This is another well plotted suspenseful mystery in the Tea Shop series. The pace is brisk, from the first chapter in which the body of the murdered antique store owner is found, until the murdered is unmasked at the end. There are many red herrings in the main plot, and along the way there are "sidebars" about sea turtles and therapy dogs. Of course, there is the usual tea lore (and recipes). It's an easy read.
The obtuse Detective Tidwell is joined by Detective Hudson for a brief appearance. Hudson adds nothing to the story-telling and one wonders why he is included. Delaine, Theo's best friend, has a kleptomanic sister visit her and play a part in the solution of the mystery. The other continuing tea shop characters (Drayton and Haley) play their usual supporting roles.
"The English Breakfast Murder " is better than the previous one in the series (Shades of Earl Grey). Perhaps the future ones in the series will continue this trend toward improvement. ( )

Very much enjoyed this book! So many varieties of tea mentioned, all without restricting the flow of the plot, and even has a few recipes in the back as well. Very much a book that leaves you inspired to try new things in your life, including volunteering in your community. I found the description of helping baby turtles reach the ocean so that predators won't get to them so sweet.

My only complaint has to do with the fictional character of the detective Tidwell. There's no need for the man to be quite this obtuse, nor this unhelpful. Indeed, it's rather amazing the crime was solved at all, and could've been solved much sooner with his help. ( )

Theodosia Browning runs a tea shop in Charleston, SC., offering exotic teas and delicious pastries, and also caters. There is a good deal of lore about types of teas and tea-drinking, which I found fascinating. Theodosia also becomes involved in a lot of Charleston events, from boat races to saving hatching turtles. I have read some controversy about the accuracy of her portrayal of Charleston. As a tourist, I found it very evocative, but I leave more definitive discussions to people who know what they are talking about.

The mysteries are generally competent and enjoyable. I stopped reading them because my tolerance for Upper Upper Class people is obviously much less than Laura Childs. I also found the adoration of Browning by her employees a bit cloying. It's gret to be happy at one's job, but at this rate Theodosia will be walking on water. ( )

Why hadn't I read one of Laura Child's tea books yet?
1) local libraries never had one.
2) reviews in my first tea group have been mainly thumbs down.
So when I spotted a paperback copy at one bookseller, I bought it.
Well, put it on english not being my mother tongue - oops, my first language, and my limited tea knowledge, but I am thoroughly enjoying my reading. Tea in nearly every page, tea room atmosphere from the staff view more than patrons - I like to peer at backstage. I don't look for errors, I don't fear the plot could be too thin. I just relish the names (in my head, Theodosia begins with thé), the characters, the business details of a 21st century American tea room in a historical southern town.
Note to self: don't trust a book review again.
KH 2007.05.26