Whiskey Business
Mixology Lounge Mystery (Book 1)
A multi-award-winning and delightfully bookish cozy mystery
Whiskey Business
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Adrian Andover
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Mixology Lounge Mysteries
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Paperback, ebook
Whiskey Business is the first book in the Mixology Lounge Mysteries by Adrian Andover. The amateur sleuth is Reece Parker, a mixologist preparing to open a cocktail lounge in his quaint hometown of Hope Mills, Pennsylvania.
When Reece breaks off his engagement, his life goes from perfectly mixed to on the rocks. To keep from wallowing in regret, he pours everything into his new business venture, Subplot, an underground speakeasy-style lounge with a bookish theme.
Unfortunately, things go bottom-up one night when a whiskey club night ends in murder. To make matters even worse, his ex-fiancée's older brother is on the case. Feeling as though his reputation, and possibly his freedom, is on the line, Reece mixes in and stirs up a few suspects. But in a town where someone is willing to kill, one wrong pour could be his last.
Reasons to Read Whiskey Business
Whiskey Business is an outstanding cozy mystery novel with a character-driven plot, a perfectly paced mystery, and a wonderful small-town setting. It has been honored with numerous literary awards, including the 2026 Agatha Award for Best First Mystery Novel and the 2026 Lefty Award for Best Debut Novel. It was also nominated for an Anthony Award for Best First Novel (the winner will be announced in October 2026).
The book's protagonist, Reece Parker, is an incredibly likable character who is undergoing significant personal changes after leaving behind the life he thought he wanted and discovering the one that actually fits him. As the world shifts beneath his feet, he embraces a fresh start and uncovers strengths he never knew he had. It is wonderful watching him grow and change through the lens of a mystery investigation.
Reece is supported by a really fantastic best friend (Nate), parents who are a genuine delight to spend time with, and other well-drawn characters with distinct personalities. The relationships are wholesome and heartwarming and make the perfect pairing for the small-town setting. Hope Mills, Pennsylvania is the type of place that you want to spend time in when you pick up a cozy mystery book.
Reece's mixology lounge is also a delightful hangout for book lovers. It has story-inspired cocktails, literature-themed decor, and bookish ambiance. Whether you like drinking or not, you'll enjoy the literary twist.
The mystery itself is well-crafted with skillfully layered clues and a cast full of plausible suspects that make the final reveal especially rewarding.
Whiskey Business is available in paperback (250 pages) and ebook.
What Readers Say About Whiskey Business
“Adrian Andover has penned a well-written, perfectly paced mystery that’s full of heart. Filled with vivid descriptions and a fun, unique setting, I was fully immersed from page one until the satisfying conclusion.”
“This award-winning debut cozy mystery lived up to and even exceeded my expectations for what I enjoy in the genre!”
“I love Reece Parker! I can’t remember the last time I was so taken in by the MC in a new series. ”
“The mystery is solid. There are several viable suspects and I was unable to guess the whodunnit. It was a carefully-crafted mystery, with twists and turns I didn’t see coming and a conclusion that had me on the edge of my seat when all was being revealed. It all came together perfectly in the end.”
Whiskey Business Reading Kit
If you're in a book club or if you just want to have some fun beyond the book, check out this free Whiskey Business Reading Kit. It contains reader questions, book club activities, and an interview with author Adrian Andover.
Whiskey Business Mysteries in Order
The Mixology Lounge Mysteries in order are:
Author Adrian Andover and books one and two in the Mixology Lounge Mystery Series
Interview with Adrian Andover
Read a Cozy Crime Reads interview with Adrian Andover, the author of the Mixology Lounge Mysteries. Learn what drew him to cozy mysteries, how he creates the cozy characters and settings in his books, and what advice he offers to aspiring cozy mystery writers. Read more about Adrian Andover’s books, sign up for his newsletter, get book updates, see upcoming events, and more on his website, www.adrianandover.com.
Adrian Andover Cozy Mystery Bookshelf
Use the arrows on either side of the images below to see Adrian Andover’s cozy mysteries. Click on the book cover to see a book description, reader reviews, and a book excerpt on Amazon.
Whiskey Business
Pour Choices
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