Book Review: Gunpowder Green

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Gunpowder Green     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Laura Childs
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Amateur Sleuth   Cozy   Woman Main Character
Series: Theodosia # 2
Berkley, Mar 2002, $5.99, 256 pp.

Though Charleston's Indigo Tea Shop normally never caters a party, proprietor Theodosia Browning makes an exception for the annual Isles of Palm Yacht Race. She and her crack staff of two even make a new tea, GUNPOWDER GREEN, for the "Tea by the Sea" event. The gala is going quite well though Theodosia observes an argument between upper crust Oliver Dixon and Fred Cantrell. Not long afterward, Oliver fires the finishing line gun, but it misfires exploding in his face leaving him dead.

Everyone including police detective Burt Tidwell believes an unfortunate accident has occurred. That is everyone except Theodosia who feels someone pulled off a clever homicide by disguising it as one of those misfortunate events that happen in life. Unable to leave it alone, Theodosia begins making inquiries that places her in danger.

The latest Indigo Tea Shop mystery, GUNPOWDER GREEN, is an engaging cozy that sub-genre fans will want to read along with a spot of their favorite beverage, preferably green tea. The story line engages the audience from the start though why the heroine insists murder occurred against the overwhelming evidence seems inane on Theodosia's part. Fans will enjoy the antics of Theodosia and her employees as they put their personal spin on the perils and delights of tea flavored boiling water. Laura Childs provides the right combination between tidbits on tea and an amateur sleuth cozy that will send readers seeking a cup of DEATH BY DARJEELING, the series previous novel.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner