I’m so happy to feature a review of Steamed Secrets by Tonya Kappes – southern hospitality with a smidgen of homicide! This is book 16 in the Killer Coffee Mysteries, but don’t worry if you’re just joining in. This entry works wonderfully as a standalone read. 

209 pages, Kindle Edition

Publication Date: January 26, 2025

“Welcome to Honey Springs, where the gossip flows as smoothly as the coffee—and murder is the latest buzz. Perfect for fans of small-town cozies, sweet romance, and a dash of southern sass, Steamed Secrets will keep you turning pages faster than Roxy can serve up her famous lattes.”

Roxy Bloom is loving her life as a barista in her charming hometown of Honey Springs, and she’s so surprised and excited to see her former college roommate, Vanessa Hartman, in town. Vanessa is a model and is in town for a shoot. As good as it is to visit with Vanessa, Roxy feels like Vanessa is holding something back. Before Roxy can discover what’s going on, Vanessa is murdered. Roxy is determined to uncover the truth and serve justice in Vanessa’s memory. 

What a page-turning mystery that I read in a day and a half. I adore Roxy as a main character – she’s determined and brave and fiercely loyal to her friends and loved ones. I thought I had the mystery all figured out, but the twists just kept coming, and I found myself quickly turning pages so I could find the true culprit. I could easily visualize the murder board in the back of the cafe, and I thoroughly enjoyed watching Roxy put all the pieces together. Of course no spoilers here, but the ending is pretty jaw-dropping!

The story is full of wonderful side-characters as well, both human and animal! I wished I could reach through the pages to pet Roxy’s rescue pup Pepper. Although Clyde the squawking parrot up for adoption came in a close second to favorite characters. He sure had me chuckling at times! 

As always with Tonya’s writing, it’s the cozy details in addition to the marvelous mysteries that I just adore. I could easily picture the town, the cafe and each character. The vivid descriptions made me feel like I was right there with Roxy. I could easily sink into the story and place, which makes for a most wonderful bookish escape. 

Highly recommend this delightful, five star Southern cozy mystery!