Reserved for Murder: A Booklover’s B&B Mystery

Gilbert’s captivating sequel to 2020’s Booked for Death finds former teacher Charlotte Reed hosting famous romantic fantasy author Amanda Noble at her inn, Chapters Bed-and-Breakfast, in Beaufort, N.C., where Amanda is doing a signing at the local bookstore. The event has drawn a large crowd, including Lisette Bradford, the head of Amanda’s biggest fan club. When Lisette’s body is pulled from the water near the Beaufort docks, trauma to her head indicates she was murdered. The prime suspect is Lisette’s ex-husband, who’s been stalking her, but inquisitive Charlotte asks around and soon realizes several attendees might have had a motive for murder. Charlotte and her neighbor, retired spy Ellen Montgomery, join forces to uncover the truth. A tantalizing subplot involves Ellen’s mysterious visiting “cousin,” Gavin Howard, who’s actually a spy on a mission, and the growing attraction between Charlotte and Gavin provides some romantic heat. Well-rounded characters match the finely crafted plot. Cozy fans will want to see a lot more of Charlotte and friends. Agent: Frances Black, Arts Counsel. (June)