I’ve been reading cozy mysteries for so long that the cover artists have retired. Mary Ann Lasher was an outstanding cover artist, but Adrian DKC did an excellent job with Gretchen Rue’s latest mystery, Earl Grave Tea. Then, there’s what happens with some of my favorite series. Gretchen Rue evidently lost her publisher after the previous book in the series, The Grim Steeper. I’m just happy she self-published the new mystery.
Phoebe Winchester inherited her Aunt Eudora’s house and business in Raven Creek, Washington after her aunt’s death. Now, Phoebe is the owner of the tea shop/bookstore, The Earl’s Study, as well as Eudora’s cat, Bob. Phoebe has lived in Raven Creek for a year. She’s still adjusting to the knowledge she’s a witch, learning to use her magic. Eudora was a powerful one, but she’s not there to teach her niece to use the magic. However, Phoebe has made friends in the community, and found the man she loves, childhood friend turned PI, Rich Lofting.
It’s some of those friends who coerce her into trying out for the community play. The Seattle-based improv troupe, Something Wicked, will be in town for one night only, and they need some local talent. Phoebe knows she has none, but she’s dragged along with others. She’s already met the star, Naomi Novak, a comedic actress. She’s also met Naomi’s new fiance, Blaine Winchester, Phoebe’s ex-husband.
When Naomi doesn’t leave her dressing room for the first play practice, Phoebe goes to find her. She finds her dead. It’s the police who ask Amy Beaudry, owner of the bakeshop next door, to come in for questioning. Phoebe knows her best friend didn’t kill anyone. She suspects a cast member from Something Wicked might have a reason to want Naomi dead.
While Naomi asks a few questions, on behalf of the local police, she’s also on a treasure hunt set by Aunt Eudora. It takes help from a few friends to locate answers to the scavenger hunt left behind.
I hope Gretchen Rue continues this series. I like cozy mysteries with mature characters, bookshops, and cats. I also like to follow favorite characters into their future. I hope Earl Grave Tea continues to lead readers back to Raven Creek and The EArl’s Study.
Gretchen Rue’s website is https://www.sierradean.com/gretchenrue
Earl Grave Tea by Gretchen Rue. Gretchen Rue Books, 2025. 306p.
FTC Full Disclosure – I bought a copy of the book.
Lesa, I read the first in this series (Steeped to Death) two or three years ago because your review at the time made it sound so intriguing. I remember liking it, so have no idea why I didn’t continue with the series. Must have gotten sidetracked, so I shall now add at least the second book to my list and maybe I’ll catch up one day.
Lindy, I like this series. I read so many series, it’s easy to forget about some. You’re probably the same.
I always attracted to great covers. Wow! I have not read her before!
It is a great cover, isn’t it, Carol? I really enjoy this series.