End of Story

The Village Library Mysteries #9

by Elizabeth Spann Craig

A novel way to die.

When Ann's boyfriend Grayson inherits a surprise legacy, the couple heads to historic Charleston for a much-needed vacation. Not only does Grayson adore the city, but Ann's college roommate, now a librarian, has extended an invitation for them to stay with her. As they explore the picturesque streets and soak in the rich culture, Ann and Grayson couldn't be happier.

But their idyllic getaway takes a turn for the worse when her former roommate's brother is found dead in the library. Determined to uncover the truth and bring the killer to justice, Ann sets out to investigate. With Grayson's help, Ann unearths clues and unravels a web of deception. Will she be able to solve the mystery before someone else is booked for murder?

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery

195 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 25, 2023

About the author

Author also writes under Elizabeth Craig

Elizabeth is the bestselling cozy mystery author of the Southern Quilting mysteries, the Myrtle Clover Cozy Mysteries, the Village Library Mysteries, and Memphis Barbeque mysteries for Penguin Random House, Midnight Ink, and independently. Find out more about her books and sign up for her newsletter on her website: http://elizabethspanncraig.com . Find her books on Goodreads here: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list...

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

End of Story is the 9th book in the Village Library Mystery series.

This series tends to follow a basic formula for each book. Murder occurs, investigation starts, another murder, more investigation, twist/reveal/mop up. This time, the setting for the story does change from Whitby, NC to Charleston, SC. But the formula stayed pretty much the same.

Despite the investigations/plots being very similar, I do enjoy this series. The characters are entertaining. I love Fitz the Library Cat. And the main character, Librarian Ann Beckett, is very intelligent and capable.

I wish the author would shake things up a bit and change the basic formula she seems to follow for this series. I'm sure it's easier for the writer to follow a basic outline, but it gets a bit tired after 9 books. The change of scenery and having the two main characters being on vacation did shake things up a little, but the mystery followed the same path as the prior books.

I'm moving on to book 10 -- maybe Ann goes totally rogue in this one and breaks the usual formula. We shall see!

[Julie Trapp · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Ann's boyfriend Grayson inherits a surprise legacy, the couple heads to historic Charleston for a much-needed vacation. Not only does Grayson adore the city, but Ann's college roommate, now a librarian, has extended an invitation for them to stay with her. As they explore the picturesque streets and soak in the rich culture, Ann and Grayson couldn't be happier. But their idyllic getaway takes a turn for the worse when her former roommate's brother is found dead in the library. [amazon synopsis]

With Grayson's help, Ann investigates the murder. I enjoy the series. Also, that the 2 main characters are "allowed" [by the writer] to be just friends - and without benefits. What does it matter how long they have been going out.

[Marit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ann, her journalist boyfriend, Grayson, and Fitz the library cat are heading to Charleston to find out more about Grayson’s surprise legacy. Once there they are staying with Holly, Ann’s former college roommate, and her dog Murphy. However, they soon become embroiled in murder when Holly’s relic hunting brother is found murdered in the local library. Then another murder takes place. It was interesting to read about this pastime and the passionate people involved as well as the lifestyle of living in a historic city and its beaches. I had an inkling who the murderer might be but it was still an enjoyable light read.

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grayson inherits his uncle's house and belongings in South Carolina, so he and Ann go there to handle his affairs and to visit Holly, Ann's college roommate. It was supposed to be a vacation but Holly's brother is murdered shortly after they arrive. As usual Ann starts to investigate on her own, despite not having police approval. In Craig's typical fashion, Ann uncovers a few potential suspects which she has to narrow down before the murders continue. Ann and Grayson's relationship is developing nicely and, of course, Fitz is along for the ride.

[Sue Ellen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't know why authors of series decide to write a book that takes their main character out of the normal setting and separates them from the secondary characters. I missed the library. I missed the regular characters. I couldn't relate to or care about the new characters in this book. Please go back to the Village Library and the regular cast of characters for the next book! Thank you.

[Mary Tufts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder everywhere but GRREAT plot twists

Ms. Craig always keeps you guessing with her “who done it. “This is yet another wonderful read with lively characters, beautiful surroundings, and definitely death and more death. The nasties are out there, and librarians are always going to figure out the path to a great ending.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another enjoyable mystery with Ann and Grayson. This one has them visiting one of Ann’s best friends in Charleston, and of course a murder is sure to follow. The mystery was good and had me guessing at the culprit since there were several candidates for who murdered Frank. This is definitely a staple cozy series for me!

[Linda Vermillion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book

I really enjoy these books. I was a little worried because Ann and Grayson were going away. While I missed the library setting and the regulars in the books, I still really enjoyed the storyline. Another mystery solved by Ann and I had no idea who the killer was. An interesting book.

[Jacqueline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great short cozy

End of story is another well put together cozy by Elizabeth Craig. The plot line this time is outside Whitby, and in Charleston. Once again solid characters move you through an adventure.

[Darvionne J Givhan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book and the change of scenery! Also glad to see the relationship progress between Ann and Grayson!

[Caroline]

I hope the next book goes home to Whitby!

[Jacquelyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

My rating is likely skewed by my not having read any of the earlier books in this series. It doesn't stand as well alone.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

My favorite part was when Luna commented about an "unexpected surprise". Good grief.

[Sharon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Still enjoying the series. Quick, light reads.