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Lighthouse Library Mystery #13
Whose Body in the Library
Not yet published
Expected 9 Jun 26A new librarian’s first day goes terribly wrong when she finds a dead body on the front steps of the library.
While Lucy McNeil is enjoying her new job as the mother of twin boys and library director, new librarian Nichelle Gilchrest has just arrived at the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library, reporting for duty. But life throws a wrench on Nichelle’s first day when she finds a body on the steps–a body that bears a startling resemblance to her father who disappeared on a fishing trip to the Outer Banks thirty-eight years ago.
Fingerprints confirm the dead body is indeed Nichelle’s father, now living in Nags Head under the name Brian Saunders. Brian had been befriending older lonely women in exchange for money, but was he working alone?
Detective Rhonda Thomas is on the case and the suspect list is only getting longer. Sorting through the wronged women and their relatives, Detective Thomas discovers Nichelle’s own brother Brad had been in Nags Head a few days before the murder happened and has been lying about his whereabouts.
Hoping to clear her brother’s name, Nichelle decides to investigate what happened. With seasoned sleuth Lucy’s gentle encouragement for the amateur, Nichelle is in for an exciting and dangerous first week at the library.
While Lucy McNeil is enjoying her new job as the mother of twin boys and library director, new librarian Nichelle Gilchrest has just arrived at the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library, reporting for duty. But life throws a wrench on Nichelle’s first day when she finds a body on the steps–a body that bears a startling resemblance to her father who disappeared on a fishing trip to the Outer Banks thirty-eight years ago.
Fingerprints confirm the dead body is indeed Nichelle’s father, now living in Nags Head under the name Brian Saunders. Brian had been befriending older lonely women in exchange for money, but was he working alone?
Detective Rhonda Thomas is on the case and the suspect list is only getting longer. Sorting through the wronged women and their relatives, Detective Thomas discovers Nichelle’s own brother Brad had been in Nags Head a few days before the murder happened and has been lying about his whereabouts.
Hoping to clear her brother’s name, Nichelle decides to investigate what happened. With seasoned sleuth Lucy’s gentle encouragement for the amateur, Nichelle is in for an exciting and dangerous first week at the library.
- GenresMysteryCozy MysteryCozy
304 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication June 9, 2026
383 people want to read
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Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In this installment of the Lighthouse Library mystery series, we're introduced to the new assistant director of the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library, Nichelle Gilchrest. The story is told primarily through Nichelle's perspective, which I found to be a fun change of pace as Lucy is busy as a new mom to twin boys. Divorced, with grown children and a newly minted college degree, relocating to the beautiful Outer Banks of North Carolina is just the fresh start Nichelle has been hoping for. Unfortunately, on the first morning of her new job, she discovers a dead body on the steps of the library that bears a startling resemblance to her father who disappeared thirty-eight years earlier. With series regulars helping Nichelle get aquainted with this charming seaside town, and a deftly plotted mystery, this was a fun read from beginning to end. Looking forward to what comes next for this likeable new protagonist!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read an eARC. All thoughts are my own.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read an eARC. All thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was on a rollercoaster with the twists and turns
December 27, 2025
As someone who usually reads thriller, intense fast-paced mysteries, this cozy mystery was a refreshing change of pace.
I loved the set up: Nichelle’s first day as a librarian was hectic as she found a dead body— who was later revealed to be her long lost father which made the situation more personal and crazier. The charming setting, at a small town near the beach and library, is perfect.
Though I did wish the reveal was less predictable, but I understand this is as an aspect that differed from what I usually read rather than a flaw in the writing. Other than this, I’d say the book was executed wonderfully and hits all the right notes for its genre.
For readers who want to read a cozy, chill, easy-going mystery, this is perfect for you.
Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the eARC!
I loved the set up: Nichelle’s first day as a librarian was hectic as she found a dead body— who was later revealed to be her long lost father which made the situation more personal and crazier. The charming setting, at a small town near the beach and library, is perfect.
Though I did wish the reveal was less predictable, but I understand this is as an aspect that differed from what I usually read rather than a flaw in the writing. Other than this, I’d say the book was executed wonderfully and hits all the right notes for its genre.
For readers who want to read a cozy, chill, easy-going mystery, this is perfect for you.
Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
📱📖 Read on Kindle | 📃 304 pages
⏱ Approx. 4 hours reading time
🏷️ Publisher: Crooked Lane Books
📅 Release Date: June 9, 2026
📘 ARC provided by NetGalley
🔍 Genre: Cozy Mystery
Eva Gates shakes things up in Whose Body in the Library, and longtime fans like me definitely feel it. Swapping out Lucy’s familiar first-person narration for a dual POV approach, mostly following newcomer Nichelle, makes this entry feel like walking through your own house but finding the furniture rearranged. Everything’s recognizable, yet slightly off-kilter. Lucy’s still around, juggling motherhood and library management, but the emotional center shifts to Nichelle’s family drama and her rocky first week surrounded by suspicious small-town secrets.
For longtime readers, that shift is jarring. We know the town, the people, and their secrets, but Nichelle doesn’t, and those gaps aren’t filled in. Familiar characters feel oddly distant, and the emotional shorthand that usually makes this series so cozy just isn’t there. Nichelle’s arc is intriguing. A woman confronting a past she thought was buried thirty-eight years ago, but the pacing and investigative beats don’t quite land with the same cozy confidence as previous installments. The addition of Detective Rhonda Thomas, who is rigid and rule-bound in contrast to the easygoing Sam Watson, further unsettles the balance. Her treatment of Lucy, in particular, left me uneasy and not especially excited to see her stick around.
The mystery itself, centered on Nichelle’s long-estranged father and the unsettling legacy he left behind, has solid bones, but the execution felt rough. Nichelle’s lack of sleuthing experience is understandable, yet the investigation and resolution never fully clicked. It’s like driving a familiar road and suddenly realizing the seat’s been adjusted just enough to throw everything off. I wanted to love this one more than I did, but it didn’t quite settle into place. Still, Eva Gates’ atmospheric details and character warmth shine through. Even when the mystery falters, the Outer Banks charm and community affection keep you turning pages. And one slightly off installment in a long-running series as consistent as this? Hardly a dealbreaker.
Would I recommend it?
A solid, if uneven, addition to the Lighthouse Library Mysteries. As a standalone or a transitional book, it works, but as a longtime fan of this series, it felt off in ways I couldn’t ignore. That said, one uneven entry won’t shake my loyalty to Eva Gates (aka Vicki Delany). I’ll absolutely be back for the next installment, hopeful that Lucy returns to center stage and the series finds its familiar rhythm again. If you’re curious to see life at the library through fresh eyes, add this to your TBR. Longtime fans may feel conflicted, but I’m not giving up on this lighthouse just yet.
⏱ Approx. 4 hours reading time
🏷️ Publisher: Crooked Lane Books
📅 Release Date: June 9, 2026
📘 ARC provided by NetGalley
🔍 Genre: Cozy Mystery
Eva Gates shakes things up in Whose Body in the Library, and longtime fans like me definitely feel it. Swapping out Lucy’s familiar first-person narration for a dual POV approach, mostly following newcomer Nichelle, makes this entry feel like walking through your own house but finding the furniture rearranged. Everything’s recognizable, yet slightly off-kilter. Lucy’s still around, juggling motherhood and library management, but the emotional center shifts to Nichelle’s family drama and her rocky first week surrounded by suspicious small-town secrets.
For longtime readers, that shift is jarring. We know the town, the people, and their secrets, but Nichelle doesn’t, and those gaps aren’t filled in. Familiar characters feel oddly distant, and the emotional shorthand that usually makes this series so cozy just isn’t there. Nichelle’s arc is intriguing. A woman confronting a past she thought was buried thirty-eight years ago, but the pacing and investigative beats don’t quite land with the same cozy confidence as previous installments. The addition of Detective Rhonda Thomas, who is rigid and rule-bound in contrast to the easygoing Sam Watson, further unsettles the balance. Her treatment of Lucy, in particular, left me uneasy and not especially excited to see her stick around.
The mystery itself, centered on Nichelle’s long-estranged father and the unsettling legacy he left behind, has solid bones, but the execution felt rough. Nichelle’s lack of sleuthing experience is understandable, yet the investigation and resolution never fully clicked. It’s like driving a familiar road and suddenly realizing the seat’s been adjusted just enough to throw everything off. I wanted to love this one more than I did, but it didn’t quite settle into place. Still, Eva Gates’ atmospheric details and character warmth shine through. Even when the mystery falters, the Outer Banks charm and community affection keep you turning pages. And one slightly off installment in a long-running series as consistent as this? Hardly a dealbreaker.
Would I recommend it?
A solid, if uneven, addition to the Lighthouse Library Mysteries. As a standalone or a transitional book, it works, but as a longtime fan of this series, it felt off in ways I couldn’t ignore. That said, one uneven entry won’t shake my loyalty to Eva Gates (aka Vicki Delany). I’ll absolutely be back for the next installment, hopeful that Lucy returns to center stage and the series finds its familiar rhythm again. If you’re curious to see life at the library through fresh eyes, add this to your TBR. Longtime fans may feel conflicted, but I’m not giving up on this lighthouse just yet.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Once again we venture back to Nags Head, North Carolina and the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library. This time out, Lucy McNeil has a new job as director of the library, and there is a new librarian, Nichelle Gilchrest.
Nichelle is in her 50's and starting over with a degree in her pocket and her nerves on edge as to whether she'll fit in or not. That feeling doesn't change when she opens the library doors the next morning and finds a body on the doorstep. Moreover, that body could be her long-long father, who deserted the family thirty-eight years ago and presumed drowned at sea during a fishing trip.
Now the new detective, Rhonda Thomas, is warning Nichelle to stay out of it, and Lucy is trying not to get involved, with her new job and new twins taking over her life. But when Nichelle's brother becomes a sudden suspect, she's determined to find the truth, but doesn't know how to go about it.
With the help of Louise Jane, whose never-ending 'knowledge' of people and things in the Outer Banks, Nichelle is learning who might be responsible. But can she keep herself safe or will she walk into the arms of a killer?...
This is the latest book in the series, and I have enjoyed them. I love every time I get to visit the Outer Banks, and with Lucy and her friends. But this time out is different. Lucy is a side character, and the mystery seems to focus on Nichelle (as it should, since she is the new character) and Louise Jane (whom I have never been fond of). But I have to say that I cannot warm up to Detective Thomas. She's not likable, and doesn't seem to want to make friends of the residents, which I think she should do since it's a small community. You can be professional and still have friends that you deal with. Sam Watson proved that.
There is very little of the other characters that we've grown to love as well, so we're in new territory all around here. The way we keep Lucy in the story is the difference in which it is written. First person for Nichelle, third person for Lucy.
The mystery is written well, as always; and I enjoy Ms. Gates so much that I read her books straight through. This one is no different. The plot keeps you guessing, although I did figure out the murderer before Nichelle; but when she figures it out herself, there's more work to be done before the murderer can be apprehended.
There are clues throughout, and descriptions of the area aplenty which always add to the story. When the ending comes it is put together well, and I will read the next in the series. Recommended.
I was given an advance copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
Nichelle is in her 50's and starting over with a degree in her pocket and her nerves on edge as to whether she'll fit in or not. That feeling doesn't change when she opens the library doors the next morning and finds a body on the doorstep. Moreover, that body could be her long-long father, who deserted the family thirty-eight years ago and presumed drowned at sea during a fishing trip.
Now the new detective, Rhonda Thomas, is warning Nichelle to stay out of it, and Lucy is trying not to get involved, with her new job and new twins taking over her life. But when Nichelle's brother becomes a sudden suspect, she's determined to find the truth, but doesn't know how to go about it.
With the help of Louise Jane, whose never-ending 'knowledge' of people and things in the Outer Banks, Nichelle is learning who might be responsible. But can she keep herself safe or will she walk into the arms of a killer?...
This is the latest book in the series, and I have enjoyed them. I love every time I get to visit the Outer Banks, and with Lucy and her friends. But this time out is different. Lucy is a side character, and the mystery seems to focus on Nichelle (as it should, since she is the new character) and Louise Jane (whom I have never been fond of). But I have to say that I cannot warm up to Detective Thomas. She's not likable, and doesn't seem to want to make friends of the residents, which I think she should do since it's a small community. You can be professional and still have friends that you deal with. Sam Watson proved that.
There is very little of the other characters that we've grown to love as well, so we're in new territory all around here. The way we keep Lucy in the story is the difference in which it is written. First person for Nichelle, third person for Lucy.
The mystery is written well, as always; and I enjoy Ms. Gates so much that I read her books straight through. This one is no different. The plot keeps you guessing, although I did figure out the murderer before Nichelle; but when she figures it out herself, there's more work to be done before the murderer can be apprehended.
There are clues throughout, and descriptions of the area aplenty which always add to the story. When the ending comes it is put together well, and I will read the next in the series. Recommended.
I was given an advance copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This may come across as shallow, but there was a cat on a beach reading a book on the cover — that was it. I had to read it. His name is Charles!
Nichelle, a newcomer starting over in life, got a good bit more than she bargained for when she accepted a position at the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library. Luckily, she has plenty of help to straighten things out.
The setting is the quiet star of Whose Body in the Library — Jake’s Seafood Bar, Josie’s Cozy Bakery, and, of course, the library in the lighthouse. The story skirts the edge of the Cozy genre, but is a touch too realistic to settle there. Still, it has that warmth, strong vacay vibes, and a lovely aesthetic. This is an ideal beach read! The characters, too, while eccentric and distinct, feel like real people. I don’t know if Louise Jane would drive me up the wall or amuse me in real life, but I enjoy her on the page. I love characters that are allowed to breathe; this cast isn’t made up of angels or villains, but folks that fall in between.
The plot is solid, although I do find Nichelle’s conviction a little premature. That said, I also felt that the events that followed were inevitable. Thematically, the ending fit, but I would have liked just a little something more — maybe the second meeting of the book club, full of gossip and Harris tweed jackets, or a big scene for Charles, who absolutely deserves one.
Whose Body in the Library is suitable for mystery lovers who don’t want their whodunits too grisly, while maintaining depth and style.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read Whose Body in the Library. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley and wrote this review voluntarily.
Nichelle, a newcomer starting over in life, got a good bit more than she bargained for when she accepted a position at the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library. Luckily, she has plenty of help to straighten things out.
The setting is the quiet star of Whose Body in the Library — Jake’s Seafood Bar, Josie’s Cozy Bakery, and, of course, the library in the lighthouse. The story skirts the edge of the Cozy genre, but is a touch too realistic to settle there. Still, it has that warmth, strong vacay vibes, and a lovely aesthetic. This is an ideal beach read! The characters, too, while eccentric and distinct, feel like real people. I don’t know if Louise Jane would drive me up the wall or amuse me in real life, but I enjoy her on the page. I love characters that are allowed to breathe; this cast isn’t made up of angels or villains, but folks that fall in between.
The plot is solid, although I do find Nichelle’s conviction a little premature. That said, I also felt that the events that followed were inevitable. Thematically, the ending fit, but I would have liked just a little something more — maybe the second meeting of the book club, full of gossip and Harris tweed jackets, or a big scene for Charles, who absolutely deserves one.
Whose Body in the Library is suitable for mystery lovers who don’t want their whodunits too grisly, while maintaining depth and style.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read Whose Body in the Library. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley and wrote this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The body on the steps of the library looks awfully familiar... Whose body?
Lucy is out and Nichelle is in. Lucy is back from maternity leave and she's taken over for Bertie as the new library director and Nichelle, from Rochester, NY, is replacing her as assistant director. Nichelle is, no surprise, greeted on her first day of work at the library by a dead body on the front stops and he looks oddly like someone from Nichelle's past.
Lots of things have changed in this series. Lucy is a mom now and she's taken over the library. Louise Jane is out? I don't remember if something happened with her in the last book but she doesn't work at the library anymore, though she still plays a major role in the book. And now the story is being told by Nichelle and Lucy is a peripheral character. I honestly didn't care for that. Nichelle is not interesting and while I didn't dislike her I didn't like her either. The series has definitely lost its appeal for me, and I hate that because I really enjoy the setting and this series has always been a reliably good one. Not to say that this book wasn't good, it was just not the same.
Good series, I hope that future books go back to Lucy being the main character!
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Lucy is out and Nichelle is in. Lucy is back from maternity leave and she's taken over for Bertie as the new library director and Nichelle, from Rochester, NY, is replacing her as assistant director. Nichelle is, no surprise, greeted on her first day of work at the library by a dead body on the front stops and he looks oddly like someone from Nichelle's past.
Lots of things have changed in this series. Lucy is a mom now and she's taken over the library. Louise Jane is out? I don't remember if something happened with her in the last book but she doesn't work at the library anymore, though she still plays a major role in the book. And now the story is being told by Nichelle and Lucy is a peripheral character. I honestly didn't care for that. Nichelle is not interesting and while I didn't dislike her I didn't like her either. The series has definitely lost its appeal for me, and I hate that because I really enjoy the setting and this series has always been a reliably good one. Not to say that this book wasn't good, it was just not the same.
Good series, I hope that future books go back to Lucy being the main character!
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It's all change at the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library in the Outer Banks, Lucy and Connor McNeil have welcomed their new twins and she has taken over as the library director now Bertie has retired. The recently recruited assistant director, Nichelle Gilchrest, is looking forward to starting work and already feels right at home in the tiny fourth floor apartment with library cat Charles and is delighted when her first day at work dawns, or at least she is until she finds a body she recognises on her doorstep! With the police on the case Nichelle is sure that's her involvement over with. But this is the Bodie and before she knows it Nichelle, along with Lucy, and Louise Jane are investigating as well! Gradually, as the clues come together, she's sure she knows the killer’s identity but confronting them could make her first week at the library her last!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Crooked Lane Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. Although this is a book full of changes it is still set around the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library and is, as always, a pleasure to read. Nichelle has an interesting backstory which gave her immediate depth and she fitted in well with everyone, even going out investigating with Louise Jane! I'm looking forward to seeing what else happens to her in future outings.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Crooked Lane Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. Although this is a book full of changes it is still set around the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library and is, as always, a pleasure to read. Nichelle has an interesting backstory which gave her immediate depth and she fitted in well with everyone, even going out investigating with Louise Jane! I'm looking forward to seeing what else happens to her in future outings.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to the publisher for this eARC copy.
I'm a huge fan of Eva Gates and her Lighthouse Library Mystery series, and this was no different. In this book, we meet Nichelle, a newcomer to town, coming into the series to be the Assistant Director to Lucy. At first, I thought I missed something because the story jumped right into Nichelle's point of view, but after a quick Google search, I realized I was right on target. I love the way we transitioned the point of view in this book, as with many cozy mystery series, if we have the same people doing the same things, the whole book and concept gets kind of stale.
Nichelle is a great character, and I love her backstory of a woman in her 50s reclaiming her passion in work and starting her life over now that her kids are grown.
With this being a cozy mystery, I don't want to spoil anything, but know that yes, someone dies, there are a lot of suspects, and there's a mystery within a mystery in this book. By the end, Nichelle is now intrical part of our little family and series.
Four stars for this amazing edition to the series.
I'm a huge fan of Eva Gates and her Lighthouse Library Mystery series, and this was no different. In this book, we meet Nichelle, a newcomer to town, coming into the series to be the Assistant Director to Lucy. At first, I thought I missed something because the story jumped right into Nichelle's point of view, but after a quick Google search, I realized I was right on target. I love the way we transitioned the point of view in this book, as with many cozy mystery series, if we have the same people doing the same things, the whole book and concept gets kind of stale.
Nichelle is a great character, and I love her backstory of a woman in her 50s reclaiming her passion in work and starting her life over now that her kids are grown.
With this being a cozy mystery, I don't want to spoil anything, but know that yes, someone dies, there are a lot of suspects, and there's a mystery within a mystery in this book. By the end, Nichelle is now intrical part of our little family and series.
Four stars for this amazing edition to the series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love this series and this is a great addition! While the beginning was slightly jarring, I understand why the story had to happen that way. That's all I'll say so there aren't spoilers.
This newest addition to the series is one of the better ones in the series! I read it in one setting as I just could not put it down! The additional characters and the plot line were intriguing and attention-grabbing. The mystery had plenty of twists and turns and it did not unfold precisely how I thought it would, which I always like and enjoy.
If you're new to the series, this is not the book to start with. I would highly suggest reading from the beginning, By Book or By Crook. There are way too many interpersonal connections in this particular volume to start reading the series from here.
I thoroughly enjoyed this new book and I hope others do as well!
This newest addition to the series is one of the better ones in the series! I read it in one setting as I just could not put it down! The additional characters and the plot line were intriguing and attention-grabbing. The mystery had plenty of twists and turns and it did not unfold precisely how I thought it would, which I always like and enjoy.
If you're new to the series, this is not the book to start with. I would highly suggest reading from the beginning, By Book or By Crook. There are way too many interpersonal connections in this particular volume to start reading the series from here.
I thoroughly enjoyed this new book and I hope others do as well!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Having read every title in this series, it was exciting to have a new narrator. Eva Gates was so smart to have new Assistant Librarian NIchelle Gilcrest be immediately thrown into a mystery with ties, unknown to her, to the community while allowing Lucy McNeill to focus on her twin baby boys and new role as Head Librarian. Lucy serves more as a guide and that allows the other new major series character, Detective Rhonda Thomas, to take on the investigation without the baggage built between Lucy and Sam in previous novels. A quick and delightful narrative, I highly recommend it to all who have enjoyed the series thus far and also as a place to jump into the series as it moves possibly to a different protagonist.
My sincere thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this arc in return for an honest opinion.
My sincere thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this arc in return for an honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
While I ended up enjoying this book by the end, I was really thrown off through the first few chapters because the series took such a turn with a new main character and a big time jump. I kept feeling like I missed a book and stopped to go look if I had. It would have helped to have had some heads up so that I could jump right in with an understanding of what was going on. Once I was able to accept this was the new path of the series (or is it?), then I was curious about Nichelle and her family and their mystery. I understand that series get stale, and so a new viewpoint helps to keep things fresh, and I appreciate it. The character of Nishelle is in a very different stage of life than Lucy, and it will be interesting to see her relationships with other characters develop.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
February 2, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.
This is one of my favorite series ever, all genres included. I am always looking forward to the next installement. This time I was just a little bit disappointed.
I'll say first that I absolutely love Nichelle as a protagonist. Her complexe family history was interesting to read about. Unfortunately, I am not sure how I feel about this change of main character after 12 books. Because of that, we are introduced over and over again to characters that we have read about for 12 books. I also feel that there was too many changes at the same time. Finally, I felt like the end was a bit rushed.
No matter how I felt about this installment, it was good to be back in Nags Head, just like meeting old friends and I am excited to follow the gang and our new protagonist in the next book.
This is one of my favorite series ever, all genres included. I am always looking forward to the next installement. This time I was just a little bit disappointed.
I'll say first that I absolutely love Nichelle as a protagonist. Her complexe family history was interesting to read about. Unfortunately, I am not sure how I feel about this change of main character after 12 books. Because of that, we are introduced over and over again to characters that we have read about for 12 books. I also feel that there was too many changes at the same time. Finally, I felt like the end was a bit rushed.
No matter how I felt about this installment, it was good to be back in Nags Head, just like meeting old friends and I am excited to follow the gang and our new protagonist in the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Big fan of this series of the library lighthouse! A new character and assistant librarian is introduced and she relates the story as it revolves around her. Or dear Lucy is now library director with identical twin sons. The reader will find that Nichelle, the new librarian, is starting a new life at age fifty. Her daughters are grown and settled, her marriage has ended, and she's gained her library degree. She will be staying in the lighthouse library apartment. On her first day, she discovers a body on the library step. The body looks familiar and that's where the mystery begins and develops. Will Nichelle be the next Lucy solving the murders in this small library town? We will just wait and see what the next book brings. Thanks to Net Galley for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Things are changing at the Lighthouse Library. Lucy, now the mother of newborn twin boys, is in charge of the library and a new assistant, Nichelle, has been hired and will be living in the lighthouse apartment. Nichelle’s father disappeared 38 years ago, so she is shocked when she finds his body on the lighthouse steps on her first morning. Nichelle really does try to stay out of the investigation, but she wants to clear her brother and find out about her father’s life during those missing years.
I enjoy the people and the location in this series, and Nichelle is a wonderful addition to the crew. The mystery had red herrings and multiple suspects to keep the reader guessing.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
I enjoy the people and the location in this series, and Nichelle is a wonderful addition to the crew. The mystery had red herrings and multiple suspects to keep the reader guessing.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Bodie Lighthouse Library has a new assistant librarian. Nichelle (not Michelle) is in her fifties, divorced with 2 grown daughters and a new degree. She accepts the job as the assistant librarian in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The first day of her job she opens the library door to find a dead body in front of the door. Nichelle thinks he looks like someone she knew. It’s fun to come back to this series and in this book Nichelle is the moderator. Lucy now has twin newborn sons who keep her busy and she’s been told by the new detective not to investigate. I enjoyed coming back to this series with a little bit of change. This was an excellent cozy mystery and I would recommend it to mystery readers. I received a copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When Nichelle Gilcrest took the librarian job at the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library she never expected to stumble onto a dead body. She most definitely didn't expect that dead body to be her father, who was presumed dead 38 years ago. As she and her brother deal with learning about what their father had been up to all these years, Nichelle also tries to find out who killed the man.
Wow! I did not want to put this one down. All the markers of a great cozy mystery: library, small town, gossipy ladies, and a cat. While the outcome wasn't a surprise this was an enjoyable read from start to finish.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC.
Wow! I did not want to put this one down. All the markers of a great cozy mystery: library, small town, gossipy ladies, and a cat. While the outcome wasn't a surprise this was an enjoyable read from start to finish.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Starting right off in the story with a new librarian, Nichelle, I was confused for a bit trying to figure out if I missed something. However, Lucy has been promoted, Nichelle is taking over the lighthouse aerie, and a new take on the story has started. As a fan of the series, I feel that Nichelle adds to the storyline & look forward to reading more. A murder, a now deceased long lost father, family dynamics, and familiar characters round out the plot.
Thanks to NetGalley, Ms Gates, and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley, Ms Gates, and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This the first cozy mystery series that I read and I love all. In this one Lucy has taken over the job as head of the library coming back to work after having twin boys. Nichelle is the new librarian taking Lucy's old job. She is living in the upstairs apartment. Her first morning of work she opens the door she finds a body on the step. She thinks he look familiar. Her dad disappeared 38 years ago in Nags Head. Is this him and why would someone want to murder him. Find out as follow the clues. A GREAT COZY MYSTERY READ.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story involves Nichelle, a woman who gets a job as a librarian in Nags Head. Her father disappeared from the same area over 30 years before, and was assumed to be dead. On her first full day at the library she finds a dead body outside the front door who turns out to be her father. The story explores his murder and his past after leaving his family. There were times I felt the story was dragging, and contained too much unnecessary information. I did enjoy the way the murder and story were wrapped up.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received this book as an ARC through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first time reading Eva Gates, and I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I got into the story and got to know the characters. The setting was fun and different, the cast had lots of personality, and the storyline felt fresh and a little unexpected. If you’re a cozy mystery fan, I definitely recommend giving this one a try—I’m excited to read the previous books in the series!
This was my first time reading Eva Gates, and I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I got into the story and got to know the characters. The setting was fun and different, the cast had lots of personality, and the storyline felt fresh and a little unexpected. If you’re a cozy mystery fan, I definitely recommend giving this one a try—I’m excited to read the previous books in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely love this series and get excited every time I see a new book out. What made this one different is the changes in everyone's lives and the story is told by the newest character, the new assistant library director, Nichelle Gilchrist. I love the addition of Nichelle and hope that there are many more books to come.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book jumps to the future of Lucy and friends. Lucy has been promoted to Library Director and Nichelle is the new librarian to replace Lucy. Lucy doesn’t have time to solve crimes as she is now a mother of twins. She can’t keep herself from helping Nichelle solve a recent murder. Love this series so I hope this is just change in perspective and we will continue with new books in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I understand why this long-running series needs a new protagonist, as Lucy is now too busy with twin babies to solve mysteries, but I didn't love the new sleuth. Maybe she'll grow on me!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Excellent
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fantastic next book in this series. Sometimes, a series can run into some hang-ups when the main character grows beyond what works, in this case having a happy home life and new babies. I adore how the author introduced someone new to take up the mantle while continuing in the same world. Nichelle is mature and taking on her first library job, basically starting where we first found Lucy. Unfortunately for Nichelle, she also finds a body! The mystery was fantastic and the characters rich. I cannot wait to read the next one! Thank you to Netgalley and Crooked Lane for the advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"Whose Body in the Library ” the 13th instalment in the "Lighthouse Library" Mystery series by Eva Gates. I love this series and couldn’t wait to visit Nag’s Head and the Bodie Island Lighthouse library in the Outer Banks of N.C. Again.
This time the story is more centred around new librarian Nichelle who finds a body on the steps—a body that bears a startling resemblance to her father, who disappeared on a fishing trip to the Outer Banks thirty-eight years ago.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and I loved the characters which are well developed. I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end.
I can't wait for the next instalment! I highly recommend this book to all my cozy mystery loving friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This time the story is more centred around new librarian Nichelle who finds a body on the steps—a body that bears a startling resemblance to her father, who disappeared on a fishing trip to the Outer Banks thirty-eight years ago.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and I loved the characters which are well developed. I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end.
I can't wait for the next instalment! I highly recommend this book to all my cozy mystery loving friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 24, 2026
Whose Body in the Library is the thirteenth book in Eva Gates’s Lighthouse Library Mystery series. What I didn’t expect when I heard this book was coming out was a change in the series lead. While part of the mystery is still told from Lucy’s point of view, most of the story is narrated by Nichelle, the new assistant director of the library.
This change in perspective reminded me of Midsomer Murders when it changed lead characters in its thirteenth season. It’s refreshing to see the familiar supporting cast through fresh eyes, and the transition works surprisingly well. Thankfully, Charles is still firmly in charge of everything. I’m already looking forward to the fourteenth book in the series.
This change in perspective reminded me of Midsomer Murders when it changed lead characters in its thirteenth season. It’s refreshing to see the familiar supporting cast through fresh eyes, and the transition works surprisingly well. Thankfully, Charles is still firmly in charge of everything. I’m already looking forward to the fourteenth book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to netgally for the opportunity to read this title.
This installment introduces a new Assistant Director at the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library, Nichelle Gilchrist. She's changed her profession and gotten her MLS and this is her first job. And on the first day of her first library job, Nichelle finds a body on front stairs of the library. She realizes that the body might be that of her father who hasn't been seen for decades and was presumed dead.
Lucy McNeal is still part of the library she's the new Director and though she doesn't take an active part in the mystery she helps brainstorm and along with the usual cast of characters, Nicole sets out to find the killer.
I did not expect to like this as much as I did. Change is hard and introducing a new heroine is a big change, but Nichelle is a very likable character and I really thought the book was entertaining. A little predictable, but overall a great cozy read.
This installment introduces a new Assistant Director at the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library, Nichelle Gilchrist. She's changed her profession and gotten her MLS and this is her first job. And on the first day of her first library job, Nichelle finds a body on front stairs of the library. She realizes that the body might be that of her father who hasn't been seen for decades and was presumed dead.
Lucy McNeal is still part of the library she's the new Director and though she doesn't take an active part in the mystery she helps brainstorm and along with the usual cast of characters, Nicole sets out to find the killer.
I did not expect to like this as much as I did. Change is hard and introducing a new heroine is a big change, but Nichelle is a very likable character and I really thought the book was entertaining. A little predictable, but overall a great cozy read.
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