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Blue Ridge Library Mysteries #2
Shelved Under Murder
Autumn leaves aren’t the only things falling in the historic Virginia village of Taylorsford—so are some cherished memories, and a few bodies.
October in Taylorsford, Virginia means it’s leaf peeping season, with bright colorful foliage and a delightful fresh crew of tourists attending the annual Heritage Festival which celebrates local history and arts and crafts. Library director Amy Webber, though, is slightly dreading having to spend two days running a yard sale fundraiser for her library. But during these preparations, when she and her assistant Sunny stumble across a dead body, Amy finds a real reason to be worried.
The body belonged to a renowned artist who was murdered with her own pallet knife. A search of the artist’s studio uncovers a cache of forged paintings, and when the sheriff’s chief deputy Brad Tucker realizes Amy is skilled in art history research, she’s recruited to aid the investigation. It doesn’t seem to be an easy task, but when the state’s art expert uncovers a possible connection between Amy’s deceased uncle and the murder case, Amy must champion her Aunt Lydia to clear her late husband’s name.
That’s when another killing shakes the quiet town, and danger sweeps in like an autumn wind. Now, with her swoon-inducing neighbor Richard Muir, Amy must scour their resources to once again close the books on murder.
October in Taylorsford, Virginia means it’s leaf peeping season, with bright colorful foliage and a delightful fresh crew of tourists attending the annual Heritage Festival which celebrates local history and arts and crafts. Library director Amy Webber, though, is slightly dreading having to spend two days running a yard sale fundraiser for her library. But during these preparations, when she and her assistant Sunny stumble across a dead body, Amy finds a real reason to be worried.
The body belonged to a renowned artist who was murdered with her own pallet knife. A search of the artist’s studio uncovers a cache of forged paintings, and when the sheriff’s chief deputy Brad Tucker realizes Amy is skilled in art history research, she’s recruited to aid the investigation. It doesn’t seem to be an easy task, but when the state’s art expert uncovers a possible connection between Amy’s deceased uncle and the murder case, Amy must champion her Aunt Lydia to clear her late husband’s name.
That’s when another killing shakes the quiet town, and danger sweeps in like an autumn wind. Now, with her swoon-inducing neighbor Richard Muir, Amy must scour their resources to once again close the books on murder.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2018
About the author
Victoria Gilbert
16 books616 followersVictoria Gilbert, raised in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountain, turned her early obsession with reading into a dual career as an author and librarian.
When not writing or reading, she likes to spend her time watching films, gardening, or traveling. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, son, and some very spoiled cats.
Victoria is a member of Sisters in Crime and Mystery Writers of America, and is represented by Frances Black of Literary Counsel, NY, NY.
When not writing or reading, she likes to spend her time watching films, gardening, or traveling. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, son, and some very spoiled cats.
Victoria is a member of Sisters in Crime and Mystery Writers of America, and is represented by Frances Black of Literary Counsel, NY, NY.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 311 reviews
July 17, 2018
This is a sweet, fun cozy mystery, and a great weekend read!!! 3.5 Stars!
Victoria Gilbert offers her second installment in her Blue Ridge Library Mysteries and what an interesting ride! The settings for this book are so adorable, from the winding driveway up to the farm, to the town square hosting the Heritage Festival—Gilbert really has a way with descriptions that make the settings pop right off of the page!
I do want to caution readers up front that this book heavily and frequently spoils the first book in the Blue Ridge Library Mystery Series (A Murder for the Books), so please go back and read these in order if that bothers you. I’m ok reading things out of order, but knowing the whodunit from the first book does make it difficult to recommend reading this first. That said, this book works as a standalone, so if you don’t plan to go back, feel free to jump in here!
About the Book
The book opens with Amy Webber, Director of the Blue Ridge Library in Taylorsford, Virginia, preparing for the annual Heritage Festival. The Festival attracts tourists from all over to celebrate the history of Taylorsford, and purchase some local arts and crafts. Amy and her colleague Sunny are running errands to pick up items for their sale, only to discover the dead body of a local, renowned artist murdered in her own studio!
The police are on the scene quickly to investigate the murder. As the investigation progresses, the evidence only gets more confusing. Who was the man seen running away from the studio the day of the murder? Why would a local artist who keeps to herself be murdered? And, is there an underground art forgery ring going on with ties to Taylorsford?
Lucky for the police, Amy has a degree in art history, and she’s able to help them look into the potential forgeries and the murder until an expert can arrive. But as Amy investigates, strange characters start cropping up all over town with links to the case. Amy may find that the case hits closer to home than she ever could have imagined. With a number of close calls, Amy finds herself in danger and desperate to help the police solve this crime before another body turns up—maybe even her own!
Reflection
With a cast of zany characters, some outlandish narrow escapes, and cute settings out the wazoo, this is a book many cozy mystery fans will enjoy!
I found the pacing of this book quite odd. It would be slow for 10-15%, then speed up with action, then return to slow, then speed back up again. I do think readers should give that a chance because I got used to it and let the story just unfold. Often the slower parts are used to develop the characters through dialogue and interactions. Though important, they do detract a bit from the mystery (for instance, Amy takes a mini trip somewhere mid-mystery and it completely derailed the case for me). I think these are used to develop the character arcs for the series, but I do think the author could have done a better job tying them into the mystery more.
Overall, this was a fun, quick read filled with wonderful settings and loveable characters!
I want to thank NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Victoria Gilbert for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Victoria Gilbert offers her second installment in her Blue Ridge Library Mysteries and what an interesting ride! The settings for this book are so adorable, from the winding driveway up to the farm, to the town square hosting the Heritage Festival—Gilbert really has a way with descriptions that make the settings pop right off of the page!
I do want to caution readers up front that this book heavily and frequently spoils the first book in the Blue Ridge Library Mystery Series (A Murder for the Books), so please go back and read these in order if that bothers you. I’m ok reading things out of order, but knowing the whodunit from the first book does make it difficult to recommend reading this first. That said, this book works as a standalone, so if you don’t plan to go back, feel free to jump in here!
About the Book
The book opens with Amy Webber, Director of the Blue Ridge Library in Taylorsford, Virginia, preparing for the annual Heritage Festival. The Festival attracts tourists from all over to celebrate the history of Taylorsford, and purchase some local arts and crafts. Amy and her colleague Sunny are running errands to pick up items for their sale, only to discover the dead body of a local, renowned artist murdered in her own studio!
The police are on the scene quickly to investigate the murder. As the investigation progresses, the evidence only gets more confusing. Who was the man seen running away from the studio the day of the murder? Why would a local artist who keeps to herself be murdered? And, is there an underground art forgery ring going on with ties to Taylorsford?
Lucky for the police, Amy has a degree in art history, and she’s able to help them look into the potential forgeries and the murder until an expert can arrive. But as Amy investigates, strange characters start cropping up all over town with links to the case. Amy may find that the case hits closer to home than she ever could have imagined. With a number of close calls, Amy finds herself in danger and desperate to help the police solve this crime before another body turns up—maybe even her own!
Reflection
With a cast of zany characters, some outlandish narrow escapes, and cute settings out the wazoo, this is a book many cozy mystery fans will enjoy!
I found the pacing of this book quite odd. It would be slow for 10-15%, then speed up with action, then return to slow, then speed back up again. I do think readers should give that a chance because I got used to it and let the story just unfold. Often the slower parts are used to develop the characters through dialogue and interactions. Though important, they do detract a bit from the mystery (for instance, Amy takes a mini trip somewhere mid-mystery and it completely derailed the case for me). I think these are used to develop the character arcs for the series, but I do think the author could have done a better job tying them into the mystery more.
Overall, this was a fun, quick read filled with wonderful settings and loveable characters!
I want to thank NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Victoria Gilbert for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 7, 2018
Library director Amy Webber and her off-sider Sunny enjoyed their work at the library, but it was particularly busy in the lead up to the annual Heritage Festival. They needed to price all the donated books before the start of the festival, as well as prepare art and various other crafts. Sunny knew a local artist who had promised to donate a couple of her paintings, so when Sunny, Amy and her next door neighbour, Richard Muir headed out to the farm where the artist operated from, they had no idea it would be the beginning of another murder mystery – the second in only six months.
When Richard and Amy discovered the artist’s body, they were shocked to discover a hidden room filled with more paintings. Amy was suspicious as she recognized some of the work – her research into art history gave her a knowledge that would help in the investigation. Chief Deputy Brad Tucker and his small team of police officers were out of their depth. Taylorsford in Virginia didn’t have a big police force and as more strange events continued to occur, Brad was tearing his hair out – and grateful for Amy’s assistance.
But would they discover who the murderer was – and why she was killed? There was danger surrounding them as it soon became obvious that whoever it was would stop at nothing…
Shelved Under Murder is the 2nd in the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries series by Victoria Gilbert, and I was thoroughly entertained once again. A Murder for the Books is #1, which I loved – I can’t wait for the 3rd, which is Past Due for Murder, due to be released in 2019. Twists and turns, red herrings and loads of fun fill the pages in Shelved Under Murder, and I highly recommend the series.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read and review.
When Richard and Amy discovered the artist’s body, they were shocked to discover a hidden room filled with more paintings. Amy was suspicious as she recognized some of the work – her research into art history gave her a knowledge that would help in the investigation. Chief Deputy Brad Tucker and his small team of police officers were out of their depth. Taylorsford in Virginia didn’t have a big police force and as more strange events continued to occur, Brad was tearing his hair out – and grateful for Amy’s assistance.
But would they discover who the murderer was – and why she was killed? There was danger surrounding them as it soon became obvious that whoever it was would stop at nothing…
Shelved Under Murder is the 2nd in the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries series by Victoria Gilbert, and I was thoroughly entertained once again. A Murder for the Books is #1, which I loved – I can’t wait for the 3rd, which is Past Due for Murder, due to be released in 2019. Twists and turns, red herrings and loads of fun fill the pages in Shelved Under Murder, and I highly recommend the series.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read and review.
July 12, 2018
ARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
3,5 stars for Book #2 in the cosy-mystery Blue Ridge Library Series.
I did not find it as good as the first book in the series, but I still enjoyed this cosy mystery. I like the fact that the MC, Amy's involvement in the investigation as a librarian is totally plausible because of the small-town background and because the sheriff's office is a small one there.
I like the small-town setting and that we get to meet again the lovely, quirky second-characters.
The investigation and the red herrings to mislead Amy were a bit too obvious, but all in all this was a satisfying read.
3,5 stars for Book #2 in the cosy-mystery Blue Ridge Library Series.
I did not find it as good as the first book in the series, but I still enjoyed this cosy mystery. I like the fact that the MC, Amy's involvement in the investigation as a librarian is totally plausible because of the small-town background and because the sheriff's office is a small one there.
I like the small-town setting and that we get to meet again the lovely, quirky second-characters.
The investigation and the red herrings to mislead Amy were a bit too obvious, but all in all this was a satisfying read.
July 20, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
We are back in Taylorsford just in time for the Heritage Festival. The library is hosting a yard sale fundraiser and a famous local artist has agreed to give some of her work to the sale. When Amy, her assistant Sunny, Richard, now her boyfriend arrive at the artist’s studio they make a horrible discovery. The artist dead on the floor. When police arrived on the scene, their search finds a hidden room filled with what appear to be forged paintings. With Amy’s background in art history research Chief Deputy Brad Tucker asks her to assist him by checking out the paintings. When the state’s art expert arrives Amy assists him too. Until he finds that her uncle, now deceased, may be connected to both the forgeries and the murder. When someone else is killed Amy knows she has to help find the killer, all the while hoping to clear her uncle of any wrongdoing.
Being a librarian means more that shelving and checking out books. That is why degree, usually a master’s in Library Science is required for head librarians. The ability to navigate and manage information is a huge part of the job. With Amy’s minor in Art History, she is the perfect person to assist the police in find provenance for these found paintings and any other information to help the police solve the case. The author has written a very complex mystery and Amy plays a key role in solving it. Not knowing much about paintings like those in the story it was so much fun following along with Amy and all the revelations that were found throughout the story. I always enjoy learning something new when reading. This time I highlighted quite a few items I plan to research further.
The main characters are continuing to develop nicely. The supporting cast, Zelda, Walt and Aunt Lydia are great too and have many humorous moments. There is one character that is hiding something. We got some major hints in this story and I am sure we will learn more in the next.
The romance between Amy and Richard played a big part in this story. She is still recovering from her break-up and her confidence is a little shaky. Richard is the perfect man for her. He understands her insecurities and he really loves her. They have quite a moment near the end of the story that was so heart-warming and genuine.
Again, Ms. Gilbert has written a mystery with great substance and allowed her characters to shine. She also brings the setting to life with her words. I enjoyed this book from the first page to the last.
Shelved Under Murder is a fantastic addition to this series. I think I loved it more than the first book in the series, A Murder for the Books. Book #3 Past Due for Murder comes out on February 12, 2019. I can hardly wait.
We are back in Taylorsford just in time for the Heritage Festival. The library is hosting a yard sale fundraiser and a famous local artist has agreed to give some of her work to the sale. When Amy, her assistant Sunny, Richard, now her boyfriend arrive at the artist’s studio they make a horrible discovery. The artist dead on the floor. When police arrived on the scene, their search finds a hidden room filled with what appear to be forged paintings. With Amy’s background in art history research Chief Deputy Brad Tucker asks her to assist him by checking out the paintings. When the state’s art expert arrives Amy assists him too. Until he finds that her uncle, now deceased, may be connected to both the forgeries and the murder. When someone else is killed Amy knows she has to help find the killer, all the while hoping to clear her uncle of any wrongdoing.
Being a librarian means more that shelving and checking out books. That is why degree, usually a master’s in Library Science is required for head librarians. The ability to navigate and manage information is a huge part of the job. With Amy’s minor in Art History, she is the perfect person to assist the police in find provenance for these found paintings and any other information to help the police solve the case. The author has written a very complex mystery and Amy plays a key role in solving it. Not knowing much about paintings like those in the story it was so much fun following along with Amy and all the revelations that were found throughout the story. I always enjoy learning something new when reading. This time I highlighted quite a few items I plan to research further.
The main characters are continuing to develop nicely. The supporting cast, Zelda, Walt and Aunt Lydia are great too and have many humorous moments. There is one character that is hiding something. We got some major hints in this story and I am sure we will learn more in the next.
The romance between Amy and Richard played a big part in this story. She is still recovering from her break-up and her confidence is a little shaky. Richard is the perfect man for her. He understands her insecurities and he really loves her. They have quite a moment near the end of the story that was so heart-warming and genuine.
Again, Ms. Gilbert has written a mystery with great substance and allowed her characters to shine. She also brings the setting to life with her words. I enjoyed this book from the first page to the last.
Shelved Under Murder is a fantastic addition to this series. I think I loved it more than the first book in the series, A Murder for the Books. Book #3 Past Due for Murder comes out on February 12, 2019. I can hardly wait.
January 18, 2019
Just as enjoyable as the first book!
November 24, 2019
Shelved Under Murder was a wonderful addition to the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries series with a fantastic mystery for our characters to solve.
For library director Amy Webber, October is all about the annual Heritage Festival and the library sale she runs as a fundraiser for the library. When Amy, her assistant Sunny, and Amy’s swoon-worthy boyfriend Richard go to pick up some paintings donated to the sale by a local artist they find the artist murdered instead. After some forged paintings are found, Amy is enlisted by the sheriff to help with the investigation due to her art history background. But when the investigation uncovers a connection to Amy’s family, Amy is in a race to find the truth before the killer strikes again.
Shelved Under Murder delivers a solid and interesting mystery with several twists I didn’t see coming. The part of the story centered around the forged paintings was my favorite part of the book and I enjoyed where that story line went. My only complaint about the mystery plot is that I had guessed the identity of the killer from their first scene in the book. I don’t know if it’s due to my reading a lot of mystery books or if their identity just wasn’t well hidden, but to me it was obvious who the killer was immediately upon their introduction.
Amy continues to be an enjoyable and relatable character that I connected with even more in this book than the first. Amy loves her job at the library and although she may not like some of the paperwork involved, she loves getting to interact with the patrons and helping them find what they’re looking for. The scenes where Amy is researching into the forged paintings were very well done and showed just how good Amy is at her job. Amy is quick-thinking and great at puzzling out problems which makes her an excellent main character for a cozy mystery series.
The side characters continue to be a fantastic bunch and I enjoy them quite a bit. Amy’s relationship with Richard is progressing nicely and I’m loving the direction those two are headed. I feel they complement each other very well and I like seeing them together. Amy’s Aunt Lydia along with Lydia’s friends Zelda and Walt continue to provide some great humorous moments. We also learn more about Kurt, the shady art dealer and old acquaintance of Lydia, who is quite an interesting character and I’m curious to see where things go with him in the future.
Despite my one small complaint about the mystery, Shelved Under Murder had everything I love about cozy mysteries and the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries series is shaping up to be an amazing series. I can’t wait to see what the characters get up to next and would highly recommend this series.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
For library director Amy Webber, October is all about the annual Heritage Festival and the library sale she runs as a fundraiser for the library. When Amy, her assistant Sunny, and Amy’s swoon-worthy boyfriend Richard go to pick up some paintings donated to the sale by a local artist they find the artist murdered instead. After some forged paintings are found, Amy is enlisted by the sheriff to help with the investigation due to her art history background. But when the investigation uncovers a connection to Amy’s family, Amy is in a race to find the truth before the killer strikes again.
Shelved Under Murder delivers a solid and interesting mystery with several twists I didn’t see coming. The part of the story centered around the forged paintings was my favorite part of the book and I enjoyed where that story line went. My only complaint about the mystery plot is that I had guessed the identity of the killer from their first scene in the book. I don’t know if it’s due to my reading a lot of mystery books or if their identity just wasn’t well hidden, but to me it was obvious who the killer was immediately upon their introduction.
Amy continues to be an enjoyable and relatable character that I connected with even more in this book than the first. Amy loves her job at the library and although she may not like some of the paperwork involved, she loves getting to interact with the patrons and helping them find what they’re looking for. The scenes where Amy is researching into the forged paintings were very well done and showed just how good Amy is at her job. Amy is quick-thinking and great at puzzling out problems which makes her an excellent main character for a cozy mystery series.
The side characters continue to be a fantastic bunch and I enjoy them quite a bit. Amy’s relationship with Richard is progressing nicely and I’m loving the direction those two are headed. I feel they complement each other very well and I like seeing them together. Amy’s Aunt Lydia along with Lydia’s friends Zelda and Walt continue to provide some great humorous moments. We also learn more about Kurt, the shady art dealer and old acquaintance of Lydia, who is quite an interesting character and I’m curious to see where things go with him in the future.
Despite my one small complaint about the mystery, Shelved Under Murder had everything I love about cozy mysteries and the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries series is shaping up to be an amazing series. I can’t wait to see what the characters get up to next and would highly recommend this series.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
January 6, 2020
I found book #2 in this series a bit more intriguing than book #1, but I guess book #1 was introducing the main characters and setting up for future books in the series.
In this one, Amy and Richard continue to "get into trouble" and investigate more criminal behavior, including murder. But this time there was a lot surrounding artwork, her aunt Lydia's deceased husband and the possibility of his involvement, and a lot more of their suspicions of various people being either confirmed or exonerated, so to speak.
There was a bit of a cliffhanger because the culprit for the murders confessed to Amy and others about his crime and he went to jail but there wasn't a trial or sentencing by the end of the book. I'm hoping it'll be revisited just briefly in book #3 so I know what happened. But it wasn't a major cliffhanger.
Continuing on with book #3.
In this one, Amy and Richard continue to "get into trouble" and investigate more criminal behavior, including murder. But this time there was a lot surrounding artwork, her aunt Lydia's deceased husband and the possibility of his involvement, and a lot more of their suspicions of various people being either confirmed or exonerated, so to speak.
There was a bit of a cliffhanger because the culprit for the murders confessed to Amy and others about his crime and he went to jail but there wasn't a trial or sentencing by the end of the book. I'm hoping it'll be revisited just briefly in book #3 so I know what happened. But it wasn't a major cliffhanger.
Continuing on with book #3.
July 26, 2018
This book might just be better than the first book, which I also loved. I do recommend that anyone who hasn't read the first book yet, read it before this one. You will be much happier if you do!
Amy and Sunny were getting ready for the Heritage Festival where the library would have a table of products to sell, most of which were donations. Amy and Richard stumbled onto the body of a dead local artist, the same artist they were going to talk to about donating a couple of her paintings. A local drug dealer was suspected but he swore he saw someone else running from the scene. While helping the police with the investigation--yes, Brad actually asked Amy to help since she has art history as a background--Amy found some unsettling information that may or may not have involved her uncle in the world of art forgery. Maybe this murder was something bigger than what it looked? Amy and Richard must be careful investigating this case or they could both end up dead.
I liked how both of these books so far have used an older case which ties in with the contemporary case being worked on. A new character, Hugh Chen, was introduced as an art forensics expert from the state of Virginia and Lydia may just have found herself a new male companion. Knowing Lydia, she will take it slowly since she adored her husband, Andrew. Someone else had adored him as well and closure for that ties in, in sort of a bittersweet way. I love that Amy and Richard are getting closer in their relationship. The regular characters, Walt and Zelda, were more comfortable and open with their relationship as well. I just love those two! The temporary characters weren't especially memorable, only Hugh and I do hope he comes back for a visit or tries to make a distance friendship with Lydia work out.
This series has quickly become one of my favorite new series and I'm so anxious for the next book to come out. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Amy and Sunny were getting ready for the Heritage Festival where the library would have a table of products to sell, most of which were donations. Amy and Richard stumbled onto the body of a dead local artist, the same artist they were going to talk to about donating a couple of her paintings. A local drug dealer was suspected but he swore he saw someone else running from the scene. While helping the police with the investigation--yes, Brad actually asked Amy to help since she has art history as a background--Amy found some unsettling information that may or may not have involved her uncle in the world of art forgery. Maybe this murder was something bigger than what it looked? Amy and Richard must be careful investigating this case or they could both end up dead.
I liked how both of these books so far have used an older case which ties in with the contemporary case being worked on. A new character, Hugh Chen, was introduced as an art forensics expert from the state of Virginia and Lydia may just have found herself a new male companion. Knowing Lydia, she will take it slowly since she adored her husband, Andrew. Someone else had adored him as well and closure for that ties in, in sort of a bittersweet way. I love that Amy and Richard are getting closer in their relationship. The regular characters, Walt and Zelda, were more comfortable and open with their relationship as well. I just love those two! The temporary characters weren't especially memorable, only Hugh and I do hope he comes back for a visit or tries to make a distance friendship with Lydia work out.
This series has quickly become one of my favorite new series and I'm so anxious for the next book to come out. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
July 27, 2018
In Shelved Under Murder, there’s a lot of mystery (murder, art intrigue, fugitive suspects, etc.), a lot of charm, and a lot of romance! (Ok, not a lot of romance but things between Richard and Amy have heated up and there are quite a few swoony moments to be found here.) The murder that they literally stumble upon (again) is well-plotted and layered, with several red herrings and a tense resolution. The added dimensions of the art world and possible forgeries were intriguing, and I loved how Amy was able to be a logical part of the investigation.
Amy makes a great protagonist, and Richard is deliciously swoony as her professional-dancer boyfriend. He’s flirty and passionate, and boy has he fallen hard for Amy! He’s also got a sad past, and so his relationship with Amy is very important to him. I liked the fact that he loves fiercely and loyally – not a lot of room for games or jealous moments, etc. But – I got distracted lol. Back to Amy. She’s intelligent and brave when she needs to be but not unrealistically so. She shows fear – often after the fact – and reacts naturally to the dangerous situations she finds herself in. All in all, though, she is strong and capable and smart but she also loves deeply and has a soft heart. Her Aunt Lydia is a hoot – sharp as a tack and witty, even as she shows her softer side a bit more in this book.
Bottom Line: A charming setting in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A cast of delightful (and layered) characters. An intriguing mystery and a taste of art. A swoony romance. All of these elements make up the entertaining Shelved Under Murder! If you love cozy mysteries, the Blue Ridge Mountains, or libraries, make sure this series is on your to-read list!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Amy makes a great protagonist, and Richard is deliciously swoony as her professional-dancer boyfriend. He’s flirty and passionate, and boy has he fallen hard for Amy! He’s also got a sad past, and so his relationship with Amy is very important to him. I liked the fact that he loves fiercely and loyally – not a lot of room for games or jealous moments, etc. But – I got distracted lol. Back to Amy. She’s intelligent and brave when she needs to be but not unrealistically so. She shows fear – often after the fact – and reacts naturally to the dangerous situations she finds herself in. All in all, though, she is strong and capable and smart but she also loves deeply and has a soft heart. Her Aunt Lydia is a hoot – sharp as a tack and witty, even as she shows her softer side a bit more in this book.
Bottom Line: A charming setting in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A cast of delightful (and layered) characters. An intriguing mystery and a taste of art. A swoony romance. All of these elements make up the entertaining Shelved Under Murder! If you love cozy mysteries, the Blue Ridge Mountains, or libraries, make sure this series is on your to-read list!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
June 27, 2018
Shelved Under Murder by Victoria Gilbert is the 2nd book in the Blue Ridge Library Mystery series, and another enjoyable read. Amy Webber is the library director in Taylorsford, Virginia and the library is getting ready for a two day yard sale to the benefit the library. While getting ready for the sale Amy and her assistant Sunny find a body. Once I started this book I could not stop reading it. It was a quick read that kept me guessing. I look forward to the next book in the series. I recommend this book for all cozy mystery book lovers, you will not be disappointed.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 6, 2019
This is the second book in the Blue Ridge Library series and it is even better than the first. In the first book we met the characters and learned about them which was great, this book delved right into the mystery. Taylorsford, Virginia is getting ready for the annual Heritage Festival. Amy and Sunny are organizing the table for the Festival, which they are dreading. They will have to work with the ladies of the library guild. When they head over to pick up some donated paintings from a local, well-known artist, what they find sets this investigation and mystery into motion. Because the crimes in this book involve art, Amy is asked to help the police due to her background in Art History. As this story unfolds, there are several crimes that occur. From murder to theft to forgery to kidnapping, Amy finds herself in danger.
This is another well-written cozy mystery with wonderful, well-developed characters. It is not just the main characters, but even the secondary characters are interesting and developed. I enjoy the relationship that Amy and her Aunt Lydia have. It is more like mother/daughter with how they look out for one another. Aunt Lydia may be a senior citizen, but she is no shrinking violet. She meets a man that she seems to enjoy his company and she inserts herself into the investigation as well. Of course, I enjoy the setting, who wouldn't love a library in a small town with an excellent research room and very intelligent and helpful staff. This series is quickly becoming a favourite of mine and I can't wait to get to the next book in this series.
This is another well-written cozy mystery with wonderful, well-developed characters. It is not just the main characters, but even the secondary characters are interesting and developed. I enjoy the relationship that Amy and her Aunt Lydia have. It is more like mother/daughter with how they look out for one another. Aunt Lydia may be a senior citizen, but she is no shrinking violet. She meets a man that she seems to enjoy his company and she inserts herself into the investigation as well. Of course, I enjoy the setting, who wouldn't love a library in a small town with an excellent research room and very intelligent and helpful staff. This series is quickly becoming a favourite of mine and I can't wait to get to the next book in this series.
August 24, 2018
Librarian Amy Webber and boyfriend and dancer Richard discover the corpse of an artist in her studio when stopping by to pick up works she donated for the Heritage Festival. While awaiting on experts to arrive, Amy, at the police's invitation, detects some forgeries among the artist's paintings. The woman's husband and daughter go missing. The substitution of some of her deceased uncle's works for those promised draws the attention of a local woman working with the art exhibit and of her son. Several tense moments move the plot along to its conclusion. Art lovers will likely enjoy this cozy mystery. Although this series is labeled "Blue Ridge Library," this installment featured very little about the library. While Amy did some research, it was mostly on databases she accessed while deputized for researching aspects of the art investigation. I found several characters unlikable. Some of the characters I would have liked to know more about were not all that well developed. As with many contemporary cozy mysteries, this one includes romantic relationships in various stages. The conclusion reminded me of an episode of "Charlie's Angels" where the stars are all sitting around at the very end discussing the case.
June 18, 2018
Victoria Gilbert has done it again! This second book in the series start gently and them WHAM murder hits Taylorsford again.
It all seems like just another quiet day when Sunny, Amy and Richard go to pick up a couple of pictures from a local, well renowned painter to add to the fund raiser for the library. When they arrive the painter isn't around, so assuming she lost track of time and was busy in her studio they head in there, only to find her stabbed with her own pallet knife! As if that wasn't bad enough they discover a stash of paintings that look like forgeries. With her background in Art History Amy is asked to do some research before an Art Expert arrives.
With Hugh (the art expert) staying with Amy and Lydia, Richard away dancing with his ex fiancee and another death ... oh and the theft of one of the replacement paintings (done by her late Uncle, Lydia's deceased husband) Amy has her plate well and truly full, can she figure out the forgery problem, solve a tricky situation left by her late Uncle, reconcile Kurt and Lydia AND keep the festival running? (oh and work out who the killer is?), not a problem for THIS young lady :D
It all seems like just another quiet day when Sunny, Amy and Richard go to pick up a couple of pictures from a local, well renowned painter to add to the fund raiser for the library. When they arrive the painter isn't around, so assuming she lost track of time and was busy in her studio they head in there, only to find her stabbed with her own pallet knife! As if that wasn't bad enough they discover a stash of paintings that look like forgeries. With her background in Art History Amy is asked to do some research before an Art Expert arrives.
With Hugh (the art expert) staying with Amy and Lydia, Richard away dancing with his ex fiancee and another death ... oh and the theft of one of the replacement paintings (done by her late Uncle, Lydia's deceased husband) Amy has her plate well and truly full, can she figure out the forgery problem, solve a tricky situation left by her late Uncle, reconcile Kurt and Lydia AND keep the festival running? (oh and work out who the killer is?), not a problem for THIS young lady :D
September 10, 2018
This is my first book by Victoria Gilbert and I have to say I enjoyed her writing style; she kept me guessing the whole time as she brought the mystery to life in my head as I read the story. I will be back for more of her stories.
Shelved Under Murder is the second book in Victoria Gilbert’s Blue Ridge Library Mysteries, I missed the first book, but the author kept up with past going on so I didn’t feel like I messed anything.
I enjoyed the characters and the story was great, the author did a great job tying the art forgery with Amy’s family, even though it’s in the blurb you just don’t expect what how it all ties together and how much loss is entwined with the whole case.
I recommend this series to any cozy mystery lover out there.
Shelved Under Murder is the second book in Victoria Gilbert’s Blue Ridge Library Mysteries, I missed the first book, but the author kept up with past going on so I didn’t feel like I messed anything.
I enjoyed the characters and the story was great, the author did a great job tying the art forgery with Amy’s family, even though it’s in the blurb you just don’t expect what how it all ties together and how much loss is entwined with the whole case.
I recommend this series to any cozy mystery lover out there.
July 14, 2018
Shelved Under Murder by Victoria Gilbert is the second installment in A Blue Ridge Library Mystery series. It is October in Taylorsford, Virginia where Amy Webber, library director, is preparing for the annual Heritage Festival where the library hosts a yard sale table as a fundraiser. They have been busy gathering donations and Sunny Fields, Amy’s perky assistant, got a local artist to donate three paintings. Since Sunny drives a tiny car, Amy and her boyfriend, Richard agree to go with her to acquire and transport the works of art. They arrive to find the artist dead in her studio where she was stabbed with her own palette knife. Chief Deputy Brad Tucker arrive on the scene and his staff finds paintings in a hidden room. Amy, courtesy of her art history background, looks at the paintings and she discerns that they are expert forgeries. Hui “Hugh” Chen, an art expert, arrives in town and Aunt Lydia offers their guest room to him. He uncovers canvases belonging to Andrew Talbot, Aunt Lydia’s deceased husband, in the guest room closet that are replicas of renowned paintings. Had Andrew been involved in forging artwork? Amy delves into the murder and the world of art forgeries. She believes Kurt Kendrick is involved, but will Amy be able to prove he is complicit in the crime?
Shelved Under Murder can be read alone. The author summarizes A Murder for the Books and provides background on the main characters. The mystery is complex as it explores the world of art forgeries. Unfortunately, the killer might as well have a neon arrow flashing over his head. I wish the author had made it harder to pinpoint the guilty party. Amy is an interesting main character. She is an intelligent woman with diverse interests. I love the home she lives in with Aunt Lydia. The descriptions of the beautiful Victorian and the town allowed me to visualize the scenes. I enjoyed the scenes where Amy was researching the artwork. We get to learn about resources available. I also liked the scenes with Amy and Sunny interacting with the patrons and helping them with their research requests. Despite what some people may think, libraries along with their librarians hold an important place in our society (a valuable resource). Sunny adds lightness to the story with her cheerful personality and outlook on life. I did feel that there was too much romance in the book. I would have preferred less lovey dovey moments (dating, kissing, thinking about Richard, and more). Shelved Under Murder is nicely written, but I did feel the pace could have been peppier. The long-winded ending wrapped up the mystery and answered all the lingering questions about the crime. My rating for Shelved Under Murder is 3.5 out of 5 stars. Shelved Under Murder is an inviting cozy mystery with congenial characters, lovely setting and a stimulating whodunit.
Shelved Under Murder can be read alone. The author summarizes A Murder for the Books and provides background on the main characters. The mystery is complex as it explores the world of art forgeries. Unfortunately, the killer might as well have a neon arrow flashing over his head. I wish the author had made it harder to pinpoint the guilty party. Amy is an interesting main character. She is an intelligent woman with diverse interests. I love the home she lives in with Aunt Lydia. The descriptions of the beautiful Victorian and the town allowed me to visualize the scenes. I enjoyed the scenes where Amy was researching the artwork. We get to learn about resources available. I also liked the scenes with Amy and Sunny interacting with the patrons and helping them with their research requests. Despite what some people may think, libraries along with their librarians hold an important place in our society (a valuable resource). Sunny adds lightness to the story with her cheerful personality and outlook on life. I did feel that there was too much romance in the book. I would have preferred less lovey dovey moments (dating, kissing, thinking about Richard, and more). Shelved Under Murder is nicely written, but I did feel the pace could have been peppier. The long-winded ending wrapped up the mystery and answered all the lingering questions about the crime. My rating for Shelved Under Murder is 3.5 out of 5 stars. Shelved Under Murder is an inviting cozy mystery with congenial characters, lovely setting and a stimulating whodunit.
August 10, 2018
Taylorsford, VA is gearing up for its annual Heritage Festival featuring local arts, crafts and history. While she loves the festival, the fall foliage and the people, Librarian Amy Webber is not looking forward to the library's fundraiser at the event. Things get worse when Amy and her assistant, Sunny, go to pick up artwork from a local artist and find Rachel Wynn dead, stabbed with a palette knife. Her scupltor husband is nowhere to be found. When forged artwork is discovered hidden away on the Wynn property, the case becomes much more than just a murder investigation. Because Amy has a degree in art history, she is pulled in to help with the case. Who killed Rachel Wynn? And is her murder related to the forged artwork?
I am enjoying this new cozy series. Partially because I live near the Blue Ridge Mountains...but mostly because I like the characters. Amy is an intelligent main character with a nice mix of determination, skill and feisty-ness. I enjoy all the side characters and the background theme of a library in a small VA town. This second book in the Blue Ridge Library cozy series moved along at a nice pace. The mystery was engaging and kept my attention the entire time. Plus, there is some good character development in this newest book, helping move the series forward.
Reading this enjoyable fall season cozy really put me in the mood for all the local festivals and county fairs that will be coming up soon! Plus pumpkin spice and apple flavored/scented everything! :)
I'm definitely going to keep reading this cozy series. The next book, Past Due For Murder, is set to come out in February 2019.
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
I am enjoying this new cozy series. Partially because I live near the Blue Ridge Mountains...but mostly because I like the characters. Amy is an intelligent main character with a nice mix of determination, skill and feisty-ness. I enjoy all the side characters and the background theme of a library in a small VA town. This second book in the Blue Ridge Library cozy series moved along at a nice pace. The mystery was engaging and kept my attention the entire time. Plus, there is some good character development in this newest book, helping move the series forward.
Reading this enjoyable fall season cozy really put me in the mood for all the local festivals and county fairs that will be coming up soon! Plus pumpkin spice and apple flavored/scented everything! :)
I'm definitely going to keep reading this cozy series. The next book, Past Due For Murder, is set to come out in February 2019.
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
May 25, 2018
It is October in Taylorsford, Virginia and the residents prepared for an art festival in the 2nd boo of the Blue Ridge Library series. Amy Webber and her assistant, Sunny are preparing the library to take part in the annual Heritage Festival which celebrates local history and arts and crafts. Sunny need to picked a pair of paintings that are being donated to the library by a well-known artist for sale. Amy and Richard go with Sunny to pick up the paintings. They find the artist has been stabbed to death by a pallet knife. They also find a hidden vault with a cache of paintings. The story keeps turning as efforts to find the killer and the original source of the paintings. Amy becomes a deputy so she can do online searches for the artwork. Richard needs to substitute in a dance recital. Aunt Lydia is concerned as her husband's work is in question. Did he forge some masterpieces? Are the pictures stolen paintings or are forgeries? Amy and Richard's romance continues as does Sunny with Sheriff Deputy Brad. The ending was satisfactory. I recommend this book and series.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 14, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
This book is truly incredible at creating an elaborate mystery for us to follow. It starts with Amy gearing up for the festival only to get again stumble across a dead body with Richard at her side. With lots of personal stuff mixed in we fall into a mystery that had so many twists I almost couldn't keep up. Then you hit the end which was a total surprise. Characters you can love, a touch of romance, and a mystery all combine into a great cozy with a library theme. I highly recommend it to fans of the genre. I really enjoyed it so I give it 4/5 stars.
This book is truly incredible at creating an elaborate mystery for us to follow. It starts with Amy gearing up for the festival only to get again stumble across a dead body with Richard at her side. With lots of personal stuff mixed in we fall into a mystery that had so many twists I almost couldn't keep up. Then you hit the end which was a total surprise. Characters you can love, a touch of romance, and a mystery all combine into a great cozy with a library theme. I highly recommend it to fans of the genre. I really enjoyed it so I give it 4/5 stars.
February 28, 2018
I absolutely loved this book! It has the ideal blend of cozy elements. The main character Amy is quite likable. The description of the mountain town borders on downright charming at times. The mystery is expertly developed and the suspense steadily builds throughout the entire book. There are so many twists and turns in this installment of A Blue Ridge Library Mystery that I couldn’t put the book down until I had finished it all in one sitting. The book revolves around the shady and often dangerous dealings of the stolen and counterfeit art world and the secrets that friends and families keep. Victoria Gilbert has crafted an intriguing mystery and depicted characters with real depth. I have added this to my list of favorite cozy mystery series. I am eagerly awaiting book three! The only word of caution I have is if you plan to read the first book, do so before reading Shelved Under Murder, as spoilers will be revealed.
July 13, 2018
I live this series, The Blue Ridge library, this is book 2. The Gand is all back as Amy is preparing the libraries fund raising table. Sunny has a local famous artist donating painting and when they go to pick them up they find the artist dead. This opens up an investigation into an international forgery ring centered in their small town. Aunt Lydia and boyfriend Richard help out as a second murder has all on edge. Great story. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 8, 2018
I liked the second book more than the first. The mystery was solid and the characters are even more complex than I first thought.
October 10, 2021
Excellent book, Stolen art, forgeries of art, murder and surprised suspects.
May 27, 2019
2.5 stars
Library director Amy Weber is busy planning the annual Friends of the Library fundraising sale table at the upcoming arts and crafts festival. Her best friend Sunny manages to get a local artist, Rachel LeBlanc, to donate some of her artwork for the charity sale. Unfortunately when Amy, Sunny and Amy's boyfriend Richard go out to the LeBlanc farm to pick up the paintings, they find Rachel killed with her own palette knife, her daughter Lila drugged out of her mind, Mr. LeBlanc nowhere to be found and someone fleeing through the woods. Amy fears the fleeing man she saw in the woods was the teen drug dealer Caden Kroft. If drugs were involved does the killing have anything to do with the art dealer Kurt Kendrick, the man Amy's Aunt Lydia holds responsible for her husband's death? Meanwhile, Mel Riley, President of the Friends of the Library group, is pushing for Aunt Lydia to donate some of her late husband's art to the sale. Aunt Lydia hates Mel and won't do anything that woman asks. Mel's son Trey is also very interested in Uncle Andrew's paintings. Could there be a connection to Rachel's death?
Ho hum. This mystery was SO obvious it was painful. Amy really should have known better. I figured out who the murderer was right away and cringed every time they appeared on page. Even so, I couldn't quite put all the pieces together. Some of the revelations are very surprising. I was upset that innocent people ended up getting killed. I did like that some of the unfinished business from the previous novel carried over and was explained. I don't think there needs to be another book in the series but I see there are 2 more.
What I especially liked about this book was the romance between Amy and Richard. He is so incredibly passionate and loving! Richard loves and gives with his whole heart. His love is selfless so when he ends up hurt, he's REALLY hurt! Richard is the sweetest man on the planet. I can relate a lot to Amy's insecurities and I like how she becomes more comfortable with herself through Richard and is secure in his love for her. It is refreshing not to read about a heroine who can't decide between two men. This romance is sweet with some sizzle. While no sex appears on page, Amy and Richard are consenting adults in a monogamous loving relationship and it is hinted that if they aren't sleeping together yet, they're close to it.
The older adults in the story are mostly great. Aunt Lydia is feisty and stubborn. Some of her comments may seem distasteful but Amy gently corrects her aunt. I love her storyline and how she has to learn to revise her opinions and grow as a person. Zelda is a hoot and Wally is a sweetheart. I hope they can go public with their love soon. This book introduces Dr. Hui "Hugh" Chen, an art expert and appraiser. He seems very kind and intelligent. I really like him.
Other minor recurring characters include Amy's friend Sunny, who I really don't like. She's a free spirit and that's fine but I don't think she treats Brad very well. Chief Deputy Brad Tucker is a good guy, a nice change from the idiot police or rude sheriffs common in these types of novels. I like how, despite being a jock and a car guy, he's thoughtful and speaks profoundly. Kurt Kendrick managed to surprise me. I'm not sure he's 100% likable but he has a lot of depth and deep down I think he has a good heart.
Besides Hugh, the new characters center around the murder. Rachel and Reese LeBlanc are local artists. The reader doesn't learn much about Rachel but her husband doesn't seem like the most intelligent guy. Their daughter Lila is hooked on drugs and hangs out with Caden Kroft. Mel Riley, wealthy widow, philanthropist and art lover is a character readers will love to hate-until they get to know her. I was surprised at the depth of this enemy of Aunt Lydia's. What she did was not right but keep reading! Her son Trey is spoiled, whiny and lazy. He also seems to be arrogant and thinks he's God's gift to women. Why would Amy choose him over Richard? Only the most egotistical man would think that. Sunny flirts but I don't think they're a good match. He's a businessman and she's a hippie.
If you like well-drawn characters more than a well-written plot, you will love this book.
Library director Amy Weber is busy planning the annual Friends of the Library fundraising sale table at the upcoming arts and crafts festival. Her best friend Sunny manages to get a local artist, Rachel LeBlanc, to donate some of her artwork for the charity sale. Unfortunately when Amy, Sunny and Amy's boyfriend Richard go out to the LeBlanc farm to pick up the paintings, they find Rachel killed with her own palette knife, her daughter Lila drugged out of her mind, Mr. LeBlanc nowhere to be found and someone fleeing through the woods. Amy fears the fleeing man she saw in the woods was the teen drug dealer Caden Kroft. If drugs were involved does the killing have anything to do with the art dealer Kurt Kendrick, the man Amy's Aunt Lydia holds responsible for her husband's death? Meanwhile, Mel Riley, President of the Friends of the Library group, is pushing for Aunt Lydia to donate some of her late husband's art to the sale. Aunt Lydia hates Mel and won't do anything that woman asks. Mel's son Trey is also very interested in Uncle Andrew's paintings. Could there be a connection to Rachel's death?
Ho hum. This mystery was SO obvious it was painful. Amy really should have known better. I figured out who the murderer was right away and cringed every time they appeared on page. Even so, I couldn't quite put all the pieces together. Some of the revelations are very surprising. I was upset that innocent people ended up getting killed. I did like that some of the unfinished business from the previous novel carried over and was explained. I don't think there needs to be another book in the series but I see there are 2 more.
What I especially liked about this book was the romance between Amy and Richard. He is so incredibly passionate and loving! Richard loves and gives with his whole heart. His love is selfless so when he ends up hurt, he's REALLY hurt! Richard is the sweetest man on the planet. I can relate a lot to Amy's insecurities and I like how she becomes more comfortable with herself through Richard and is secure in his love for her. It is refreshing not to read about a heroine who can't decide between two men. This romance is sweet with some sizzle. While no sex appears on page, Amy and Richard are consenting adults in a monogamous loving relationship and it is hinted that if they aren't sleeping together yet, they're close to it.
The older adults in the story are mostly great. Aunt Lydia is feisty and stubborn. Some of her comments may seem distasteful but Amy gently corrects her aunt. I love her storyline and how she has to learn to revise her opinions and grow as a person. Zelda is a hoot and Wally is a sweetheart. I hope they can go public with their love soon. This book introduces Dr. Hui "Hugh" Chen, an art expert and appraiser. He seems very kind and intelligent. I really like him.
Other minor recurring characters include Amy's friend Sunny, who I really don't like. She's a free spirit and that's fine but I don't think she treats Brad very well. Chief Deputy Brad Tucker is a good guy, a nice change from the idiot police or rude sheriffs common in these types of novels. I like how, despite being a jock and a car guy, he's thoughtful and speaks profoundly. Kurt Kendrick managed to surprise me. I'm not sure he's 100% likable but he has a lot of depth and deep down I think he has a good heart.
Besides Hugh, the new characters center around the murder. Rachel and Reese LeBlanc are local artists. The reader doesn't learn much about Rachel but her husband doesn't seem like the most intelligent guy. Their daughter Lila is hooked on drugs and hangs out with Caden Kroft. Mel Riley, wealthy widow, philanthropist and art lover is a character readers will love to hate-until they get to know her. I was surprised at the depth of this enemy of Aunt Lydia's. What she did was not right but keep reading! Her son Trey is spoiled, whiny and lazy. He also seems to be arrogant and thinks he's God's gift to women. Why would Amy choose him over Richard? Only the most egotistical man would think that. Sunny flirts but I don't think they're a good match. He's a businessman and she's a hippie.
If you like well-drawn characters more than a well-written plot, you will love this book.
March 14, 2018
A series that keeps getting better! I think part of what brings me back to this series is how the author paints such a charming setting with words. I just want to live in this book. The mystery was well written and has its own unique twist to it. I love where the characters are going the more I read in this series. An engaging mystery and a great compliment to the series.
October 19, 2018
AudioBook Review:
Stars: Overall:3 Narration: 3 Story 3
Be aware that in this, the second installment of the series that there are zany characters and plenty of ‘atmosphere’ that expands past the library proper, and perhaps more importantly, this book is full of information (and spoilers) from the first. So, if you haven’t read the first you don’t HAVE to read this one – but there won’t be any mystery left when you do. That being said, as a sophomore offering in the series, it was a solid effort, wth some truly unexplained and unusual pacing issues that kept the listen more than a bit uneven. In this book, fall has arrived and that means the Harvest Festival – and all of the associated tourism, events and mayhem that one would expect from a small town. Amy and her assistant are busy gathering items for the sale and doing all of those last-minute tasks that have fallen aside – and things are a bit frantic. Only made worse when a local artist is found by Amy, dead in her studio with the apparent weapon being a palette knife. Adding to her discovery is the multiple canvases that contain forgeries of other more well-known paintings – purportedly done by the dead artist.
Of course, Taylorsford is not exactly the hub of an international art forgery ring, or is it? A man seen running from the studio before the dead artist was discovered, just how or why the paintings were created and that ever-present question of why this woman, one who kept to herself and worked on her art was murdered? Oh there were so many divergent and diverse threads here – and with Amy’s special knowledge of art history, she’s perfectly placed to help the police answer questions. It’s increasingly important to get to the murderer: people are in danger, including Amy, and the stakes seem to be increasing with each day the crime goes unsolved. With a lack of consistent pacing as mentioned before, and a curiously timed side trip for Amy that pulled everything away from Taylorsford without actual reason, there was a need for some editorial changes and suggestions to both even out the pacing and better incorporate the multiple introductions of characters and their stories (or additional backstories) that did have an unintended result: pulling me from the twists, turns and investigation. Less successful than the first book, but still amusing and clever overall, I’m curious to see where the next story will go, and just how the author’s skills will develop.
Narration for this story was provided by Colleen Marlo, a new-to-me narrator- and her work was solid. Characters were distinct and clearly presented, her enthusiasm for the story was clear to hear, and she didn’t over-work emotion or tension to artificially inflate emotion. While I can’t say that her skill in presenting the characters managed to overcome the erratic pacing, she did keep the story moving forward and on track, allowing for each moment to stand on its own, important as an integral part of the story.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Stars: Overall:3 Narration: 3 Story 3
Be aware that in this, the second installment of the series that there are zany characters and plenty of ‘atmosphere’ that expands past the library proper, and perhaps more importantly, this book is full of information (and spoilers) from the first. So, if you haven’t read the first you don’t HAVE to read this one – but there won’t be any mystery left when you do. That being said, as a sophomore offering in the series, it was a solid effort, wth some truly unexplained and unusual pacing issues that kept the listen more than a bit uneven. In this book, fall has arrived and that means the Harvest Festival – and all of the associated tourism, events and mayhem that one would expect from a small town. Amy and her assistant are busy gathering items for the sale and doing all of those last-minute tasks that have fallen aside – and things are a bit frantic. Only made worse when a local artist is found by Amy, dead in her studio with the apparent weapon being a palette knife. Adding to her discovery is the multiple canvases that contain forgeries of other more well-known paintings – purportedly done by the dead artist.
Of course, Taylorsford is not exactly the hub of an international art forgery ring, or is it? A man seen running from the studio before the dead artist was discovered, just how or why the paintings were created and that ever-present question of why this woman, one who kept to herself and worked on her art was murdered? Oh there were so many divergent and diverse threads here – and with Amy’s special knowledge of art history, she’s perfectly placed to help the police answer questions. It’s increasingly important to get to the murderer: people are in danger, including Amy, and the stakes seem to be increasing with each day the crime goes unsolved. With a lack of consistent pacing as mentioned before, and a curiously timed side trip for Amy that pulled everything away from Taylorsford without actual reason, there was a need for some editorial changes and suggestions to both even out the pacing and better incorporate the multiple introductions of characters and their stories (or additional backstories) that did have an unintended result: pulling me from the twists, turns and investigation. Less successful than the first book, but still amusing and clever overall, I’m curious to see where the next story will go, and just how the author’s skills will develop.
Narration for this story was provided by Colleen Marlo, a new-to-me narrator- and her work was solid. Characters were distinct and clearly presented, her enthusiasm for the story was clear to hear, and she didn’t over-work emotion or tension to artificially inflate emotion. While I can’t say that her skill in presenting the characters managed to overcome the erratic pacing, she did keep the story moving forward and on track, allowing for each moment to stand on its own, important as an integral part of the story.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
July 30, 2018
Shelved Under Murder is the strong sophomore entry in Victoria Gilbert's Blue Ridge Library Mystery series, which is proving itself to be an intelligent and thoroughly pleasurable and engrossing cozy mystery series. Balancing thrills with warm, delightful characters, light romance and small-town dynamics, Shelved Under Murder is a great read.
The central mystery in Shelved Under Murder focuses on the death of a popular and acclaimed local artist- whose body happens to be discovered by our protagonist, library director/librarian Amy Webber and her boyfriend, professional dancer and choreographer Richard Muir. As the investigation- headed by chief deputy Brad Tucker, the current boyfriend of Amy's library colleague Sunny- begins, what first appears as a puzzling but possibly uncomplicated homicide then turns into a rather thorny deep dive into the high stakes world of counterfeit art and forgeries. In book one, we learned that Amy's Aunt Lydia, a prominent and much-respected figure in their town, had lost her husband years before in a car accident. Her late husband, Andrew Talbot, had himself been a local artist, though never as successful as Lydia and art dealer and former family friend Kurt Kendrick had thought he should have been. As the present-day murder investigation into the local artist continues and an art expert is flown into town, a new leads turn up: one of which might be involving Aunt Lydia's deceased husband and his possible knowledge of a counterfeit art circle in Blue Ridge. Shelved Under Murder has, arguably, a less shocking or surprising murderer (or murders...!) at the center of the story than in A Murder for the Books; however, Gilbert raises the stakes by weaving in fascinating layers to Amy and Lydia's family history and how Andrew Talbot's art connections while alive still thrum in present-day Blue Ridge. It is absolutely worth noting as well that Amy continues to be a capable and lovely protagonist, and she, along neighbor-now-boyfriend Richard (also deeply likeable), make for a delightful team, both as a romantic couple and as amateur sleuths.
Overall, a strong second entry in a series I am already thoroughly fond of and charmed by; well-written, engaging, with lovely and charismatic characters at its core. As mentioned above, while there is perhaps a less startling murder mystery at the center of this story than in the series opener, there are deeper elements examined in Amy and Richard's relationship, as well as with Aunt Lydia and Kurt and their respective love for Amy's deceased uncle- all of which are terrifically explored. Readers interested in looking into this series, I would recommend starting with book one, A Murder for the Books. I am looking forward to book three in the series, Past Due for Murder, coming out in early 2019!
Extras: Discussion Questions for book clubs via the author's website!
I received a copy of this title courtesy of Crooked Lane Book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and comments are my own.
July 9, 2018
This is the second of the Blue Ridge Library Mystery series and continues with Amy Webber as the Library Director of the Taylorsford, Virginia library. The library is gearing up for the annual Heritage Festival. Amy is living with her Aunt Lydia and seeing Richard Muir, who was introduced as a romantic interest in book 1.
In conjunction with the upcoming festival, the library will assist in fundraising by offering local artist's canvases as well as discounted books. Unfortunately, when Amy and Sunny Fields, her assistant, travels out to the artist's home to pick up the promised donations, she finds the artist has been murdered and her husband in absentia. As Amy also studied art history, she is recruited to help in the investigation after they discover a hidden cache of forged paintings. Now starts a road rutted with misdirection, twists, and turns.
Most support characters were introduced in book 1 and are not developed more fully in this offering. Amy as a protagonist is not wholly sympathetic and the plot-driven story slowly unwinds.
The library and fundraising took a third chair behind the art history lesson, which quickly took over as the main focus. The subject of the art masters and the forgeries they've generated is an interesting discussion, as well as the formula for divining original artists, paints, and materials. Perhaps the storyline was just a bit too slow for me.
I was given this ebook download by the publisher and NetGalley through the blog tour and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. Recommended for those who enjoy intelligent cozy mysteries without the recipes, women and amateur sleuths. 3.5/5 stars
See my full review on https://rosepointpublishing.com
In conjunction with the upcoming festival, the library will assist in fundraising by offering local artist's canvases as well as discounted books. Unfortunately, when Amy and Sunny Fields, her assistant, travels out to the artist's home to pick up the promised donations, she finds the artist has been murdered and her husband in absentia. As Amy also studied art history, she is recruited to help in the investigation after they discover a hidden cache of forged paintings. Now starts a road rutted with misdirection, twists, and turns.
Most support characters were introduced in book 1 and are not developed more fully in this offering. Amy as a protagonist is not wholly sympathetic and the plot-driven story slowly unwinds.
The library and fundraising took a third chair behind the art history lesson, which quickly took over as the main focus. The subject of the art masters and the forgeries they've generated is an interesting discussion, as well as the formula for divining original artists, paints, and materials. Perhaps the storyline was just a bit too slow for me.
I was given this ebook download by the publisher and NetGalley through the blog tour and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. Recommended for those who enjoy intelligent cozy mysteries without the recipes, women and amateur sleuths. 3.5/5 stars
See my full review on https://rosepointpublishing.com
July 9, 2018
Amy and Richard stumble upon another body in the second novel in the Blue Ridge Library series, Shelved Under Murder.
Amy is the head librarian and Sunny is her assistant at the perpetually underfunded Blue Ridge library. Sunny convinces a local artist to donate three paintings to the library. While retrieving them, Amy and Richard find the artist, Rachel LeBlanc, stabbed to death in her artist’s studio. In the same studio are several art forgeries hidden in a secret closet.
The romantic relationships shine more than the mysteries in Shelved Under Murder. My biggest complaint is that there are no gray areas in the characters. They are either devils or saints. In addition, no one has much of a reason to be a villain other than for the love of money. With such shallow motives, this book receives 3 stars.
Be aware that Shelved Under Murder describes the conclusion of the first book, including the murderer’s name, multiple times so plan to read them in order.
Thanks to the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
Amy is the head librarian and Sunny is her assistant at the perpetually underfunded Blue Ridge library. Sunny convinces a local artist to donate three paintings to the library. While retrieving them, Amy and Richard find the artist, Rachel LeBlanc, stabbed to death in her artist’s studio. In the same studio are several art forgeries hidden in a secret closet.
The romantic relationships shine more than the mysteries in Shelved Under Murder. My biggest complaint is that there are no gray areas in the characters. They are either devils or saints. In addition, no one has much of a reason to be a villain other than for the love of money. With such shallow motives, this book receives 3 stars.
Be aware that Shelved Under Murder describes the conclusion of the first book, including the murderer’s name, multiple times so plan to read them in order.
Thanks to the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
July 13, 2018
Shelved Under Murder by Victoria Gilbert is the very enjoyable second book in this fun new series - The Blue Ridge Library Mysteries. When librarian Amy stumbles across another dead body in the supposedly sleepy little town of Taylorsford, Virginia, she must once again work to discover the identity of the murderer and keep herself and her beloved Aunt Lydia safe from harm, all while dealing with the discovery that her late Uncle Andrew was an art forger. I really enjoyed my return to this town, and the developing relationships between the characters, as well as the neat and clever mystery. I'm looking forward to the (hopefully!) 3rd book in the series and give Shelved Under Murder an A+!
July 29, 2018
Shelved Under Murder by Victoria Gilbert is the second book in Ms. Gilbert's Blude Ridge Library series and a great afternoon read.
I enjoyed visiting with Amy, Sunny, Richard and Aunt Lydia again. Taylorsford seems to be a great small town to call home. I would love to just hang out in the library and visit with Amy and Sunny. The plot was quickly paced as the murder and the forged paintings seemed to be closely linked. There were several suspects and twists and turns that kept me reading all afternoon. Although I guessed who might have been behind the murder, I never guessed the why until the reveal.
I enjoyed visiting with Amy, Sunny, Richard and Aunt Lydia again. Taylorsford seems to be a great small town to call home. I would love to just hang out in the library and visit with Amy and Sunny. The plot was quickly paced as the murder and the forged paintings seemed to be closely linked. There were several suspects and twists and turns that kept me reading all afternoon. Although I guessed who might have been behind the murder, I never guessed the why until the reveal.
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