Book Review: Death by Spiced Chai by Alex Erickson

In a small town like Pine Hills, reputation counts for a lot. And for reasons that Krissy Hancock can’t figure out, someone is trashing hers. Cockroaches in the bookstore’s coffee, spiteful reviews, vandalism—Krissy is being framed for every bit of bad news around. Her boyfriend, local cop Paul Dalton, is on the case, but before they can source t[he saboteur, Krissy is in the frame for murder, too.

The murder weapon was a teapot full of Krissy’s favorite spiced chai, and all the local gossips are spilling the tea about her supposed involvement. But the real culprit has a grudge that’s been simmering for years. And unless Krissy can uncover the truth before the killer’s rage boils over again, it won’t just be her business in hot water—her life will be on the line too . . .[summary via Amazon]

It's time for another adventure in Pine Hills! Everything is going great for our resident bookstore owner and part-time sleuth, Krissy Hancock. That is until someone starts targeting her... cockroaches in her shop, vandalism and then framing her for murder. Who could really hate Krissy that much?

I really love this series. Bookstore, caffeine and cats... my three favourite things! Add in an enjoyable mystery and I'm ready for a good afternoon of reading! This time the mystery is centred around Krissy and someone is definitely out to get her. Death by Spiced Chai was definitely "spicier" as Krissy and Paul try to determine who is out to frame Krissy. This is a fast-paced mystery, that will have Krissy and the reader re-visiting older cases, trying to pick up all the clues.

This is one of my favourite series and I enjoyed this latest instalment. It is a little edgier than the previous books, but very much a good read. If you are new to the series, I recommend starting with the first book, Death by Coffee, as like a good cup of coffee, once you've had one you're going to need more, more, more!

Book Review: Death by Espresso by Alex Erickson

Krissy is meeting Vicki’s parents at the Pine Hills, Ohio, airport—it’s the least she can do as maid of honor, even if her relationship with Mr. and Mrs. Patterson is a bit strained. Besides, her own dad is coming in on the same flight. But there are a few additional arrivals, too. Her father’s brought a date—and the Pattersons, both actors, seem to have an entire entourage trailing behind them.

Uninvited guests are a headache—especially when one turns out to be, allegedly at least, the most important wedding planner in all the world. Though Vicki and Krissy have already made arrangements for a small, simple party, Vicki’s snobby drama queen mother has her own ideas. Cathy the wedding planner is raring to go, possibly energized by the chocolate-covered espresso beans she compulsively munches. But while the caffeine keeps her awake, it doesn’t keep her alive—and after Cathy chokes on an espresso bean after being hit in the head, Krissy has to find out who ended her supposedly stellar career . . .[summary via Amazon]

THEME: Bookstore "Death by Coffee"

CRIME:  Vicki and Mason are getting married, and everyone is invited! Her parents take this literally when they invite a wedding planner to "spruce" up Vicki's wedding. However, before the big day the wedding planner, Cathy Carr, is found dead. 

DENOUEMENT: Wow! I didn't guess the murderer at all! I wasn't even close. There are a lot of out-of-town guests visiting Pine Hills, and it really thew me off trying to guess!! I loved the atmosphere of gathering all the suspects for the final denouement. Very Agatha Christie!

FURRY SIDEKICK: Trouble and Misfit are so adorable, and so much trouble!! Krissy's dad's in town, with his new girlfriend, Laura, and I love how Trouble takes a shine to Laura!!

ROMANCE: Are Krissy and Will on the outs? I sure hope so! Of course I'm #TeamPaul and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book.

MY VERDICT: Love! I'm thoroughly addicted to this series and I can't wait for more adventures at Death by Coffee. 

Book Review: Death by Eggnog by Alex Erickson

Krissy Hancock is staying in her adopted hometown of Pine Hills, Ohio, for Christmas this year—and she even has a whole week off from her combination bookstore-café. But a killer is about to dampen her spirits . . .

Unfortunately, Krissy’s been roped into filling in for a sick elf in the local holiday musical extravaganza. With a demanding director, backstage gossip, and two men in fierce competition for the starring role, it isn’t all sweetness and Christmas lights. Then a murder puts a stop to the production, and Krissy is faced with a pageant of suspects.

Could her ex-boyfriend, a fellow elf, really be the culprit as the police are claiming? Or will the actor playing Santa be trading his red suit for an orange jumpsuit? When her behind-the-scenes investigation starts getting dangerous, the only thing Krissy really wants is to make it to Christmas dinner alive. But first she’ll have to finish wrapping up this case . . .[summary via Amazon]

This year, I've become really hooked on the Bookstore Cafe Mysteries by Alex Erickson. I've been reading them in quick succession and have been looking forward to every new adventure with Krissy, her mischievous cat, Misfit, and her bookstore, Death by Coffee.

In Death by Eggnog it is the Christmas season and Krissy is staying in Pine Hills, while her father goes on a holiday with his new girlfriend. Krissy gets roped into taking part in a Christmas play, and murder and mayhem ensue when her ex-boyfriend is fingered for the murder of Mr Claus. 

I love how Krissy throws herself into everything she does, including murder investigations!!! This time it is Mr Claus that is found dead, and she's doing everything she can to save Christmas!! It was fun watching her try to be part of a musical and solve a crime!

The crime itself was interesting. Mr Claus aka Chuck is a very unlikable person, and it seems Krissy has her pick of suspects to go through. The suspects are related to the play, and there is a lot of drama as Krissy digs through trying to find the killer. The mystery kept me on the edge of my seat, as I was trying to figure out who the killer was, and I didn't manage to before Krissy.

Okay so let's chat Krissy... and her love life. As most readers of my blog know, I love the relationship elements. Krissy is with Will, the doctor. He's cute, sexy and... not right for her! (in my opinion) She has a past with Detective Paul, and I'm hoping things work out between them! Yes I'm #TeamPaul. I absolutely can't wait for the next book (already bought and on my nightstand, waiting to start) and to see how her life unfolds.

If you haven't already check out the Bookstore Cafe mysteries. You won't be disappointed!!

Book Review: Death by Vanilla Latte by Alex Erickson

Ever since café owner Krissy Hancock settled into a relationship and—mostly—forgot about old flames, life has become surprisingly serene. Too bad her father, famed mystery writer James Hancock, had to pay an unexpected visit to Death by Coffee and brew up a batch of trouble...

While caught off-guard by her dad’s presence, Krissy never dreamed he’d become the biggest murder suspect in town. But that’s exactly what happens when James’s boorish agent—a man he allegedly fired just hours earlier—is found cold and lifeless, a still-warm vanilla latte resting by his hand...

With Pine Hills divided over her father’s innocence and a fanatical fan keen on locking the author away for safe keeping, Krissy must end the madness and identify the real criminal—even if that means meeting an ex or two along the way. But as her social life becomes increasingly chaotic, Krissy may be caught in a case that’s far too hot to handle...[summary via Amazon]

It's time for a visit to Pine Hills favourite bookstore cafe, Death by Chocolate!

Krissy Hancock is surprised when her dad comes to visit Death by Coffee for a book signing. James Hancock brings along his agent, Rick Wiseman, who everyone seems to dislike - especially Krissy. When Rick turns up dead, Krissy will need to join forces with her dad to solve a real life mystery and find a killer!

I loved the pairing of Krissy and her dad as a detective duo. James Hancock writes detective fiction and this time he gets to do some real life detecting! They both seem to really enjoy the hunt for the killer, and all the (mis)adventures that go with it!!!

I liked the mystery. Rick was really unlikable, especially with the aspiring writers of Pine Hills. There were a lot of suspects, and when the final denouement came down I wasn't able to guess the killer before Krissy. I love when I get stumped by the mystery!!

Death by Vanilla Latte was another enjoyable visit with Krissy and her cat Misfit! I'm absolutely addicted to their adventures and I can't wait for the next book.

Book Review: Death by Pumpkin Spice by Alex Erickson

Bookstore café owner Krissy Hancock would rather spend Halloween serving pumpkin goodies than wearing costumes with Pine Hills’ wealthiest at Yarborough mansion, especially when the soiree shapes up to be more trick than treat . . .

As if a run-in with an old flame and a failed marriage proposal weren’t enough to horrify Krissy for one night, a woman is found strangled to death in a room filled with ominous jack-o’-lanterns. All signs suggest a crime of passion—but when the hostess’s jewelry disappears, malevolent intentions seem way more likely . . .

With the estate on lockdown and a killer roaming the halls, Krissy must help Officer Paul Dalton investigate each nook, cranny, and guest for answers—while also confronting a few demons of her own. Someone has lots of skeletons in the closet, and Krissy better tread lightly to expose them . .[summary via Amazon]

The Bookstore Cafe mysteries have been my latest addiction. In a world of hundreds of cozy mysteries to choose from, I just can't get enough of the antics of Krissy Hancock, her cat, Misfit, and the residents of Pine Hills.

Krissy has been invited to attend an exclusive Halloween party at the Yarborough mansion, with cute doctor, Will. However what starts out as a treat, turns into tricks when one of the guests turns up dead. As Krissy investigates, with the help of Officer Paul Dalton, she finds that there are some skeletons that might want to stay in the closet!

Oh my! I am completely wowed by Death by Pumpkin Spice. This is a "locked mansion" story, and was very reminiscent of an Agatha Christie mystery. Krissy is at a Halloween party "the mansion" and due to weather no-one can leave. The party-goers are literally locked in the mansion with a killer, and Krissy and Paul have to solve the mystery before someone else gets killed! I love the concept of a locked room mystery, and I love how well Alex Erickson executed this concept to suit this series.

Krissy's love life heats up in Death by Pumpkin Spice. There is her date to the party, Will, who is perfectly charming and adorable. However, it seems like Krissy has lingering feelings for Officer Dalton. To make this even more interesting, her ex, Robert, is back on the scene. With so many men in the picture the next few books are bound to be very interesting!!

I can't get enough of this series and I've already bought the next few books! I can't wait to dig into the next book and see what the residents of Pine Hills are up to next!

Book Review: Death by Tea by Alex Erickson

Just before two dueling book clubs are set to square off at Death by Coffee, one of the competitors turns up dead—bludgeoned with the silver teapot that was to serve as the prize. Suspicion immediately falls on Krissy, who was seen skulking around town in dark clothes on the night of the murder.

To clear her name and find the real killer, Krissy turns to an old flame, Officer Paul Dalton. But even Paul can’t ignore the trail of evidence that seems to point in her direction. And with Krissy’s personal nemesis, Officer John Buchannan, working overtime to pin the murder on her, it will take an amazing feat of detective work to close the book for good on an elusive killer. . .[summary via Amazon]

I love books about books! Cozies set within a library or bookstore setting are my absolute favourite. I've read most of the series that feature a bookstore or library, and I'm so thrilled to have discovered another series that fits into this sub-category. Even better, there is a back-list for me to read!!! I was absolutely head over heels for Death by Coffee. So much so, that I picked up Death by Tea recently and couldn't put it down. 

In the second Bookstore Cafe Mystery, Krissy is hosting the annual book club competition. Whoever heard of a book club being a competition right? Well the competition between Pine Hills and Cherry Valley is very fierce, especially when the prize is a silver teapot. When one of the competitors turns up dead in her bookshop, Officer Buchanan is determined to pin the crime on Krissy. Can she find a killer before she ends up behind bars?

I love, love this series! It's not just that Pine Hills is oh so cozy, or that the mystery is so tangled, that I even have trouble solving it. It is both of those things, but it is also the fact that Krissy's life is such a hot mess!!! I love reading each adventure, watching as Krissy tries to solve the murder, stay out of jail and maybe try and get a date. Then there is Misift, her cat,.... who is determined to make her life a living hell! I just love the chaos!

I really liked the mystery. The murder victim is a visitor to Pine Hills, and as the reader learns more, we discover how hard it is to untangle the webs of the mystery. I didn't solve the crime before Krissy, despite guessing and changing my mind, every time one of "my suspects" was cleared. 

Death by Tea is a superb follow-up mystery to Death by Coffee. I absolutely loved it and I can't wait to read the next one. I'm looking forward to another visit to see what all the crazy characters in Pine Hills are going to get up to next. And, of course to see if Krissy will finally get a date!

Book Review: Death by Coffee by Alex Erickson

On their very first day of business, Brendon Lawyer huffily takes his coffee…to the grave. It seems he had a severe allergy to peanuts…but how could there have been nuts in his coffee? And who stole his emergency allergy medication?

Fortunately, Krissy’s love of puzzles and mysteries leads her not only to Officer Paul Dalton, but also to many of her new neighbors, who aren’t terribly upset that the book is closed on Brendon. But one of them is a killer, and Krissy needs to read between the lies if she wants to save her new store—and live to see how this story ends…[summary via Amazon]

I'm a huge fan of books within books, and cozy mysteries set in bookstores and libraries are my absolute favorite!! I've been eyeing up the Bookstore Cafe mysteries for a while, and I recently took the plunge with Death by Coffee! Let me say... I can't believe what I've been missing out on. If this first book is any indicator... this is my new favorite series!

Krissy has moved to Pine Hills to open a bookstore cafe, with her best friend, Vicki, called Death by Coffee. Bookstore and a cafe... that's a recipe for a quiet life right? Not for Krissy, when a customer dies on her first day... after drinking one of her coffees. It's up to Krissy to stick her nose where it doesn't belong and find a killer, before they have to close the bookstore cafe!

What I absolutely love about Krissy... is that she completely owns her desire to stick her nose where it doesn't belong. She acknowledges that she's just being nosy and really shouldn't be getting involved, but she does!! She's an amateur sleuth to look up to. While some others are hesitant about getting involved, she doesn't waiver. She steps right up to the plate and is determined to find a killer! And, she does just that in her first adventure.

If that's not enough, there is also her cat... "Misfit". Misfit is part of a pair of cats, his sibling is owned by Vicki, whose name is "Trouble". Misfit may be my new favorite cozy feline. He's incredibly naughty and I loved reading about his little adventures, causing trouble for Krissy at every turn. Don't worry Trouble also lives up to its name as well. Let's just say "domino bookshelves"!

I simply adored Death by Coffee. The main mystery was interesting and kept me enthralled. I also like that we just learn a little bit about other residents of Pine Hills, but not too much. Just enough to know that I'm going to be coming back for the next book to find out about everyone else. Krissy's father is a best-selling mystery author, and I'm looking forward to seeing how his involvement plays out in future stories.

If you're crazy for biblio mysteries I strongly recommend reading the Bookstore Cafe mysteries. Luckily for me, there are currently 7 books in the series and I plan to read them all as quickly as possible!