The Malt in Our Stars

In Fox’s appealing third Literary Pub mystery (after 2019’s An Ale of Two Cities), rumors of hidden treasure surround the historic Shady Creek Manor during novelist Linnea Bliss’s visit to Shady Creek, Vt., for an appearance at Sadie Coleman’s book-themed pub, the Inkwell. When Linnea’s assistant, Marcie Kent, takes a fatal fall from a third-story window of the manor, Sadie wonders whether there might be a connection between Linnea and the treasure, and can’t resist doing a little snooping. Meanwhile, a film crew’s equipment is vandalized while they’re in town to do a piece on a local brewer, so maybe that has something to do with Marcie’s death. The pressure is on to solve both mysteries before the upcoming May Day Masquerade hosted by the manor’s owners. Sadie has multiple potential suspects and motives, not to mention a third mystery regarding family heritage. The Inkwell’s charming atmosphere, solid plotting, and several enticing recipes are sure to please cozy fans. Readers will look forward to Sadie’s further adventures. Agent: Jessica Faust, BookEnds Literary. (Dec.)