Renewed for Murder: A Blue Ridge Library Mystery

Gilbert’s solid sixth Blue Ridge Library mystery (after 2020’s A Deadly Edition) finds library director Amy Webber Muir and her dancer/choreographer husband preparing for a weekend arts festival at Leeland High School in Taylorsford, Va. Among those attending are former members of the school’s chamber choir, who are gathering for a 50th reunion performance. When an unknown woman turns up shot to death in the gazebo of Zelda Shoemaker, a former choir member, Chief Deputy Brad Tucker views Zelda with suspicion, since the victim was seen visiting Zelda the day before and Zelda doesn’t want to talk about her visitor. A blackmail letter found in the victim’s pocket also points to Zelda’s culpability. Amy and her Aunt Lydia, who’s been a friend of Zelda’s since elementary school, are determined to clear her name. Tenacious Amy uses her library research skills to delve into Zelda’s past, but what she uncovers only makes her question Zelda’s innocence. Well-drawn characters make up for the somewhat diffuse plot. This isn’t the place to start for newcomers. Agent: Frances Black, Literary Counsel. (Dec.)