I recently finished reading “By Book or By Crook”, the charming first installment in the Lighthouse Library Mystery series by Eva Gates. As an avid reader and book lover, I’m always on the lookout for cozy mysteries with a literary twist. The premise of this novel – a murder mystery set in a library housed inside a historic lighthouse – immediately piqued my interest. Needing an engaging read to keep me company during a relaxing weekend at home, I decided to give this book a try, and I’m so glad I did!
The story follows Lucy Richardson, a librarian who leaves her job in Boston to start a new chapter as the assistant librarian at the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Not long after Lucy arrives, a famous author is found murdered in the library, propelling her into the middle of the investigation. When Lucy herself becomes a suspect, she takes it upon herself to uncover the truth and clear her name.
From the very first page, I was captivated by the idyllic setting of the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library. As someone who has always been enchanted by lighthouses and their majestic beauty, I loved how vividly Eva Gates brought this unique location to life. Her descriptions made me feel as if I was right there with Lucy, climbing the lighthouse stairs, feeling the ocean breeze, and getting lost among the bookshelves. The author’s love for books and libraries shines through in every scene, adding an extra layer of delight for bibliophiles like myself.
One of the greatest strengths of “By Book or By Crook” is its colorful cast of characters. Lucy is an immensely likable protagonist – intelligent, determined, and relatable. As a fellow book nerd, I connected with her right away. Her passion for books, her quick wit, and her keen observation skills make her the perfect amateur sleuth. I enjoyed following along as she pieced together clues and navigated the complexities of her new life in this tight-knit coastal community.
The supporting characters are equally well-drawn and add so much charm to the story. From the quirky library staff to the eccentric locals, each character feels distinct and memorable. I particularly loved Lucy’s budding friendship with her co-worker Charlene and the gentle hint of a potential romance with the mayor’s son, Connor. These relationships added warmth and depth to the story, making me feel invested not just in the mystery but in Lucy’s personal journey as well.
While the mystery itself is not the most complex or unpredictable, it still kept me guessing and turning pages late into the night. Eva Gates sprinkles just enough clues and red herrings to maintain a sense of suspense without the plot becoming too convoluted. I appreciated how the author wove in literary references and library-related details throughout the investigation, keeping the book firmly grounded in its theme. The denouement, while not entirely surprising, was satisfying and well-executed.
One scene that particularly stands out to me is when Lucy first enters the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library. Eva Gates’ description captures the awe and reverence that any book lover would feel stepping into such a magical place:
“I stood for a moment, transfixed, inhaling the scent of paper and leather and dust. The library was housed in a vast circular space, with bookshelves lining the walls from floor to ceiling. A spiral staircase wound its way up the center, leading to a second level balcony that overlooked the main floor. Antique lamps cast a warm glow over the room, and the large windows offered a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean. It was, quite simply, the most beautiful library I had ever seen.”
This passage resonated with me deeply, as it so perfectly encapsulates the almost sacred feeling of being surrounded by books in a cherished library. It transported me right into that moment with Lucy, sharing in her wonder and delight.
Another aspect of the book I appreciated was Eva Gates’ writing style. Her prose is warm and inviting, with a gentle humor that made me smile throughout. She has a gift for crafting vivid descriptions that bring the setting and characters to life without bogging down the pacing. Reading this book felt like settling into a cozy armchair with a cup of tea and a dear friend, ready to be regaled with an entertaining tale.
On a more personal note, “By Book or By Crook” got me thinking about the power of fresh starts and following your heart. Lucy’s decision to leave her old life behind and pursue her dream job, even in the face of uncertainty and danger, was inspiring. It reminded me that it’s never too late to make a change and that sometimes the greatest adventures lie in uncharted territories. As someone who has grappled with making big life changes myself, I found Lucy’s courage and determination heartening.
While I adored almost everything about this book, I will say that the pacing could be a bit uneven at times, particularly in the middle. There were moments where the plot seemed to meander or get sidetracked by subplots that didn’t always feel essential. However, these minor lulls were easily forgiven as the story always managed to regain its momentum and keep me engaged.
In the end, “By Book or By Crook” left me with a warm, contented feeling and an eagerness to spend more time with these endearing characters. I would wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries, especially those with an affinity for books, libraries, and charming small-town settings. It’s the kind of story that wraps you up like a cozy blanket and makes you feel right at home.
If you’re looking for a light, enjoyable read that will transport you to a picturesque coastal town, introduce you to a delightful cast of characters, and keep you turning pages with an engaging mystery, then “By Book or By Crook” is the perfect choice. I, for one, cannot wait to see what adventures await Lucy and the gang in the next installment of the Lighthouse Library Mystery series. This book has secured a special place on my shelf and in my heart.