Before I share my review for Reserved for Murder by Victoria Gilbert, I must show you a picture of the breakfast muffins I made. These muffins were supposed to be Blackberry Breakfast Muffins, but I didn't have blackberries, so I used blueberries. I also added about 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts to the mix, which was a very good call on my part! The recipe is from the back of the book Color Me Murder by Krista Davis. The muffins are 5 stars and I do recommend them!
Now on to today's book review. Reserved for Murder is the second book in the Booklovers B&B
Gosh, I really enjoyed this book! The murder mystery not only involves an author, but it also involved fan fiction, Goodreads reviewing, and the pressure of publishing. It was the most bookish of book mysteries I've read to date! I also really enjoy how Victoria Gilbert weaves the real-life history of Beaufort into her series, from Blackbeard's sunken ship to the Olde Burying grounds--the actual town of Beaufort is seamlessly a part of her series.
The murder mystery of the book is one that will keep you guessing, there are a handful of suspects that all could be the killer. The overarching mystery continues as we learn more about Charlotte's great-aunt, international woman of mystery, Isabella.
I was happy to read about Charlotte's growing relationships with Alicia and Damian. Charlotte is slowly growing roots in the community and I want her to be surrounded by good friends, she deserves it. I think she also deserved love, so we will see if that develops as the series moves along. Mind you, I don't need any sort of love triangle, but Charlotte is still young and written in such a way that you want her to find a partner to share her life.
Because this is the most bookish of book mysteries and because Victoria Gilbert integrates Beaufort, NC so well in her fiction, I rate this book a full 5 stars. If you like a cozy read, you've gotta read this series. The book will be out June 8th! Add it to your Goodreads shelf here or ask your local library to order a copy!
I received an ARC of this book from #NetGalley all the opinions are my own. The text of the book might change a little before publishing so I don't have any quotes to share.
#ReservedforMurder #NetGalley
