Murder is brewing at Charleton House. And the café manager has a knack for more than just coffee.
The annual Charleton House Food Festival should be a celebration of flavors, gardens, and genteel chaos. But when a gentle giant of a young man is found dead among the scones and centerpieces, café manager Sophie Lockwood is served a steaming cup of murder.
Nestled in the picturesque Derbyshire countryside, Charleton House may be steeped in elegance and history—but it’s also hiding secrets. First, there’s the curious theft of a nearly worthless family heirloom. Then there’s the victim—charming, kind-hearted, and with no known enemies.
Armed with curiosity, caffeine, and a talent for gentle snooping, Sophie enlists the help of her eccentric coworkers, a flirtatious tour guide named Mark, and a few well-timed chocolate croissants for Detective Constable Joe Greene. But just as she’s closing in on a suspect, a trail of coffee beans leads to a twist that no one saw coming.
Death by Dark Roast is Book 1 in the Charleton House Mysteries—a warm, witty British cozy mystery series perfect for fans of Agatha Raisin, The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, and anyone who prefers their sleuthing served with a splash of charm and a domineering tabby cat.
“A brilliant beginning to a series I will read every word of.”
“The perfect blend of stately home glamour, irresistible mystery, and bottomless coffee.”
No gore. No swearing. Just pure cozy delight.
Written in British English. Can be read as a standalone, but why stop at one?
