It is not an uncommon cozy theme for a young woman to inherit an unusual bookstore from a nearly unknown relative. And of course, a mystery must ensue with an equally unusual bookstore-connected assistant in sleuthing, like a ghost of a sort. Zoey finds in inheriting her uncle’s Lonely Gnome Bookshop in scenic Loon Bay, Vancouver Island, that the somewhat-scruffy gnome statue that graces the shop comes alive after dark. 450 years ago, in the Black Forest, Ludwig fell afoul of a witch and, thought already a gnome, was cursed to this half-day existence. In the charming greenhouse at the back of the property, Ludwig works his magic on all and sundry plants to earn extra income. Zoey’s Aunt Barb, a realtor, wants only to sell the store, demolish it, and build condos, but can’t because of its landmark status. She does, however, want to paint, refurbish, and sell(!) the gnome. There are civic senior citizen groups to get caught up in, to say nothing of the shambles of Zoey’s life left back in New York looming over her. Readers will also get hints of a really, really rare book amid the chaos, gnome assisted match-making, and lobster-costumed tap dancers on parade that make this extra interesting. As Zoey decides to stay in Loon Bay, there are more gnome adventures to come!—Danise Hoover
