Steeped to Death: A Witches’ Brew Mystery

Newly divorced Phoebe Winchester, the narrator of Rue’s sprightly debut and series launch, moves from Seattle to Raven Creek, Wash., after inheriting a Victorian mansion from her late Auntie Eudora, who was rumored to have been a witch. Eudora also left Phoebe a cat, Bob, and the Earl’s Study, a bookstore/tearoom, which Phoebe endeavors to learn how to run as she tries to fit into small-town life. Her troubles begin when a dead man, later identified as Carl “Ox” Bullock, turns up on the backstep of the Earl’s Study. Was Carl, who had a criminal past, trying to break in? One murder suspect is Deirdre Miller, an alarmingly aggressive local who insists that Phoebe sell her Eudora’s house and business. Another suspect is PI Rich Lofting, a childhood friend Phoebe hasn’t seen in years, but with whom she was once close. Meanwhile, in seeking to learn more about her aunt, Phoebe discovers that Eudora really was a witch and that she herself may have magical powers, which could help her solve a murder and prevent her own. A lovable cat, plenty of tea, enticing recipes, and more are sure to please cozy fans. Rue is off to a good start. (Sept.)