Whose Body in the Library (Lighthouse Library Mystery #13), by Eva Gates

 Publication June 9, 2026

Lucy McNeil is beginning her new job as library director and new hire, Nichelle Gilchrest has arrived to fill her usual spot. Nichelle is excited, having upended her old life to move here but her first day doesn't go as planned. As she opens the doors of the lighthouse library to welcome her first day library users, she finds a dead body on the steps. Lucy arrives at about the same time and knows the routine, so it isn't as disruptive as it might be, but there's another issue. Nichelle sees a startling resemblance in the dead man to her father who disappeared many years ago and has been thought dead. There's also a new detective in town, Detective Rhonda Thomas, who is very by the book and regularly tells Nichelle not to get involved. I bet you can guess how much good that did her, huh?

Long time series fans, don't despair. Lucy is still there, just playing a diminished, backup role. Let's face it. She's now the mother of very young twins and sleuthing isn't exactly on her priority list. She's there for Nichelle (yes, her name has a Star Trek connection) but really isn't involved in the investigation. Nichelle's initial interest is really as much on what brought the man she suspects might be her father to her new doorstep only to be murdered as on who did it. Oh, of course, that changes when she learns who the chief suspect is. Nope, not telling. You'll have to read the book. I'm not going to give away any more of the plot but it's a solid one that does offer an occasional chapter from Lucy's viewpoint. The usual cast of characters isn't showcased as much as long time fans might wisht, well, except for, sigh, the one character that has always grated on me while I must still admit she adds a certain touch of quirkiness to the plots. Even Lucy still hasn't quite sorted out how best to deal with her, which I'm sure will add a few laughs as the series continues with Nichelle as the focus. Oh, and least I forget, Charles the library cat is definitely on hand. 

Bottom line, Eva Gates had me wondering when I read the initial news about Lucy stepping back but this one works nicely. I liked Nichelle, even when she was making some very rookie sleuth mistakes. Hey, they all have to start somewhere. As always, the lighthouse itself is practically a character and Gates descriptions of its history and the surrounding area are excellent. While we didn't get to meet all of Nichelle's family this go-round, we've been at least introduced and I'm sure it's no accident that she, like Lucy, has twins, albeit grown daughters. It was also subtle but I think we may come to like the new detective, too, although I'm sure Rhonda and Nichelle will butt heads more than a few times in the process although the likable, but retired Sam Watson is still around. Thanks #CrookedLaneBooks for introducing me initially to Lucy and allowing me this early peek at the arrival of Nichelle to take over some of the work load, probably both work and sleuthing. I do hope Lucy will find time for not just get some sleep but to pop in-and-out as the series continues. We do want to get to know Isaac and Lucas, too, hint, hint. Grin. 

Mrs. Christie at the Mystery Guild Library , by Amanda Chapman

 

Publication August 26, 2025

First, an admission. I clicked to review this thinking it was a follow-up to another book I'd recently read where Agatha Christie was a very alive character set in her time frame. Imagine my surprise to discover that Christie, who actually plays a much larger role in this book then the one I'd read, is a, well, ghost. Oops. My mistake. One I'm glad I made. I found myself much more caught up in this story than I'd imagined I'd be and enjoyed it a great deal. Ghost Christie is still on top of her sleuthing game, not to mention remembers all her poisons well. She's someone I wouldn't mind knowing, even if I had to settle for the ghostly version.

I won't delve deeply into the plot. It's in that book blurb I neglected to read.  It involves a ghost showing up in Tory Van Dyne's beloved Mystery Guild Library and saying she's bored in the great beyond and is there to help Tory solve a murder, one that hasn't happened yet. Unfortunately, whatever knowledge of the murder she may have had in the great beyond doesn't follow along to the library's dedicated Christie room. Of course, there's a murder. Next thing you know Tory and Christie are being joined by one of the most unlikely sleuthing groups you could imagine. There's Tory, of course, her quirky, self-absorbed socialite/actress sister Nic, Tory's snarky librarian friend, a poorly dressed (in Tory's opinion) NYPD detective, and, no lie, an eleven-year old computer wiz with a father who not only isn't fazed by his daughter's new friends but looks like Colin Farrell. There's even a romance brewing, albeit it's set on slow burn given Tory's own demons. As for the spirited Christie, who is visible to all and quite physically there, she's both listener and sharer of info, not to mention quotes from her books. 

That's all I'm saying other than, no surprise, there's another murder.  Nic seems to be a likely target and, surprisingly, shows a side of her that hasn't really been visible until near the end. I liked these quirky, less than perfect characters. Heck, even the wealthy Van Dyne family's chauffeur is personable,. As for Agatha Christie, let's face it, while unsure of who she is, all the others find her quite comforting with her ability to listen and offer concern. The setting was fun, both the library room created to mirror Christie's real-life office, and the New York setting added fun as we tackle how to get around in one of the most crowed cities in the world. You'll even get to meet library "cats" Patience and Fortitude. If you don't know about them, you will when you finish. Thanks to #BerkleyPublishingGroup for giving me this unexpectedly delightful early look. Hoping this is the start of a series. Well done!

 

The Library in the Woods, by Calvin Alexander Ramsey, R. Gregory Christie (illustrator)

 

Publication August 5, 2025

Powerful in its simplicity.

While based on the author's own memories, this book speaks to us all. The illustrations are also strong in their stark simplicity, conveying first the isolation and devastation after a hard hail storm, then the magic of friendships and of the library in the woods. Segregation denied access to libraries to Black Americans. The library opens up a whole new world of possibilities to Junior, the young main character. In the process, he grows closer to his father through the power of words. 

I won't belabor this review as the book stands wonderfully strong on its own. Make sure you read the Author's Note at the end as it fills in some spaces that adults might wonder about. Children, too, for that matter. Readers can learn that change can bring turmoil but also good things and growth, too. I want to thank #LernerPublishingGroup for allowing me an early look at this book. As an avid reader from the time I could hold up a book -- lucky me, my family were readers -- I cannot imagine a life without books and can fully appreciate how much this tiny cabin in the woods full of books meant to those who were denied access.

 

Death and the Librarian (Blue Ridge Library Mysteries #9), by Victoria Gilbert

Publication July 8, 2025

Family, friends, and an art festival do not mix with murder. Unfortunately, that's just the situation Amy Muir finds herself facing in this, the ninth book of the series. While I tend to like the characters, I found myself exasperated with Amy this go-round. She's always been curious, never quite limiting herself to the "research" that she swears is all she's going to do to be involved in after the murder of author Maureen Dryden. She gets a note saying that if she doesn't back off, her friends and family would be in danger,. Does she let that stop her? Oh, you know the answer to that one, I bet. She's bound and determined to find out who killed the festival speaker and true crime author the morning before she's to meet with her to help her research. The suspects are varied and, yikes, include some close to Amy. Even family. Uh, oh.

Thus, while I found the mystery intriguing, I was constantly thrown off by Amy's rash actions and lack of common sense. While she does make the proactive move to remove her young twins from harm, a friend is injured as a warning and a second threatening note received. Does this attack put her off? You know the answer to that one, too. Of course not. Yet, Amy still goes hiking along up a tree-laden narrow trail to investigate the murder site of a possibly connected cold case murder. She also ventures out alone more than once, even waving away offers to accompany her. Does that get her in trouble? Oh, boy, you already know that answer, too. 

I won't detail the plot beyond this other than to say I do like that Amy has a good relationship with Brad, the chief police investigator. That isn't always true in cozy mysteries. She also has young children, which many amateur sleuths don't. It's definitely fun to see how husband' Richard's dance background is used and the fun of following the related side-story. Family friend and godfather to the twins, Kurt, has secrets, too. Big, potentially life changing secrets. As a result, despite my annoyance with Amy this go-round, I still enjoyed the read. 3.5 rounded to 4 stars. Thanks #CrookedLaneBooks for this early peek at the always busy life of Amy and her family and friends. Who knew being a librarian could be so, uh, exciting.

Shot Through the Book, by Eva Gates

 Publication May 5, 2025

A dead body on her own deck wasn't how Lucy hoped to start the Young Adult Book Festival. Not only is it someone she has barely met but, uh-oh, he was to be the festival's prime author. Who killed Todd Harrison? Why on Lucy and Conner's deck? And, oh, my, not with the usual weapon. Toss in a pushy, not exactly grief-stricken wife with political ambitions, rabid fans determined to live out rituals in Todd's YA series, and gossip, and you've got a twisty mystery to solve. On top of everything else, Lucy isn't even feeling all the great.

I don't want to detail the plot and ruin one moment for readers but will say that as a former teacher with librarian fans, I loved this twist on teens and authors. While I was a bit taken aback by Lucy's lack of backbone when Heather Harrison came calling, cameraman and assistant in tow, especially given Lucy is usually the strong one, I fully enjoyed the story. Politics in its most rabid attack mode might best characterize Heather's tactics but, wow, she is definitely a piece of work. By the time she's done, she's pretty much accused everyone of being inept, ineffectual, useless, or even being a murderer. I guess I'd be a bit taken aback to be confronted by someone like that, too, so I cut Lucy some slack. It was fun to see the rest of the cast of characters together again, sharing ideas, and I felt like I was back home with friends as I joined them virtually. Now, true, a little of Louise Jane goes a long way but Lucy was pretty successful at keeping her reined in. There's even some romance blooming, always fun when you're among friends. 

Bottom line, a fun, thought provoking read in many ways. While as educators we strive to pull students into reading, this one tackles what happens when an author's work becomes an obsession. Even worse, an obsession that leads them into not just annoying but potentially dangerous situations. What might be the result? You'll probably at first shake your head at some of the Todd Harrison book fans but be forced to look deeper into teen angst and obsessions as it progresses. You'll even learn a bit about a sport that isn't the norm for cozy mysteries, at least those set in modern times, as well as get some insight into both publishing and author agents, not to mention author rivalries. Nags Head is, as always, a fascinating location and I enjoy the quirky characters that seem to have found their virtual home there. This one kept me guessing until nearly the big reveal, I must admit. Thanks #CrookedLaneBooks for this early peek at all that's going on in Lucy's life. I did guess that not too finely hidden hint about the final big reveal, though, I must admit. Now I'm looking forward all the more to the next book.

Booked on Murder, by Allison Brook

 Publication August 6, 2024

Finding a dead body not only a few days before your wedding but at the actual wedding site is never a good thing. In this case, it kicks off a flood of seemingly unrelated things. What things? In this, the 8th and final installment of the Haunted Library mystery series, they range from, let's see, bank robbery, old diaries, witchcraft, mysterious emails, a long lost diary of Verity, a woman hanged as a witch, a secret society, newspaper articles, wild rides, and, well, more. And, oh, yes, let's not forget, ghosts. In the middle of it all, Carrie Singleton is seeking to bring order to the countless lists of wedding prep tasks she's tasked with, from dress fittings to seating arrangements.

I enjoyed this last chance to hang out with Carrie, Evelyn the library ghost, and her family and friends. It's always an interesting read. With this being the grand finale, so to speak, I expected various things to be brought to a timely, neat end. True, the happily-ever-after ending was delightful, but some things just seemed to be "off". Like, how did Carrie not know about the secret club when so many other non-members seemed to know? Also, Evelyn didn't even play a particularly major role here, so the addition of two child ghosts in Carrie and Dylan's soon-to-be new home was unexpected. Kinda fun but not quite sure what it added given this is the end of the series. What did actually pull me out of the flow, however, was the actions taken or, in this case, not taken to protect the long dead Verity's old diary. They knew someone wanted the diary. Yet, Carrie and the library staff never seemed to think about finding a safer, out of the public eye spot to store it safely, even after an attempt to steal it was made. They seem determined to right old wrongs but don't seem to do the minimum to keep it safe, hence I kept being thrown off by that inaction every time the manuscript was mentioned.

Yet, I honestly enjoyed the story. Having read the series from the start, it's been fun to watch the growth Carrie has undergone. Let's face it, she didn't seem to promising at the start given her Goth Girl tendencies. Now she's getting married and apparently planning a family. She's made good friends and her relationship with her own family has grown closer, too. I liked the relationship Dylan and she have developed, too. They don't always seem to be on the same page but do have each others' back, even when danger is involved. Well, especially when danger is involved. I'm going to miss visiting the library, too, with all its fun and interesting activities, many born from Carrie's mind. Although Evelyn seems to have appeared less and less frequently as the series went along, it was always something I looked forward to. Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for introducing me to Carrie, Dylan, and Evelyn but, hey, we never found out where she got her ever changing wardrobe!

The Spell of a Story, by Mariajo Ilustrajo

 

Publication June 4, 2024

Do you remember your very first book? The first you read on your own? I'd like to say I do but I honestly don't. I'm pretty sure it probably had a horse on the cover, though. Let's just say there was a reason I went through my grandfather's stash of Louis L'Amour books at an early age and spent my make-believe time pretending to be a horse. Grin.

This book is absolutely adorable. Magical even, with the illustrations gradually becoming more and more colorful as the little girl becomes more and more immersed in the book her big sister helps her choose. Reluctantly choose, I'll note, as she's sure she hates reading. And, don't forget to check out the book shelves in the photos. I'm just saying....

Bottom line, this one should be a must on any parent or teacher's shelf. The words flow and the artwork is well-done, capturing the spirit of the story as it goes along. I liked the simple yet distinctive artwork and use of expressions and color to convey what we gain from reading. Pay attention to the font/script, too, as it adds to the fun. Lucky for me, I don't recall a time when books weren't a part of my life, even when I was of an age to hold them upside-down, so I'm all for more books about books and how they can change our outlook and worlds. Thanks #NetGalley and #QuartoPublishingGroup - #FrancesLincolnChildren'sBooks for reminding me of the delightful gift my book loving family gifted me.

A Love Letter to My Library, by Lisa Katzenberger, Rob Sayegh, Jr. (Illustrator)

 

Publication June 4, 2024

This book is exactly what the title says it is, a love letter to the library. It celebrates all the reasons we love libraries, from the perfect books just for us to story telling and even arts and crafts, not to mention cozy spots to curl up and read. The characters shown are diverse, including wheelchair characters (and ramps), and show both children and adults. While some of the adults pictured seem to be parents to the children seen, I liked that some were simply there, reminding us that the library is for everyone. There's even a giant "Welcome" sign using not only a heart for the "o" but on a rainbow of colors. Lovely, as are the shelves depicted full of books and more books, as well as computers to connect us to the world and others. 

Although there is no real story, simply a recollection of what we can find/do in the library, the book works well. I liked the diversity, shown rather than told, I'll note, and am now jealous that my library doesn't have a fish tank. Thanks #NetGalley and #SourcebooksKids - #SourcebooksExplore for this lovely tribute to one of my favorite places on earth, the library. One of the first things I did when I moved here was go get a library card, I must admit.

The Stranger in the Library (Lighthouse Library Mystery #11), by Eva Gates

 

Publication June 4, 2024

Finding a dead body in the fish pond wasn't on Lucy's to-do list. 

Just back from her honeymoon in Paris, Lucy has been hard at work planning the library's promo for a local art event. Despite some, uh, unexpected guests, everyone seems to be enjoying themselves despite the downpour outside. The only snag seemed to be that the noted guest speaker was a no-show. Bet you can guess whose body was found in that koi pond as the party wound down. 

There's another surprise ahead for Lucy. One of the borrowed but not valuable replicas is missing when she returns the next morning. Are the crimes related? Well, we know the dead man didn't have it on him but who would steal a replica painting, community sentiment attached to it or not? You surely don't have to have read the book to know Lucy is soon caught up in investigating, although her focus is largely on the stolen painting. She has the help of friend-enemy Louise Jane who was smitten with one of the mysterious guests, one supposedly known in the art world. One problem. He's gone missing and the police can't turn up any info on him, not that that seems to bother Louise Jane. Is he the murderer? Was Louise Jane inadvertently involved? Is she hiding something or maybe someone?

While the local artist is fictional, you'll learn a bit about art along the way, such as how painting strokes seem to identify the likelihood of it being such and such an artist as well as how/why certain signatures are used. You'll also gets insight in how it is evaluated and authenticated, not to mention how art dealers wheel and deal in acquiring and selling pricey art. The brief dive into the art world was fun. You get to see Lucy in action, albeit much of it seemed to be online, as well as meet some of the locals, including a very snooty, obnoxious artist who likes his own work much more than he perhaps should. And, it was great fun to see Lucy and Louise Jane team up rather than maintaining their usual polite co-existence. It'll be interesting to see what comes of that possible story line given the ending. 

Bottom line, although the start was relatively slow going, it was giving us the background we'd need, so that made sense. I was a bit surprised to find Lucy being part of the police investigation in a way, albeit unofficially. The situation she (and Louise Jane) find themselves in at the end is also because of rather poor choices on Lucy's part. Her hunches aren't always factual, let's just say, and lead to more headaches. I'll just say, as way of a teaser, I hope she's not claustrophobic.You'll love Louise Jane's idea for summoning help. Nope, not giving away anything else. Eva Gates has another winner here and despite my minor quibbles, I thoroughly enjoyed hanging out with Lucy, Conner, and the rest of this cast, even the one in disguise. Thanks #CrookedLaneBooks and #NetGalley for inviting me back to Nags Head, NC. I've never been there in real life but feel like I have via Gates' books. I'd love to visit the very real lighthouse, albeit it doesn't really host a library.

Overdue or Die (The Haunted Library Mysteries, #7), by Allison Brook

 

Publication October 3, 2023

After a slow build, we find ourselves in the midst of not just pressing wedding planning but murder, organized crime, and art forgery. While art issues seem more husband-to-be Dylan's forte, Carrie finds herself right in the middle of not just one but, whoa, three murder investigations. And, oh, poor Dylan is whacked over the head and an inherited painting stolen, too, not to mention they're dealing with Uncle Otto's hospitalization for a heart attack. No wonder Carrie's finding it difficult to focus of wedding plans.

The blurb does an excellent job sharing the plot, so won't get into that here. I'll note, however, that I missed library ghost Evelyn, who doesn't seem to have any real part to play in this story other than encouraging Carrie to investigate the death of her old friend Martha, who was killed in her family's art gallery. The art talk was interesting, but it's the characters that always draw me back, so missed Evelyn. Actually, maybe it was the stress, but Carrie didn't appear her usual rather focused self. She seemed almost happy to shove aside wedding plans to look into the murder, jumps to several conclusions, then insists she isn't investigating when pressed by several others. 

One of her worries is art based, however, as she fears her extraordinary library staff member, Susan, may be being lured away by the art world. Friends and family are important. Carrie's dad, a retired, uh, criminal, or should I say reformed criminal now working for the right side of the law, gets involved in the main investigation, well, sorta, but is a help to Dylan as they try to sort through the art forgery ring. In other words, there are a great deal things going on, some seemingly related, some seemingly not. There are several suspects and, oh, yeah, many, many red herrings. 

Bottom line, although I wasn't quite as tuned into this one as usual, I did enjoy the read and recommend it to others. While it works as a standalone, if you've read other books in the series it'll help you sort out the relationships and connections more quickly, I think. Dementia is involved in one situation, btw, so be aware. Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for inviting me to the opening of the library extension. It's been a long time coming! Now, let's get those wedding plans solidified, Carrie, now that you've found a perfect setting.

Purr Purr Purloin (Ruff McPaw Mysteries #6), by Max Parrott

 

What a delight to have the chance to not only have a good weekend read but for it to lead me to a new-to-me author that I've since added to my "look for" list. t I quickly found myself hooked by the well-rounded characters and Ruff the dog, but also that Angela shares one unwanted characteristic with me. Her mother is suffering from the onset of dementia. I've been in those shoes, so this made the story all the more real for me. But, on to the mystery...

Librarian Nancy Flanders is found dead. At first, the case seems easy. There's a suicide note and no signs of violence. Angela, who is a PI, only becomes involved when boyfriend, 8th grade science teacher David, senses there is more to it than meets the eye. Although their relationship is still young, Angela trusts David's instinct and agrees to look into it. 

That's when things get really interesting with several suspects and red herrings, not to mention a cat covered with a powdery... a powdery what? Oh, Lysander, what have you been into? Ruff, of course, is on the job, sniffing out clues which, unfortunately, don't make sense to Angela at the time. Will she figure it out in time? Will she be able to mend her working relationship with Chief Helbar? What does that number mean? What is going on in Angela's chicken pen?

What...oh, enough teasers. Be sure to get your hands on this one for a fun, interesting read with fleshed out characters and relationships and not just Ruff the dog but pigs, goats, chickens, and a hamster. My thanks to #BookSirens for introducing me to author Max Parrott and his characters. I'll be back and, dang it, I want to know more about the lady who trains race horses.

Driven to Death (Finch & Fischer Mysteries #5), by J. New

 

It's always interesting to meet a new series and characters. I loved the intro description of the sights and sounds our main character, Penny, who is walking her feisty Jack Russel, Fischer, experiences as they walk. I felt at one time like I should be able to put down my hand to my own dog and feel the damp warmness on her from the sun described, not to mention hear the snuffles from Fischer as he darts about from one delicious scent to the next. I walked my own dog this morning and smiled at some of the similar behavior. Dogs will be dogs. Unlike my dog, thank goodness, Fischer also has the disturbing trait of finding bodies, in this case business man Robert Reynolds.

Who killed him? Given that the death occurred during a large crowd at the shoot site, a sorta combo protest against the blood sport of grouse hunting and a gaggle of besotted pop rock fans trailing their idol Max Damage (yes, that's his stage name) who couldn't care less that he's there to take part in the hunt and there are plenty of suspects and twists and turns before Penny figures it all out...or does she? Why does Max keep running into things? What helpful bits of info will Penny pick up chatting with her usual mobile library customers? What a great job, btw. Why would someone kill Robert anyway? How many shots were there in the chaos of the red smoke bomb confuses everyone, well, except for Fischer. Does it even matter? If not, how to explain more dead grouse than shots heard? And, oh, lots more questions, twists, and turns.

I won't detail the plot any further as others will. Instead, I'll simply say that after a slow start for me, it gradually pulled me in. Not unusual when one jumps blindly into a series on the fifth book, so much of that is on me. I do wish there had been a bit more insight into her prior cases aside from learning that's where she first encountered now beau Detective Inspector John Monroe and ran into trouble investigating in the past. She's also vegetarian and though her love of animals is obvious, I'd have liked to have learned more about how that came about. I was glad to see she realized Fischer is a canine, ie meat eater, however, and didn't keep him to a strict veggie diet. She obviously is both smart and caring, which show in multiple ways as the story progresses. Heck, she even knows how to top off the oil in her mobile library van, not to mention do some basic leak repairs, so she's no helpless female. Love her ultimate helper, btw. 

Bottom line, despite minor quibbles, I enjoyed the book and will read more of the series. I liked Penny and John, and, oh, loved Fischer, and am looking forward to seeing where their relationship goes. Thanks to the author and publisher for introducing me to this series. I'm looking forward to getting to know all the characters better.

The Plot and the Pendulum (Library Lover's Mystery #13) by Jenn McKinlay (Author), Allyson Ryan (Narrator) AUDIO

 

Available October 11, 2022   AUDIO

Running time, 7h 4m 

Never underestimate the power of words. Such is the power of not just words but suggestion that as soon as I noted that this is the 13th book in the series and that Poe's "The Pit and the Pendulum" would somehow be featured, I was hooked. It's been awhile since I last visited Lindsey and Sully, now happily married, so it was both a delightful and spooky visit. An air of sadness hovered over the story, however, perhaps due to the excellent job of conveying emotions done by narrator Ryan, that was hard to shake, I must admit. Once I started reading, well, listening to the audio version of the book, I became determined to finish asap to blow that shadow away. But, don't get me wrong. It was an absolutely fascinating, intriguing read and I loved all those chills.

I won't detail the plot other than to say Lindsey is thrilled when her beloved library is selected to receive the vast library collection of the somewhat mysterious Dorchester family. Several valuable books are involved and Lindsey is determined none be damaged. The only catch is she has only about a month to retrieve the books, hence she drafts her friends from the library staff and Crafternoon group to help. They arrive at the old Victorian estate ready to work. 

There are some complications, however, and this is where the chills and shadows begin to close in. Ghost cat? Flickering, failing lights? Rumors of a runaway bride perhaps haunting the place? Yep, all those and more. Marian Dorchester is slowly losing touch with reality due to dementia, which adds an extra element of sadness. Toss in a hidden room and initially unidentified skeleton found in that room and you have the makings of a fine, chill inducing read. Add characters with contradictory needs and desires and even Lindsey's husband Sully, usually a rock, admits being a bit spooked. On the plus side, Lindsey and Sully do get a new pet but I'll leave readers to sort out how that happens. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia - #BerkleyPublishingCompany - #Berkley - #PenguinRandomHouse for allowing me this early bit of Halloween spookiness. We're left wondering, however, do we or don't we believe in ghosts? Loved it! I need to visit Lindsey and Sully more often.

The Broken Spine: A Beloved Bookroom Mystery, Book 1

The Broken Spine: A Beloved Bookroom Mystery, Book 1 

By Dorothy St. James 

I'm rather torn on how to rate the book. While I didn't love it, something of a surprise to my book loving self, I didn't hate it, either. As I think about it, I think it's because I never quite felt like I got to know any of the characters enough to like or dislike them.

That said, I really wasn't fond of Trudell, the main character. She needs some anger management, although her adoption of the stray she dubs Dewey speaks well for how she may evolve. Not only was she willing, it appears, to go to prison for a murder she didn't commit to protect her beloved books but the events at the library seem unrealistic. I cannot imagine someone didn't notice. 

There were flashes of promise, however, that gives me hope that this new series will improve as it goes along and the characters better emerge and interact. So, bottom line, not what I expected based on reading other b

Baker and Taylor and the Mystery of the Library Cats, by Candy Rodo

 

Makes learning purrfect fun.

Great concept and new series for independent readers. Two inquisitive library cats who love to read also learn that there is more to the world than they imagined. They set out in search of the "library cats" they're told about and it takes them on an adventure. It's also a mystery of sorts because they have no idea where these cats are located. They follow clues to find them. In the process, they meet lots of interesting people, not to mention statues, see lots of feet and legs, and even ride the NY subway. Oh, and there's pizza.

I see lots of potential for this series. I wonder where their curiosity will take Baker and Taylor next. They met the "library cats" and along the way we learn bits of info in boxes of factoids included. There's also more detailed info at the end along with ideas for other places one might visit in NYC. Great idea, fun execution with adorable, colorful illustrations. Loved it and I'll note that there was no danger implied, a plus for sensitive young readers.

Thanks #NetGalley and #BakerAndTaylor - #PawPrintsPublishing for allowing me to tag along as Baker and Taylor get to know their city a bit better. Looking forward to their next outting.

Death in the Margins (Blue Ridge Library Mysteries #7), by Victoria Gilbert

 

Publication Dec. 6, 2022

I adore this series. While I somehow seem to have missed the book covering the wedding between Amy and Richard, this one would work nicely as a stand-alone. The characters are introduced in an efficient manner and brought to life, including the resident cats Loie and Fosse. Richard and Amy are a great pairing. As Fosse's name might hint to you, Richard is a dancer and dance coach/trainer/mentor, and it's his dance production that serves as the center of "Death in the Margins". Librarian Amy doesn't exactly discover the body of Richard's former girlfriend Meredith but she arrives on the scene just in time to see Conner, one of the young dancers in the show, holding a bloody knife beside the body. Conner is arrested on the scene but Amy, Richard, and several others question the teenager's ability to have done it. Although friend and sheriff Brad isn't the lead investigator this go round, Amy quickly becomes invested in "researching" the case, putting herself in danger. Oh, and horses are involved. No, they don't dance. Laugh.

Who killed the arrogant, not-very-nice Meredith. Besides Conner, several other suspects emerge. Was it her ex-husband? He was spied in the parking lot. How about the mother of the autistic and easily overwhelmed child that Meredith degraded in public? Or any of the other dance parents? Meredith wasn't a nice person, to be honest, although nice-guy Richard was trying to help her out by giving her the dance job in "The Folklore Suite" production. Even his partner, Karla, is harshly belittled by Meredith? Heck, she isn't even very nice to Amy. And, what's the pianist's connection to her? And, back to the horses, what was Meredith's connection to an odd illness that took the lives of some valuable show horses some four years ago? Or, was there even one? Could Amy be chasing red herrings with that bit of information? Who is keeping secrets? Or, oh, never mind. Enough teasers. I loved this book/series and am betting cozy mystery lovers who like their mysteries with a bit of romance will too.

Thanks #NetGalley and #CrppledLaneBooks for inviting me to witness the birth of Richard's "Folklore Suite". Kudoes to Karla (and obviously author #VictoriaGilbert ) for emphasizing Richard and Karla's efforts to be inclusive and work with children.

Murder in the Library (Julia Bird Mysteries #2), by Katie Gayle

 

Publication September 7, 2022

Retirement isn't proving at all dull for former social worker Julia Bird. She's just discovered another body. Who killed well=known author Vincent Andrews in the library? Having been the one to discover Andrews' body, Julia's intrigue with the case is probably inevitable although she does try, well, sorta try, to stay out of it. 

So, who did it? Was it the wife, who he'd praised aloud during his presentation at the library to a crowd? Let's face it, the spouse is almost always a suspect. But, why would she have killed him? Or, hmm, maybe one of those unhappy locals who felt they'd been wrongly used as characters in the new book? Why did one man walk out on the presentation? Or maybe it was the attractive young publisher's assistant, Phoebe. Maybe an old flame? He did noticeably overlook one woman's attempts to ask a question during the Q/A session. Where's the murder weapon anyway? But, wait. There's a second murder? Why? Is there some unknown connection? 

Why...oh, never mind, Enough teasers. Although I couldn't quite get as invested in the mystery as I'd have liked, that is probably on me, not the book. The plot moved along smoothly and it appealed to me that she's an older sleuth and has a much loved dog, Jake. So, I liked Julia, even if she did some rather impulsive things in her curiosity to solve the crime. That's rather typical of most cozy mysteries, of course, and despite not quite connecting with Julia, the mystery was an interesting one and the ending did take me by surprise. Julia's relationship with sorta-almost-boyfriend Sean was adorable, too. It'll be interesting to see it grow. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #Bookouture for letting me spend a bit of time in Cotswolds with Julia and Sean, not to mention Jake. Give that dog a virtual treat!

The Paper Caper (Bibliophile Mystery #16) by Kate Carlisle, AUDIOBOOK, narrator Sara Young

 

AUDIOBOOK, 9 h 4 m  Sara Young narrator  

I'm a long time Kate Carlisle fan but this is my first time listening to one of her books on audio. Even better, it's one I hadn't read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Young does an excellent job not only bringing the characters to life but differentiating the voices. Chapter changes are simply announced and Young even handles various accents with aplomb. It was interesting to hear the minor but distinct changes in the Swedish accents utilized, too, both showing character traits in a subtle way. Kudos to both author and narrator.

As for the mystery, it opens with Brooklyn's security team chief husband, Derek, on the job protecting Joseph Cabot, a wealthy San Franciscan. Cabot is a huge supporter of the Covington Library and is sponsoring and hosting a Mark Twain related festival as a fundraiser. One of the big draws is a contest to select someone who looks like Joseph, not Twain. There are also children's activities, a riverboat casino cruise, and even a frog jumping contest. Brooklyn, a book restoration expert, is on site giving presentations on her restoration of a copy of Twain's "Prince and the Pauper", the book that inspired the look-alike contest, as well as mingling with guests and, ultimately, suspects in the murder of Cabot's long-time butler. Derek and his team are top-notch and Brooklyn, well, she's snoopy and has the knack of being in the right place at the right time to see and overhear things. 

They, along with Detective Lee, follow clues and hunches, many courtesy of Brooklyn, to solve the problem. Complications arise, of course, as Brooklyn and the rest deal with crowds, rowdy children, and two "blond bombshells", Joseph's wife and his mother-in-law. Could they be involved? Where did the killer get the idea for the murder weapon? Who had the skill to make it work? Why does Ella tolerate her mother's treatment of her? How does Brooklyn get so lucky at casino night? Should we all remember her numbers? Why were Joseph and his butler arguing? Was the butler even the intended victim? Why is someone afraid of look-alike winner Tom's presence? Would you risk your own life for a friend like Wyatt did for Tom? 

And...oh, so much more. I liked watching the wheels turn in Brooklyn's mind even if, well, they did tend to ping and zing and zip off in different, unexpected ways at times. I mean, I sorta related as my own mind often works that way. Like, her random thought about frog handlers made me wonder what sort of qualifications such a worker must have. That detail seemed irrelevant but others weren't, making it all the more interesting. Throughout it all, of course, we book people were treated to a flood of fascinating information about books, printing, book restoration, and, of course, Mark Twain. Btw, Derek and Brooklyn have only been married for a year, so, yes, lots of sweet lovey-dovey moments but nothing that distracted either them or the reader from the plot. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMeida for inviting me to the Mark Twain Festival to hang out with Brooklyn, Derek, and friends. I'm thinking the ending perhaps gave us a foreshadowing of big news to come? Can't wait!

Death by Beach Read (Lighthouse Library Mystery #9), by Eva Gates, Elise Arsenault (Narrator) Audio book

 

Audio   8 h 48 m duration

This is the first time I've listened to an audio of a book I've previously read and, since I thoroughly enjoyed the book, it's no surprise that the audio version is a winner, too. Narrator Elise Arsenault has a pleasant voice that fits the character of librarian Lucy well. She does a good job changing her voice to make a distinction between characters without missing a beat and each time the voice fit the character nicely. One of the things I noted was how she matched the rapid heartbeat pace when anxious at one point, a small but deft touch.

It's little things like that which make the difference between a good experience and a great one. Kudos to Arsenault for that masterful touch. The pacing was smooth and her tones matched the descriptive sections, whether happy or unnerved or, for that matter, simply impatient without disrupting the flow. Chapter changes were noted with a simple "Chapter 2" or whatever. Bottom line, an excellent job.

As for the plot itself, having reviewed it earlier I'll simply say, one, a plot synopsis is easily found elsewhere and, two. the conclusion was both satisfying and saddening. Youthful misadventures do change lives. Lucy still annoys me with her tendency to not share information with those who need it most, the police, or even Connor, but she's likable, as are her friends and family. Even the neighbors are well-rounded and show the best of human nature....most of the time. And, let's not forget Charles the Library Cat. He's a character all to himself. Bottom line, both an excellent read and listen. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this audio version and felt like I actually picked up on some subtle things I'd missed in the reading, so it was a win all the way around. Give it a listen or read or, heck, both.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for letting me revisit Lucy's world and ponder whether ghosts really exist or should it be human nature we fear. #EvaGates is a favorite author, so looking forward to what's next from her. 

Dewey Decimated (The Haunted Library Mysteries, #6), by Allison Brook

Publication September 6, 2022

Small town secrets can be deadly.

Although I found the book quite slow going at first, once the unknown body was found, things picked up big time. I realized at some point that I was fully invested, so it did grab my attention, even if it took awhile to click with me. I've read other books of this series but feel it worked nicely as a stand-alone. Brook introduces us to the main characters and shows rather than tells, a big plus, weaving past events smoothly into the plot. As always, Carrie seemed fully invested in her job despite the noise and confusion of the next door building that is being renovated to become part of the library. We do get quite a few looks into how many libraries operate, by the way, another plus for us book lovers. Now, true, I don't think most libraries have a resident ghost but, well, how would I know. Evelyn the ghost is a delight, in any case, and a definite help to Carrie throughout this book.

The plot centers about the discovery of the body of an unknown man, which may or may not be related to a later murder. Carrie is, for her, rather uninvolved in the investigation, her days being full of library business and her slowly dawning realization that husband-to-be Dylan and she still have things to learn about each other. Such as who he is related to. There are also several side stories, ranging from Angela's search for the "perfect dog" to the dimensions of the proposed auditorium to be build in the added building. It was interesting to see how Carrie, a new member of /the Clover Ridge, Connecticut, cautiously but effectively working her way into the city board and all the decisions it is ultimately responsible in making. She even deals with a pesty, ambitious reporter in the process.

Bottom line, despite the slow to me start, I enjoyed "Dewey Decimated" and recommend it to anyone who likes cozy mysteries with a helping of books, libraries, small town politics and secrets, and how the past often intertwines with the present. And, oh, did I mention ghosts, as in ghosts plural. It all somehow seems to, well, normal, even as those closest to Carrie are slowly coming to gripes with her talent for communicating with ghosts. Settle in and enjoy the read.

Thank you #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for inviting me over to Clover Ridge for a spell. Looking forward to more adventures with Carrie, Dylan, Smokey Joe, the library cat, and all the rest in the future.