In the charming realm of cozy mysteries, "Frappe to Know You" by Carly Greer stands out as a delectable blend of culinary delights and suspenseful narratives. This novel, the first in a promising new series, not only introduces readers to an endearing ensemble of characters but also immerses them in the quaint setting of Thistlewood, a small town with secrets as rich as its local cuisine.

The story follows Becca Thompson, a recent denizen of Thistlewood, who has left her hectic corporate job behind in search of a quieter life. Becca’s dream of opening her own café, The Coffee Nook, becomes a pivotal element of the story, crafting a meeting ground for the townspeople and a nexus for the unfolding mystery. The narrative kicks off with the grand opening of The Coffee Nook, which soon takes a dark turn when a mysterious death occurs, thrusting Becca into the role of an amateur sleuth.

Carly Greer's writing shines when it comes to character development. Becca, with her combination of entrepreneurial spirit and untested detective skills, is portrayed with a depth that makes her both relatable and admirable. Her journey from a corporate burnout to a café owner and inadvertent detective is filled with emotional and physical challenges that Greer delineates with empathy and authenticity. Supporting characters, such as Becca's sarcastic yet supportive best friend Liz and the enigmatic local barista, Matt, add layers to the narrative, making Thistlewood feel like a community with real stakes.

The element of mystery in "Frappe to Know You" is well-crafted, with twists that are clever but logical, allowing readers to engage in solving the mystery alongside Becca. The pacing of the story is brisk, balancing the demands of a genre that necessitates both development and resolution of the mystery within a single novel. Greer’s ability to intertwine the investigation with day-to-day café operations offers a refreshing take on the cozy mystery format, bringing a sense of normalcy and realism to the otherwise tense proceedings.

A notable strength of this book is its setting. Thistlewood is depicted with such vividness that it becomes almost a character in its own right. From the description of historic storefronts to the scenic views of its landscapes, Greer effectively uses the setting to enhance the mood and thematics of the story. The small-town vibes contribute significantly to the plot, as the closeness of the community adds complexity to the relationships and conflicts within the story.

Moreover, Greer incorporates food elements into the mystery in a way that will delight culinary enthusiasts. Descriptions of coffee blends, pastries, and other café offerings are not only mouth-watering but also cleverly tied to plot developments. For instance, a particular type of frappe becomes a clue to the mystery, demonstrating Greer's skill in merging gastronomic content with narrative momentum.

However, no book is without its imperfections. At times, "Frappe to Know You" may seem to prioritize the subplot involving the café over the mystery, potentially leaving readers eager for more detective work feeling a bit sidelined. Furthermore, while the main characters are well-developed, some of the secondary characters could benefit from more depth to avoid certain cozy mystery clichés such as the trope of the nosy neighbor or the grumpy local.

In conclusion, "Frappe to Know You" by Carly Greer is a commendable debut, offering all the warmth and intrigue that fans of cozy mysteries seek. Its blend of culinary descriptions, rich character development, and a well-plotted mystery makes for a compelling read. As Becca Thompson settles into her new life, readers will undoubtedly look forward to more adventures at The Coffee Nook. This book, with its appeal to both food lovers and mystery aficionados, proves that sometimes, a good mystery, like a great coffee, is all about the perfect blend.