REVIEW: Death Overdue

 Death Overdue
Author: Allison Brook

Carrie Singleton is a free spirit. She doesn't stay in one place too long. She likes her freedom. But, then she gets offered the job as head of programs and events at the library in Clover Ridge, CT. It's a better paying and more permanent job than she has ever had before. She not only discovers that the job is a bit hectic, but that the library has its own resident ghost. Things get out of hand for Carrie immediately. Her first event is a presentation by a retired local police detective. Al Buckley claims he has new information about a decades old local murder case. But, before he can reveal the new evidence....he drops dead. Right in the middle of the library. Carrie feels a bit guilty because Al was poisoned at her library event, so she decides to investigate not only the death of Al Buckley, but the old murder case of Laura Foster as well.

I loved this book! Not only because of the haunted library theme -- perfect for an October reading! But also because I just enjoyed the characters, the plot and the premise for this new series. Carrie is a strong and intelligent woman who loves her freedom but also realizes that being an adult requires....adulting. The ghost of a former librarian is a hoot -- and a helpful side character that is woven into the plot. Nicely done! And I got sucked right into the story from the beginning. Poor Carrie -- her first event at her new job and the speaker drops dead. Not only that but there is a bit of job tension, jealousy and funny goings-on at the Clover Ridge Library. I had to keep reading to find out if Carrie survived both her promotion, all the adulting, and her amateur sleuthing. :) A great mix of mild spookiness, humor and mystery.

The mystery moved along at a nice pace with a nicely complex plot. There were several situations going on with multiple suspects. It was a well-written,enjoyable read!

As with most cozy mysteries, the cover art for this book is supremely awesome. :) Definitely eye-catching!

Moving on to the next book in this series!

Allison Brook is a pen-name for author Marilyn Levinson. For more information on the author and her other books, check out her website: http://www.marilynlevinson.com/