I have to say that the mystery portion of the story was definitely better then in book 1, although if the author padded out the story a little more it would be better. At least the perpetrator was introduced during the narrative and didn't just arrive in the last scenes. I like the 2 main characters and am going to start on book 3 now. ( )

This book is the second one in the Cape Bay murder mystery series. I listened to the audiobook while out running, just as I did with the first one. Here, Francesca is still running Alexandra’s coffee shop, still dancing around the edges of romance with her old friend Matty, and still getting involved in mysteries that don’t concern her! In this book, while Franny is preoccupied with learning how to make a good cup of tea – after some English visitors to her coffee shop weren’t impressed with her efforts – she learns of a murder in town. It’s the second in as many months and is very unsettling to the residents of the sleepy little town.

The victim, Joe Davis, was murdered in the parking lot of Todd’s Gym, which is run by Franny’s school crush Todd Caruthers. The police think Todd is guilty, and Franny is determined to prove his innocence. However, Matt is not so sure that Todd didn’t do it. The two of them work together to solve the mystery, all while trying to navigate their own relationship…

I did enjoy this book. Marguerite Gavin does a good job of narrating the story, told in the first person by Franny, and I really like both Franny and Matt. I do think the editing could be a bit tighter – several times the same phrasing is used twice in a sentence, which is slightly grating, but nonetheless it’s undemanding fluff. A lot of time is given over to the running of the cafe, which I quite enjoyed, but if it’s a solid murder mystery that you’re looking for, then this might not be the book for you, as the murder is just one facet of the story rather than necessarily the main part. The only thing that annoyed me a bit is that – for reasons I can’t explain because it would mean providing spoilers – the reader/listener doesn’t really get a fair chance to solve the mystery. I believe it was Agatha Christie who said that she always wanted to give readers the fair chance to solve the mystery themselves if they just put the clues together; in this case, some very pertinent information was withheld. But as stated before, the murder is one of the focusses of this book, rather than the only focus, so that did not really detract too much.

If you like cozy murder mysteries, you might want to give this series a try. ( )

I received an advance copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this second installment in this new series from Harper Lin. The story is easy to follow, even if you haven't read the first book, but does allow the characters of Matt and Franny to progress. I really liked how Fran decides to expand her menu.

The characters are believable, the mystery is good and the story is light and fun.

I definitely recommend reading this book! ( )

The second offering in the Cape Bay Mysteries series continues the story of Francesca, Matteo, and Antonia's Italian Café. There is now a second murder and a reunion with Francesca's high school crush, Todd Caruthers.

I enjoyed this story. Matty seems to be jealous of Todd but we are not told why. Seems he likes Franny more than he says or acts upon. As sure as Franny is that Todd is innocent, Matty is not so sure. Can it be the insecurities and jealousies of high school are rearing their ugly heads? I had fun watching Matty counter every argument Franny comes up with on Todd's innocence.

Franny is also playing with adding tea to the menu. I liked her experimentation and methodical eye to detail whether on coffee, tea, or murder. I like how she is right in the middle of it all. This time though she manages not to anger Mike. The mystery was good. I was totally wrong about who the murderer was until Franny figured it out and explained it to Matty. I'll never be a detective.

I look forward to more lattes, caffes, and teas as this series continues. ( )

Tea, Tiramisu and Tough Guys by Harper Lin is a fun cozy mystery to read. It is the second book in the Cape Bay Cafe Mysteries. Francesca “Fran” Amaro owns Antonia’s Italian Café. She serves all types of coffees and some sweet treats. Thanks to a British customer, Fran is exploring adding tea drinks to the menu. Fran and Matt Cardosi have been spending more time together since Fran solved the murder of Matt’s father. Matt and Fran grew up together and are now neighbors. They are also exploring have a closer relationship (as a couple). Things are going along smoothly when the local gossip tells them that Joe Davis has been stabbed to death in the parking lot of Todd’s Gym. Joe is a few years younger than Fran, but her second in command, Sammy grew up with Joe. Turns out that the owner of Todd’s Gym was the guy Fran had a crush on in high school. His name is Todd Caruthers (typical sports jock). Fran decides to investigate the murder (she cannot help herself) despite warnings from Mike, the local police detective.

Todd turns out to be the main suspect, but Fran is sure he is innocent (based on two conversations). Matt tries to show Fran that Todd could be guilty based on the facts. This case puts Matt and Fran at odds with each other (I think Matt is jealous of Todd). Who really killed Joe Davis? Can Fran solve the case? What will happen to the budding relationship between Matt and Fran? You will have to read Tea, Tiramisu and Tough Guys to find out! I found this to be an enjoyable novel to read. It provided many laughs for me. I give Tea, Tiramisu and Tough Guys 4.25 out of 5 stars. My one problem is the person who committed the crime was not introduced until late in the book (and then it is obvious he committed the crime). My favorite part of a cozy mystery is solving the murder and I did not get the opportunity with this book. This book can easily be read without reading the first book in the series (I did).

I received a complimentary copy of Tea, Tiramisu and Tough Guys from the author in exchange for an honest review. The review and opinions expressed are my own. ( )