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A Magical Bookshop Mystery #3
Murders and Metaphors
January means ice wine season in the Niagara Falls region, but the festivities leave Charming Books owner Violet Waverly cold, still reeling from a past heartbreak. Little do either Waverly women know, the ice wine festival will turn colder still when Violet finds Belinda in the middle of the frozen vineyard - with a grape harvest knife protruding from her chest.
Belinda grew up in Cascade Springs, but she left town years ago after a huge falling-out with her three sisters. One of those sisters, Violet's high school friend Lacey Dupont, attends the book signing in the hope of making amends with her sister, but Belinda and Lacey end up disrupting the signing with a very public shouting match and Lacey quickly becomes the prime suspect in the sommelier's murder.
Violet is sure Lacey is innocent, and to keep her friend out of prison, Violet asks for guidance from her magical bookshop. The shop's ethereal essence points her to Louisa May Alcott's Little Women, but what have the four March sisters to do with the four Perkins sisters? If she can't figure it out, Violet, herself, may turn as cold as ice.
Belinda grew up in Cascade Springs, but she left town years ago after a huge falling-out with her three sisters. One of those sisters, Violet's high school friend Lacey Dupont, attends the book signing in the hope of making amends with her sister, but Belinda and Lacey end up disrupting the signing with a very public shouting match and Lacey quickly becomes the prime suspect in the sommelier's murder.
Violet is sure Lacey is innocent, and to keep her friend out of prison, Violet asks for guidance from her magical bookshop. The shop's ethereal essence points her to Louisa May Alcott's Little Women, but what have the four March sisters to do with the four Perkins sisters? If she can't figure it out, Violet, herself, may turn as cold as ice.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2019
357 people are currently reading
1798 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Flower
61 books2,883 followersAmanda Flower is a USA Today bestselling and Agatha Award-winning author of over thirty-five mystery novels. Her novels have received starred reviews from Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, and Romantic Times, and she had been featured in USA Today, First for Women, and Woman’s World. She currently writes for Penguin-Random House (Berkley), Kensington, Hallmark Publishing, Crooked Lane Books, and Sourcebooks. In addition to being a writer, she was a librarian for fifteen years. Today, Flower and her husband own a farm and recording studio, and they live in Northeast Ohio with their two adorable cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 470 reviews
May 17, 2019
I’m thrilled that the Magical Bookshop Mysteries found a new home at Crooked Lane Books, because it’s one of my favorite cozy mystery series. With a little magic, a little romance, and a quaint bookstore setting, I was hooked.
How many bookshops have an enchanted tree growing right in the middle of the store? This ancient tree provides the store’s magic that helps Violet solve mysteries with messages through its books. This time around it’s Little Women that Charming Books wants Violet to focus on. Her good friend Lacey is in hot water after Lacey’s estranged sister is found murdered in a local vineyard. What clues are hidden in the passages of the classic novel that will point Violet to the killer?
I enjoyed this third installment in the series. It was fun to be back among the interesting characters of Cascade Springs. The murder mystery was solid and not easy to figure out. I liked learning more about Lacey and her family, and also learning about ice-wine! Before reading this book, I had no idea frozen grapes could be harvested and turned into a sweet dessert wine. Looking forward to the next in the series!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
How many bookshops have an enchanted tree growing right in the middle of the store? This ancient tree provides the store’s magic that helps Violet solve mysteries with messages through its books. This time around it’s Little Women that Charming Books wants Violet to focus on. Her good friend Lacey is in hot water after Lacey’s estranged sister is found murdered in a local vineyard. What clues are hidden in the passages of the classic novel that will point Violet to the killer?
I enjoyed this third installment in the series. It was fun to be back among the interesting characters of Cascade Springs. The murder mystery was solid and not easy to figure out. I liked learning more about Lacey and her family, and also learning about ice-wine! Before reading this book, I had no idea frozen grapes could be harvested and turned into a sweet dessert wine. Looking forward to the next in the series!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2019
Charming Books was to host the signing of Belinda Perkins’ new release out at the vineyard of Violet’s ex and his family. Charming Books’ owner and custodian, Violet Waverly was not impressed. But Grandma Daisy had organized it so Violet had no choice but to go along for the ride. Belinda was a nasty piece of work and when her body was discovered out among the snow-covered vines after the signing, and her death looked like the work of her sister, Violet’s best friend Lacey Dupont, Violet knew she had to investigate to clear Lacey’s name.
Cascade Springs in the Niagara Falls region was a quiet little town as a rule. But with the deepest of winter shrouding the houses and people, Violet had her work cut out – she had more suspects than she knew how to deal with. So she enlisted the help of the magical bookshop – the essence would direct her to the answers she sought. And when that direction was Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, Violet found herself even more confused. What was it telling her? Would she be able to solve this murder mystery before someone else died?
Murders & Metaphors by Amanda Flower is the 3rd in A Magical Bookshop Mystery series, and the first I’ve read. Intriguing and different, I was enchanted by the magical bookstore, and loved Emerson the cat and Faulkner the crow – both permanent residents of Charming Books. And I just wanted to give Grandma Daisy a hug 😊 A great cosy read which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Cascade Springs in the Niagara Falls region was a quiet little town as a rule. But with the deepest of winter shrouding the houses and people, Violet had her work cut out – she had more suspects than she knew how to deal with. So she enlisted the help of the magical bookshop – the essence would direct her to the answers she sought. And when that direction was Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, Violet found herself even more confused. What was it telling her? Would she be able to solve this murder mystery before someone else died?
Murders & Metaphors by Amanda Flower is the 3rd in A Magical Bookshop Mystery series, and the first I’ve read. Intriguing and different, I was enchanted by the magical bookstore, and loved Emerson the cat and Faulkner the crow – both permanent residents of Charming Books. And I just wanted to give Grandma Daisy a hug 😊 A great cosy read which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2019
What is there not to love about a cosy mystery in a perfectly picturesque little village near Niagara Falls? Especially when the main character is custodian of a magical bookshop with an enchanted tree, books that fly off the shelf to pick their readers, a talking crow and a sweet but very clever little cat.
Although this is the third Magical Bookshop Mystery (and I have not yet read the first two) I had no trouble jumping straight in and getting to know the characters. Violet Waverley, the reluctant caretaker of 'Charming Books', has settled back in her home town of Cascade Springs after running from a bad relationship to college in Chicago. Returning to help out her grandmother, Daisy with running the shop, she was initially reluctant to take over as caretaker but has since discovered that she loves being back in her quaint little home town, where everyone knows each other and everything is within walking distance. When an author is murdered at a book signing and one of Violet's best friends is suspected of killing her, she is forced to find out who really killed her, especially when the bookshop keeps leaving her clues.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher Crooked Lane Books for a digital ARC to read
Although this is the third Magical Bookshop Mystery (and I have not yet read the first two) I had no trouble jumping straight in and getting to know the characters. Violet Waverley, the reluctant caretaker of 'Charming Books', has settled back in her home town of Cascade Springs after running from a bad relationship to college in Chicago. Returning to help out her grandmother, Daisy with running the shop, she was initially reluctant to take over as caretaker but has since discovered that she loves being back in her quaint little home town, where everyone knows each other and everything is within walking distance. When an author is murdered at a book signing and one of Violet's best friends is suspected of killing her, she is forced to find out who really killed her, especially when the bookshop keeps leaving her clues.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher Crooked Lane Books for a digital ARC to read
December 10, 2018
This is my first book from ""A Magical Bookshop Mystery"" and it is not going to be the last :)
Violet has to solve another murder before the police is arresting the wrong person. IIf you look for mystery and romance, this is it!
Thank you Netgalley for this wonderful book.
Violet has to solve another murder before the police is arresting the wrong person. IIf you look for mystery and romance, this is it!
Thank you Netgalley for this wonderful book.
February 24, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I was very upset when this unique series ended after just 2 stories. I am so happy that the people at Crooked Lane Books saw its promise and gave the series new life.
This 3rd story takes place in January and Violet and her Grandma Daisy will be selling books at a book signing for Belinda Perkins, a well-known sommelier, and author. The event is taking place at Morton Vineyard right before their midnight ice grape harvest. That means Violet will not be able to avoid her ex and the mayor of Cascade Springs, Nathan Morton or his mother.
The author’s estranged sister and Violet’s best friend Lacey is also present for the party, helping her husband with the catering. But Lacey can’t just stay in the kitchen. She badly wants to reconnect with her sister, but her sister creates a scene and demands Lacey be removed from the premises. From there the event quickly goes downhill when the upset author leaves the event.
But Violet makes a chilling discovery outside the winery. Belinda Perkins’ dead body at the edge of the vineyard and the standoff with her sister and evidence at the scene make Lacey the number one suspect. Violet knows her friend is innocent and plans to find the real killer and her magical bookshop is going to help her.
If you are new to this series I do recommend starting at the beginning with Crime and Poetry and Prose and Cons but the author does give some background in this book so new readers won’t feel lost. The series revolves around a wonderful, magical bookshop, where the right book will find you. There is a magical live tree in the middle of the shop and the female members of Violet’s family have always been the caretakers of the shop and the tree. Violet has recently replaced her Grandma Daisy as the caretaker. The shop and its “essence” is truly one of the starring characters.
This time to solve the murder, Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women plays a key role. Violet just has to figure out which part of the tome will help her get the answers she needs.
________
The characters the author has created are excellent. Violet, Grandma Daisy, Emerson the tuxedo cat, and the very verbal crow Faulkner all return to draw us into a story that is both enchanting and intriguing. Violet is growing into her job as caretaker and Grandma Daisy is at a bit of loose ends. Violet does need to fine tune her sleuthing skills a bit and Daisy needs to find new ways to fill her time. The relationship between the two women is getting stronger as they find their way in their new roles. I love sneaky little Emerson and who wouldn’t love an intellectual crow. The supporting cast all have a purpose and have grown right along with the main characters.
I found the ice wine and winter midnight harvest to be very interesting even though I was no fan of the entitled Morton family.
Charming Books is my favorite bookstore out of all the cozy bookstores I have fictionally visited. It is unique, magical and memorable. I love everything about it. To avoid spoiling anything for new readers I can say more but it is a true treasure.
The story is very well-plotted with the main plots and subplots falling easily together. There were several suspects and I was on the trail of the correct person but the climatic finish still surprised me. I enjoy the book group that meets at Charming Books too. It really adds to the story.
I call this series “paranormal light” due to its magical setting. Ms. Flowers has taken a very imaginative idea and run with it all while making readers believe what happens within the pages real and believable.
What a marvelous mystery! I am so excited for the next book in this series after the little cliffhanger at the end. Looks like Grandma Daisy is going to shake things up.
I was very upset when this unique series ended after just 2 stories. I am so happy that the people at Crooked Lane Books saw its promise and gave the series new life.
This 3rd story takes place in January and Violet and her Grandma Daisy will be selling books at a book signing for Belinda Perkins, a well-known sommelier, and author. The event is taking place at Morton Vineyard right before their midnight ice grape harvest. That means Violet will not be able to avoid her ex and the mayor of Cascade Springs, Nathan Morton or his mother.
The author’s estranged sister and Violet’s best friend Lacey is also present for the party, helping her husband with the catering. But Lacey can’t just stay in the kitchen. She badly wants to reconnect with her sister, but her sister creates a scene and demands Lacey be removed from the premises. From there the event quickly goes downhill when the upset author leaves the event.
But Violet makes a chilling discovery outside the winery. Belinda Perkins’ dead body at the edge of the vineyard and the standoff with her sister and evidence at the scene make Lacey the number one suspect. Violet knows her friend is innocent and plans to find the real killer and her magical bookshop is going to help her.
If you are new to this series I do recommend starting at the beginning with Crime and Poetry and Prose and Cons but the author does give some background in this book so new readers won’t feel lost. The series revolves around a wonderful, magical bookshop, where the right book will find you. There is a magical live tree in the middle of the shop and the female members of Violet’s family have always been the caretakers of the shop and the tree. Violet has recently replaced her Grandma Daisy as the caretaker. The shop and its “essence” is truly one of the starring characters.
This time to solve the murder, Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women plays a key role. Violet just has to figure out which part of the tome will help her get the answers she needs.
________
The characters the author has created are excellent. Violet, Grandma Daisy, Emerson the tuxedo cat, and the very verbal crow Faulkner all return to draw us into a story that is both enchanting and intriguing. Violet is growing into her job as caretaker and Grandma Daisy is at a bit of loose ends. Violet does need to fine tune her sleuthing skills a bit and Daisy needs to find new ways to fill her time. The relationship between the two women is getting stronger as they find their way in their new roles. I love sneaky little Emerson and who wouldn’t love an intellectual crow. The supporting cast all have a purpose and have grown right along with the main characters.
I found the ice wine and winter midnight harvest to be very interesting even though I was no fan of the entitled Morton family.
Charming Books is my favorite bookstore out of all the cozy bookstores I have fictionally visited. It is unique, magical and memorable. I love everything about it. To avoid spoiling anything for new readers I can say more but it is a true treasure.
The story is very well-plotted with the main plots and subplots falling easily together. There were several suspects and I was on the trail of the correct person but the climatic finish still surprised me. I enjoy the book group that meets at Charming Books too. It really adds to the story.
I call this series “paranormal light” due to its magical setting. Ms. Flowers has taken a very imaginative idea and run with it all while making readers believe what happens within the pages real and believable.
What a marvelous mystery! I am so excited for the next book in this series after the little cliffhanger at the end. Looks like Grandma Daisy is going to shake things up.
February 18, 2019
THIS BOOK ENDED PERFECTLY FOR ALL INVOLVED! I loved this book!!!
I did get annoyed at the publisher for misusing your and you're twice!! But not a major deal and not the author's fault. This is my favorite series by Amanda Flower and it begs for one more at least! And potential love triangle ENDED. So much happiness.
I did get annoyed at the publisher for misusing your and you're twice!! But not a major deal and not the author's fault. This is my favorite series by Amanda Flower and it begs for one more at least! And potential love triangle ENDED. So much happiness.
June 18, 2021
Charming Books is providing the books at a signing located at Morton Winery. The author is Belinda Perkins, a local who has become a respected sommelier. However, the evening ends in tragedy when Charming Books owner Violet Waverly finds Belinda’s body in the vineyard. Belinda was the estranged sister of Violet’s friend Lacey, and Lacey becomes the prime suspect. Can Violet figure out the messages that Charming Books is sending her to clear her friend?
It’s been years since I read the earlier books in the series, but I’m glad I reconnected with the characters. While I normally avoid paranormal themed cozies, I find this premise absolutely charming. The mystery is wonderful and kept me guessing right until the end. It’s filled with suspects who are perfect at keeping me confused. A few of the series regulars were fun but underdeveloped here, but that’s because they had little page time. The regulars we saw more of were great, and I especially appreciated the growth we saw in Violet. I hope to return to the next book in the series soon.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
It’s been years since I read the earlier books in the series, but I’m glad I reconnected with the characters. While I normally avoid paranormal themed cozies, I find this premise absolutely charming. The mystery is wonderful and kept me guessing right until the end. It’s filled with suspects who are perfect at keeping me confused. A few of the series regulars were fun but underdeveloped here, but that’s because they had little page time. The regulars we saw more of were great, and I especially appreciated the growth we saw in Violet. I hope to return to the next book in the series soon.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
January 23, 2019
This is the third installment in the Magical Bookshop series but my first read in it. Violet and her grandmother Daisy live in Cascade Springs, New York--which provides the perfect setting for a mystery combined with a touch of paranormal. Belinda Perkins, who was born in Cascade Springs but has since found celebrity status as a wine reviewer, is murdered after a book signing at a local winery. Violet's best friend Lacey, and Belinda's sister, is the chief suspect but Violet is convinced that she is innocent and is determined to prove it. Her investigation turns up a number of suspects and motives but when she gets too close to the solution, she comes face-to-face with the killer.
What an enjoyable read! It was easy to jump right into the story. I really liked the closeness between Violet and her grandmother; it brought up memories of my late Nana. The author does a wonderful job of developing the characters and bringing the reader right into the mystery. I live in the Niagara region and enjoyed the use of fiction and non-fiction. The development of Violet's romance with police chief Rainwater continues at a pleasant pace.
I was amused with Belinda's nasty reviews of an ice wine, saying that one was attempting to have a tropical flavor comes off as a mediocre fruit punch and that customers would do better choosing ice wines across the border in Canada. Ice wine is really delicious and Canadian ones have had a reputation of being better than American but we are improving! If you want a less expensive American one, I suggest a Late Harvest Vignoles. Bring out a cordial glass for best enjoyment! A good ice wine should have notes of orange, honey, apricot and/or pineapple.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a complimentary advance digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
What an enjoyable read! It was easy to jump right into the story. I really liked the closeness between Violet and her grandmother; it brought up memories of my late Nana. The author does a wonderful job of developing the characters and bringing the reader right into the mystery. I live in the Niagara region and enjoyed the use of fiction and non-fiction. The development of Violet's romance with police chief Rainwater continues at a pleasant pace.
I was amused with Belinda's nasty reviews of an ice wine, saying that one was attempting to have a tropical flavor comes off as a mediocre fruit punch and that customers would do better choosing ice wines across the border in Canada. Ice wine is really delicious and Canadian ones have had a reputation of being better than American but we are improving! If you want a less expensive American one, I suggest a Late Harvest Vignoles. Bring out a cordial glass for best enjoyment! A good ice wine should have notes of orange, honey, apricot and/or pineapple.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a complimentary advance digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
March 7, 2020
Took me forever to finally get to this book but this is a series that doesn’t disappoint. Violet, Grandma Daisey..the cat Emerson and crow Faulkner are characters I just love! Add on top of that, their magical bookshop, it’s a cozy mystery lover must read and Murders and Metaphors was just another really fun read. Highly recommend listening to on audio, I found my copy on Hoopla.
March 7, 2019
3.5 stars, another cute story by Flower. Makes me want to have my very own magical bookshop.
April 5, 2019
This is actually a three and a half star read for me. I'll go into more detail once I'm able to sort out my thoughts, but I will not lie and will admit that part of my rating is based on the numerous errors within the book. Missing words, wrong words used, continuity issues, they abound, and it is truly a sad thing to discover in a series that I've come to enjoy.
More thoughts on this book to come later.
More thoughts on this book to come later.
May 25, 2020
This series is definitely one of my favorite cozies. I listened to the audio book for this third installment. The narrator (Rachel Dulude) was good with all the voices and it was quite entertaining. Charming Books was as charming as ever, Faulkner and Emerson were adorable as usual. And we see some progress in Violet's love story. The mystery was really good, I had pegged the wrong person as the murderer, hence the final reveal was quite a shock to me.
July 5, 2020
Bella storia, con un colpevole che mi ha colto di sorpresa perché avevo puntato altrove. Sono anche felice per la svolta nella vita personale della protagonista.
December 18, 2018
As I have said numerous times, Amanda Flower is one of my favorite cozy mystery authors. No matter what book or series I pick up I know that it is going to be a terrific read and hit all the notes I look for when reading a cozy mystery. I was so happy to see that she was continuing the Magical Bookshop Mystery series. This series is set in the quaint town of Cascade Springs New York. The characters are well written, diverse, charming and some a bit quirky. I enjoy the relationship between Violet and her Grandma Daisy. They are each still finding their way after Violet became the new Caretaker of the tree. The romance between Violet and Chief Rainwater is progressing nicely but there are going to be some bumps along the way. The characters are growing and coming into their own which is always one of the things I look for in a cozy series.
The mystery was well done. It carries through the entire story and there are plenty of clues sprinkled throughout book. There were a couple of nice twists that I didn't see coming which added some drama to the mystery. I did not guess the identity of the killer and I think readers will be surprised.
This series also has a nice hint of the paranormal that runs throughout each story. I don't think it is overpowering and I enjoy how the bookshop sends Violet hints on what she needs to solve a mystery.
This book just hooked me from the start and I stayed up a couple nights past when I would normally go to bed so I could read farther into the story. A sure sign that a book has grabbed your attention. I hope there will be more books in this series because I am looking forward to seeing how things turn out for a few of the characters.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
The mystery was well done. It carries through the entire story and there are plenty of clues sprinkled throughout book. There were a couple of nice twists that I didn't see coming which added some drama to the mystery. I did not guess the identity of the killer and I think readers will be surprised.
This series also has a nice hint of the paranormal that runs throughout each story. I don't think it is overpowering and I enjoy how the bookshop sends Violet hints on what she needs to solve a mystery.
This book just hooked me from the start and I stayed up a couple nights past when I would normally go to bed so I could read farther into the story. A sure sign that a book has grabbed your attention. I hope there will be more books in this series because I am looking forward to seeing how things turn out for a few of the characters.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
November 19, 2018
When I requested this book I did not realize it was the 3rd book in a series that I had not read. While had no problem understanding the story it would have been better if I had read the previous books as the tale often refers to them. I now have 2 more books to add to my TBR PILE.
Violet Waverley is now the caretaker of the Charming Books, a Magical Bookstore. There is a talking crow who had broken his wing as a fledging and refused to leave. Emerson, a tortie cat who went everywhere with his previous owner. Both added humor to the story. The store keeps throwing copies of LITTLE WOMAN around. Violet does not understand what the store is trying to tell her. There are 4 Perkin sisters in the tale that are estranged from each other.
Violet and Grandmother Daisy are supplying the books for a local winery for a book signing affair for sommelier Belinda Perkins. Violet had a lot negative history with the winery. Emerson managed to sneak into the car and ride to the event. After an upsetting scene between the two sisters, the affair closes. Violet left Grandmother Daisy to pack up as Violet is looking for Emerson who has managed to disappear. He leads Violet to a dead body. Will Violet find answers Belinda'death before a friend is arrested for her murder?
Disclosure: Many Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Violet Waverley is now the caretaker of the Charming Books, a Magical Bookstore. There is a talking crow who had broken his wing as a fledging and refused to leave. Emerson, a tortie cat who went everywhere with his previous owner. Both added humor to the story. The store keeps throwing copies of LITTLE WOMAN around. Violet does not understand what the store is trying to tell her. There are 4 Perkin sisters in the tale that are estranged from each other.
Violet and Grandmother Daisy are supplying the books for a local winery for a book signing affair for sommelier Belinda Perkins. Violet had a lot negative history with the winery. Emerson managed to sneak into the car and ride to the event. After an upsetting scene between the two sisters, the affair closes. Violet left Grandmother Daisy to pack up as Violet is looking for Emerson who has managed to disappear. He leads Violet to a dead body. Will Violet find answers Belinda'death before a friend is arrested for her murder?
Disclosure: Many Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
January 25, 2020
⭐⭐⭐⭐
What a great book, I think the series is really hitting it’s stride with this one. A wonderful main character Violet, her eccentric sidekick Grandma Daisy, a village full of charming and quirky characters and the two best pets in crime solving fiction. Emerson a cat who comes across the dead body and Faulkner the crow who’s always spouting advice. Along with a magical bookstore in a Victorian house.
I love all the literary references in the book, most are from Little Woman but there are also a few others along the way.
The only thing I didn’t love and why I knocked one star off was
Another nice thing about this book, in a genre that seems to be almost exclusively white we have a Native American Chief of Police and an African American poet. It's great to see some diversity. Let’s hope other authors in the genre follow Flower’s lead.
Cozies Reading Challenge
What a great book, I think the series is really hitting it’s stride with this one. A wonderful main character Violet, her eccentric sidekick Grandma Daisy, a village full of charming and quirky characters and the two best pets in crime solving fiction. Emerson a cat who comes across the dead body and Faulkner the crow who’s always spouting advice. Along with a magical bookstore in a Victorian house.
“Charming Books, where the perfect book picks you. Can I help you?” I asked in a breathless voice.
I love all the literary references in the book, most are from Little Woman but there are also a few others along the way.
The only thing I didn’t love and why I knocked one star off was
Another nice thing about this book, in a genre that seems to be almost exclusively white we have a Native American Chief of Police and an African American poet. It's great to see some diversity. Let’s hope other authors in the genre follow Flower’s lead.
Cozies Reading Challenge
March 14, 2019
I enjoyed this latest installment in this series! Great mystery that I did not figure out until the end.
February 18, 2019
This was a book that was a long time in the making, well it seemed like it was lol, and it definitely did not disappoint! I'm so happy this series found a new home and is able to continue.
Violet's cat Emerson found the body of a famous sommelier and wine author in the Morton Vineyards where they were holding their annual ice wine grape cutting. Violet's friend Lacey who owned the local cafe with her French-Canadian husband was the woman's estranged sister, and since a huge blow-up between them had happened earlier, Lacey was the main suspect. David Rainwater, police chief and Violet's good friend knew he couldn't stop her from investigating, but he always told her to be careful. After an attempt on Violet's life, she was more determined than ever to find the killer.
The showdown was great! I hadn't even suspected that particular person at all. I loved that David and Violet were growing closer and that Grandma Daisy had found something to do to make her feel more useful. Faulkner the crow and Emerson always crack me up and add just the perfect touch of comic relief to the stories that I've followed since the first book. Violet had finally been able to talk to her grandma about something that had been bothering her, as well as she was able to give herself permission to make the right choice in a love interest. I absolutely can't wait for the next book!
Violet's cat Emerson found the body of a famous sommelier and wine author in the Morton Vineyards where they were holding their annual ice wine grape cutting. Violet's friend Lacey who owned the local cafe with her French-Canadian husband was the woman's estranged sister, and since a huge blow-up between them had happened earlier, Lacey was the main suspect. David Rainwater, police chief and Violet's good friend knew he couldn't stop her from investigating, but he always told her to be careful. After an attempt on Violet's life, she was more determined than ever to find the killer.
The showdown was great! I hadn't even suspected that particular person at all. I loved that David and Violet were growing closer and that Grandma Daisy had found something to do to make her feel more useful. Faulkner the crow and Emerson always crack me up and add just the perfect touch of comic relief to the stories that I've followed since the first book. Violet had finally been able to talk to her grandma about something that had been bothering her, as well as she was able to give herself permission to make the right choice in a love interest. I absolutely can't wait for the next book!
February 24, 2019
The best in this series yet. Magical bookstore proprietors Violet and grandma Daisy are tasked with supplying the books for a wine critic author at the vineyard owned by her old beaus family. Extensive history of love and hate hovers over the event, but is overshadowed by the murder of the authoress amongst the vines.
When two sisters of the deceased head the suspect list, our gifted sleuths set out to prove them innocent. Assisted by the resident crow, cat and general essence of the shop, clues are placed about them via books, and animal mystique.
Add in some romance and it’s a winner.
A much better character and dialogue presentation shows that this series is just going to get better and better. Looking forward to Flower’s next installment.
When two sisters of the deceased head the suspect list, our gifted sleuths set out to prove them innocent. Assisted by the resident crow, cat and general essence of the shop, clues are placed about them via books, and animal mystique.
Add in some romance and it’s a winner.
A much better character and dialogue presentation shows that this series is just going to get better and better. Looking forward to Flower’s next installment.
January 17, 2019
A 200 year-old Birch tree thrives in the middle of a Queen Anne Victorian that houses Charming Books, a magical bookshop in Cascade Springs, NY, where Violet Waverly serves as the tree’s Caretaker and bookshop’s co-owner. Along with her Grandma Daisy, Violet operates the bookshop that finds the perfect book for each customer along with helping the two women solve mysteries by providing clues found in books on the shelves. In other words, Violet and Daisy live and work in an enchanted environment that provides a touch of the mystical in each well-crafted mystery.
The mystery to be solved is the murder of author Belinda Perkins who happens to be the estranged sister of Lacey, who owns LaCrepe Jolie with her husband Adrien Dupont, and is good friends with Violet. Appropriate red herrings and interesting twists are carefully constructed by Amanda Flower along with engaging characters and relationships. Two special characters – Emerson, mischief making cat and Faulkner, poetry quoting crow – live with Violet and Daisy, adding humor and perspective to every story.
In this third volume of the Magical Bookshop Mysteries, Violet, in addition to sleuthing, considers how the issue of being the Caretaker influences her ability to have a serious romantic relationship and share the knowledge of her responsibility with another. Ms. Flower writes bewitching mysteries that continue to captivate readers.
The mystery to be solved is the murder of author Belinda Perkins who happens to be the estranged sister of Lacey, who owns LaCrepe Jolie with her husband Adrien Dupont, and is good friends with Violet. Appropriate red herrings and interesting twists are carefully constructed by Amanda Flower along with engaging characters and relationships. Two special characters – Emerson, mischief making cat and Faulkner, poetry quoting crow – live with Violet and Daisy, adding humor and perspective to every story.
In this third volume of the Magical Bookshop Mysteries, Violet, in addition to sleuthing, considers how the issue of being the Caretaker influences her ability to have a serious romantic relationship and share the knowledge of her responsibility with another. Ms. Flower writes bewitching mysteries that continue to captivate readers.
February 12, 2019
Murders and Metaphors is a fun mystical story that takes place in upper New York state near Niagara Falls in Cascade Springs, home of the Charming Books bookstore, where the books choose the buyer. Housed in a lovely old Victorian home built around a tall birch tree, the bookstore has magical qualities where the books occasionally fly, is home to Faulkner, a talking crow and Emerson, a tuxedo cat with special powers. Violet Waverly is the caretaker of the bookstore that has passed down to the female descendants one generation to the next for the last two hundred years. Violet's mother died when she was young so she has taken over for her grandmother, known to everyone as Grandma Daisy, although she is still active at the bookstore. The caretaker has to guard the secret of Charming Books and water the tree every forty eight hours with water from the local springs under the cover of night when no one can see.
In this book, the third of the series, Violet and Grandma Daisy has been asked to set up a table selling books at a local winery owned by the Morton family. Mayor Nathan Morton, former boyfriend of Violet's, asked them to sell the books at the event but the Morton parents don't like Violet causing an awkward situation. They are selling books written by a local woman, Belinda Perkins, a sommelier and wine critic, who has made some enemies with her reviews. This is a late night event because there will be a midnight cutting of the grapes for ice wine. But before the night is over, Belinda is found in the vineyard by Violet with a vine cutting knife in her back. When Lacey, Belinda's estranged sister and Violet's friend, is considered a suspect, Violet sets out to prove that Lacey is innocent. Belinda was not a likable person so there are many people who are in the suspect pool. The "essence" of the bookstore is trying to direct Violet in her search by dropping Little Woman by Louisa May Alcott in front of her.
Police Chief David Rainwater and Violet are very close and he is not happy with Violet getting involved in the investigation. But someone doesn't want Violet working the case so her life is in danger. I was not sure how I felt about a magical bookstore but it is a fun story with a mystery to solve that pulls one into the story and keeps the pages turning. Now, I have to go read the first two in the series.
I received a complimentary copy from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley. The thoughts and opinions stated are mine only.
In this book, the third of the series, Violet and Grandma Daisy has been asked to set up a table selling books at a local winery owned by the Morton family. Mayor Nathan Morton, former boyfriend of Violet's, asked them to sell the books at the event but the Morton parents don't like Violet causing an awkward situation. They are selling books written by a local woman, Belinda Perkins, a sommelier and wine critic, who has made some enemies with her reviews. This is a late night event because there will be a midnight cutting of the grapes for ice wine. But before the night is over, Belinda is found in the vineyard by Violet with a vine cutting knife in her back. When Lacey, Belinda's estranged sister and Violet's friend, is considered a suspect, Violet sets out to prove that Lacey is innocent. Belinda was not a likable person so there are many people who are in the suspect pool. The "essence" of the bookstore is trying to direct Violet in her search by dropping Little Woman by Louisa May Alcott in front of her.
Police Chief David Rainwater and Violet are very close and he is not happy with Violet getting involved in the investigation. But someone doesn't want Violet working the case so her life is in danger. I was not sure how I felt about a magical bookstore but it is a fun story with a mystery to solve that pulls one into the story and keeps the pages turning. Now, I have to go read the first two in the series.
I received a complimentary copy from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley. The thoughts and opinions stated are mine only.
February 11, 2019
Murder And Metaphors is the third book in the Magical Bookshop Mysteries series.
I was very excited to learn that this wonderful series has found a new publisher. I’ve really enjoyed the first two books in the series.
Violet and Grandma Daisy are busy putting together a book signing for Belinda, an author, and a sommelier, to be held at Morton Vineyards. Violet would much rather have held the signing at their bookstore, Charming Books. The less interaction she has with Nathan Morton, the mayor of Cascade Springs, New York, and Violet’s high school sweetheart.
Belinda has been estranged from her three sisters since their mother passed and she blamed for not helping prevent her passing. One of the sisters is Lacy, Violet’s best friend since childhood. Lacy shows up at the signing with hopes of trying to settle their differences but instead turns into a heated argument that many of the attendees overheard. Later when everyone heads out to the vineyard to harvest the ice wine grapes that the Morton’s Vineyard hope will make a name for their vineyard. Soon Violet trips over the dead body of Belinda who had been with a grape cutting tool. A letter that was written by Lacy, that she tried to give to Belinda at the signing, is found by the lifeless body, and Lacy becomes the primary suspect.
Violet doesn’t believe that Lacy is guilty of murdering her sister and sets out to clear her name. In addition, Violet wants to work on reconciling the sisters.
Amanda Flower provides, once again, a well written and plotted story with plenty of red herrings. The story also includes a wonderful cast of believable characters.
I am looking forward to the next book in this interesting series. Also looking forward to seeing if Grandma Daisy might be getting a romantic interest.
I was very excited to learn that this wonderful series has found a new publisher. I’ve really enjoyed the first two books in the series.
Violet and Grandma Daisy are busy putting together a book signing for Belinda, an author, and a sommelier, to be held at Morton Vineyards. Violet would much rather have held the signing at their bookstore, Charming Books. The less interaction she has with Nathan Morton, the mayor of Cascade Springs, New York, and Violet’s high school sweetheart.
Belinda has been estranged from her three sisters since their mother passed and she blamed for not helping prevent her passing. One of the sisters is Lacy, Violet’s best friend since childhood. Lacy shows up at the signing with hopes of trying to settle their differences but instead turns into a heated argument that many of the attendees overheard. Later when everyone heads out to the vineyard to harvest the ice wine grapes that the Morton’s Vineyard hope will make a name for their vineyard. Soon Violet trips over the dead body of Belinda who had been with a grape cutting tool. A letter that was written by Lacy, that she tried to give to Belinda at the signing, is found by the lifeless body, and Lacy becomes the primary suspect.
Violet doesn’t believe that Lacy is guilty of murdering her sister and sets out to clear her name. In addition, Violet wants to work on reconciling the sisters.
Amanda Flower provides, once again, a well written and plotted story with plenty of red herrings. The story also includes a wonderful cast of believable characters.
I am looking forward to the next book in this interesting series. Also looking forward to seeing if Grandma Daisy might be getting a romantic interest.
March 10, 2020
Out of the 4 series by Amanda Flower that I have read this one is my favorite (still have several other series that I haven't read yet). I really like Violet and Charming Books. I recently went to a book signing by Amanda and one of the things she said was that in one book she was writing she was surprised when she got to the end at who the killer turned out to be, I don't know which book she was writing when that happened but that was my reaction when I read this one. After this ending there seem to be lots of changes coming to Cascade Springs. These books are easy to read with a story that kept me guessing and entertained (not to mention I now want to read Little Women or at least watch a movie version). Looking forward to reading the next installment.
January 30, 2024
I don’t know how she does it, but this woman just keeps getting better and better with each book in this series! 😍
I so enjoyed being back in Cascade Sprints with Violet, Grandma Daisy, Chief Rainwater, Emerson the tuxedo cat, Faulkner the crow, and all the other residents of this cozy little town.
I’ll never tire of the quaint bookstore setting, the sweet budding romance, and the magic in it all. I’m at a loss for words. I just need you all to give this 5⭐️ series a chance.
This last reading has just confirmed that the Magical Bookshop Mystery series is my favorite cozy mystery series to date. 🥰✨
I so enjoyed being back in Cascade Sprints with Violet, Grandma Daisy, Chief Rainwater, Emerson the tuxedo cat, Faulkner the crow, and all the other residents of this cozy little town.
I’ll never tire of the quaint bookstore setting, the sweet budding romance, and the magic in it all. I’m at a loss for words. I just need you all to give this 5⭐️ series a chance.
This last reading has just confirmed that the Magical Bookshop Mystery series is my favorite cozy mystery series to date. 🥰✨
February 13, 2019
In this third book of the series Violet is starting to get the hang of being the caretaker to her family's bookshop. She is settling into her new life but having an ex, who hurt her badly, always around and trying to rekindle things is giving her mixed emotions. While hosting a book signing at her ex's Winery Violet is looking forward to a fun night of books, wine, and fabulous food. The author, Belinda, grew up in the town of Cascade Springs but hasn't been back since her mothers funeral years ago. It doesn't help that Belinda isn't on good terms with her sisters who still live in the town, especially her sister Lacey. Lacey who is Violets good friend wants to hopefully bring her family back together ends up being thrown out of the event, her sister wanting nothing to do with her. Violet decides to step out for some fresh air after the signing and ends up stumbling over a body in the vineyard, a body that ends up being Belinda. When the police turn to Lacey as their main suspect Violet knows that she must turn to the books in hopes of keeping her friend out of jail. Follow along as she searches for meaning in the clues that the books have directed her to. Will she be able to save her friend or will she get lost in trying to find meaning behind what has been revealed. This was my first book of the series and I fell in love with it immediately, I've already bought the previous two books so that I could really get to know its characters. If you love books, mystery, animals, and a touch of the mystical this is definitely the series to read. I can't wait to see what happens next and what books the store will pick to help figure out whatever mystery befalls Violet.
October 13, 2018
Murders and Metaphors by Amanda Flower is the best one yet in this series. I was immediately wrapped up in the latest visit to Cascade Springs.
Ms. Flower's writing is so descriptive that the setting and the characters come to life. Violet and Grandma Daisy host a book signing for a popular author/sommelier, Belinda Perkins, at Morton's Winery. Violet is not looking forward to the event as that means she must once again be in contact with her ex-boyfriend, Nathan Morton. As usual the matriarch of the Morton family is disagreeable but is resigned to Violet and Daisy's presence for the book signing. However, a murder disrupts the event and one of Violet's best friends is the number one suspect. Immediately Violet is on the case and with the help of the magical bookshop she might solve it before she's the next victim.
I love the characters in this series. Each one, Violet, Daisy, Lacey, Sadie,and David Rainwater are becoming fully developed now and I love the way they are evolving in this book. I also enjoyed meeting a couple of new characters in this book. I look forward to learning more about them as the series progresses. I heartily approved of the bookshop's apparent approval of David Rainwater. I'm intrigued to see how that will play out in future books. The plot is intricate and filled with devious twists and several suspects that might want the victim dead. I loved every second of my visit to Cascade Springs and am already wishing the next one was available.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own. I would like to thank Crooked Lane Books for allowing me to read and review the book.
Ms. Flower's writing is so descriptive that the setting and the characters come to life. Violet and Grandma Daisy host a book signing for a popular author/sommelier, Belinda Perkins, at Morton's Winery. Violet is not looking forward to the event as that means she must once again be in contact with her ex-boyfriend, Nathan Morton. As usual the matriarch of the Morton family is disagreeable but is resigned to Violet and Daisy's presence for the book signing. However, a murder disrupts the event and one of Violet's best friends is the number one suspect. Immediately Violet is on the case and with the help of the magical bookshop she might solve it before she's the next victim.
I love the characters in this series. Each one, Violet, Daisy, Lacey, Sadie,and David Rainwater are becoming fully developed now and I love the way they are evolving in this book. I also enjoyed meeting a couple of new characters in this book. I look forward to learning more about them as the series progresses. I heartily approved of the bookshop's apparent approval of David Rainwater. I'm intrigued to see how that will play out in future books. The plot is intricate and filled with devious twists and several suspects that might want the victim dead. I loved every second of my visit to Cascade Springs and am already wishing the next one was available.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own. I would like to thank Crooked Lane Books for allowing me to read and review the book.
February 8, 2019
WOW! WOW! WOW!
This has been on of biggest surprises of this year [so far] for me; I never expected to love this series as much as I have - what a treat this has been!! I have loved all three of these books so much; they have been such a joy to read!!
This one had so many twists and turns and I was as confused as Violet was throughout most of the book - I never saw the murderer coming and for me, that is the best thing about a well-written cozy. AND!!! the wretched love-triangle is O V E R!!! HALLELUJAH!!! Plus, you get Little Women as the book from the bookstore and some new, but awesome characters [well, minus the icky PI. He is just ick.], and you have a fantastic book [hence the 5 stars].
You also learn that just because you are rich, you cannot buy friends, or people who like you or a good impression. The Morton's are a good example of what kind of person you should NEVER, EVER be, whether you have money or not. Mrs. Morton is a real piece of work and I just want to smack her whenever she is in the book.
SO looking forward to more books in this series - it is absolutely my new favorite!!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This has been on of biggest surprises of this year [so far] for me; I never expected to love this series as much as I have - what a treat this has been!! I have loved all three of these books so much; they have been such a joy to read!!
This one had so many twists and turns and I was as confused as Violet was throughout most of the book - I never saw the murderer coming and for me, that is the best thing about a well-written cozy. AND!!! the wretched love-triangle is O V E R!!! HALLELUJAH!!! Plus, you get Little Women as the book from the bookstore and some new, but awesome characters [well, minus the icky PI. He is just ick.], and you have a fantastic book [hence the 5 stars].
You also learn that just because you are rich, you cannot buy friends, or people who like you or a good impression. The Morton's are a good example of what kind of person you should NEVER, EVER be, whether you have money or not. Mrs. Morton is a real piece of work and I just want to smack her whenever she is in the book.
SO looking forward to more books in this series - it is absolutely my new favorite!!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2021
The cold wind bit into my bare cheeks and the tip of my nose as I ran down the snow-covered path like I was being pursued by a pack of wolves.
The third book in the Magical Bookshop series does not disappoint! I fall in love with Charming Books a bit more every time I visit.
Violet and Grandma Daisy are providing the books at an event for Morton Vineyards to celebrate a local celebrity sommelier. Belinda is the sister of Violet's friend Lacey and has returned to Cascade Springs after being estranged from Lacey and her other two sisters for years. Harsh words at the signing lead to Lacey leaving in tears. Of course, Lacey is the prime suspect when Belinda turns up dead shortly afterwards.
I love how the bookshop provides Violet with the information she needs to solve the case. This has made me want to go back and read Little Women. The whole atmosphere of the bookshop draws me in. I am not particularly fond of birds, but i would love to get to know Faulkner better. Of course, as a cat lover, I adore Emerson.
Chief David Rainwater didn't seem to play as much of a role this time around as I would have liked. There is definite progression in his relationship with Violet.
The murderer took me by surprise. I was looking at everyone except them. The twists and turns were excellent and kept me guessing.
I really look forward to the next book to see where these new revelations will lead us.
This is an excellent series that I highly recommend!
The third book in the Magical Bookshop series does not disappoint! I fall in love with Charming Books a bit more every time I visit.
Violet and Grandma Daisy are providing the books at an event for Morton Vineyards to celebrate a local celebrity sommelier. Belinda is the sister of Violet's friend Lacey and has returned to Cascade Springs after being estranged from Lacey and her other two sisters for years. Harsh words at the signing lead to Lacey leaving in tears. Of course, Lacey is the prime suspect when Belinda turns up dead shortly afterwards.
I love how the bookshop provides Violet with the information she needs to solve the case. This has made me want to go back and read Little Women. The whole atmosphere of the bookshop draws me in. I am not particularly fond of birds, but i would love to get to know Faulkner better. Of course, as a cat lover, I adore Emerson.
Chief David Rainwater didn't seem to play as much of a role this time around as I would have liked. There is definite progression in his relationship with Violet.
The murderer took me by surprise. I was looking at everyone except them. The twists and turns were excellent and kept me guessing.
I really look forward to the next book to see where these new revelations will lead us.
This is an excellent series that I highly recommend!
September 12, 2018
Amanda Flower is a gifted author who never disappoints me.
Murders and Metaphors is a well told tale, featuring the murder of a sommelier.
When someone close to Violet is a prime suspect, she turns to her magical bookshop to find the answers.
I love this series because the characters are so real, that I find myself with a group of friends whenever I open one of these books.
This story has everything I look for in a cozy mystery, a well told story, unique characters and plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged from beginning to end.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Murders and Metaphors is a well told tale, featuring the murder of a sommelier.
When someone close to Violet is a prime suspect, she turns to her magical bookshop to find the answers.
I love this series because the characters are so real, that I find myself with a group of friends whenever I open one of these books.
This story has everything I look for in a cozy mystery, a well told story, unique characters and plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged from beginning to end.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
February 7, 2019
Murders and Metaphors by Amanda Flower takes readers back to Cascade Springs, New York. Violet Waverly and her grandmother, Daisy own and run Charming Books with its magical birch tree. Violet is the newest Caretaker and she is still adjusting to her new duties. The booksellers are heading to Morton Wineries where Belinda Perkins, a sommelier and bestselling author, will be holding a book signing for her newest release. After the signing, the Morton’s will be hosting their annual ice wine cutting party. During the signing Lacey Perkins arrives to see her estranged sister, but Belinda ends up causing a scene by refusing to talk with Lacey. Emerson, Violet’s tuxedo cat, insisted on coming to the winery with them. When they prepare to leave, Emerson takes off into the vineyard. Violet gives chase and trips over a frozen Belinda Perkins with a curved grape cutting knife in her back. Thanks to the public altercation, Lacey ends up at the top of Chief Rainwater’s suspect list. Violet knows that Lacey would not harm anyone much less her sister, but Violet needs more information if she is to clear her friend. The shop keeps giving Violet copies of Little Women to guide her in the investigation. She now needs to figure out how the Perkins sisters relate to the March girls. Join Violet, Daisy, Emerson and Faulkner in their quest to identify Belinda’s killer in Murders and Metaphors.
Murders and Metaphors is the third tale in A Magical Bookshop Mystery series, but it can be read alone. Everything a reader needs to know is included. Cascade Springs is a charming small town with a mystical spring. Charming Books has an enchanted two hundred year old birch tree growing in the middle which needs this special water twice a week from the Caretaker. The magical essence in the shop helps Daisy and Violet guide customers to the perfect book plus it has aided Violet in solving two local crimes. I thought Murders and Metaphors was well-written with steady pacing. I like the engaging yet quirky characters which include Faulkner, the talking crow and Emerson, a canny feline. Daisy is a delightful woman and I hope I am as sprightly at her age. She is a little bit at loose ends with Violet taking over the Caretaker duties, but I believe Daisy has found just the right job to keep her busy (I do not want to spoil it for you). Violet has only been the Caretaker for six months. She is a smart woman who teaches at the local college in addition to her work at the bookstore. Violet is also finishing up work on her doctoral thesis which she will defend in May (busy woman). The mystery has multiple suspects, good clues and misdirection. Identifying the killer, though, was a snap (maybe I have read too many mysteries). Violet needs to work on the way she asks questions. She is too direct (Violet needs to channel Daisy). I loved the inclusion of Little Women. The store is trying to help Violet solve Belinda’s murder, and it is not being subtle. It was interesting to learn about ice wine. I had not heard about this beverage before (I like learning new things). There is a man in town who is too nosy for his own good and may cause trouble for our bookstore owners. I have a feeling we have not seen the last of him. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this enchanting cozy mystery. Murders and Metaphors has humor, a touch of romance, a talking crow, a murder, a busy cat, magic and references to my favorite book, Little Women.
Murders and Metaphors is the third tale in A Magical Bookshop Mystery series, but it can be read alone. Everything a reader needs to know is included. Cascade Springs is a charming small town with a mystical spring. Charming Books has an enchanted two hundred year old birch tree growing in the middle which needs this special water twice a week from the Caretaker. The magical essence in the shop helps Daisy and Violet guide customers to the perfect book plus it has aided Violet in solving two local crimes. I thought Murders and Metaphors was well-written with steady pacing. I like the engaging yet quirky characters which include Faulkner, the talking crow and Emerson, a canny feline. Daisy is a delightful woman and I hope I am as sprightly at her age. She is a little bit at loose ends with Violet taking over the Caretaker duties, but I believe Daisy has found just the right job to keep her busy (I do not want to spoil it for you). Violet has only been the Caretaker for six months. She is a smart woman who teaches at the local college in addition to her work at the bookstore. Violet is also finishing up work on her doctoral thesis which she will defend in May (busy woman). The mystery has multiple suspects, good clues and misdirection. Identifying the killer, though, was a snap (maybe I have read too many mysteries). Violet needs to work on the way she asks questions. She is too direct (Violet needs to channel Daisy). I loved the inclusion of Little Women. The store is trying to help Violet solve Belinda’s murder, and it is not being subtle. It was interesting to learn about ice wine. I had not heard about this beverage before (I like learning new things). There is a man in town who is too nosy for his own good and may cause trouble for our bookstore owners. I have a feeling we have not seen the last of him. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this enchanting cozy mystery. Murders and Metaphors has humor, a touch of romance, a talking crow, a murder, a busy cat, magic and references to my favorite book, Little Women.
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