Clare Cosi, who runs the Village Blend coffeehouse in New York City, is excited when Only Murders in Gotham, a popular streaming series, is going to be filming some locations in her coffeehouse. That is - until there are some scary things that happen on the set, and she decides to investigate.

I wanted to read Bulletproof Barista because I always enjoy Cleo Coyle's mysteries. I have read some, but not all, of the Coffeehouse Mystery series, and had no problem enjoying this book as a standalone read.

I think this is my favorite Cleo Coyle book yet! I am a big fan of Only Murders in the Building, and enjoyed the similarities between that show and Only Murders in Gotham - and the characters who reminded me a lot of Steve Martin and Selena Gomez too.

I loved the coffee and foodie descriptions and the day-to-day working of the coffeehouse. I also enjoyed the details of the TV set.

The mystery is fast paced with lots of surprises. Clare is a smart detective, whether working on her own or consulting with her fiancé, who is a detective.

I recommend Bulletproof Barista - and this series - for anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries, NYC settings, foodie books, or fiction about TV production. It was a really fun read!

Coyle does it again with another fun cozy coffeeshop mystery! My guilty pleasures are cozy mysteries and I own almost all of the Coffeehouse Mystery Series.

This one marks number 20 in the series. What I really love about Coyle's work is that you typically don't need to read all 19 of the previous books to understand this one. There might be a few details you are fuzzy on, but it doesn't take away from the individual plot points of the title and you usually get enough to piece together what you are missing as you read through.

It's a fun read and I recommend giving it a try to anyone that is a fan of mysteries and cozies.

If you’ve followed along, you know I’ve reviewed a couple of Cleo Coyle’s books on this blog. I am a big fan of the Coffeehouse Mysteries series, and I had high hopes for Bulletproof Barista.

Only Murders in Gotham is filming at the Village Blend, using the staff as extras, and Clare is beyond excited. She’s a long-time fan of Jerry Sullivan, one of the stars of the show. And when he’s won over by her new bulletproof coffee blend and offers the Blend the show’s craft services contract, well, that’s just bonus. But all is not well in TV land. There are suspicions that someone may be trying to sabotage the show. When Tucker, barista and aspiring actor, is shot during filming, Clare has to get to the bottom of things for her crew’s safety.

As always, the characters are wonderful. Madame is sharp as a tack, and she’s got important backstory to contribute. Matt’s relationship with Clare is still slightly flirty, but I get the feeling that they really do see each other as friends and allies, and Matt proves himself a reliable business partner here when Clare is caught up chasing a lead. The show characters are all intriguing: Sebastian, the director who seems to have something to hide; Kylee, the ingenue in a lead role who may be more than she appears; Hutch, the newly minted armorer for the show when the previous armorer becomes a victim; Lizzy Meeks, the president of Jerry Sullivan’s fan club; and Jerry himself, an aging comedian who wants to protect the show’s reputation.

There’s a twist in this book. Usually Mike is doing everything he can to keep Clare from digging into mysteries. Here, he asks for her help as her concerns dovetail with a drug investigation his squad is pursuing. It was fun having them able to compare notes and for Clare to be able to freely discuss the results of her investigation with Mike.

Here our antagonist is identified as the Player. As is customary, Coyle gives us snippets of the Player’s viewpoint and thoughts. That adds to the tension of the book for me. We get a little hint as to what’s coming next, but Clare has no idea. And I was well and truly surprised by who the Player turned out to be. Kudos to Coyle for keeping me in the dark!

I’ve seen reviews comparing the show in this book to Only Murders in the Building. I haven’t ever seen that show, so I can’t draw any comparisons between the two. I will say that this story gave me a whole new insight into the world of show business! The infighting, the intense focus on public opinion as shown in Jerry’s extreme reluctance to involve the police, the – well, the drama. Every time Clare was surprised about something, Tucker told her that’s just how the business is, and wow, it seems cutthroat. I learned a lot, and I’m even more convinced I’d like to stay far, far away from the bright lights of fame!

And of course, there are several delicious recipes included!

The Coffeehouse Mystery series continues to be a favorite for me. Cleo Coyle is one of my must-read authors, and Bulletproof Barista does not disappoint!

4

We are finally back to the classic coffeehouse mysteries for book #20 in this cozy-with-an-edge series set in Greenwich Village! This was the second series I really ever read (if you don’t count the Berestain Bears and the like), so we have history.

Spoiler of recent books:

<spoiler> I wasn’t the biggest fan of the last two, which, coincidentally, were a departure from the other books. While it’s nice to switch things up, it seemed a little convenient for Claire to lose her memory and create a love triangle angle right after she finally chose Mike and accepted his marriage proposal, though it was kind of interesting to get a better sense of her romance with Matt. The last one, “Honey Roasted Homicide”, was just a little strange for the series. I don’t remember it too well, but I just remember it primarily taking place on that other rooftop with a lot of information about bees. I rely on this series for all of my knowledge of coffee. Insects, not so much. </spoiler>

This book is both classic and unique. The Village Blend is a sight of for the filming of a popular series. In this one, there are several near deaths for most of the story. Mike is more in the periphery in this book and come to think of it, I don’t think his case is actually solved when hers is, even though they overlap. Either that was a failing of the authors or it’s supposed to create the base for the next book.

Either way, I was very glad to see that this new book was coming. I had been watching Goodreads for a twentieth book to be added for future release and tried to look it up, but nothing. Then, I saw it on NetGalley and immediately requested a copy to review. While I didn’t love everything about it, it was a great ensemble of the Village Brew cast of characters, one I was waiting for.

"Bulletproof Barista" is a cozy mystery. This novel is the 20th in the series. You don't need to read the previous novels to understand this one, and this story didn't spoil the whodunit of the previous books.

Clare was the one primarily investigating the accidents since she had access to the set and the people as her company was providing the beverages and snacks. She asked good questions, and she's good at noticing things and considering possibilities. Whodunit was guessable, but the needed clues didn't come until nearly the end. Clare even managed to get full proof through her cleverness. Suspense was created from the danger to those on the set, as anyone could be a target.

There was a minor amount of bad language. There were no graphic sex scenes; any sex was fade-to-black style after they started to kiss. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting mystery.

How could you not compare the characters of “Only Murders in Gotham” to “Only Murders in the Building”?

The story did not primarily take place in the Village Blend, which made me crave coffee less than I usually do while reading this series. However, this is not necessarily a bad thing, just surprising. I felt the plotting was a bit drawn out, and there were not enough subplots to keep me engaged. I missed the charming naiveté of Nancy and the quick barbs of Esther. Additionally, there was not enough mention of Madam and Matt, except for a brief moment when Matt saves an incidental character.

In the next book, I hope the author focuses more on the main characters that have made this series so popular and enjoyable to read.

The Village Blend has become the set for a hit streaming show, Only Murders in Gotham. Clare's employees are all getting the opportunity to perform. When a scene goes wrong and Tucker is shot with a real bullet, Clare knows that all these "accidents" that have been happening on set during the filming of the second season are not really accidents at all. Who wants to sabotage the show? And why?

This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series, despite some things that drive me up the wall. The coffeeshop is cozy and filled with eclectic characters that feel so authentic to New York City. The different adventures Clare has had throughout the series have introduced the readers to so many different locations and social circles and festivities around the city, it's been like a mini behind-the-scenes tour. In this book we get a glimpse of a film set and how people respond to filming in an area that's generally crawling with people. It was a nice unique twist on the same familiar setting. I think this series is a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries, particularly for those who enjoy a city setting and/or like coffee.

[Stepping up on soapbox.]
Here's what drives me bonkers about this series, perhaps even more so in this book than in previous books. Clare has an ex-husband named Matteo, or Matt. She has a fiancé named Mike. Every time she sees Mike (once or twice per book) she gets all hot and bothered, she cooks for him or brings him something to eat and they have some sort of physical interaction (spanning from making out to.... well, you know.) As soon as his hungers have been satisfied, Mike's gone. Matt is always there for Clare, listening to her problems, giving her advice, watching her back, backing her up, rescuing her (or someone else). He's her rock.

See my problem? Mike is just using Clare for a warm bed and a hot meal (innuendos intended). They do NOT have a real relationship, they hardly know each other. Mike doesn't give two hoots for Clare. If she stopped feeding him or having sex with him, she would never see him again. And Clare doesn't give two hoots for Mike. She lusts after him and respects his dedication to his chosen profession. That's it. She's throwing herself at him because she likes the way he looks and he's catching because, well, a man has to eat. The situation makes Clare look so pathetic it's almost unbearably sad.

In previous books, when Clare needed someone, she immediately called Matt. She didn't even consider calling Mike. Why bother? He doesn't have time for her. In this book she actually did try to call Mike. Guess what? He didn't respond. But Matt did. In this book there was some bickering between Clare and Matt, which felt completely manufactured. There seemed to be some attempt at bringing Mike into the story more, which failed miserably because he is who he is. I feel like the authors have heard from people who share my opinion about this and they're trying to turn the boat around. It didn't work. The character development has been so strong in this series, any attempt to bring Mike in and muscle Matt out is going to feel false.

I can't stress enough how strongly I dislike Mike Quinn's character and how much I wish Clare and Matt would get back together. Yes, in the bad old days Matt was not a good guy and he hurt Clare in a lot of ways. But he's not the same person he was. He's proven that time and again. Yes, he's dating around again after his second divorce, but to me that feels like he is still in love with Clare and he's trying to fill the void. He's been everything a good partner should be for Clare, even supporting her while she fawns over another man who is using her and neglecting her and making a fool out of her.
[Stepping off of soapbox.]

If you haven't tried this series yet, it's definitely worth a read!

Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.

Number 20 in the Coffeehouse Mystery series finds the Village Blend as the site of the filming of a streaming true crime show called Only Murders In Gotham. Not only is the coffee shop being used, but some of the staff have roles in the new episode. Unfortunately, the program has been beset by injuries to production staff and the stalking of the star by a fan club president.
Barista and wannabe actor, Tucker is given a speaking role but his career is almost cut short when he's shot on set with what was supposed to be a fake prop. When another member of the production is also targeted Cleo is on the job! Will she figure out the person sabotaging the production before they strike again?
Regular readers of the series have come to expect that Clare will be in a life-threatening situation and that Madame will be involved . Despite a somewhat confusing and unnecessary subplot , Bulletproof Barista delivers the goods for fans of the series.

"When a film crew's location shoot delivers an actual shooting, Clare Cosi finds herself at the scene of a true crime in this showstopping entry in the beloved Coffeehouse Mysteries from New York Times bestselling author Cleo Coyle.

Only Murders in Gotham, the smash-hit streaming program, is famous for filming in authentic New York locations and using real New Yorkers as extras. For its second season, they've chosen to spotlight the century-old Village Blend and its quirky crew of baristas. Shop manager and master roaster Clare Cosi is beyond thrilled, especially when her superb bulletproof coffee lands her a craft services contract for the production.

Madame, the eccentric octogenarian owner of the landmark shop, reveals an old kinship with the star of the show, comedian Jerry Sullivan. Now a Hollywood legend, Jerry frequented the Blend during his early years performing in Greenwich Village comedy clubs. But the past may hold more than nostalgia for Jerry. Suspicious accidents begin plaguing his shoot. Then a real bullet is fired from a stage gun, and Clare becomes convinced something sinister is afoot.

While Jerry's production moves to exciting new locations, Clare keeps the coffee flowing - and her investigation going - even as a murderer lurks in the wings. But can she root out the rotten player in this Big Apple production before the lights go out on her?

Includes a stellar menu of surefire recipes!"

I'm all about "Only Murders in" pick your New York location.

I recently finished reading Bulletproof Barista, and I must say, it was a well-written and delightful book. The book's engaging mystery, well-developed characters, and vivid New York City setting all added to its allure.

Although this is the first book in the series that I've read, I still found it to be a very entertaining read.

You're in for a treat with this short, entertaining mystery that will keep you guessing. If you're a fan of cozy mysteries, I highly recommend giving this book a read!

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for allowing me to read and review this book.

Thank you to Netgalley and the Publishers for this Advanced Readers Copy of Bulletproof Barista by Cleo Coyle!

A famous actor is coming to Clare's coffeeshop! An actor she admires! He surprises her with an offer she can't refuse. Then she discovers that someone is sabotaging the actor's hit show, and it results in murder. Will her shop suffer the backlash? Cleo Coyle consistently writes fun, cozies that bring in current situations.

The staff at The Village Blend get involved as the the streaming series Only Murders in Gotham films at their location. A series of bizarre accidents seems to be following the crew of the show and Barista Clare Cosi decides to investigate after an accident almost kills a member of her staff. This is a quick, lighthearted mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

I love this series. Love all the characters and interaction. Clare and her team are pulled in to a murder, of course, when a television starts filming at the coffee shop. When a series of accidents (or are there) occur, Clare must use all of her detective skills to solve the mystery and maybe save herself too!

Bulletproof Barista checks all the boxes: interesting characters, stellar setting (NYC) and an intriguing mystery. The majority of the action actually takes place in the Village Blend so, Clare and her staff are instrumental in much of the action, which is always a good thing. Unlike some long running series, the Coffeehouse Mysteries just get better and better. Let's hope their stories keep brewing for a long time to come! highly recommended.

The writing feels very old-style but not in the fun comfortable "mishaps of Stephanie Plum" sort of way. I decided to stop after the third chapter.

I've not read anything from the series before, but I imagine with this being the 20th book, they've got the groove down.

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC.