Tea, Mystery and Charleston's Historic District

One of my favorites.

If you are an avid tea drinker, a mystery lover and hold a fondness for anything historic here is a series of books just for you.  While this series will never win the Nobel Prize for literature, they will bring many hours of enjoyment and suspense.  Laura Childs is the author of several specialized mystery series but I have only read the Tea Shop Mystery books.

Theodosia Browning is the owner of The Indigo Tea Shop in the historic district of Charleston.  What makes her really interesting is the she has a knack for getting involved in local crime investigations.  She is surrounded by a group of likable and caring friends including Detective Tidwell who tries to keep Theodosia out of trouble but doesn't really succeed.  My favorite character is Drayton, professional tea blender, history buff and man of class and breeding.

While mystery and history should be enough, there is tea.  I actually take notes as I read so that I can find the more elusive teas via internet shopping.  With tea you get fancy tea cups, tea cloths and tea towels.  Plus there are benefit events, centerpieces and decorations.  Then, there is food--scones, muffins, cookies, tea cakes and more hearty offerings with some recipes at the back of the book. 

There are currently twelve books in the series.  The next book, Agony of the Leaves, can be pre-ordered as it is due in March 2012.  These are quick enjoyable reads if you don't stop to try all the recipes before going to the next book.  Although these books can stand alone I would recommend beginning with the first, Death by Darjeeling.  Let's face it, you can try one, get hooked and read them all by March.