This is the seventh book in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mysteries by well-known cozy author Vicki Delaney (aka Eva Gates of the Lighthouse Library series), and I had the pleasure of having read the series since the get-go. At first, I wasn’t sure I liked Gemma at all, but I got used to her character and think she’s pretty awesome now. The supporting cast is a lot of fun too, yes even at-first-grumpy Det. Louise Estrada who’s a good cop and detective, but Gemma’s always thought she hated her. I think Louise secretly admires how Gemma’s brain works.
Be sure and read the author’s acknowledgements at the end. Lots of our favorite authors wrote during the super difficult times of early 2020, and it’s just interesting to see how well their books came out despite all the hardships. Big hugs to any and all authors who accomplished that!
My Goodreads review:
A Three Book Problem by Vicki Delany
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a little different from Gemma’s usual cases since all her suspects were gathered right away together and weren’t supposed to leave. It did seem a little overwhelming at first with having all the characters introduced almost at once, but as Gemma went along with her investigation, their distinct personalities started coming through. I had my eye on one in particular almost the whole time, but I didn’t guess right.
Gemma always amazes me with her constantly working brain that notices every little detail. I think even Louise Estrada, the detective Gemma’s always sure hates her was coming around a little bit as she actually pitched in to help with the Sherlock Holmes event a little bit while she was at the mansion babysitting the guests. It’s kind of funny because you can tell she’s pretty fascinated by how Gemma comes up with her findings, but Louise definitely isn’t about to let her know that! Although as observant as Gemma is, I’m betting she already knows!
The showdown was good and mostly non-dangerous at least not to Gemma herself. Gemma’s Sherlock Holmes fan friend Donald always cracks me up, and he was in his Sherlockian glory during this event. The ending was kinda cute, and I’m eager as always to read the next adventures Gemma and her friends get into.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Crooked Lane via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
Cuddle Up With a Cozy Mystery 