A Very Bookish Murder by Dee MacDonald

An early review of this new cosy mystery

I was hooked from the start, right to the end. It's an enjoyable story with excellent writing and believable characters.

Ally McKinley hosts a group of writers at her guesthouse in the Highlands. But at the start of the writing retreat, a famous author is found murdered. Ally discovers a range of suspects and wonders which of her guests is guilty.

The pacing is perfect. The story unfolds with every chapter revealing more about the victim, the suspects and Ally's investigation. It's never rushed and it's never too slow.

There are gentle nods to Ally's earlier experiences in the Highlands. But there are no spoilers about previous books. As this is the first Ally McKinley story I've read, I'm now interested in reading the rest of the series.

The only minor change I'd suggest is fewer character introductions in the first chapter, which felt a little overwhelming.

While there are many characters, they are uniquely drawn, so you know who's who as they appear in the story. 

The plot was carefully crafted and left me guessing 'who' and 'why' until very late in the book. Clues and red herrings are also left in full view for you to focus on or simply forget.

Above all, it was an entertaining, cosy mystery without being twee.

Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions are my own.