The book certainly lives up to the cosy mystery claim, it's a fun and fast read that keeps you invested. The plot isn't too complex, and it does require some suspension of disbelief in regards to the circumstances, but that is pretty much the norm of the genre, especially when it involves a civilian main character taking it on their own to investigate a murder. Charley felt real and relatable, her connection with her best friend felt refreshing, and the approach that the book takes to experiencing a burnout, needing a break, and to mental health in general, feels also quite realistic. With a plot that involves its main protagonist moving to a small town, taking over a bookstore, adopting a cat, and using their intellect to solve a crime, there's a lot to like here.
As this is the first of the 'Cozy Bookshop mystery' books, the characters are newly introduced and their circumstances are just being established, but the book soon finds its pace and becomes both a highly enjoyable read and a promising beginning to the series.
Big thank you to Severn House for providing an advance review copy. The book is coming out on the 1st of July, 2025.
