The Busybody Book Club

Sampson (Nosy Neighbors) delivers a genial and entertaining cozy centered on a ragtag ensemble of bookworms. Nova Davies has moved from London to the small Cornish village of St. Tredock to stay with her fiancé’s family while her overbearing mother-in-law plans their wedding. After starting her job at the local community center, Nova organizes a book club whose members range from studious teens to crotchety octogenarians. At first, she struggles to bridge the group’s cultural gaps. Then £10,000 earmarked for the community center’s roof repair vanishes, and Nova’s bosses blame her book club for the loss. When this incident is quickly followed by a murder in St. Tredock and the disappearance of a book club member, the group realizes they’re in real danger. Led by elderly Miss Marple fan Phyllis Hudson, the four remaining members launch an investigation, with each gumshoe’s quirks proving equal parts helpful and distracting to the cause. From there, Sampson hits a parade of familiar but satisfying beats: unexpected friendships blossom, books provide key clues, and well-placed red herrings keep the pace from flagging. It’s a bright and breezy treat. Agent: Hayley Steed, Janklow & Nestbit UK. (May)