Bound by murder An antique bookshop mystery

"Life is sweet," declares Jenna Quinn, the owner of used bookstore Twice upon a Time, at the start of Black's charming third Antique Bookshop mystery set in Hokes Folly, N.C. (after 2021's Murder by the Bookend). The attractive little town, with its cobblestoned streets and early 20th-century architecture, has become an in-demand wedding venue. Naturally, along with all the happy couples come a few bridezillas, none more demanding than Missy Plott, who arrives in town with her younger sister, three haughty bridesmaids, and her groom. Unfortunately for Jenna, Missy's future husband, Blake Emerson, happens to be Jenna's former fiancé. Neither Jenna's current beau, police detective Keith Logan, nor Missy is pleased when it seems Blake is trying to win Jenna back. Then Missy ends up dead near a dumpster in the alleyway behind Jenna's bookshop. The ensuing murder investigation involves blackmail, arson, vandalism, fraud, and misguided love. A colorful cast, including a sweet dog and just the right number of mean girls, more than makes up for the lack of surprises. This is perfect escapist fare for cozy fans. Agent: Dawn Dowdle, Blue Ridge Agency. (Sept.)

A woman previously suspected of murder is implored by her ex to get him out of jail when he's accused of a similar crime. Though she hasn't always been lucky in love herself, Jenna Quinn loves love. She's charmed when Mason, her young employee at the antique bookshop Twice Upon a Time, falls head over heels for the literal girl next door. The added attention of boyfriend Det. Keith Logan makes Jenna wholly smitten with the spring season. So smitten, she's willing to try to play nice when her former fiance, Blake Emerson, shows up to her workplace with a woman who introduces herself as Missy Plott, the next Mrs. Emerson. Even though it stings to see someone else wearing the engagement ring she'd picked out, Jenna considers herself lucky that she and Blake are history. After all, instead of supporting her when she was wrongly accused of murder, Blake all but vanished, leaving her to rely on the support of her new friends in Hokes Folly, North Carolina. Missy sees herself as winning, and Jenna's not about to convince her otherwise, but Blake demonstrates he's no prize when he tries to win Jenna back while Missy's out of earshot (eww!). Jenna tries to keep her head down and stay out of it until Blake's accused of murder in the wake of a shocking discovery. Remembering Jenna's success in clearing her own name, Blake and his mother, Gwendolyn, implore her to help. Will this be a chance for Blake and Jenna to clear the air, or will investigating imperil the true love between Jenna and Keith? Real-seeming characters provide more grounding but less fun. Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.