Death by a Thousand Sips (Witches' Brew Mystery Book #2) by Gretchen Rue

Phoebe Winchester is back on the case in Raven Creek when a body is discovered at an estate sale in Gretchen Rue’s second book in the Witches’ Brew mystery series, perfect for fans of Laura Childs and Cleo Coyle.

Ever since she moved to Raven Creek, Washington, Phoebe Winchester knew she would have to grow accustomed to having a lot on her plate. She’s beginning to make the Victorian manor she inherited from her dear and adventurous Aunt Eudora feel more like home, successfully running the bookstore and tea shop, The Earl’s Study, and learning to harness her recently discovered magical powers. But when she discovers a dead body at an estate sale—even Phoebe wonders if this is simply too much.

Rumors of Phoebe’s involvement force her to take action; she needs to find the killer and clear her own name, once again. She enlists Rich Lofting, the handsome private detective and her childhood friend, in her investigation, all while she sorts out her unresolved feelings for him. Is there something more sinister lurking in the shadows of this small tight-knit town? And does Phoebe really want to find out?

With a dash of magic, a pinch of sleuthing skills, and a spoonful of friendly assistance, Phoebe needs to uncover the killer to keep Raven Creek safe once again. But if she doesn’t—will she find herself in even more hot water?  (Summary via Goodreads)

Death by a Thousand Sips is the second book in the Witches' Brew Mystery series by Gretchen Rue.  Unfortunately I did not read the first book, Steeped to Death, which I am sure was just as entertaining as the second book.  Even though I did not read Steeped to Death I was not lost at all reading Death by a Thousand Sips.  Rue has a way of bringing the reader up to date in a very easy manner and you breeze through the story.

In Death by a Thousand Sips main character Phoebe Winchester is still getting use to her new life in Raven Creek, Washington.  Recently divorced Phoebe moves to Raven Creek after her Aunt Eudora dies and leaves her with everything.  Phoebe is left the mansion, Lane End House, her cat Bob and the tea shop / bookstore, The Earl's Study.  Phoebe also learns that her Aunt Eudora was a witch and Phoebe is also learning that she has powers.  Unfortunately she is not able to hone in on her abilities but with the help of her friend Honey she is working on them.

Phoebe learns of an estate sale in another town nearby and they are auctioning off a huge lot of books that she could sell in the bookstore so she goes to the sale to bid on them.  Unfortunately she finds that Bob hid in the back of the car so she has to take him with her.  She thinks that he will be safe and sound in the car but somehow he escapes the car and shows up in the mansion where the sale is being held and ends up finding a dead body.  It turns out to be the woman in charge of the auction, Madeline, and Phoebe had overheard her arguing on the phone shortly before she was found dead.

Even though Phoebe didn't know Madeline she feels like she should do something for her....like find out who killed her.  Luckily one of her childhood friends, Rich, was a police officer but is now a private investigator so she tries to get him to help her.  Rich does to a point but when Phoebe is threatened, Rich as well as the detectives in charge of the case tell her to leave it to the professionals.

Readers will love Death by a Thousand Sips !!  A cozy mystery with a hint of witchery is a great combination and Rue makes it impossible to put down.  I can only recommend that you grab a nice snack and beverage and sit back and enjoy.....you will be there for a while once you crack open the book.