by Laura Childs
Part of Tea Shop Mystery, book 7
First published 2006
Theodosia Browning runs the Indigo Tea Shop in Charleston, and she's catering a fundraising concert for socialite Delaine Dish. The event aims to restore a crumbling Victorian house through an elegant evening of music and refreshments. Theo prepares an elaborate spread of tea and treats for the well-heeled guests. The concert takes a deadly turn when retired CEO Duke Wilkes collapses with a sharp metal object buried in his neck. His widow approaches Theo directly, pleading with her to investigate the murder. Theo agrees to help and begins digging into the victim's background. Her search uncovers a web of corrupt political dealings and bitter personal grudges. Multiple suspects emerge as Theo learns about Duke's business enemies and political rivals. The investigation grows more dangerous as Theo gets closer to the truth. She must navigate Charleston's social circles while dodging threats from the killer.
Genres: mystery, contemporary-romance, cozy-mystery, amateur-sleuth
Vibes: cozy, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: amateur-sleuth, found-family
Setting: Charleston
Period: Contemporary
304 pages · Hardcover · Berkley Hardcover