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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2346 KP) rated Verse and Vengeance (A Magical Bookshop Mystery #4) in Books

Sep 7, 2021  
Verse and Vengeance (A Magical Bookshop Mystery #4)
Verse and Vengeance (A Magical Bookshop Mystery #4)
Amanda Flower | 2019 | Mystery
5
6.5 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
Weak Plot but Charming Characters
Violet Waverly is upset to see that PI Joel Redding is back in town, and once again staking out Charming Books, trying to learn about the secret of the bookstore. But when he is killed during the first annual Tour de Cascade Springs bike race, she begins to wonder what else he was up to. Will the investigation lead back to Violet’s secret? Why does the bookstore keep putting copies of Walt Whitman’s poetry in her path?

I really enjoyed the third book in the series earlier this year, so I sat down looking forward to this one. Sadly, the mystery disappointed. While there are some developments, the pacing could have been better. Then, in the rush to wrap things up, a major part of the mystery remains unexplained. I don’t normally read paranormal cozies, but I do enjoy the magical essence of this series. We get some additional mythology here, which I appreciated. Likewise, the series characters continue to grow, as do their relationships. Series fans will still enjoy this book even if the mystery could be stronger.
  
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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2346 KP) rated Bear a Wee Grudge in Books

Dec 1, 2021 (Updated Dec 1, 2021)  
Bear a Wee Grudge
Bear a Wee Grudge
Meg Macy | 2021 | Mystery
7
7.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Murder Presents a Wee Problem
Silver Hollow, Michigan, is hosting a Highland Fling weekend, and the Silver Bear Shop is getting in the spirit with teddy bears wearing kilts that Sasha Silverman and the rest of her family plan to sell at the event. Unfortunately, before the event kicks off, their rival, Teddy Hartman, is found dead near the festival’s grounds, and Sasha’s dad is the prime suspect. Can Sasha clear his name and still be ready for the festival?

As a fan of the series, I’m surprised that Teddy lasted as long as he did, he’s been that obnoxious in earlier books. It was nice to see this series thread come to the forefront. While the plot starts well, it does stall a bit in the second half before coming to a logical climax. I still have a hard time keeping all the supporting players and their relationships straight, but they are supporting players. Sasha and her immediate family and friends are strong, and the suspects keep us guessing. This mix of Scottish and teddy Bears is one that fans will enjoy.