trying to buy a house in the historic district. She has made an offer that has been accepted. Except now, for unexplained reasons, the seller is dinking around and she can only go over and walk through the house and plan on where she is going to put her furniture. Riiigght...she doesn't own the house, she shouldn't have free access to the house, amongst other things.
Then her dog digs up a *gasp!* human bone in her yard that JUST happened to be on the surface of the lawn. Not that there hasn't been extensive landscaping in the last oh, 100 years. Now suddenly there is an archaeological dig occurring in the yard. Not plausible in my book.
In another instance, Theo is run off the road in her Jeep, nearly injuring her dog. Yet, she doesn't call the police - she just drives out of the ditch and goes home. Nearly a day later she tells the investigating detective what happened. Now, if enough damage was done to her car, then there should be a damaged car somewhere in Charleston in the group she is investigating, correct? But no, she only looks at one suspects car. Again, not a plausible scenario.
There were other small tangents that seemed to clutter the story more so than add to it, and it's as if she's trying to fit in all the quirky characters of the Historic district so there are these people popping in and out of the plot, which really is too bad because this book could have been stronger than it was.
Recommended only if you've read some of the first ten books in this series.
What I am becoming annoyed with is the unrealistic daily operations of the Tea Shop itself seriously, the amount and type of food coming out of "that tiny kitchen" is just not realistic or plausible for just one chef in addition to the number of catering jobs they do), the heroine and her hair, and how the characters involved are all going, "Theo, don't do that!" and she does it anyway. Doh.
This one seemed to push the boundaries of believability more than some of the others. For example - Theo is trying to buy a house in the historic district. She has made an offer that has been accepted. Except now, for unexplained reasons, the seller is dinking around and she can only go over and walk through the house and plan on where she is going to put her furniture. Riiigght...she doesn't own the house, she shouldn't have free access to the house, amongst other things.
Then her dog digs up a *gasp!* human bone in her yard that JUST happened to be on the surface of the lawn. Not that there hasn't been extensive landscaping in the last oh, 100 years. Now suddenly there is an archaeological dig occurring in the yard. Not plausible in my book.
In another instance, Theo is run off the road in her Jeep, nearly injuring her dog. Yet, she doesn't call the police - she just drives out of the ditch and goes home. Nearly a day later she tells the investigating detective what happened. Now, if enough damage was done to her car, then there should be a damaged car somewhere in Charleston in the group she is investigating, correct? But no, she only looks at one suspects car. Again, not a plausible scenario.
There were other small tangents that seemed to clutter the story more so than add to it, and it's as if she's trying to fit in all the quirky characters of the Historic district so there are these people popping in and out of the plot, which really is too bad because this book could have been stronger than it was.
Recommended only if you've read some of the first ten books in this series.
January 25, 2011
Having read several of Laura Childs' Tea Shop mysteries, I was familiar with the main characters, and their relationship with one another. It has been a while, however, since I've read one, so it was as if I were reading this book on its own, minus the rest of the series. Certain events have taken place in previous books that were alluded to, and impacted the plot of this book, but there's enough information that you don't necessarily need to go back if you don't want to. As for me, I probably won't. I enjoy the idea of a tea shop, and I love mysteries, and who doesn't love food, but these stories are becoming less about the mystery, and more about what is going on in Theodosia's blessed life. After all, in this one she never does figure out who the killer is, they clue her in at the very end, so not much detective work going on in this one. And just once I'd like to find a protagonist in a cozy mystery who does not have it all - looks, designer clothes, a successful business, prime real estate owner, and heiress. Perhaps just to keep it interesting, maybe Ms. Childs can have a hurricane come through and wipe out Theodosia financially. Then the series might get interesting as we see how she really reacts to adversity. I do think that Laura Childs is a very talented author, but I've grown a bit tired of this particular series.
May 4, 2011
I've been reading the Laura Childs Tea Shop Mysteries since she began writing them more than 10 years ago, and while this remains one of my favorite series, I got the feeling with this book that Laura Childs is starting to get bored of Theodosia and her friends in Charleston. The first chapter, the plot becomes a bit thin when Theodosia, walking in a dark alley at night witnesses a murder, and it all seems a bit surreal and not completely believable. The dialog between Drayton and Haley this time around is a bit strained, the wacky women who are owners of the perfumerie just aren't well developed, and there are a lot of lose ends surrounding the characters that hang out in the map shop. Also, the whole situation with the archeological dig in the backyard of Theodosia's new home seems but a mere distraction, and doesn't really tie in well at all with the murder. I felt with this book that the end is near unless Childs can breath some new and compelling life into these stories. I'm sad to see the series take this turn, but other authors I read have gone through the same thing, and perhaps its time to focus on other stories. Childs' Cackleberry Club mysteries are hilarious and I look forward to reading more about Suzanne, Petra and Toni in the future. Maybe Childs is just spreading herself too thin across all these series?
July 26, 2021
I always enjoy my trips to the Indigo Tea Shop. The characters are fun and the mysteries entertaining. This one really kept me guessing and the final reveal was exciting.
July 10, 2010
It was nice to spend time in Charleston and visit the Indigo Tea Shop. This continues to be a good series, one you can count on for good company.
One quibble: the author used exclamation points during a tense scene near the end of the book, and I felt like I was back reading Nancy Drew mysteries with their end-of-chapter cliffhangers.
One quibble: the author used exclamation points during a tense scene near the end of the book, and I felt like I was back reading Nancy Drew mysteries with their end-of-chapter cliffhangers.
March 13, 2018
"Truth be told, Theodosia enjoys plunking herself in the middle of a crisis. Any crisis."
Meh. This one was just okay. The mystery was light and easy but the length of the book was much longer than I thought it needed to be. Maybe because I hadn't read the books before, but all the dating drama for the main character and the unnecessary details of then new stores and of perfumes and smells..... it just didn't hold my attention liked I'd hoped.
I don't think I'll read more of this series any time soon.
Meh. This one was just okay. The mystery was light and easy but the length of the book was much longer than I thought it needed to be. Maybe because I hadn't read the books before, but all the dating drama for the main character and the unnecessary details of then new stores and of perfumes and smells..... it just didn't hold my attention liked I'd hoped.
I don't think I'll read more of this series any time soon.
November 19, 2018
4 stelle e mezza
Tutte le volte che leggo un libro di questa serie vorrei avere una tearoom vicino a casa mia...
Anche in questo libro la vita di tutti i giorni di Theodosia ha una parte preponderante rispetto all'investigazione vera e propria, ma la cosa non mi dispiace, anzi forse è quello che mi fa trovare questa serie così rilassante.
La soluzione è stata una vera sorpresa, anche perché non erano forniti, secondo me, abbastanza indizi per capire chi fosse il colpevole. Comunque sia, altra bella lettura.
Tutte le volte che leggo un libro di questa serie vorrei avere una tearoom vicino a casa mia...
Anche in questo libro la vita di tutti i giorni di Theodosia ha una parte preponderante rispetto all'investigazione vera e propria, ma la cosa non mi dispiace, anzi forse è quello che mi fa trovare questa serie così rilassante.
La soluzione è stata una vera sorpresa, anche perché non erano forniti, secondo me, abbastanza indizi per capire chi fosse il colpevole. Comunque sia, altra bella lettura.
July 13, 2023
As a mystery, this book truly deserves a single, solitary star. The mystery in this book is as important to the story as a bow is to a Christmas gift; it is just dressing. This book is really a few days in the life of Theodosia Browning, the owner of a tea shop in Charleston. She and her friends run the shop, serving delicious food and exotic teas. They cater or attend events at charming bed-and-breakfasts, historical societies and fashion shows. She interacts with friends, enemies and former boyfriends and she never puts a foot wrong (and neither does her dog or her perfect staff at the tea shop; my, they are all so perfectly perfect).
But for whatever reason - my mood or environment perhaps - I sort of enjoyed it. There are historical details about the city of Charleston and South Carolina that I found interesting. I do love tea and gourmet food, and I truly honor the effort that goes into running a small business (although I do wonder how the Indigo Tea Shop keeps the lights on considering the prices mentioned for lunch in this book). Those things kept me reading as I quickly understood they would be the focus of the tale.
The Teaberry Strangler is a very casual, breezy book that gives the reader a sense of being part of a very blissful life, but mystery connoisseurs will be very disappointed. There is no intelligent sleuthing (events come to Theodosia, which is very convenient), the sleuth ultimately does not solve anything and the motive for the murder is laughable.
Think of it as autopilot reading.
But for whatever reason - my mood or environment perhaps - I sort of enjoyed it. There are historical details about the city of Charleston and South Carolina that I found interesting. I do love tea and gourmet food, and I truly honor the effort that goes into running a small business (although I do wonder how the Indigo Tea Shop keeps the lights on considering the prices mentioned for lunch in this book). Those things kept me reading as I quickly understood they would be the focus of the tale.
The Teaberry Strangler is a very casual, breezy book that gives the reader a sense of being part of a very blissful life, but mystery connoisseurs will be very disappointed. There is no intelligent sleuthing (events come to Theodosia, which is very convenient), the sleuth ultimately does not solve anything and the motive for the murder is laughable.
Think of it as autopilot reading.
August 16, 2023
Spännande, som vanligt, och den här gången MYCKET svårare att lista ut mördaren.
January 23, 2021
The author writes between a cozy and a thriller and Theodosia ends up acting like wonder woman fighting crime rather than a genteel southern lady with class. 40% of the mystery is thriller which leaves Theodosia acting juvenile for most of that time. I do however enjoy the tea talk and Drayton's maturity and charm to the story. Another pet peeve of mine is the latest and trendy way that authors introduce women with two last names. Brooke isnt just Brook Crockett she has to be Brooke Carter Crockett every time we meet her! I guess this is the new feminist movement that is happening in all genres. Pity.
August 3, 2021
As always Laura Childs does a wonderful job of writing her books, and this one was no exception either. Theodosia witnesses the murder of her friend down the street. Detective Tidwell is on the case once again of course, and with Drayton and Haley to help her figure out the clues Theodosia is once again searching for clues. She wants to find the person who killed her friend Daria. As suspects lineup, she gathers information little by little, but in the end, she is totally surprised by who the person really is that killed her friend. I myself did not figure it out until the next to the last chapter. So who did it? Please read this book to find out and enjoy it too. You will not be disappointed. I know I wasn’t. Cheers!
September 14, 2011
"Do you know anything about the language of roses?"
"What do you mean?" asked Theodosia.
"During the Victorian era," said Drayton, "the use of rose symbolism was extremely popular. It became a subtle form of communication."
"Like text messaging today," said Theodosia.
"Not exactly," said Drayton.
Synopsis: The indefatigable Theodosia Browning continues to run her merry crew of teashop irregulars and solve murders all over Charleston's historic shopping district. This time it's Daria, owner of an antique map store, who turns up dead and Theodosia's unlucky enough to witness the crime. So, between running her teashop, hanging out with her dog and trying to close on her new cottage, Theodosia solves the crime.
Grade: C+
Okay people, listen up: I am willing to put up good money for one of the next books in this series to feature Delaine Dash (owner of the Cotton Duck!) as the corpse. Good money. I just can't remember a character who got under my skin like she does. It's amazing. I just...she... flames...on the side of my face...burning--heaving--
Oh this is such a good series, people. It just is. I would have tea at that teashop in an instant, no matter if they were brewing Darjeeling in a dead man's open skull when I got there. The books are just that fun.
It is all about the sense of place, I think, that Childs gives to this series that makes me love it so much. I was trying, the other day, to think of mystery series where I can't think of the series without immediately thinking of the city. Like for me, Sharon McCone will always be San Francisco. And V.I. Warshawski will always be Chicago; Tess Monaghan is Baltimore, the Liquor boys are New Orleans, Archy McNally is Palm Beach and NYC is sort of in a three-way toss-up between the 87th precinct, Claire Cosi and Edward X. Delaney. In exactly the same way, Theodosia Browning is Charleston.
It's a great, iconic series.
But this is not a great, iconic book. It's a good book. It's a solid entry in the series and with a lot of the plot strands, I felt like Childs has a beautiful long sheet of butcher paper tacked up along one wall of her house with all these interwoven strands and Teaberry Strangler is one section, and the next book is another, and there are certain dots that have to advance in certain ways.
For instance, the reintroduction of Jorie Davis, who, while an unfortunate romantic choice (I keep wanting Drayton to pour hot tea in his lap) also keeps things interesting much more than the milquetoast restauranteur Theodosia took up with on the rebound. And the way Theodosia kept wistfully saying "Oh Haley, I do so hope I won't LOSE YOU SOMEDAY WHEN A BIG CATERING OPPORTUNITY COMES ALONG."
Seriously, she said it like four times. Hi. Thanks. I think we now safely know what you've got planned for Haley. Gotcha. Right there with ya. Keep going with the story.
And I liked the story. I liked the cast of weirdos surrounding the victim, and I liked how they were more than they seemed, some of them. I loved how Theodosia gets her big girl heels on whenever someone intends to hurt her dog, because if anyone ever comes after my dogs, you will be able to buy jars of that person as a paste in supermarkets everywhere, I'll tell you that right now.
But two things went wrong here:
1. Okay. No less than five different people were all OH THEODOSIA PLEASE SOLVE THIS MYSTERY YOU ARE SO AWESOME. And then Theodosia blushed and simpered. That is Mary Sue territory. I do not like that. I am not saying Theodosia was a Mary Sue this time out, I'm just saying we can all see that land from here and it's not a good place.
2. The ending. OY the ending. Was not supported by the plot in the least. Noooooo. I went back and looked for clues I'd missed, people, because I spell anal-retentive with a hyphen. It did not make the least sense at all, and took like eight pages from boss fight to glass-clinking resolution and then fin. Like, if you stand up from a fistfight, wipe your hands on a linen napkin then serve punch for guests, I'm sorry, but you're the Cylon. It's you.
Bah.
And humbug.
Which in no way means I'm not going to read the next entry in the series, it just means that if you have a really strong, iconic series -- and I do think it's fair to say this series is iconic at this point -- you can get away with a fair amount of missteps. Just not often.
August 30, 2016
I have doggedly plowed my way through eleven of these things, and like an idiot beating her head against the wall, insensible to the pain in my head or the blood dripping into my eyes to sting and clot and burn, I will likely read the rest. But this one was an exercise in empty puffery. Nothing happened in two hundred and eighty pages. Theo never found a clue or interrogated a suspect, never did any sleuthing. She did, however, cater multiple fancy soirees with a staff of two, soirees that she happily chronicled in excruciating, mind-numbing detail. And she played dress-up and got stalked and bullied the town's other denizens into doing her lofty bidding no matter how shoddily she's treated them in the past. Because she's Theo, and the other characters only exist to massage her gargantuan ego of Lovecraftian proportions.
Take Bill Glass, the sleazy tabloid reporter, for instance. Theodosia has never treated him with anything but sneering contempt, but when she thinks she's being stalked by Jory Davis' ex-fiancee, she has no compunction about ordering him to wipe his butt with a paying job just to snap photos of her purported stalker. And he does. Of course he does. Because Queen Theodosia hath spoken.
The same goes for Detective Tidwell, who listens to her every half-baked hunch, none of which turns out to be correct, by the by. Or poor Delaine Dish, whom Theodosia slights throughout the book. I don't even like Delaine that much, though she's growing on me, but I wanted to cheer her con brio when she snapped, "Not everything is about you!" when Theodosia tried to interrupt her important fashion show with hysterical flailings about a STALKER, OMG, A STALKER. What did she truly expect Delaine to do? Join her in the vapors and bring the event to a grinding halt with a dramatic, Shakespearean imperative to "Arrest that fallen woman"? At that point, the woman in question had done nothing but buy dresses and give sainted Theodosia the stink eye.
Not to worry, though. Theodosia has condescension to go around. Jory Davis gets more than his fair share. Gone is the quiet, confident, thoughtful beau of the first six books. Because he had the unmitigated gall to accept a job opportunity and take it even after she declined to move to NYC, he is now a disingenuous, smarmy "rat fink"(who's probably bad in bed, natch). Why? Because he asked her to retrieve his boat, and because he failed to keep Her Highness apprised of every development in his life. The nerve!
But the most ludicrous leap of logic in this whole mess? Three separate people--Bill Glass, Detective Tidwell, and Angie Congdon--informed Theodosia that someone was looking for her, but when pressed for a description, none of them could give one. That's right; neither a veteran cop/FBI agent nor a photographer could remember what the person look like. This convenient stupidity set up the most abysmal wet fart of a meeting ever between a stalker and their victim. When finally confronted, Beth Ann, the boorish, New York lush obeyed Theodosia's every imperious demand, said everyone talked funny, and left. So gripping.
There were so many loose ends. Theodosia ordered Tidwell to run background on Beth Ann, but it was never mentioned again. Nor was there further mention of the bones buried at the cottage, or of Jud Snelling, the Savannah antiques dealer Theo arranged to meet. He never appeared. Bill Glass never showed Theodosia the photos he snapped of her alleged stalker, nor was Jack Brux' attacker ever identified, though it's insinuated to be Fallon. No explanation for the drifting of Jory's or the broken window at the cottage boat, no identification of the murder weapon. Childs gave not a tinker's damn, and boy, did it show.
Take Bill Glass, the sleazy tabloid reporter, for instance. Theodosia has never treated him with anything but sneering contempt, but when she thinks she's being stalked by Jory Davis' ex-fiancee, she has no compunction about ordering him to wipe his butt with a paying job just to snap photos of her purported stalker. And he does. Of course he does. Because Queen Theodosia hath spoken.
The same goes for Detective Tidwell, who listens to her every half-baked hunch, none of which turns out to be correct, by the by. Or poor Delaine Dish, whom Theodosia slights throughout the book. I don't even like Delaine that much, though she's growing on me, but I wanted to cheer her con brio when she snapped, "Not everything is about you!" when Theodosia tried to interrupt her important fashion show with hysterical flailings about a STALKER, OMG, A STALKER. What did she truly expect Delaine to do? Join her in the vapors and bring the event to a grinding halt with a dramatic, Shakespearean imperative to "Arrest that fallen woman"? At that point, the woman in question had done nothing but buy dresses and give sainted Theodosia the stink eye.
Not to worry, though. Theodosia has condescension to go around. Jory Davis gets more than his fair share. Gone is the quiet, confident, thoughtful beau of the first six books. Because he had the unmitigated gall to accept a job opportunity and take it even after she declined to move to NYC, he is now a disingenuous, smarmy "rat fink"(who's probably bad in bed, natch). Why? Because he asked her to retrieve his boat, and because he failed to keep Her Highness apprised of every development in his life. The nerve!
But the most ludicrous leap of logic in this whole mess? Three separate people--Bill Glass, Detective Tidwell, and Angie Congdon--informed Theodosia that someone was looking for her, but when pressed for a description, none of them could give one. That's right; neither a veteran cop/FBI agent nor a photographer could remember what the person look like. This convenient stupidity set up the most abysmal wet fart of a meeting ever between a stalker and their victim. When finally confronted, Beth Ann, the boorish, New York lush obeyed Theodosia's every imperious demand, said everyone talked funny, and left. So gripping.
There were so many loose ends. Theodosia ordered Tidwell to run background on Beth Ann, but it was never mentioned again. Nor was there further mention of the bones buried at the cottage, or of Jud Snelling, the Savannah antiques dealer Theo arranged to meet. He never appeared. Bill Glass never showed Theodosia the photos he snapped of her alleged stalker, nor was Jack Brux' attacker ever identified, though it's insinuated to be Fallon. No explanation for the drifting of Jory's or the broken window at the cottage boat, no identification of the murder weapon. Childs gave not a tinker's damn, and boy, did it show.
February 27, 2010
Award-winning author Laura Childs brings tea shop owner Theodosia Browning back for another exciting adventure in “The Teaberry Strangler.”
This is the 11th installment in the Tea Shop Mystery series. Don’t let that scare you from reading it as it is a stand alone book and can be read with having read the previous books. However, once you get started, you’ll want to read every book in the series.
Theo organizes a “back-ally crawl” where the shop owners dress in historic costumes and open their back doors to customers. The cobblestone street of Church Street filled with visitors and the event was deemed a great success.
But after everyone leaves and store keepers start closing, Theo decides to take a basket of goodies to her friend, Daria Shand. Daria is the owner of the Antiquarian Map Shop located just a few doors down from Theo’s Indigo Tea Shop.
Starting down the alley, Theo spots Daria with someone. She thinks at first it’s a romantic encounter and then she quickly realizes someone is strangling Daria. Theo screams and rushes to her friend. The intruder flees, but Theo is too late and finds Daria laying dead on the cobblestone.
Feeling she should have done more, Theo agrees to look into her friend’s murder for Daria’s mother and sister.
While questioning possible suspects, Theo also caters a tea for a Bed and Breakfast Tour, as well as for a book signing at the Heritage Society. In addition, the tea shop hosts a children’s “Alice in Wonderland” theme tea party. She does have the help of Drayton, her master brewer and right-hand man, and Haley, the tea shop’s creative baker.
Throw into the mix the return of her former boyfriend, Jory Davis, along with his ex-fiancée Beth Ann, who is now stalking Theo. Add in that Theo’s attempting to move into a carriage house when her faithful dog, Earl Grey, brings her a human bone. Now the backyard of her new home has turned into an archeologist dig.
Along the way Theo meets the new owners of the fragrance shop “Jardin Perfumerie” located next door to Daria’s map shop. The owners - Cinnamon and her aunt, Miss Kitty - seem just a little off to Theo. The duo is in a big hurry to buy out Daria’s shop from her estate.
Laura Childs will take you on a roller coaster ride of adventures with twists and turns you can’t image. Just as you think you’re closing in on who the killer is, a new lead takes you in a different directions.
Shattered throughout the book are references to wonderful flavored teas, tasty sandwiches and delicate desserts. An added bonus to the book is several of the dessert and sandwich recipes are included in the back, along with tea time tips.
If you’re not a tea lover, you will still enjoy the mystery and not be overwhelmed with tea talk. But by the end, you may be reaching for a cup of freshly brewed Teaberry Tea or maybe Oolong. I wanted to drink tea the entire time I was reading “The Teaberry Strangler” and I’m mainly a coffee drinker. The Tea Shop Mystery series has lead me to understand and appreciate tea much more.
This is a great cozy murder mystery to curl up with on these last cold days of winter.
This is the 11th installment in the Tea Shop Mystery series. Don’t let that scare you from reading it as it is a stand alone book and can be read with having read the previous books. However, once you get started, you’ll want to read every book in the series.
Theo organizes a “back-ally crawl” where the shop owners dress in historic costumes and open their back doors to customers. The cobblestone street of Church Street filled with visitors and the event was deemed a great success.
But after everyone leaves and store keepers start closing, Theo decides to take a basket of goodies to her friend, Daria Shand. Daria is the owner of the Antiquarian Map Shop located just a few doors down from Theo’s Indigo Tea Shop.
Starting down the alley, Theo spots Daria with someone. She thinks at first it’s a romantic encounter and then she quickly realizes someone is strangling Daria. Theo screams and rushes to her friend. The intruder flees, but Theo is too late and finds Daria laying dead on the cobblestone.
Feeling she should have done more, Theo agrees to look into her friend’s murder for Daria’s mother and sister.
While questioning possible suspects, Theo also caters a tea for a Bed and Breakfast Tour, as well as for a book signing at the Heritage Society. In addition, the tea shop hosts a children’s “Alice in Wonderland” theme tea party. She does have the help of Drayton, her master brewer and right-hand man, and Haley, the tea shop’s creative baker.
Throw into the mix the return of her former boyfriend, Jory Davis, along with his ex-fiancée Beth Ann, who is now stalking Theo. Add in that Theo’s attempting to move into a carriage house when her faithful dog, Earl Grey, brings her a human bone. Now the backyard of her new home has turned into an archeologist dig.
Along the way Theo meets the new owners of the fragrance shop “Jardin Perfumerie” located next door to Daria’s map shop. The owners - Cinnamon and her aunt, Miss Kitty - seem just a little off to Theo. The duo is in a big hurry to buy out Daria’s shop from her estate.
Laura Childs will take you on a roller coaster ride of adventures with twists and turns you can’t image. Just as you think you’re closing in on who the killer is, a new lead takes you in a different directions.
Shattered throughout the book are references to wonderful flavored teas, tasty sandwiches and delicate desserts. An added bonus to the book is several of the dessert and sandwich recipes are included in the back, along with tea time tips.
If you’re not a tea lover, you will still enjoy the mystery and not be overwhelmed with tea talk. But by the end, you may be reaching for a cup of freshly brewed Teaberry Tea or maybe Oolong. I wanted to drink tea the entire time I was reading “The Teaberry Strangler” and I’m mainly a coffee drinker. The Tea Shop Mystery series has lead me to understand and appreciate tea much more.
This is a great cozy murder mystery to curl up with on these last cold days of winter.
March 11, 2011
What a joy it is to spend time visiting the Indigo Tea Shop and it's owner Theodosia Browning and her staff. If this were a real place I would love to work there. Drayton is the master tea blender with a wonderful sense of humor, Haley the innovative chef and partimer Miss Dimple.
The historic area of Charleston wrapping up a Back alley crawl one evening and Theois on her way to take some tea and scones to the lady who runs a map shop. As Theo approaches she witnesses the shop owner being strangled. The assailant sees her and takes off running. The police are called and Dectective Tidwell casually mentions the the victim bears a resemblence to Theo. Quite naturally Theo wants to find the assailant, but she was seen and just maybe she was the intended victim. As Theo begins to do some low key investigation someone tries to run Theo off the road. Now she is really oncerned for her own life. She soon learn that her ex friend has recntly broken up with his girlfriend, who just happens to be in town. there is a group called The Kipling Club who loot are of historical artifacts. Maybe they surprised while going through the shops inventory of old maps.In the end Theo find the answers she needs.
Laura Childs writing and descriptions of the surrounding s is what makes this a great series. In my minds I can practicly see the shop, it setting and display of teas. Even if you are not a lover of teas, this is a must read series to educate ones self about them. Recipes for wonderfully sounding meals severed at the shop are included.
Fred
The historic area of Charleston wrapping up a Back alley crawl one evening and Theois on her way to take some tea and scones to the lady who runs a map shop. As Theo approaches she witnesses the shop owner being strangled. The assailant sees her and takes off running. The police are called and Dectective Tidwell casually mentions the the victim bears a resemblence to Theo. Quite naturally Theo wants to find the assailant, but she was seen and just maybe she was the intended victim. As Theo begins to do some low key investigation someone tries to run Theo off the road. Now she is really oncerned for her own life. She soon learn that her ex friend has recntly broken up with his girlfriend, who just happens to be in town. there is a group called The Kipling Club who loot are of historical artifacts. Maybe they surprised while going through the shops inventory of old maps.In the end Theo find the answers she needs.
Laura Childs writing and descriptions of the surrounding s is what makes this a great series. In my minds I can practicly see the shop, it setting and display of teas. Even if you are not a lover of teas, this is a must read series to educate ones self about them. Recipes for wonderfully sounding meals severed at the shop are included.
Fred
January 30, 2016
I'm beginning to tire of this series but I wasn't unsure of the reason until this book.
There has been zero character growth. After ten books, although at least three years have passed, Theodosia hasn't learned a thing.
Her ex-boyfriend, Jorie, calls and asks for help. Theo knows he has a crazy ex-fiancee, Beth Ann, who is in town. Theo knows that someone tried to kill her, or at least seriously hurt her, by ramming her off the road. Yet Theo agrees to go--all alone-- to rescue Jorie's sailboat--all alone--on a deserted island and then tells her ride to the island to leave her--all alone!--before she has checked to see if the sailboat is safe and seaworthy.
Her neighbor is killed--strangled to death!--in her alley. Someone posits that possibly the neighbor was killed because of her resemblance to Theo. Maybe the killer accidentally killed the wrong person! So Theodosia decides it's a great time to take a solitary walk (or two) around town to clear her head.
And why does everyone push so hard for Theo to take on the murder cases? She's been shot and almost killed several times already. Why doesn't anyone want Theodosia to stay safe and sound? Why doesn't anyone advise Theo that if a killer is after Theodosia it might be a good time to take a vacation out of town?
With friends like these, who needs enemies?
There has been zero character growth. After ten books, although at least three years have passed, Theodosia hasn't learned a thing.
Her ex-boyfriend, Jorie, calls and asks for help. Theo knows he has a crazy ex-fiancee, Beth Ann, who is in town. Theo knows that someone tried to kill her, or at least seriously hurt her, by ramming her off the road. Yet Theo agrees to go--all alone-- to rescue Jorie's sailboat--all alone--on a deserted island and then tells her ride to the island to leave her--all alone!--before she has checked to see if the sailboat is safe and seaworthy.
Her neighbor is killed--strangled to death!--in her alley. Someone posits that possibly the neighbor was killed because of her resemblance to Theo. Maybe the killer accidentally killed the wrong person! So Theodosia decides it's a great time to take a solitary walk (or two) around town to clear her head.
And why does everyone push so hard for Theo to take on the murder cases? She's been shot and almost killed several times already. Why doesn't anyone want Theodosia to stay safe and sound? Why doesn't anyone advise Theo that if a killer is after Theodosia it might be a good time to take a vacation out of town?
With friends like these, who needs enemies?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2017
.
This woman sleuth happens to own a tea shop. Who knew there were so many different types of tea and ways to serve them? Not me, this series has taught me something there.
Theo stays busy, busy, busy. But she always finds time to investigate the current murder. Each book delivers a cozy read for enjoyable entertainment. I really liked this one, even more than alot of the others in this series. These characters are like friends and its always great to see them again.
Each book is able to stand on its own and deliver an HEA, which is an important attribute in a series when I chose to read it.
This woman sleuth happens to own a tea shop. Who knew there were so many different types of tea and ways to serve them? Not me, this series has taught me something there.
Theo stays busy, busy, busy. But she always finds time to investigate the current murder. Each book delivers a cozy read for enjoyable entertainment. I really liked this one, even more than alot of the others in this series. These characters are like friends and its always great to see them again.
Each book is able to stand on its own and deliver an HEA, which is an important attribute in a series when I chose to read it.
June 16, 2014
Another solid entry in the series although the mystery element in this one is a little weak as Theo doesn't actually solve it. Theodosia witnesses a friend's murder but can't identify the killer and soon becomes the victim of attempts on her own life. Her associates, Drayton and Haley, help her out as usual while running the Indigo Tea Shop and catering events. A new character brushes in as a state archeologist digging up the yard of her hopefully new home. And I must complain again about boyfriend Parker. This time he's so far out of the story that he's sent out of town to a conference and doesn't even show up in the novel.
February 6, 2017
Wanted something light and fun to read and this was just want I wanted! Been reading Laura Child's books for years, only the tea shop mysteries but still they never let you down. Rich in description and southern charm, you can almost taste the tea. I felt the mystery was ok and I really wish we would not hear from her ex- boy friend ever. As much as I love this book one thing bothers me, they have the tea brew master, the check out lady and the wonderful baker. But who the heck washes all those dirty dishes they are bound to get!? Please tell me not Earl Grey since he is the dog.
July 4, 2017
A shipowner and friend of Theodosia Browning has been strangled right before her eyes and now Theodosia is out to find out who and why, all the while running her tea shop, catering local events, dealing with an ex-boyfriend's drama and wondering when the purchase of her cottage will be finalized, if ever.
For light, fast reading with a mystery see in Charleston, this is a good book. A lot of fun, not much seriousness and loads of quirky characters. Its all here.
For light, fast reading with a mystery see in Charleston, this is a good book. A lot of fun, not much seriousness and loads of quirky characters. Its all here.
February 6, 2022
Theodosia discovers the body of a neighboring shopowner in the alley behind her tea shop. However, when master detective Tidwell investigates, he believes the victim was meant to be Theo. Now this amateur sleuth and her friend's must be very careful when trying to track down the killer.
February 26, 2017
These books are always a fun read----clean language, no real violence, a good mystery with amusing people and interesting facts about tea.
August 26, 2017
To be honest, the only reason I keep reading these books is because I'm so in love with the characters. Theodosia and her friends talk to each other the way my friends and I do. As great as the characters are, the mystery plots fall flat. I believe it's a combination of several elements:
1. There are too many red herrings. More often than not, Theo's list of suspects is completely wrong. She keeps asking questions and analyzing, but they're not always guilty of what she thinks.
2. There is not enough foreshadowing. This is probably the biggest issue for me. Too often when the killer is revealed my reactions is, "Huh? Where did that come from?" For instance, we don't find out the motive for the killer in this book until the killer reveals herself to Theo. Which brings me to. . .
3. Theo doesn't so much "find" the killer as have the killer present him/herself to her. All her friends and acquaintances reference how Theo helps the police and is able to solve mysteries, when more often than not, all she does is poke around until the killer becomes paranoid and attacks her. Theo freeing herself from the various attacks is one of the key points at the end of each novel.
All that said, I do enjoy the series and watching the characters grow and interact. I just wish the mystery plots were a little tighter.
1. There are too many red herrings. More often than not, Theo's list of suspects is completely wrong. She keeps asking questions and analyzing, but they're not always guilty of what she thinks.
2. There is not enough foreshadowing. This is probably the biggest issue for me. Too often when the killer is revealed my reactions is, "Huh? Where did that come from?" For instance, we don't find out the motive for the killer in this book until the killer reveals herself to Theo. Which brings me to. . .
3. Theo doesn't so much "find" the killer as have the killer present him/herself to her. All her friends and acquaintances reference how Theo helps the police and is able to solve mysteries, when more often than not, all she does is poke around until the killer becomes paranoid and attacks her. Theo freeing herself from the various attacks is one of the key points at the end of each novel.
All that said, I do enjoy the series and watching the characters grow and interact. I just wish the mystery plots were a little tighter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2019
I really enjoyed the eleventh book in the Tea Shop Mystery series by Laura Childs. In this installment, Theodosia Browning finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time after the back-alley crawl!
Shop owners had opened their back doors for tea, cookies, chowder, and special prices and although it was now getting late, Theodosia is headed to the Antiquarian Map Shop to take tea and scones to her friend Daria Shand. What she finds when she reaches the store, is two people struggling and the store trashed! Then all that is left is a strangled to death Daria! Theodosia is unable to identify the killer but for some reason the notion of teaberry scent sticks in her mind. Of course Theodosia must once again play amateur detective since her Aunt Libby is good friends with Daria's mother -- Sophie. Theodosia has a lot of good suspects but not a lot of time for sleuthing. She is busy dealing with her ex-boyfriend Jory, several catering jobs, and thinking about moving into her storybook English cottage called Hazelhurst! There is never a dull moment for Theodosia, Drayton, Haley, and the others of Charleston's business district. It's fun spending time with them. I am looking forward to seeing what happens in Scones and Bones!
Shop owners had opened their back doors for tea, cookies, chowder, and special prices and although it was now getting late, Theodosia is headed to the Antiquarian Map Shop to take tea and scones to her friend Daria Shand. What she finds when she reaches the store, is two people struggling and the store trashed! Then all that is left is a strangled to death Daria! Theodosia is unable to identify the killer but for some reason the notion of teaberry scent sticks in her mind. Of course Theodosia must once again play amateur detective since her Aunt Libby is good friends with Daria's mother -- Sophie. Theodosia has a lot of good suspects but not a lot of time for sleuthing. She is busy dealing with her ex-boyfriend Jory, several catering jobs, and thinking about moving into her storybook English cottage called Hazelhurst! There is never a dull moment for Theodosia, Drayton, Haley, and the others of Charleston's business district. It's fun spending time with them. I am looking forward to seeing what happens in Scones and Bones!
January 23, 2020
Another good book. On to the next....
Set in Charleston, S.C., Childs's tepid 11th tea-themed puzzler (after 2009's Oolong Dead ) offers an elegant heroine in her 30s who some readers may feel too often acts like an old lady. One rainy March evening, while walking along a cobblestone alley, Theodosia Browning, the proprietor of the Indigo Tea Shop, spots Daria Shand, her good friend and owner of a neighboring shop, in a “nasty struggle” with an unknown assailant. The attacker flees at Theodosia's approach, leaving Daria dead in the alley. A minty fragrance Theodosia detects at the crime scene may provide a useful clue in her informal murder investigation. Childs supplies plenty of touristy asides as well as savory details about teas and gourmet goodies, if at the expense of the action. The continuing animosity between police detective Burt Tidwell and Theodosia adds some tension, but the mystery never quite catches fire as it simmers to a close.
Set in Charleston, S.C., Childs's tepid 11th tea-themed puzzler (after 2009's Oolong Dead ) offers an elegant heroine in her 30s who some readers may feel too often acts like an old lady. One rainy March evening, while walking along a cobblestone alley, Theodosia Browning, the proprietor of the Indigo Tea Shop, spots Daria Shand, her good friend and owner of a neighboring shop, in a “nasty struggle” with an unknown assailant. The attacker flees at Theodosia's approach, leaving Daria dead in the alley. A minty fragrance Theodosia detects at the crime scene may provide a useful clue in her informal murder investigation. Childs supplies plenty of touristy asides as well as savory details about teas and gourmet goodies, if at the expense of the action. The continuing animosity between police detective Burt Tidwell and Theodosia adds some tension, but the mystery never quite catches fire as it simmers to a close.
July 30, 2022
I've read other books in this series and am going back to read ones I missed along the way. I was surprised to find out teaberry contains mint (among other things). I kind of wished the author would have made more of an effort to tie Teaberry into the story rather than just making it a scent that Theodosia thought she smelled in the alley, a candle scent, and a tea that Drayton orders only after Theodosia mentions it. They don't even serve the tea to anyone at the tea shop as best I can tell.
The tea sniffers sound interesting. I think I would like to hear Drayton talk about teas and recommend a tea or two.
I'm over the Jory Davis/Theodosia Browning love interest. I hope Childs lets them move on from it. I sort of agree with another reviewer that the ancillary characters didn't seem as well developed as they were in some other books and there were some plot points that didn't really contribute to the overall story/mystery.
The tea sniffers sound interesting. I think I would like to hear Drayton talk about teas and recommend a tea or two.
I'm over the Jory Davis/Theodosia Browning love interest. I hope Childs lets them move on from it. I sort of agree with another reviewer that the ancillary characters didn't seem as well developed as they were in some other books and there were some plot points that didn't really contribute to the overall story/mystery.
December 19, 2017
I was happy to continue on my journey with Theo, Drayton and Haley in their tea shop. Theo happened to witness a murder, but was she the one the killer intended to hurt. The person who was killed just happens to be a friend of Theo's so she is hot on the trail to figure out what happened. There were a few suspects I had in mind but the author likes to give you some twists and make you second guess yourself. Two of my favorite characters are Theo and Drayton. I love the way Drayton talks about teas, educates you, and tells about his ideas for tea parties. Haley was a little more subdued this time which was fine by me, but Delanie made up for it and was her good 'ol annoying self. I did miss hearing about Theo's boyfriend and hope he appears in the next book. I am of course looking forward to the next book in this series.
June 2, 2023
The Teaberry Strangler is the eleventh book in Laura Childs' "A Tea Shop Mystery" series. Proprietor Theodosia Browning witnesses the murder of her friend in a dark alley, which causes her to get involved in solving the crime.
This book never came together for me. The new characters weren't well-developed, and the storylines seemed superficial. There were several incidents that occurred that the author never explained (why or what significance they had related to the crime). While I generally enjoy the detailed descriptions of food and beverages included in many cozy mysteries, this book seemed to be more about describing the minutiae of the tea shop than developing any investigation.
This is not Childs' best book in the series, and I would mainly recommend it to readers who plan to complete the entire series.
This book never came together for me. The new characters weren't well-developed, and the storylines seemed superficial. There were several incidents that occurred that the author never explained (why or what significance they had related to the crime). While I generally enjoy the detailed descriptions of food and beverages included in many cozy mysteries, this book seemed to be more about describing the minutiae of the tea shop than developing any investigation.
This is not Childs' best book in the series, and I would mainly recommend it to readers who plan to complete the entire series.
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