Although advertised as the finale for the series, this seems to be preview of a new beginning under a new name, ie the upcoming Novel Detectives series. It would seem the original characters will continue, albeit perhaps with more emphasis on investigating than murder. Not that there has ever been a lack of cases to investigate, just that the upcoming ones perhaps won't be tired to the book shop. In any case, I'm delighted to hear Annie and her circle of friends will continue. Annie and bookstore co-worker Fletcher are even setting up their detective office at the book shop and, well, this case involved books, so those of us drawn to book connected murders can apparently rest easy. Annie and Fletcher, soon to be joined by Pri and Liam,are attending a book fair where, no surprise, they become involved in investigating a murder. One that basically happens right in front of Annie, no less. She's already of the proof she needs to bring a cold case to an end, this one involving her college friend Scarlet. They were to be investigative partners but Scarlet was murdered. It's a case that has haunted Annie for nearly a decade but she still finds time to, first, take charge of the current scene, way to go, Annie, and somehow be in the right place at the right time to be helpful while still taking on the dangerous task of unmasking the man she holds responsible for Scarlet's death.
I won't detail the plot but have to admit that as much as I've enjoyed this series, it all seemed a bit rushed. Annie's plan to find the proof needed for her cold case involves getting past some seemingly high level, top-notch security. Yet, she somehow manages. Not once but twice. I'll just say this all leads to a dramatic, dangerous conclusion. As for the current case, it seemed more a matter of luck when people she didn't know somehow decided to confide in her, even when they had reasons not to, and to be not only in the right place at the right time but to guess right. In other words, readers, be willing to stretch your belief a bit as you go into this one. Still a good story but, well, didn't quite pull me in like the previous books.
Don't get me wrong. as noted, I did enjoy it. It held my attention and I basically finished it in one day. I'm looking forward to seeing how Annie and Fletcher work together as the Novel Detectives. Although I initially was slow to warm up to Annie, I have come to like and admire her tenacity. I also like the other main characters, a plus for someone like me who is drawn back repeatedly by characters I like that seem like they could be friends or neighbors. Fingers crossed, it appears they'll all be back, even Hal, the original owner of the book shop, who took Annie in when she needed it. He's quite the charmer and has proven a solid sounding board and reliable friend. Pri, best friend, and Liam, Annie's boyfriend, are also solid and add to the story, especially Liam who Annie started out disliking due to his seeming disdain for mysteries. So, don't hesitate to pick up this book/series. It's a fun one that seems to still be evolving. Thanks #StormPublishing for introducing me to Annie and allowing me the early peeks at all that's going on in her life. I'm glad this is just foreshadowing a new beginning.
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