Plum Tea Crazy (A Tea Shop Mystery)

These books are becoming boring. Drayton is a Luddite, Timothy is a grump, Delaine is a drama queen, Theo gets involved in a murder investigation, goes home occasionally and talks to her dog, the fat detective stops by and scarfs down tea and baked goods, the tea shop hosts a couple of special events, blah blah blah. And if one more person used the phrase “Say, now” I was going to scream. I’m done with this series.

I have read every one of these tea shop mysteries and have generally found them to be a fun, quick, enjoyable read, especially since I enjoy tea. However, the last few books in this series, I have enjoyed less and less. The characters are becoming dull and kind of redundant. Also the main character seems to be becoming more pushy, rude and out-landish. The plots are becoming more ridiculous, like the author really has to stretch to come up with something new and intersting. Maybe I've just grown tired of it all after reading every book. But, I think after so many books in a series, at some point it's time to move on to something entirely new.

I have been reading on this book for quite some time. I pre-ordered this and so I got it right about the time it was published. Although it started off with a bang (a rather gruesome death), It just slowed down for me and I lost interest. I was bound and determination to finish it and glad that I did. The last few chapters were the best as the pace picked up and the conclusion was exciting. Usually I love these books but this was just did not do it for me.

I honestly have to say that I am having a hard time plowing through this book. The dialogue is choppy, not natural at all. The expressions used by the characters are not credible: Who says, "Holy Buckets" or "Holy sweet potatoes"? Absolutely cringe-worthy. What I really can't stand however is the overuse of similes - a minimum of 2-3 on EVERY PAGE. It became so distracting that I had trouble following the story. Even an amateur writer knows that these literary devices should be used sparingly. I used to enjoy the Tea Shop mysteries, but the writing has deteriorated to the point where the reading and enjoyment of it suffers.

As other reviewers have noted, the mystery and Charleston setting are interesting and well written. However, Theodosia, the lead character, has become downright unlikeable over the last few books; unpleasant, obnoxiously know it all with a bit of a nasty streak. I've started skimming over parts where she is screeching at whomever she decides is top of her list.Oh, and for the author. In earlier books Drayton was previously a director at a large hotel, but in this book it says he came to the tea shop after being on faculty at Johnson and Wales. His character is written as if he is in his late 70's/80ish so I'm always surprised when his age is stated as mid to late 60's.I'll likely continue to read the series but if Theo continues in the current vein probably will not enjoy it much and will hope she ends up arrested and another character taking up the detective stuff.

This story left much to be desired. The cat fight scene was ridiculous, and very unrealistic,. There needed some wrap up at the end to kind of give CLOSURE to a few things. Disappointed that we didn't get to find out if Alexis was the mystery woman. A lot of unanswered questions, and poor Aunt Libby. This was the silliest story in the series

Since I love the added information relating to Tea, the series to a total winner. I hungrily read each in series and attempt to read in sequential pattern but not necessary . Characters get to be old acquaintances if not killed off. fun cozy read with cup of tea

Theodosa, Drayton, and Haley working together like a well oiled team bring this episode to an exciting conclusion.Laura Childs certainly knows her tea and Charleston. She Skillfully integrated ancient weapons into the plot. Intriguing, and fun!

Another fantastic read by Ms. Childs. It started with a bang and it kept it up all the way till the end!!! When is the next one coming out?? Strongly recommend!!!!

Love this series of books, can't get enough of them.

Mom loves her new discovery of books by Laura Childs! Sure to be buying more!

Wonderful as always