Murder on the Books

About the book

Charlotte James, also known as C.J. Barrett, is taking a break from writing her famous Steve Sheppard mystery series at the age of thirty. She decides to return to her hometown of Austin from New York City to relax, recover, and brainstorm new ideas for her next books.

After settling back into her life in Austin, Charley reconnects with her old friend Zane, a baker who is preparing to open a charming café. However, Zane's business partner Sheila suddenly leaves town, abandoning their bookshop with only a brief note.

Charley steps in to take over the bookshop, but her plans are disrupted when she discovers Sheila’s body in a chest in the store’s basement. Now Charley must navigate the grand opening of the bookshop, a serious yet handsome detective from Philadelphia, and a stray cat, all while solving Sheila’s murder in the style of Sheppard before the killer strikes again!

Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries from authors like Jenn McKinlay, Ellery Adams, Lucy Connelly, Lauren Elliott, and Ellie Alexander will be captivated by this story, featuring a courageous and appealing heroine, plenty of suspense, and unexpected plot twists according to Booklist.