A Body in the Bookshop by Helen Cox
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of A Body in the Bookshop in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
A Body in the Bookshop by Helen Cox is a delightful and charming cozy mystery that will appeal to book lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike. Set in the quaint English village of Knavesborough, Cox’s novel follows the amateur sleuthing adventures of librarian turned detective, Kitt Hartley, as she investigates a murder that shakes the quiet community to its core.
The Details
Cox’s writing is witty and engaging, drawing readers into the story with its clever dialogue and quirky characters. From the eccentric residents of Knavesborough to the idyllic countryside setting, she creates a world that is both familiar and fantastical, where secrets lurk behind every bookshelf and danger hides in plain sight.
At the heart of the novel is Kitt Hartley, a relatable and endearing protagonist whose love of books and insatiable curiosity make her the perfect amateur detective. As she delves into the mystery surrounding the murder of a local historian, Kitt must navigate a web of lies, deceit, and long-buried secrets to uncover the truth.
A Body in the Bookshop has a clever plot and well-crafted mystery. Cox keeps readers guessing until the very end, with plenty of twists and turns to keep them on the edge of their seats. As Kitt races against time to solve the case, she encounters a colorful cast of suspects, each with their own motives and alibis.
Also, the novel offers a delightful homage to the cozy mystery genre, with its charming setting, quirky characters, and tantalizing clues. Cox pays tribute to the classic whodunits of Agatha Christie and Dorothy L. Sayers, while putting her own modern twist on the genre with witty humor and contemporary sensibilities.
In addition to its engaging plot and lovable characters, A Body in the Bookshop is also a celebration of community, friendship, and the power of books to bring people together.
The Verdict
Overall, A Body in the Bookshop is a delightful and entertaining mystery that will delight readers. With its clever plot, charming characters, and cozy atmosphere, Helen Cox’s novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers long after they’ve turned the final page.
