Death by Latte by Linda Gerber

Title: Death by Latte (Book 2 of Death by...series)
Author: Linda Gerber
Pages: 224
Publisher: Puffin
Publication Date: September 18, 2008

It was only a few weeks ago that Aphra Connolly’s life changed completely. She had been living a quiet existence on her father’s secluded island resort, until Seth Mulo turned up and stole her heart---and provided information that led her to find her mom in Seattle. But the reunion isn’t quite what she expected. Aphra’s mom, Natalie, doesn’t seem happy to see Aphra, and Natalie’s partner, Joe, insists that Aphra go home. Even worse, Seth shows up, only to ask her to return the ring he gave her a few weeks ago. At least Natalie’s hunky neighbor is sympathetic. But when Joe is found dead at a nearby coffee shop, Aphra discovers her whole trip to Seattle has been based on a lie. And now someone just might be trying to kill her. . . . .

The Death by... series never fails to impress me. And Gerber's writing style is constantly unique and original.

The book is in Aphra's POV. I was blown away at how Gerber completely perfected a teenager's point of view. I loved Aphra's character. She was both dynamic and realistic at the same time. I could really relate to her and her feelings about being lied to and her feelings towards Seth.

The action and suspense in Death by Latte was, in words, intense and perfect. There were lots of face-to-face encounters and hand-on-hand combat. The only thing that I didn't really like was that, in the entire book, it felt like Aphra was always running. The pace faster than I was used to, but then again, it kept me more aware and alert.

The ending of the book didn't fulfill my thirst for a happy ending (so cliche of me). It was sweet and sour. I hated the depressing good-byes and the cryptic messages that the characters were trying to get across.

I found the plot to be a little confusing. I went over the book twice until I completely understood the entire plot.

The epilogue is a great cliffhanger...I can't wait to see what happens next in Death by Denim.

The Bottom Line: A great read for those who LOVE mystery, suspense, action, and a tinge of romance. B- :-)