If you like cozies, here you go…
Cozy mysteries and bookstores just seem to go together well – think Carolyn Hart’s Death on Demand series, or Joan Hess’ Claire Malloy series. So PJ Nelson’s Booked for Murder is following in a fine tradition. And it’s a quick read, perfect for a plane ride or an afternoon at the beach.
The main character, Madeline Brimley, grew up in a small town, spending a lot of time at her Aunt Rose’s Old Juniper bookstore. Rose was a bit of a free spirit, and was influential in Maddie’s decision to leave Enigma, Georgia, and pursue an acting career, first in New York, and then in Atlanta. And by leaving her bookstore to Maddie when she passes away, Aunt Rose is again influential – this time in persuading Maddie to return. But small towns can be complicated, and Maddie soon finds herself the victim of both arson and threatening calls. Who would want to drive Maddie out of town, almost before she’s back? And why? And then the dead body of Maddie’s young assistant is found in the store itself.
There’s not a lot of depth to Booked for Murder, just a few bits here-and-there that make you think – about relationships, and about mental health. But depth is not really a requirement for a cozy. And Nelson’s writing and plotting are enjoyable enough to carry readers along while Maddie figures out what’s going on and, of course, eventually, whodunnit. So if you like lighter mysteries, this looks to be the start of a fun new series. And finally, my thanks to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the advance review copy.
Buy: Amazon US | Amazon UK (hardcover only, as of now) | Amazon Canada | Kobo US | Kobo Canada