A Reference to Murder

Charli (Princess) Rae Warren is back home in Hazel Rock, Texas after many years. Working in her father’s bookshop, The Book Barn leaves her a lot of free time to buy, sell, and read books. She takes over the running the bookstore with gusto and is happy for most of the time, except when there is a murderer on the loose.

Charli keeps busy with a fundraising auction and the big rodeo event that’s come to town. All of this means dealing with big egos, including that of the favorite cowboy Dalton Hibbs, a blond, blue-eyed bull rider who gets drunk and disappears.

Dalton’s brother vanished seven years ago, and it looks like Dalton is following in his footsteps. She comes across two graves in the middle of nowhere while looking for him, she along with everyone else believes the bodies to be those of Dalton and his missing brother. But when fingers start pointing at her best friend, Scarlet, she teams up with the local sheriff to find the killer.

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Series: A Book Barn Mystery
Author: Kym Roberts
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Bookstore
Publisher: Lyrical Underground

Rating:

Kym Roberts has crafted a fast-paced, easy to follow cozy mystery. Her characters are rounded and developed and very believable and a good representation of the town and the main focus of the plot. Charli gets into more trouble than anyone could ever imagine, and this makes her very likable. She also puts her nose where it doesn’t belong and almost gets it cut off for the effort. The interaction between her, Scarlet, and the principal characters is full of action

It is difficult to figure out which of the men in her life, Cade or Mateo is the real love interest. Although both characters are interesting, they are both equally hard to understand where Charli is concerned. This situation is a real problem for Charli as she tries to figure out which man she wants to be with if either or any. Although the killer was somewhat obvious, the villain’s motive was not until the very end.

This is an enjoyable read and should appeal to readers who like a bit of country and a cozy mystery that lets your imagination roam. This book is recommended.