This is number eleven in a mystery series. Theodosia runs a tea and cakes shop in Charleston, giving it a southern flavour. I liked some of the early books such as Death by Darjeeling and Shades of Earl Grey, but we might wonder why this lady is such a murder magnet.Daria who owns the nearby map store is found strangled in the alley and possibly, someone mistook her for Thea. Alternatively the map store had been receiving attention from a potential buyer - and Daria had refused to sell. In tough economic times it's hard to see this being a genuine motive. There was also a rare map Daria had refused to sell to a suspicious buyer.Thea is hoping to buy a cottage near some woods and her dog Earl Grey digs up what looks like a human leg bone... but the police say even if it's so, that happens a lot as there is a lot of history in the area. Driving with a pet loose in the car is not recommended; Thea is in a crash and the dog gets thrown around. Pets should be in a crate or carrier. The Heritage Society predictably features but Thea has only her own sleuthing to blame for finding herself in danger at the end.Gingerbread scones stuffed with walnut and apple, and milky vanilla tea, are served up among other signature delights of this series, with several recipes including Hawaiian tea sandwiches. While I often wish foodie mysteries had healthier recipes, these are not too sugary and often include fruit and nuts. Kept me engrossed and love the descriptions of all the goodies and teas-- although must admit, I've not heard of many of the teas that were mentioned. Loved Charlestown when i was there many years ago and it sounds so fascinating in this book that I'd love to go back. Although I don't think Theo "solved" the mystery, it had a numbeer of interstsing twists and turns-- and the characters are delightful-- although some are pretty weird.
What do You think about The Teaberry Strangler (2010)?
Always a fun read with southern history and tea tidbits included.
—Sally
Enjoyable, cozy set around a tea shop in Charleston, SC.
—Ally
