Review - Death By a Thousand Sips

This is another new-to-me series and author.  It claims it is for fans of Laura Childs, Amanda Flowers, and Cleo Coyle which convinced me to give it a try.  This is the second book in the series and I had no problem jumping in without having read the first book.

Author: Gretchen Rue

Copyright: Sept 2023 (Crooked Lane Books) 312 pgs

Series: 2nd in Witches' Brew Mysteries

Sensuality: mild

Mystery Sub-genre: Cozy mystery, food amateur sleuth

Main Character: Phoebe Winchester, owner of The Earl’s Study tea and book shop

Setting: Modern day, small town Raven Creek, Washington

Obtained Through: Library 

Book Blurb: "Ever since she moved to Raven Creek, Washington, Phoebe Winchester knew she would have to grow accustomed to having a lot on her plate. She’s beginning to make the Victorian manor she inherited from her dear and adventurous Aunt Eudora feel more like home, successfully running the bookstore and tea shop, The Earl’s Study, and learning to harness her recently discovered magical powers. But when she discovers a dead body at an estate sale—even Phoebe wonders if this is simply too much.

Rumors of Phoebe’s involvement force her to take action; she needs to find the killer and clear her own name, once again. She enlists Rich Lofting, the handsome private detective and her childhood friend, in her investigation, all while she sorts out her unresolved feelings for him. Is there something more sinister lurking in the shadows of this small tight-knit town? And does Phoebe really want to find out?

With a dash of magic, a pinch of sleuthing skills, and a spoonful of friendly assistance, Phoebe needs to uncover the killer to keep Raven Creek safe once again. But if she doesn’t—will she find herself in even more hot water?" 

My thoughts:  I enjoyed the main character of Phoebe Winchester, she is down to earth and kind.  The romantic interest is Detective Rich Lofting who is becoming more prominent in Phoebe's life.  Plus Honey, a neighboring shop owner, who is mentoring Phoebe in her newly discovered witchy talents make a great core cast.  I must mention the chubby orange cat named Bob who seems a touch magical himself and steals several scenes.  

The mystery and plot were enjoyable and I read the book fairly quickly for me.  It had my favorite; a tense killer reveal with a bit of danger.  Additionally, I really appreciated Phoebe's quick thinking and level head in the killer reveal and showdown.  I do have to say I would have liked less detailed descriptions on the running of the tea shop and book store and more attention to more romantic elements, and witchy touches.  But even with that being said, I found this an enjoyable new series and author.

Rating:  Excellent - Enjoyed it! Buy it now and put this author on your watch list