This and That with Karen : Death by a Thousand Sips by Gretchen Rue

Sep 8, 2023

Death by a Thousand Sips by Gretchen Rue

Hello my cozy friends,

Today I am reviewing “Death by a Thousand Sips” by Gretchen Rue the 2nd instalment in the "A Witches Brew Mystery" series. I loved this book and totally added the series to my favourite witchy list!

Phoebe Winchester is back on the case in Raven Creek when a body is discovered at an estate sale in Gretchen Rue’s second book in the Witches’ Brew mystery series, perfect for fans of Laura Childs and Cleo Coyle.

Ever since she moved to Raven Creek, Washington, Phoebe Winchester knew she would have to grow accustomed to having a lot on her plate. She’s beginning to make the Victorian manor she inherited from her dear and adventurous Aunt Eudora feel more like home, successfully running the bookstore and tea shop, The Earl’s Study, and learning to harness her recently discovered magical powers. But when she discovers a dead body at an estate sale—even Phoebe wonders if this is simply too much.

Rumors of Phoebe’s involvement force her to take action; she needs to find the killer and clear her own name, once again. She enlists Rich Lofting, the handsome private detective and her childhood friend, in her investigation, all while she sorts out her unresolved feelings for him. Is there something more sinister lurking in the shadows of this small tight-knit town? And does Phoebe really want to find out?

With a dash of magic, a pinch of sleuthing skills, and a spoonful of friendly assistance, Phoebe needs to uncover the killer to keep Raven Creek safe once again. But if she doesn’t—will she find herself in even more hot water?

I liked going back to Raven Creek, Washington and visiting with Phoebe and Bob at the Earl’s Study.

We start to get a better understanding of Phoebe and her inheritance with all it entails. She has a good core group of friends as well as a possible romance in the works. I really like her idea of having a cat shelter located in the book store for older cats that have been in shelters to long.

It was entertaining, full of twists and turns and I didn’t completely guess whodunnit until Phoebe did.

Plus all the descriptions of the teas had me wanting a hot cup of tea or an ice tea and one of Phoebe’s sourdough toasts (luckily there are recipes in the the back of the book)

I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends and I can’t wait for book 3 to come out!