Cozy Mystery Book Review: Steamed Secrets

Steamed Secrets

Steamed Secrets is a cozy whodunit with a charming setting, entertaining characters, and a good mystery.

• Series: A Killer Coffee Cozy Mystery (Book 16)

• Written by: Tonya Kappes

• Publication date: January 26, 2025

• Mystery type: Cozy mystery

Bean Hive barista Roxy Bloom is thrilled that her glamorous friend Vanessa is visiting Honey Springs to model for a fancy photo shoot. But when Vanessa arrives, Roxy can tell right away that something isn’t right.

Vanessa looks troubled, has big secrets she isn’t too eager to share, and hints that her future may not be certain. Roxy doesn’t press her friend until trouble brews and a murder occurs.

When things heat up, Roxy stirs the pot and launches a caffeine-fueled investigation. She discovers that quite a few people in her cozy town have shocking secrets that they don’t want spilled. And a few of them even have a motive for murder.

I really liked Steamed Secrets and thought it was a treat to read! Author Tonya Kappes is a wonderful storyteller and has created a charming setting with an equally charming tight-knit cast of characters.

The story is set during the start of spring. There are bike rides, warm breezes, blooming flowers, and a spring festival. What’s not to love there!

The Bean Hive is just as cozy as ever with its atmospheric decor and tasty homemade treats. I would love to go there for a hot beverage and a honey bun!

Clyde the parrot is hanging out at the Bean Hive and providing plenty of comic relief and laugh out loud moments. When Clyde isn’t stealing the scene, local gal Loretta is around to fill in and add humor to the plot.

Roxy is a great amateur sleuth. It is easy to admire her persistence, sass, and desire for justice. The supporting characters, including the wonderful Aunt Maxi, Roxy’s troubled friend Vanessa, and the feisty Bunny, are a fun cast and make the town even more charming.

The mystery is good. It is a whodunit, whydunit, and howdunit all in one. The book concludes with several really yummy looking recipes that would make perfect treats for a book club or an afternoon of cozy reading.

I recommend Steamed Secrets to anyone who likes small-town cozies and Southern mysteries with heart and humor. This book could be read as a stand-alone or in order with the rest of the series.

Read an excerpt of Steamed Secrets.