cj_mo_2222 's review for:

The Stranger in the Library by Eva Gates

4.0

funny informative lighthearted mysterious relaxing medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Yes

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This is the 11th book in the series, but would work well for new readers, too. I've not read all of the books in this series, but have enjoyed the ones I have read. The main setting of the book is a lighthouse library in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, and the art scene plays a big role in this book. The library book club's pick for the month, a classic by Patricia Highsmith, may even have a link to the current crimes. I think this is a very clever element of the book. 

In The Stranger in the Library, an important exhibit of American Impressionist paintings has come to town and the library is joining in the celebration by hosting their own display of reproductions. Newly married librarian Lucy McNeil is proud of what the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library was able to put together. Things get mysterious when a reproduction painting that only has sentimental value to Lucy's coworker Louise Jane McKaughan and her family, is stolen. Then, one of the organizers of the main art show is killed at the launch party. Is there a connection between these events?

Unlike in some cozy mysteries, the local police chief welcomes Lucy's help in investigating the crime. Sam is short-staffed and knows Lucy's observations have helped solve cases in the past. Lucy's husband, Connor, worries about his wife, but doesn't try to stand in her way. Lucy has an unlikely sleuthing partner this time, Louise Jane, who in the past has been critical of Lucy. This time, Louise Jane has a vested interest in the case since it was her family's painting that was stolen and also because she is developing feelings for a mysterious newcomer that is one of the suspects. Louise Jane can be hard to take, but she has mellowed in this book and I enjoyed seeing her and Lucy team up. The book has some slow parts, but is entertaining as a whole and has a dramatic and satisfying ending.

I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.