Booked for Murder

A wonderfully rich narrative that ricochets between the past and the present, reminding us just how complex life can be. Madeline Brimley left rural Georgia years ago, eventually settling in Atlanta to pursue a career in the theater, a career that’s now floundering. Then she learns that her beloved Aunt Rose—who has been a role model for Madeline throughout her life—has died, leaving her an eccentric bookstore housed in a grand old Victorian mansion in Enigma, GA. But there’s a catch. According to Rose’s will, Madeline needs to live in Enigma for a year before the store belongs to her. Is this the life Madeline wants? Add to this several acts of violence directed against her—menacing phone calls, a threatening fire, and a startling murder—and Madeline, and the reader, are questioning the many secrets that are all too alive in this tiny town. Fortunately, Madeline is befriended by several women—the Episcopalian reverend in particular—who bring plenty of joy and laughter to the story. And while this novel would seem to use many of the classic cozy tropes, it is wonderfully unique in its own right. Looking forward to more of Madeline.