Timothy's grandniece is murdered, apparently for a theft of her antique yellow diamond set. He asks Theo and her friends to look into it, despite the fact that her boyfriend, Detective Riley, was wounded while investigating. I knew the murderer from pretty much the beginning, but it was still a fun read.
I really enjoy this series - esp. the setting in Charleston, SC and the descriptions of the area and it's culture. While attending a Haunted Mansion shortly before Halloween, Theodosia and Drayton chat with a friend's niece during her book signing. Shortly after, they are witnesses to the horrific sight of the author hanging from an upper window of the mansion. Add to that, Theo's detective boyfriend, Riley, being shot in the investigation, Theo is out to solve the murder. I found Theo, in this book, to be a bit too abrupt/abrasive/rude than in previous installments - I'm hoping this is not the path for her character going forward. Enjoyable cozy!
Haunted Hibiscus by Laura Childs is the 13th A Tea Sop Mystery. It can be read as a standalone for those who are new to the series or have missed a book or two. I look forward to reading the latest Tea Shop Mystery each year. This first cozy mystery that I read was Death by Darjeeling and I have been hooked on cozy mysteries since then. Theodosia Browning is back with Drayton and Haley for a new adventure. The Heritage Society inherited the Bouchard house and has turned it into a literary-and-history inspired haunted house. Theodosia and Drayton are attending the opening night when a scream rings out. Willow French, author and Timothy Neville's niece, is hanging from a rope out of third story window. Theodosia quickly calls Detective Pete Riley who arrives with Detective Tidwell. Pete gets dispatched to the victim's apartment where he is shot. Theodosia is determined to uncover the identity of the guilty party. I thought Haunted Hibiscus was well-written with developed, engaging characters and a beautiful setting. I look forward to catching up with Theodosia, Drayton, Haley, and Earl Grey with each new book. The author captures Charleston, South Carolina with her vivid descriptions. I was drawn into Haunted Hibiscus from the very first page. The mystery was intriguing. There are several viable suspects. Any one of them could have committed the crime. I enjoyed the subtle clues. You must pay close attention if you are going to catch them and see how they relate to the whodunit (if you want to solve the crime). There is action that keeps things suspenseful plus helps propel the book forward toward the delightful conclusion. There were some fascinating revelations as well as a little twist (or two). There is humor mixed into the story as well. There are mouthwatering food descriptions as well as tasty teas. I liked learning more about the tea blends that Drayton serves and unique information about tea trays. I did not want Haunted Hibiscus to end. I am looking forward to reading Twisted Tea Christmas in October. Haunted Hibiscus is a charming Southern cozy mystery with tasty teas, haunted happenings, an energetic Earl Grey, a wounded detective, a tenacious Tidwell, curious clues, and a haunted house.
