Murder of a Bookstore Babe

There's a lot going on in Scumble River even before yet another body shows up in school psychologist Skye Denison's path in "Murder of a Bookstore Babe." A new bookstore, Tales and Treats, is in town, much to the dismay of Pru Cormorant, a long-time teacher at the high school, as well as several local proprietors who appear to be concerned with the new competition or parking issues. There is also Skye's brother, Vince, whose romantic escapades are aggravating Skye's mother---who in turn is aggravating Skye. Add to that a sluggish wedding annulment that is keeping Skye from marrying her boyfriend, Wally, as well as her ex-boyfriend, Simon, who is carrying a torch for Skye that is so hot it's about to set fire to downtown Scumble River. With all this going on, you can see there is plenty to keep a reader's interest.

I just re-read this book, and although I remembered exactly who "dunnit," it was still a completely enjoyable read. I love Sky Denison. I love Wally. I feel bad for Simon, who is acting so pathetic in this book that I think he should avoid showing his face for another book or two. (But I don't think he does.) I'm about May Denison's age now. That would be Skye's mother. So I want to be sympathetic to her, but reading about her antics makes me understand why Skye had decided to join the Peace Corp and be far, far away from home for many years prior to the first book of the series.

Would I read another of Swanson's Skye Denison books real soon? YES! As a matter of fact I just purchased "Murder of the Cat's Meow," as I realized I haven't yet read that book. Why do I like these books? I feel transported to another time and reality and I enjoy the trip! So five stars to this book and to this series. I'm sure I'll be reviewing "Cat's Meow" soon!