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Blue Ridge Library Mysteries #3
Past Due for Murder
Has a curse fallen on the small town of Taylorsford, Virginia? After a young woman goes missing during a spring bonfire, library director Amy Webber must wade through the web of lies only to find a truth that she may not want to untangle.
Spring has sprung in quaint Taylorsford, Virginia, and the mayor has revived the town’s long-defunct May Day celebration to boost tourism. As part of the festivities, library director Amy Webber is helping to organize a research project and presentation by a local folklore expert. All seems well at first―but spring takes on a sudden chill when a university student inexplicably vanishes during a bonfire.
The local police cast a wide net to find the missing woman, but in a shocking turn of events, Amy’s swoon-worthy neighbor Richard Muir becomes a person of interest in the case. Not only is Richard the woman’s dance instructor, he also doesn’t have an alibi for the night the student vanished―or at least not one he’ll divulge, even to Amy.
When the missing student is finally discovered lost in the mountains, with no memory of recent events―and a dead body lying nearby―an already disturbing mystery takes on a sinister new hue. Blessed with her innate curiosity and a librarian’s gift for research, Amy may be the only one who can learn the truth.
Spring has sprung in quaint Taylorsford, Virginia, and the mayor has revived the town’s long-defunct May Day celebration to boost tourism. As part of the festivities, library director Amy Webber is helping to organize a research project and presentation by a local folklore expert. All seems well at first―but spring takes on a sudden chill when a university student inexplicably vanishes during a bonfire.
The local police cast a wide net to find the missing woman, but in a shocking turn of events, Amy’s swoon-worthy neighbor Richard Muir becomes a person of interest in the case. Not only is Richard the woman’s dance instructor, he also doesn’t have an alibi for the night the student vanished―or at least not one he’ll divulge, even to Amy.
When the missing student is finally discovered lost in the mountains, with no memory of recent events―and a dead body lying nearby―an already disturbing mystery takes on a sinister new hue. Blessed with her innate curiosity and a librarian’s gift for research, Amy may be the only one who can learn the truth.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2019
About the author
Victoria Gilbert
16 books615 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 274 reviews
February 5, 2019
The local folklore was fascinating and the student outing around the bonfire was going well with the professor’s tales taking everyone in. But it was the person Amy Webber spotted on the edge of the clearing that gave her pause. She hadn’t seen him in a long time – what was he doing there?
Amy was the director of the local Taylorsford Library, and research for the upcoming May Day festivities was part of her job. With her offsider Sunny, the two worked well together. The realization that one of the students had gone missing from the bonfire put a dampener on things, and when the local authorities were unable to find her, the worst was assumed. But it was the discovery of a body in the woods, alongside the confused and disoriented missing student that had Amy’s investigative antennae vibrating.
What would be the outcome to the strange happenings in the woods surrounding Taylorsford? With Amy’s boyfriend implicated, would her research skills be enough to exonerate him and find the answers? Or was she putting herself in danger once again?
Past Due for Murder is the 3rd in the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries by Victoria Gilbert and I thoroughly enjoyed it, as I have the previous two. Action, deception and lies are only some parts of this enticing tale; the main characters – Amy, Sunny, Aunt Lydia and Richard – are well crafted and great to catch up with again. I’m already looking forward to #4. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Amy was the director of the local Taylorsford Library, and research for the upcoming May Day festivities was part of her job. With her offsider Sunny, the two worked well together. The realization that one of the students had gone missing from the bonfire put a dampener on things, and when the local authorities were unable to find her, the worst was assumed. But it was the discovery of a body in the woods, alongside the confused and disoriented missing student that had Amy’s investigative antennae vibrating.
What would be the outcome to the strange happenings in the woods surrounding Taylorsford? With Amy’s boyfriend implicated, would her research skills be enough to exonerate him and find the answers? Or was she putting herself in danger once again?
Past Due for Murder is the 3rd in the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries by Victoria Gilbert and I thoroughly enjoyed it, as I have the previous two. Action, deception and lies are only some parts of this enticing tale; the main characters – Amy, Sunny, Aunt Lydia and Richard – are well crafted and great to catch up with again. I’m already looking forward to #4. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Past Due for Murder takes us to Taylorsford, Virginia just in time for Spring and the town’s May Day celebration. Our protagonist Amy Webber has opened up the library archives for a professor and her students to research the local folklore. The will be making a presentation at the celebration. One of these students disappears during a bonfire event and police have organized a search. They also question the man in Amy’s life, Richard Muir. He was the woman’s dance instructor and may have been the last person to see her before she went missing. The student is later found, next to a dead body. She is dazed and confused. Amy has been trying to use her talents first to find the student and now the murderer. She meets an elderly woman with stories to tell of the area that just may point her in the direction of the killer. It also could make her their next victim.
Ms. Gilbert has written a story that links the present to the past in a very interesting way. The area folklore includes a story of two missing women, but what parts of the story are true and which are pure fabrication and how does it pertain to the current event of a missing woman and a murder? It is a twisted journey that captivated me right away.
I loved the way the author brought in a woman who is basically a hermit now. I found this woman to be genuine and heartwarming. Having Amy visit to record her stories for the library’s archives was a brilliant idea. Many towns and libraries are doing this now. It makes me wish I had done the same with my parents and grandparents. Our history, our stories, fade due to poor memories and these records would be priceless. If these options are available to you jump on them while you can.
The author also brings a man into the story, a neighbor to the woman, also someone who shuns society for his own reasons. He has a wonderful gift that he has mostly kept to himself but could he be a murderer?
Sticking with new characters, Richard’s parents come to visit and it was quite the experience. No spoiler here, but answers to some of the questions I had about the man are answered.
With great characters and plenty of twists and turns, this story takes us on quite a ride. The blend of folklore with a smidgen of fairies and magic was a delight. The ending was an ultimate surprise. This story is a wonderful addition to this series!
Past Due for Murder takes us to Taylorsford, Virginia just in time for Spring and the town’s May Day celebration. Our protagonist Amy Webber has opened up the library archives for a professor and her students to research the local folklore. The will be making a presentation at the celebration. One of these students disappears during a bonfire event and police have organized a search. They also question the man in Amy’s life, Richard Muir. He was the woman’s dance instructor and may have been the last person to see her before she went missing. The student is later found, next to a dead body. She is dazed and confused. Amy has been trying to use her talents first to find the student and now the murderer. She meets an elderly woman with stories to tell of the area that just may point her in the direction of the killer. It also could make her their next victim.
Ms. Gilbert has written a story that links the present to the past in a very interesting way. The area folklore includes a story of two missing women, but what parts of the story are true and which are pure fabrication and how does it pertain to the current event of a missing woman and a murder? It is a twisted journey that captivated me right away.
I loved the way the author brought in a woman who is basically a hermit now. I found this woman to be genuine and heartwarming. Having Amy visit to record her stories for the library’s archives was a brilliant idea. Many towns and libraries are doing this now. It makes me wish I had done the same with my parents and grandparents. Our history, our stories, fade due to poor memories and these records would be priceless. If these options are available to you jump on them while you can.
The author also brings a man into the story, a neighbor to the woman, also someone who shuns society for his own reasons. He has a wonderful gift that he has mostly kept to himself but could he be a murderer?
Sticking with new characters, Richard’s parents come to visit and it was quite the experience. No spoiler here, but answers to some of the questions I had about the man are answered.
With great characters and plenty of twists and turns, this story takes us on quite a ride. The blend of folklore with a smidgen of fairies and magic was a delight. The ending was an ultimate surprise. This story is a wonderful addition to this series!
January 13, 2019
This is the third book in the Blue Ridge Library series. Amy Webber is a librarian living in a small town in the Virginia part of the Blue Ridge mountains. Even though there is a nearby university, Appalachia folklore continues to play an important role in the consciousness of the locals, especially the older generation. They recall an unsolved disappearance of two young ladies from the late 1800's, one of whom was engaged to be married. As the book progresses, Amy can't help but think that this mystery might be connected to the current events in the book, including the disappearance of a university co-ed, an unsolved hit and run death, and the murder of a professor.
The story also details her past relationship with her former boyfriend Charles, who now lives in town and how she now sees him, as well as her past self. There is also her current romance with professional dancer Richard. She has doubts about the relationship and that story continues to evolve as the book progresses.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. It wasn't a typical cozy mystery as it read more of a story. The pace seemed to be slow at some points and then speed up at others and I thought the ending dragged a bit. I liked the multiple layers of the mystery which unraveled as the book progressed, which kept my interest piqued. There were also an enjoyable number of other characters like her co-worker Sunny, Mary-the mysterious mountain woman, her aunt with whom she lives, and Richard's parents. I've decided to start with book one of this series, as others have recommended to me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane for an advance digital review copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
The story also details her past relationship with her former boyfriend Charles, who now lives in town and how she now sees him, as well as her past self. There is also her current romance with professional dancer Richard. She has doubts about the relationship and that story continues to evolve as the book progresses.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. It wasn't a typical cozy mystery as it read more of a story. The pace seemed to be slow at some points and then speed up at others and I thought the ending dragged a bit. I liked the multiple layers of the mystery which unraveled as the book progressed, which kept my interest piqued. There were also an enjoyable number of other characters like her co-worker Sunny, Mary-the mysterious mountain woman, her aunt with whom she lives, and Richard's parents. I've decided to start with book one of this series, as others have recommended to me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane for an advance digital review copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
August 31, 2018
I received a free advanced digital copy of Past Due for Murder by Victoria Gilbert in exchange for an unbiased review. This is the third book in the Blue Ridge Library series featuring amateur sleuth Amy Webber. While the mystery stands alone, there are frequent references to earlier books in the series which provide information about the experiences Amy has had solving earlier mysteries. There are also secondary characters who seem to be regular characters in the series. It appears that to fully understand their relationships to Amy and their place in the world of the book, the reader would benefit from reading the books in order.
This novel has a strong thread of folk stories featuring the disappearance of two young girls decades ago and the tales that have arisen explaining their vanishing as a result of mountain fairies who are said to lure people away to live in the mountains as bits of light. These fairies, also referred to as “the folk” and information about them make up a strong secondary story involving a local college professor who is researching their existence.
Almost a third of the book is completed before the murder occurs, although there is a disappearance that is being explored from early on in the story. Much of the story is taken up explaining relationships between various individuals in the story and romantic relationship between Amy and her current boyfriend Richard with a strong reference to her failed relationship with former boyfriend, Charles. The storylines of relationships, love affairs, friendships, etc. are stronger than information about the murder and possible suspects, leading the novel to have a strong romance angle and at times comes through as stronger than the mystery itself.
Pacing is somewhat choppy, with the book shifting from slow in spots, to fast, tension creating chapters toward the end of the book. In many instances characters tend toward being two-dimensional with hints at the existence of more substance that isn’t detailed in this book. Rather than clues and red herrings forming a trail to the end of the novel, there is more emphasis on Amy’s thoughts and reasoning about what is happening both in this novel and what has happened in previous experiences. The solutions to the murder, as well as other happenings within the book are the result of information that is provided at the end of the novel with little opportunity for the reader to solve the mystery on their own.
While this novel may appeal to anyone who has a strong interest in mountain life and lore, it is tends more toward being a story with some mystery involved as opposed to a mystery puzzle for a reader to solve.
This novel has a strong thread of folk stories featuring the disappearance of two young girls decades ago and the tales that have arisen explaining their vanishing as a result of mountain fairies who are said to lure people away to live in the mountains as bits of light. These fairies, also referred to as “the folk” and information about them make up a strong secondary story involving a local college professor who is researching their existence.
Almost a third of the book is completed before the murder occurs, although there is a disappearance that is being explored from early on in the story. Much of the story is taken up explaining relationships between various individuals in the story and romantic relationship between Amy and her current boyfriend Richard with a strong reference to her failed relationship with former boyfriend, Charles. The storylines of relationships, love affairs, friendships, etc. are stronger than information about the murder and possible suspects, leading the novel to have a strong romance angle and at times comes through as stronger than the mystery itself.
Pacing is somewhat choppy, with the book shifting from slow in spots, to fast, tension creating chapters toward the end of the book. In many instances characters tend toward being two-dimensional with hints at the existence of more substance that isn’t detailed in this book. Rather than clues and red herrings forming a trail to the end of the novel, there is more emphasis on Amy’s thoughts and reasoning about what is happening both in this novel and what has happened in previous experiences. The solutions to the murder, as well as other happenings within the book are the result of information that is provided at the end of the novel with little opportunity for the reader to solve the mystery on their own.
While this novel may appeal to anyone who has a strong interest in mountain life and lore, it is tends more toward being a story with some mystery involved as opposed to a mystery puzzle for a reader to solve.
July 23, 2019
I have been enjoying this series very much and Past Due for Murder was a great addition to the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries. As we meet up with our protagonist, Amy Webber, we find her at a Spring Bonfire where a local folklorist is sharing stories about missing girls and fairies luring them with lights. Amy is also working with a local professor and her students on a research project about the town's history and folklore to share at the revived May Day celebrations. When one of the students goes mission, Amy gets involved with the search, especially as Richard's name is being bandied about as a possible suspect. She is busy with all this, as well as trying to deal with her feelings about her relationship with her neighbour, Richard Muir. Richard has gone home for a family party and Amy has not heard from him regularly and he is not responding to her texts. Throw in meeting the parents of your boyfriend and Amy has more to deal with than she bargained for.
I am enjoying seeing Amy's and Richard's relationship grow. They have normal problems to deal with and they are very relatable and likeable. Amy is a great protagonist who continues to work hard for the town, follow her heart, take care of family and remain loyal to her friends. Sunny was also back in this book, but had a much smaller role in this book. I hope she returns to a larger role in the future books. As the mystery unfolded, I had a tough time figuring out who the culprit was. As the reveal was presented, I could see the clues along the way and I was satisfied with the culprit. I liked that the book didn't just end with solving the case, but continued to the May Day festival, tying up the loose ends that were presented at the beginning of the book. I also enjoyed hearing about Richard's dancing, especially after meeting his parents earlier in the book and seeing how much they were disappointed with his choice of career. I also enjoyed the conclusion of the case of the missing gold coins that we have heard about in this and previous books. Overall, a very satisfactory ending to a great mystery. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
I am enjoying seeing Amy's and Richard's relationship grow. They have normal problems to deal with and they are very relatable and likeable. Amy is a great protagonist who continues to work hard for the town, follow her heart, take care of family and remain loyal to her friends. Sunny was also back in this book, but had a much smaller role in this book. I hope she returns to a larger role in the future books. As the mystery unfolded, I had a tough time figuring out who the culprit was. As the reveal was presented, I could see the clues along the way and I was satisfied with the culprit. I liked that the book didn't just end with solving the case, but continued to the May Day festival, tying up the loose ends that were presented at the beginning of the book. I also enjoyed hearing about Richard's dancing, especially after meeting his parents earlier in the book and seeing how much they were disappointed with his choice of career. I also enjoyed the conclusion of the case of the missing gold coins that we have heard about in this and previous books. Overall, a very satisfactory ending to a great mystery. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
March 5, 2019
Past Due for Murder was another great installment in the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries series with an intriguing case for Amy to solve.
In a bid to boost tourism in Taylorsford, the mayor has brought back the town’s May Day festival after fifty years. To help out, library director Amy Webber is helping organize a presentation by a local folklore expert as part of the festival. But when one of the expert’s students goes missing, everything is put on hold to find the girl. To make matters worse, Amy’s boyfriend Richard Muir becomes a suspect as he was the last person to see the girl before she disappeared. After the missing girl is found alive in the mountains, a dead body is found nearby proving there’s something more sinister going on and Amy is determined to get to the bottom of it.
The disappearance of the local college student definitely provided an interesting mystery that was only made more intriguing by the discovery of the girl alive next to a dead body. Initially there are very little clues to go on as to what exactly the girl was doing in the mountains or who would want to hurt her. I enjoyed watching Amy piece everything together and seeing the different avenues she took in her investigation. In particular there were a number of times she found information through her skills as a former research librarian which appealed to my information oriented side. I did ultimately guess the culprit before the big reveal but I still think it was revealed in a good way.
Amy continues to be a wonderful main character and I love watching her grow her investigative skills throughout these books. Amy has always been great at research due to her former position at a university library, but I am enjoying seeing her develop more in person skills. She’s definitely gotten better about getting information out of others throughout the series. One thing I really like is that she doesn’t try to do everything herself and actually makes an effort to keep the sheriff informed of whatever she finds out.
I still think the side characters are where these books really shine as there’s such a great group of them. Amy and Richard’s relationship hits a few bumps in this book as Richard is being secretive and then there’s his being a suspect in Lacey’s disappearance. I did enjoy overall where the pair wound up by the end of the book and I’m looking forward to seeing what their future holds. Amy’s coworker Sunny continues to be an amazing friend and is someone I wish I knew in real life. Amy’s Aunt Lydia is wonderfully supportive and a great influence on Amy. We don’t get as much of Lydia’s friends in this book, but I enjoyed what we did see of them. There’s quite a bit of Kurt in this book and I’m still trying to figure out exactly what his motives are, but he’s an intriguing character.
Past Due for Murder was everything I look for in a cozy mystery and has solidified the series as one of my favorites in the genre. I definitely recommend this series if you’re a fan of cozies centered around books.
In a bid to boost tourism in Taylorsford, the mayor has brought back the town’s May Day festival after fifty years. To help out, library director Amy Webber is helping organize a presentation by a local folklore expert as part of the festival. But when one of the expert’s students goes missing, everything is put on hold to find the girl. To make matters worse, Amy’s boyfriend Richard Muir becomes a suspect as he was the last person to see the girl before she disappeared. After the missing girl is found alive in the mountains, a dead body is found nearby proving there’s something more sinister going on and Amy is determined to get to the bottom of it.
The disappearance of the local college student definitely provided an interesting mystery that was only made more intriguing by the discovery of the girl alive next to a dead body. Initially there are very little clues to go on as to what exactly the girl was doing in the mountains or who would want to hurt her. I enjoyed watching Amy piece everything together and seeing the different avenues she took in her investigation. In particular there were a number of times she found information through her skills as a former research librarian which appealed to my information oriented side. I did ultimately guess the culprit before the big reveal but I still think it was revealed in a good way.
Amy continues to be a wonderful main character and I love watching her grow her investigative skills throughout these books. Amy has always been great at research due to her former position at a university library, but I am enjoying seeing her develop more in person skills. She’s definitely gotten better about getting information out of others throughout the series. One thing I really like is that she doesn’t try to do everything herself and actually makes an effort to keep the sheriff informed of whatever she finds out.
I still think the side characters are where these books really shine as there’s such a great group of them. Amy and Richard’s relationship hits a few bumps in this book as Richard is being secretive and then there’s his being a suspect in Lacey’s disappearance. I did enjoy overall where the pair wound up by the end of the book and I’m looking forward to seeing what their future holds. Amy’s coworker Sunny continues to be an amazing friend and is someone I wish I knew in real life. Amy’s Aunt Lydia is wonderfully supportive and a great influence on Amy. We don’t get as much of Lydia’s friends in this book, but I enjoyed what we did see of them. There’s quite a bit of Kurt in this book and I’m still trying to figure out exactly what his motives are, but he’s an intriguing character.
Past Due for Murder was everything I look for in a cozy mystery and has solidified the series as one of my favorites in the genre. I definitely recommend this series if you’re a fan of cozies centered around books.
August 24, 2018
Past Due for Murder is the third in the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries series. A female student from the local university has gone missing. She is later found next to a dead body, but the student has no recollection of the events that brought her to where she was found. Suspicion is cast on Amy’s former love interest (Charles) and Amy’s current love interest (Richard). Could one of them harbor a sinister side? Although the book started off slow for me, it happily picked up the pace and I was engrossed. The twists and turns were delightful. This is an enjoyable series.
September 21, 2018
Another excellent addition into the Blue Ridge Library series! This one really takes the characters further into their development and strengthens the personalities of each. I was already pleased with the character development that the author had built, but this book really enhanced the characters even further. That enhancement made an exciting plot even more interesting and intriguing. If you are looking for a great cozy mystery to get started with then this series is the one for you! While you can definitely read this book as a stand alone book, you are doing yourself a disservice to not read the entire series! The plot is full of layers with multiple characters getting a bit of the spotlight. You have ex's that have popped up, extended family members causing disruption, folklore leading to treasure hunting and of course a murder or two to solve! That just scratches the surface so grab the book, cuddle up and start reading! You really will enjoy the book if you like a good mystery!
December 30, 2018
The third edition of Blue Ridge Library series is another pleasing episode. There are mystery lights on the ridge, rumors are plentiful about what is causing the lights. Was it faries or aliens? What happened to the 2 missing girls from 1848? Is there a treasure of gold coins somewhere?
Taylorsford, Virginia has brought the Maypole back to highlight their spring festival. After the festivities, a young girl is missing and search for spread into mountains. Richard was her dance instructor and has no alibi and becomes a person of interest. The girl is found unconscious next to a body that was dead. Will Amy find the answer for all strange happen before she becomes a victim? I highly recommend this book and series.
Disclosure: Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Taylorsford, Virginia has brought the Maypole back to highlight their spring festival. After the festivities, a young girl is missing and search for spread into mountains. Richard was her dance instructor and has no alibi and becomes a person of interest. The girl is found unconscious next to a body that was dead. Will Amy find the answer for all strange happen before she becomes a victim? I highly recommend this book and series.
Disclosure: Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
February 25, 2019
This might be my favorite book in the series, and the ending was just awesome! I hadn't quite guessed the killer, because the author is very good at using red herrings.
When a local college student went missing then was found near the body of her professor, the police weren't sure what to think, since there was no weapon found. Amy had talked to the woman just a few days before that and she'd told Amy she had some dirt on a local man and also the man Amy used to date, Charles Bartos. Amy just had to investigate and was nearly killed towards the end, but she had heard a confession from the killer. I liked how it didn't just end with solving the case. It continued to the planned May Day festival, which was what Prof. Mona had wanted to revive. And old case from the 1800s was somewhat tied in with this one, at least the existence of some gold coins and a killing were solved.
I love how Amy and Richard's relationship has grown, and aside from a small side mystery, they didn't keep anything from each other. It was interesting to see the two sets of parents interact. I definitely didn't like Richard's parents--and I don't think he likes them very much either. The end of the book was just perfect! I can't wait for the next one to come out!
When a local college student went missing then was found near the body of her professor, the police weren't sure what to think, since there was no weapon found. Amy had talked to the woman just a few days before that and she'd told Amy she had some dirt on a local man and also the man Amy used to date, Charles Bartos. Amy just had to investigate and was nearly killed towards the end, but she had heard a confession from the killer. I liked how it didn't just end with solving the case. It continued to the planned May Day festival, which was what Prof. Mona had wanted to revive. And old case from the 1800s was somewhat tied in with this one, at least the existence of some gold coins and a killing were solved.
I love how Amy and Richard's relationship has grown, and aside from a small side mystery, they didn't keep anything from each other. It was interesting to see the two sets of parents interact. I definitely didn't like Richard's parents--and I don't think he likes them very much either. The end of the book was just perfect! I can't wait for the next one to come out!
December 10, 2019
The town is getting ready for the May Day festival, when a college goes missing. She is found later which no memory of what happened and a dead body lying next to her, Amy’s neighbor is one of the suspects. Amy’s old boyfriend comes to town, Amy’s neighbor is jealous. Suspicion also falls on an old hermit who has the reputation of carrying his rifle to control trepasses. There are some mountain stories going around about some missing girls in the 1800’s who took the gold and were never heard of again. Amy uses her skills to piece it all together.
September 26, 2018
Past Due for Murder by Victoria Gilbert is the third book in the Blue Ridge Library series. I confess it did take me a couple of chapters to get into the book; but once I was there, I couldn't put it down.
Ms. Gilbert not only presented a delicious twisted mystery but took the time to delve more deeply into Amy, Richard and Sunny's characters in this book. She also added some secondary characters (both Amy and Richard's parents) that really allowed me to understand Amy and Richard a little better. I always enjoy visiting Taylorsford and thanks to Ms. Gilbert's descriptive writing I can easily become immersed in the story. The plot twisted and turned with clues and red herrings that confused me (in a good way) that I had to keep turning the pages. The reveal was stunning for me. And the ending of the book was just the right touch of sweet romance. I'm ready for the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Ms. Gilbert not only presented a delicious twisted mystery but took the time to delve more deeply into Amy, Richard and Sunny's characters in this book. She also added some secondary characters (both Amy and Richard's parents) that really allowed me to understand Amy and Richard a little better. I always enjoy visiting Taylorsford and thanks to Ms. Gilbert's descriptive writing I can easily become immersed in the story. The plot twisted and turned with clues and red herrings that confused me (in a good way) that I had to keep turning the pages. The reveal was stunning for me. And the ending of the book was just the right touch of sweet romance. I'm ready for the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
January 7, 2020
I have truly enjoyed reading the first 3 books in the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries series. This book so far is my favorite one in the series.
Amy and Richard continue their detective work, even though they aren't detectives; however, before the story ends it is indicated that she just might be trained and become a real detective but that's yet to happen.
A new character or two are introduced: Charles Bartos (Amy's ex-cheating boyfriend) and Karla Dunmore, Richard's ex-dance partner who (when they dance together) are evidently perfection. Some things happen that make Amy, if even briefly, wonder if Richard would ever cheat on her. Charles coming to their town is questionable as to why and why now.
Naturally there is a young girl's disappearance, a murder/hit-and-run, and much more that happens that leads Amy to investigate. There's also said to be some gold that belongs to one of the families in town. This book has a lot of things that come together nicely.
I am now off to read book #4 in the series: Bound for Murder which just happens to publish today!
Amy and Richard continue their detective work, even though they aren't detectives; however, before the story ends it is indicated that she just might be trained and become a real detective but that's yet to happen.
A new character or two are introduced: Charles Bartos (Amy's ex-cheating boyfriend) and Karla Dunmore, Richard's ex-dance partner who (when they dance together) are evidently perfection. Some things happen that make Amy, if even briefly, wonder if Richard would ever cheat on her. Charles coming to their town is questionable as to why and why now.
Naturally there is a young girl's disappearance, a murder/hit-and-run, and much more that happens that leads Amy to investigate. There's also said to be some gold that belongs to one of the families in town. This book has a lot of things that come together nicely.
I am now off to read book #4 in the series: Bound for Murder which just happens to publish today!
February 13, 2019
I love visiting with Head Librarian Amy Weber and her friends in Taylorsford, VA. Spring is on the way and the town is planning a May Day celebration with an spotlight on local folklore and legends. When one of the Clarion College students vanish, Amy's boyfriend Richard becomes a prime suspect. When the girl is finally found wandering a mountain trail with no memory the dead body next to her is now a focus. This is book 3 in the Blue Ridge Library cozy series and it's a good addition. I enjoyed some of the research that Amy does and the way the town comes together. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 25, 2020
Library director Amy Webber finds herself involved in another murder investigation when a student goes missing and the demanding professor, who researched the local "fae" and lights legend and its connection to a pair of girls who went missing in the 19th century, turns up dead. Her boyfriend, the last to see the missing student, becomes the prime suspect. We meet many colorful characters in the course of the book. There's a lot going on in the book, but I never got things confused as I do in some. I knew who did it early on. I found a couple of things that seemed inconsistent in a place or two but I didn't go back to find what made me think something had been stated differently earlier. This was a fun, escapism read with an interesting setting. (3.5 stars)
February 6, 2019
Past Due for Murder by Victoria Gilbert has us journeying to Taylorsford, Virginia. Amy Webber is the director of the Taylorsford Public Library and is hosting an event for the local Girl Scout troop. Professor Mona Raymond, a folklorist, is sharing folktales and local legends from the Blue Ridge Mountains with the girls. Amy has been assisting Mona with her research and learned about the fairy lights, two women who disappeared in 1879, and missing gold. Two of Mona’s students who are assisting at the event ask if Amy has seen their fellow student, Lacey Jacobs. No one has seen or heard from Lacey since the previous day. Lacey’s disappearance leads investigators to Richard Muir, choreographer, dancer and Amy’s boyfriend. Lacey was seen leaving his office in tears the day she disappeared. Amy knows that Richard would not harm Lacey, but she must admit that he has been acting odd recently. Lacey is finally found in the woods with Mona Raymond dead nearby. Lacey is in a coma and cannot assist investigators. Amy puts her natural curiosity and knack for research to use. She finds several people with motive for harming Mona and Lacey. Now she needs to ask questions to narrow down her suspect list and identify the killer. This killer, though, is not about to go quietly.
Taylorsford is all atwitter as they prepare for the newly reinstated May Day festivities. Past Due For Murder begins by delving into the folk stories and legends of the area. There are a variety of tales that include the disappearance of two women over a century ago, the strange lights that arise from the forest floor that are attributed to fairies, and missing gold. Professor Raymond has spent the last few months in the library’s archives doing research with Amy’s assistance. Past Due for Murder is the third book in The Blue Ridge Library Mystery series, and I recommend reading the series in order. Past Due for Murder begins with a relaxed pace as we are eased into the multifaceted cozy mystery. In Past Due for Murder, there is the missing Lacey Jacobs, the murdered Mona Raymond, Amy worried about her relationship with Richard, the old tale of the two missing women and gold that vanished around the same time. The book starts off with the disappearance of Lacey and the murder then occurs a third of the way in. Amy uses her skills to investigate Mona’s death. She has several viable suspects and tension builds as Amy’s deductions lead her to the guilty party. The storylines all come together for a satisfying conclusion. I wish, though, that the whodunit had been harder to solve. Amy’s relationship with Richard is prominent throughout Past Due for Murder along with her past association with musician, Charles Bartos. There is a cute kitten, Loie in the story that has a perilous introduction. I especially enjoy the time spent at the Taylorsford library and their amazing archive room. The romantics will especially love the ending in Past Due for Murder. Past Due for Murder has fairies, May Day festivities, a cuddly kitten, a missing coed, romantic entanglements and a slain professor. Join Amy Webber on her latest adventure in Past Due for Murder.
Taylorsford is all atwitter as they prepare for the newly reinstated May Day festivities. Past Due For Murder begins by delving into the folk stories and legends of the area. There are a variety of tales that include the disappearance of two women over a century ago, the strange lights that arise from the forest floor that are attributed to fairies, and missing gold. Professor Raymond has spent the last few months in the library’s archives doing research with Amy’s assistance. Past Due for Murder is the third book in The Blue Ridge Library Mystery series, and I recommend reading the series in order. Past Due for Murder begins with a relaxed pace as we are eased into the multifaceted cozy mystery. In Past Due for Murder, there is the missing Lacey Jacobs, the murdered Mona Raymond, Amy worried about her relationship with Richard, the old tale of the two missing women and gold that vanished around the same time. The book starts off with the disappearance of Lacey and the murder then occurs a third of the way in. Amy uses her skills to investigate Mona’s death. She has several viable suspects and tension builds as Amy’s deductions lead her to the guilty party. The storylines all come together for a satisfying conclusion. I wish, though, that the whodunit had been harder to solve. Amy’s relationship with Richard is prominent throughout Past Due for Murder along with her past association with musician, Charles Bartos. There is a cute kitten, Loie in the story that has a perilous introduction. I especially enjoy the time spent at the Taylorsford library and their amazing archive room. The romantics will especially love the ending in Past Due for Murder. Past Due for Murder has fairies, May Day festivities, a cuddly kitten, a missing coed, romantic entanglements and a slain professor. Join Amy Webber on her latest adventure in Past Due for Murder.
February 9, 2019
Past Due For Murder is the third book in the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries series.
Mayor Blackstone wants to bring back the May Day celebrations from years past and has asked librarian Amy Webber to plan a program for the upcoming May Day. Amy asks Mona Raymond who has done extensive research on two girls that disappeared decades ago and who had probably died from exposure. But some people feel that they were lured in the underground court and forced to dance at fairy balls. When the bonfire where she was telling this tale, it is noticed that Lacy, one of Mona’s research students, has gone missing. The next day a search party is formed to look for Lacy. A day or two later Lacy is found next to the lifeless body of Mona.
Since Lacy went missing during the bonfire, she feels that she needs to learn why Lacy has gone off to mountains by herself. Some folks in the area believe that girls that disappeared decades ago had several gold coins when they disappeared. Also figuring into her investigation is that she had seen her former boyfriend, Charles Bartos, having a very heated discussion with Mona. Mona had previously accused Bartos of stealing some of the music that he has claimed was his own. Even Amy’s current romantic interest, Richard Muir, who had Lacy in some of his dance classes, become a person of interest when he can’t provide a solid alibi.
This is a well told and plotted story with an interesting cast of characters. Most of the characters from previous books are back to help Amy solve this exciting series.
Looking forward to my next visit to Taylorsford.
Mayor Blackstone wants to bring back the May Day celebrations from years past and has asked librarian Amy Webber to plan a program for the upcoming May Day. Amy asks Mona Raymond who has done extensive research on two girls that disappeared decades ago and who had probably died from exposure. But some people feel that they were lured in the underground court and forced to dance at fairy balls. When the bonfire where she was telling this tale, it is noticed that Lacy, one of Mona’s research students, has gone missing. The next day a search party is formed to look for Lacy. A day or two later Lacy is found next to the lifeless body of Mona.
Since Lacy went missing during the bonfire, she feels that she needs to learn why Lacy has gone off to mountains by herself. Some folks in the area believe that girls that disappeared decades ago had several gold coins when they disappeared. Also figuring into her investigation is that she had seen her former boyfriend, Charles Bartos, having a very heated discussion with Mona. Mona had previously accused Bartos of stealing some of the music that he has claimed was his own. Even Amy’s current romantic interest, Richard Muir, who had Lacy in some of his dance classes, become a person of interest when he can’t provide a solid alibi.
This is a well told and plotted story with an interesting cast of characters. Most of the characters from previous books are back to help Amy solve this exciting series.
Looking forward to my next visit to Taylorsford.
September 5, 2018
Past Due For Murder is the third book in the series.
I did enjoy most of the book, but there were times I felt the story dragged on a bit.
Amy Webber is a library director and has a knack for solving mysteries. This story involves a missing person, a murder and some interesting folk lore.
The author does make references to the prior books, and though it can be read as a stand alone, the other books would shed light on some of the back story.
I would recommend this series to those readers who enjoy a light cozy mystery.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
I did enjoy most of the book, but there were times I felt the story dragged on a bit.
Amy Webber is a library director and has a knack for solving mysteries. This story involves a missing person, a murder and some interesting folk lore.
The author does make references to the prior books, and though it can be read as a stand alone, the other books would shed light on some of the back story.
I would recommend this series to those readers who enjoy a light cozy mystery.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
February 21, 2019
This is the next installment in the Blue Ridge Library cozy mysteries and it is just as good as its predecessors. Head librarian Amy Webber is back again and this time she must not only help find a missing girl, solve a murder mystery, make peace with past heartbreak, and keep faith in her current love. Oh and there is the town folklore/legend project for May Day which she and her staff are helping a local professor to compile. The same professor who ends up dead, found not to far from where a missing girl is recovered. No shortage of suspects from the grumpy hermit with a family history shrouded in mystery to the firefighter with orienteering skills. Such a lovely ending as well, that the next one can't get here fast enough!
February 11, 2019
I always love heading to Taylorsford and the Blue Ridge Library. In this story, the past meets the present meets the past - an old mystery is stirred up by a local professor who ends up murdered, and the other element of the past is that Amy's former flame, Charles is back.
I had suspicions about the murderer in this one and I was right to a point - red herrings and all :)
The ending was my favorite part - read it to see!
4.7 stars
I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley.
I had suspicions about the murderer in this one and I was right to a point - red herrings and all :)
The ending was my favorite part - read it to see!
4.7 stars
I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley.
Read
March 11, 2021For the third book in her series, Gilbert has library director Amy Webber trying to solve the mystery of a missing college student, but when Amy's boyfriend turns out to be a suspect in the disappearance, Amy becomes more determined to find out what happened. Then when the student is found next to a murder victim the stakes become even higher. With its likable characters and quaint setting, Past Due for Murder hooks its readers from the first line. Amy Webber is an amateur detective extraordinaire who leaves you wondering what she will do next. *Review by Kaitie from Edgerton*
March 21, 2019
This is a fun series.
January 8, 2019
Past Due for Murder is the 3rd Blue Ridge Library mystery by Victoria Gilbert. This is one of those cozy mystery series that just gets better with each new book. I truly love all of the main characters, even the shadier ones like Kurt. This book has several unexpected twists for the main characters, some bad, but some are really good. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book to see what happens next. As for the murder mystery itself, it was well-written and left me guessing. There are a few other minor mysteries that play out in the book as well that I enjoyed, like the mountain lights and the fae. Being from northeast TN, I've heard about the mountain lights before. Of course, I've never heard it linked to faeries, but rather to spirits of Native Americans, which the author also mentions. So, it was fun to read a story involving a mystery that I grew up hearing about. If you've read one or both both books in this series before, you'll definitely enjoy this one. If you haven't read any of the books in this series yet, you can start with this book and not feel like you've missed too much (though I recommend starting with the first one and reading them all).
Note: I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my fair and honest opinion.
Note: I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my fair and honest opinion.
September 4, 2019
Amy Webber is helping folklorist and lecturer Ramona Raymond from Clarion University with help on her latest project. Mona is convinced that the two local girls who disappeared in the mountains in 1879 were taken by fae or evil fairies. When one of her students goes missing in the mountains, the police don't want to hear stories about "the folk" they want facts and the fact of the matter is that Amy's boyfriend Richard was also one of Lacey's professors and she was last seen running out of his office in tears. Amy is concerned because Richard has been acting strange lately and she's worried the police may have evidence to arrest him. Lacey finally turns up wandering, lost with no memory of where she had been the last few days. When a dead body turns up with Lacey, the police are baffled. Amy wonders whether another local legend, also connected to the missing girls, played a role in the disappearance of the student and Mona's death. When the truth is revealed, Amy must confront her own feelings to figure out what she should do.
This story got off to a very weak start and didn't really pick up for me. Even though I couldn't put the book down, I wasn't thrilled with the lame plot. The villain is fairly obvious after a certain amount of time and the historical mystery doesn't tie-in as much to the modern mystery as it did in the previous two books. I didn't like the romantic subplot in the beginning of the book but it improved.
Amy annoyed the heck out of me in this book. Richard doesn't deserve her until she gets some therapy for her anxiety and fears. She is also not the bad researcher she calls herself. Her job is to provide Mona with the files Mona requests. Amy can offer suggestions but she can't delve deeper into the archive for Mona without Mona's request. Amy IS a bad archivist because she would never allow people unsupervised in the archive even if she thinks she can trust them. She already has evidence that someone other than her, Sunny or her predecessor has been putting documents back the wrong way so why allow that to happen again? The people you trust the most are the ones most likely to steal. Richard is still swoony but here he seemed more human. He has minor faults and both Amy and Richard don't seem to know how to communicate. I wanted to smack their heads together.
There are too many new characters here from Clarion University and not enough of the locals. Aunt Lydia pops in and out of the story. Her life is going well and she's happy. Zelda and Walter are also happy but don't appear in the story except in the background. Kurt Kendrick had a minor role in this story. He continued to be mysterious but revealed hidden parts of himself to Amy. I think he's growing on me. I think Kurt has a big heart under his cool demeanor. Amy mistrusts him because of his past friendship with her uncle but I think it's time she trusted Kurt. Sunny has her own minor dilemma and shows a softer side of herself than she usually does. Brad, the police chief, is a kind and fair man. He did a good job investigating even when the leads became cold or seemed too strange. Ethan, the paramedic who helped Amy out when she was in danger in the first book returned to the pages of the novel to be a murder suspect. He had the means and possibly the motive. He seemed sinister at one point and Amy didn't trust him but is he really the killer?
Amy's parents came for a quick visit. They seemed like fun people who love their daughter and want her to be happy. They're proud of their son who is away working. The Webbers are a far cry from Richard's family. The less said about the the better. His family is toxic and I couldn't stand to even read the things they said. There's no way I could listen to them and keep my mouth shut and I was proud of the way Amy handled the situation.
We finally meet Charles Bartos, the man who broke Amy's heart. The least said about him the better. I found him manipulative, selfish and arrogant. I don't know what she saw in him or what kind of power he has over women. His late girlfriend, Marlis, the woman he cheated on Amy with, is already dead by the time the story starts but she plays a large role in the plot. I don't know what she got out of her relationship with Charles except it furthered her career. She seemed talented, beautiful and fun and I am sure she would have gone far without him. Marlis was killed by a hit and run driver in the mountains near their vacation home. This is deeply upsetting and very tragic.
Other new characters include Mona Raymond and her students. The students whined a lot about her being unfair and difficult but that's college folks! The professors don't CARE if you have several other classes all with a heavy work load. Maybe artist-types think they can get off easy? Mona did seem very fanatical about her research and while I don't believe in the supernatural, her research into the folklore of the region sounded fascinating and people should have given her more respect for it. I don't think I'd like to be friends with her but I would listen to one of her talks. Lacey, Mona's student, is young and naive. She doesn't actually appear much on page but she is the subject of the big mystery. Why did she go up the mountain? Who did she meet? What did she discover and why did she lose her memory? Did someone hurt her? Trisha Alexander, Mona's graduate student, is very high strung, unfriendly and seems to have it out for Lacey for no good reason. Chris, another student and townie, is another one of Amy's suspects. He and Ethan are a couple and Chris may have told Ethan secrets that may tie back to the disappearance of the two girls in 1879. I didn't think he was the killer though. He seemed nice enough but a bit stupid as 20-somethings tend to be.
There is one final new character who popped up in this novel. I won't spoil it but let's say I happened to find myself agreeing with Aunt Lydia.
I'm interested in reading more about this setting because I like the history and folklore. I'd read one more book and see if Amy recovered from her momentary stupidity.
This story got off to a very weak start and didn't really pick up for me. Even though I couldn't put the book down, I wasn't thrilled with the lame plot. The villain is fairly obvious after a certain amount of time and the historical mystery doesn't tie-in as much to the modern mystery as it did in the previous two books. I didn't like the romantic subplot in the beginning of the book but it improved.
Amy annoyed the heck out of me in this book. Richard doesn't deserve her until she gets some therapy for her anxiety and fears. She is also not the bad researcher she calls herself. Her job is to provide Mona with the files Mona requests. Amy can offer suggestions but she can't delve deeper into the archive for Mona without Mona's request. Amy IS a bad archivist because she would never allow people unsupervised in the archive even if she thinks she can trust them. She already has evidence that someone other than her, Sunny or her predecessor has been putting documents back the wrong way so why allow that to happen again? The people you trust the most are the ones most likely to steal. Richard is still swoony but here he seemed more human. He has minor faults and both Amy and Richard don't seem to know how to communicate. I wanted to smack their heads together.
There are too many new characters here from Clarion University and not enough of the locals. Aunt Lydia pops in and out of the story. Her life is going well and she's happy. Zelda and Walter are also happy but don't appear in the story except in the background. Kurt Kendrick had a minor role in this story. He continued to be mysterious but revealed hidden parts of himself to Amy. I think he's growing on me. I think Kurt has a big heart under his cool demeanor. Amy mistrusts him because of his past friendship with her uncle but I think it's time she trusted Kurt. Sunny has her own minor dilemma and shows a softer side of herself than she usually does. Brad, the police chief, is a kind and fair man. He did a good job investigating even when the leads became cold or seemed too strange. Ethan, the paramedic who helped Amy out when she was in danger in the first book returned to the pages of the novel to be a murder suspect. He had the means and possibly the motive. He seemed sinister at one point and Amy didn't trust him but is he really the killer?
Amy's parents came for a quick visit. They seemed like fun people who love their daughter and want her to be happy. They're proud of their son who is away working. The Webbers are a far cry from Richard's family. The less said about the the better. His family is toxic and I couldn't stand to even read the things they said. There's no way I could listen to them and keep my mouth shut and I was proud of the way Amy handled the situation.
We finally meet Charles Bartos, the man who broke Amy's heart. The least said about him the better. I found him manipulative, selfish and arrogant. I don't know what she saw in him or what kind of power he has over women. His late girlfriend, Marlis, the woman he cheated on Amy with, is already dead by the time the story starts but she plays a large role in the plot. I don't know what she got out of her relationship with Charles except it furthered her career. She seemed talented, beautiful and fun and I am sure she would have gone far without him. Marlis was killed by a hit and run driver in the mountains near their vacation home. This is deeply upsetting and very tragic.
Other new characters include Mona Raymond and her students. The students whined a lot about her being unfair and difficult but that's college folks! The professors don't CARE if you have several other classes all with a heavy work load. Maybe artist-types think they can get off easy? Mona did seem very fanatical about her research and while I don't believe in the supernatural, her research into the folklore of the region sounded fascinating and people should have given her more respect for it. I don't think I'd like to be friends with her but I would listen to one of her talks. Lacey, Mona's student, is young and naive. She doesn't actually appear much on page but she is the subject of the big mystery. Why did she go up the mountain? Who did she meet? What did she discover and why did she lose her memory? Did someone hurt her? Trisha Alexander, Mona's graduate student, is very high strung, unfriendly and seems to have it out for Lacey for no good reason. Chris, another student and townie, is another one of Amy's suspects. He and Ethan are a couple and Chris may have told Ethan secrets that may tie back to the disappearance of the two girls in 1879. I didn't think he was the killer though. He seemed nice enough but a bit stupid as 20-somethings tend to be.
There is one final new character who popped up in this novel. I won't spoil it but let's say I happened to find myself agreeing with Aunt Lydia.
I'm interested in reading more about this setting because I like the history and folklore. I'd read one more book and see if Amy recovered from her momentary stupidity.
September 2, 2018
I have enjoyed reading the Blue Ridge Library series, and was looking forward to this third book, but I am afraid Past Due for Murder may be the last for me. While I enjoy protagonists, like Amy Webber who are librarians or are from that world, I am at the end of my patience with this character. The acronym TSTL (too stupid to live) is applicable. She confronts suspects in lonely isolated places, she gets into a car with another suspect without letting anyone know where she is, she withholds evidence in the hopes of giving suspects a chance to confess in their own good time, etc. Why she isn't arrested herself several times over the course of the book for interfering with a police investigation and obstruction is beyond me.
Of course, cozies aren't known for their realism, but such blatant recklessness makes Amy hard to relate to or care about.
Full Disclosure--Net Gallery and the publisher provided me with a digital ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
Of course, cozies aren't known for their realism, but such blatant recklessness makes Amy hard to relate to or care about.
Full Disclosure--Net Gallery and the publisher provided me with a digital ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
February 5, 2019
Past Due for Murder is even better than the first two books in the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries and I loved both of them. As a librarian, I enjoy the seeing her loving her job and seeing the job realistically presented, but I think I would enjoy those parts just as much if I were not a librarian. I love the romance when they are together, but sometimes I want to shake her when she has doubts about Richard, then I remind myself that it is her romantic past creating the toruble and that we all carry our pasts into our present.
The mystery was complex enough for any reader and all of the new characters were interesting. There were several good twists that made it impossible to guess what happened next as long as you don't read the blurb. Good mystery fun all the way.
I recieved a copy of this book via NetGAlley and loved it enough that I chose to share reviews.
#NetGalley #PastDueForMurder.
The mystery was complex enough for any reader and all of the new characters were interesting. There were several good twists that made it impossible to guess what happened next as long as you don't read the blurb. Good mystery fun all the way.
I recieved a copy of this book via NetGAlley and loved it enough that I chose to share reviews.
#NetGalley #PastDueForMurder.
November 26, 2018
Another excellent edition to a wonderful series! Full of twists and turns that leaves you wanting more and enjoying each moment until the end when the killer is caught.
February 27, 2019
This was an okay story and the mystery, too convenient. Too bad I love the setting of this book. I wouldn't go out of my way to read the next.
February 12, 2019
Although this is the third book in the Blueridge Library Mysteries, it the first book I have read by Ms. Gilbert. At first, I felt a little behind in knowing the characters, yet Ms. Gilbert brings you up to speed quickly with their background stories and the murders that happened in the past.
Our protagonist is Amy Webber, director of the town’s library. As the director she was assisting one of the professors and her students from the local university in researching the folklore of the area. When one of the professor’s students goes missing after hiking into the mountains, Amy finds herself caught up with the investigation. Especially since Richard, her boyfriend was questioned about the missing student since he was the last to see her after his dance class. Would the mystery of the missing girl become part of the folklore of the mountain folk, or fairies as some call them? As the professor continues to research the folklore of the area and the fact that two women also went missing in those mountains back in 1879, along with a bag of gold, she, as well as, her decide it time to find the gold.
I loved the descriptions Ms. Gilbert uses as she paints a picture of the area and weaves the magic of the fairies and mountain lights into the story. I thought the way she incorporated the past story into the current story very cleaver. The characters are all well-developed, the backstories helpful, and the ending suspenseful! I was caught up in the story and did not want to put it down! I was also surprised at the ending. That’s a good thing. I will go back and read the first two as I would like to know a little more about Amy’s family. A great cozy read!
I was provided this copy through NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a honest review.
Our protagonist is Amy Webber, director of the town’s library. As the director she was assisting one of the professors and her students from the local university in researching the folklore of the area. When one of the professor’s students goes missing after hiking into the mountains, Amy finds herself caught up with the investigation. Especially since Richard, her boyfriend was questioned about the missing student since he was the last to see her after his dance class. Would the mystery of the missing girl become part of the folklore of the mountain folk, or fairies as some call them? As the professor continues to research the folklore of the area and the fact that two women also went missing in those mountains back in 1879, along with a bag of gold, she, as well as, her decide it time to find the gold.
I loved the descriptions Ms. Gilbert uses as she paints a picture of the area and weaves the magic of the fairies and mountain lights into the story. I thought the way she incorporated the past story into the current story very cleaver. The characters are all well-developed, the backstories helpful, and the ending suspenseful! I was caught up in the story and did not want to put it down! I was also surprised at the ending. That’s a good thing. I will go back and read the first two as I would like to know a little more about Amy’s family. A great cozy read!
I was provided this copy through NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for a honest review.
November 11, 2018
Library Director Amy Webber is back with another mystery to solve.
It's Spring in Taylorsford and Amy is helping local students and their professor research the local folklore.
First up a bonfire with a gifted storyteller. There have long been talk of bobbing lights and fairies, missing gold and missing girls. When one of the girls at the bonfire disappears, things get a bit tense.
Mountain people aren't know for their openness and the good professor has been poking in some very sensitive areas that some residents want to keep closed forever.
Even Amy's boyfriend, Richard becomes a suspect for a minute. Not to mention her ex Charles is living with his newest girlfriend in the same town.
Amy stumbles on a clue cleaning up after the researchers and is determined to see this through and have it all cleared up before the Mayor's May Dance celebration. But everyone is acting squirrelly and when the missing girl turns up beside a dead body and a severe head injury that turns into a coma, the killer starts making mistakes.
Will Amy be able to live through this one?
I love how these books have grown. The characters are hitting their strides and I really enjoyed this one!
Well Done!
Netgalley/February 12th 2019 by Crooked Lane Books
It's Spring in Taylorsford and Amy is helping local students and their professor research the local folklore.
First up a bonfire with a gifted storyteller. There have long been talk of bobbing lights and fairies, missing gold and missing girls. When one of the girls at the bonfire disappears, things get a bit tense.
Mountain people aren't know for their openness and the good professor has been poking in some very sensitive areas that some residents want to keep closed forever.
Even Amy's boyfriend, Richard becomes a suspect for a minute. Not to mention her ex Charles is living with his newest girlfriend in the same town.
Amy stumbles on a clue cleaning up after the researchers and is determined to see this through and have it all cleared up before the Mayor's May Dance celebration. But everyone is acting squirrelly and when the missing girl turns up beside a dead body and a severe head injury that turns into a coma, the killer starts making mistakes.
Will Amy be able to live through this one?
I love how these books have grown. The characters are hitting their strides and I really enjoyed this one!
Well Done!
Netgalley/February 12th 2019 by Crooked Lane Books
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