Review by Sarah Erwin
Details at the end of this post on how to enter to win a copy of Pour Choices, or of the first book in the series, Whiskey Business (winner's choice), along with a link to purchase the new book.
Mystery lovers and book lovers alike should immediately add Pour Choices, a Mixology Lounge Mystery by Adrian Andover, to their summer reading lists. While this second book can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend readers new to the series grab book one, Whiskey Business, first. Not only will it provide great background to the characters, but it is also a wonderful read.
While fall might be in sight, a humid August heat wave blankets the small town of Hope Mills, Pennsylvania. Mixologist Reece Parker is busy hosting his first-ever Comedy and Cocktails event in Subplot, his bookish speakeasy. Popular comedian Meghan Spencer performs an entertaining set despite a few hiccups, however, she is found murdered the next morning.
Like all good sleuths, Reece is worried about his friend who might be a suspect, so Reece begins to dig. What follows is another delightful entry into one of my newest favorite cozy mystery series. The plot is perfectly paced – readers are dropped into the excitement immediately and clues and uncovered secrets will keep them turning the pages quickly. I inhaled this mystery in just two sittings. Clever twists kept me guessing and surprised me at the conclusion,
In addition to a well plotted mystery, the characters are some of my favorites. Reece’s friends, coworkers and family members (especially his parents) are well rounded and kind and add to the strong sense of community that flows throughout the book. And of course there is Reece himself – he’s so thoughtful and warm and also growing more and more sure of himself.
The book also has a strong sense of place with a vivid setting both in the town of Hope Mills and the steamy August weather. I could almost feel the cool air conditioning inside Subplot.
What a successful second entry into an enjoyable series – I would love so much to visit Subplot and try one of the bookish drinks. Looking forward to more adventures with Reece and the town of Hope Mills.
To enter to win a copy of Pour Choices, or of the first book in the series, Whiskey Business (winner's choice), simply email KRL at krlcontests@gmail[dot]com by replacing the [dot] with a period, and with the subject line "pour,” or comment on this article. A winner will be chosen July 4, 2026. US residents only and you must be 18 or older to enter. If entering via email please include your mailing address in case you win. If entering via comment please include your email address so we can contact you. You can read our privacy statement here if you like.Check out other mystery articles, reviews, book giveaways & mystery short stories in our mystery section in Kings River Life and in our mystery category here on KRL News & Reviews. And join our mystery Facebook group to keep up with everything mystery we post, and have a chance at some extra giveaways. And check out our new mystery podcast which features mystery short stories and first chapters read by local actors!
You can click here to purchase this book.
Sarah Erwin started her career as a children’s librarian, later becoming a public library director, and then a stay at home mom. Currently, she is working part-time in a local elementary school library and loving being back with kids and books. While her career might have changed, her love of reading has been a constant since 4th grade and she reads over 200 books a year. Read along with her on her blog Sarah Can’t Stop Reading or on Instagram. Sarah lives in St. Louis, MO with her two kids, her husband, two dogs and a cat. Read along with her on her blog Sarah Can’t Stop Reading or on Instagram. Sarah lives in St. Louis, MO with her two kids, her husband and a family dog and cat.
Disclosure: This post contains links to an affiliate program, for which we receive a few cents if you make purchases. KRL also receives free copies of most of the books that it reviews, that are provided in exchange for an honest review of the book.

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