An Ale of Two Cities: A Literary Pub Mystery

It’s early December in Fox’s pleasant if workmanlike sequel to 2019’s Wine and Punishment, and the residents of Shady Creek, Vt., are preparing for the town’s annual winter carnival. The event’s ice sculpting competition is attracting even more attention than usual due to the participation of imperious Boston restaurateur Federico Mancini, who was born in Shady Creek and left at an early age. Rumor has it that the $5,000 prize and a feature in a national arts magazine lured him back. It certainly wasn’t a chance to catch up with old friends. Mancini manages to infuriate practically everyone, including Mel Costas, a past winner of the competition. During a break, Mel discovers that her tools have been stolen and suspicion falls on Mancini, who’s subsequently found stabbed to death with Mel’s ice pick. Book-loving Sadie Coleman, owner of the Inkwell Pub, sets out to track down the truth, guided by local gossip and overwhelming curiosity. Fox offers plenty of plausible suspects and a thrilling confrontation with the killer, along with a dash of decorous romance. Those who don’t require wit in their cozies will be content. Agent: Jessica Faust, BookEnds Literary. (Dec.)