Death by Darjeeling by Laura Childs is a 2001 Berkley publication.

I’ve had my eye on this series for ages and am happy to finally get around to reading this first book in the series.

Though this book is over twenty years old it stands the test of time in all the ways that really matter. Yes, there is a lack of technology, we take for granted today and the use of some older methods of communication, etc., but the dialogue, plot, characterizations, and charm, are all perfectly fine, making this a very engaging mystery.

Over the past few years, I have grown to love my afternoon tea. I have enjoyed getting to know all about the varieties and the health benefits involved. There is nothing more calming and comforting than curling up with my kitties and nice cup of warm tea and my kindle, so naturally, I found premise of this series right up my alley.

Not only that, I found that, as opposed to many other 'first in a series' cozies, there was nothing awkward about it because introducing the basic characters and premise felt effortless. I felt right at home with the characters right away and found the mystery interesting enough I had to force myself not to finish the book in one sitting.

I’m really looking forward to seeing this series develop. Yes, I have started yet another long-running cozy series, but I just love being able to pull one out when the mood strikes, catching up with the characters while enjoying a good whodunit.

Win Win!

4 stars ( )

I was initially feeling this book, but the story picked up about halfway through and I was hooked. I was charmed by the idea of mysteries centered around a tea shop in a pretty Southern city, and this novel definitely leverages its setting. I wasn't intending to continue this series, but I might just need to replenish my tea collection and settle in for the next one. ( )

In Charleston, South Carolina, Theodosia Browning purchased the Indigo Tea Shop leaving behind the grueling and stressful world of an advertising agency for the pleasure of sharing the comforts of tea. On the night of the Lamplighter Tour sponsored by the Heritage Society, a new board member moments earlier conversing and enjoying the evening with a cup of tea dies, and suspicion looms over Theo’s occasional employee.

I enjoyed this delightful cozy fusion of southern hospitality, a historical city, a historical society, gossip and rumors, and the fascinating information about tea acquired locally and from around the world, from the natural differences to creating new blends and preparations for serving. I also loved the canine named Earl Grey.

It’s a lovely armchair travel visit to Charleston and all who enjoy a comforting cup of tea while reading with extra pleasure for tea connoisseurs. The larger staff of this tea shop enabled a wider range of business possibilities. As Theo also welcomes new ideas from her team, I look forward to reading more of the series to learn which opportunities come to fruition.

Reviewer’s Note: Gerry Schmitt writes the Afton Tangler Thrillers and, using the pseudonym Laura Childs writes the Tea Shop Mysteries, the Scrapbook Mysteries, and the Cackleberry Club Mysteries. ( )

I loved the lead, but the writer's head-hopping drove me crazy. ( )

It was okay, but not really my cup of tea when it comes to stories. I probably won't finish the series. ( )