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"Cozy fans will be charmed.” —Publishers Weekly

Roxy Gleason, an innkeeper by trade and a bibliomancer by birth, has lived in the same small town on the Susquehanna River in Central Pennsylvania for her entire life. Tradition is strong here. Roxy understands the rules and is willing to play by them most of the time. She runs the Charmed Inn, which has been in her family for decades.

The inn is all set to host a writers’ professional business weekend that’s been planned down to the very last hand-folded napkin, and Roxy is ready for the influx of creatives. She knows she’ll have a lot of different and sometimes unusual personalities to deal with, but this is a yearly function, so she’s not expecting anything to go awry.

Her expectations are completely tanked when she finds a dead body on her daily walk by the river’s shore. Owen Schultz had checked in for the conference a few hours ago, and she’d last seen him having tea with her aunt in the dining room.
How did he get down here on the ferry, and who killed him?


Fans of Lucy Score, Melissa F. Miller, Dianne Harman, Lynn Cahoon, Deany Ray, Kathi Daley, and Merryn Allingham will enjoy Misty Simon.

228 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 3, 2025

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Misty Simon

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5 stars
24 (57%)
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13 (30%)
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3 (7%)
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2 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Marian West.
142 reviews6 followers
May 13, 2025
This is a great start to a new series. Roxy owns the inn / bed and breakfast that's been in her family forever. She took over from her grandfather last year after his heart attack, and she loves (almost) every minute of it. The annual writers conference is this weekend... but first, murder. Because the police officer is targeting her bestie, Roxy feels like she needs to solve the mystery first. Did I mention that she's a bibliomancer? And everyone in her family has some sort of "gift"? It's time to listen to the books to figure out whodunnit.

The characters are strong, the plot is at a good pace, there's a small hint of possible romance... everything you would want in a cozy mystery. I can't wait to read more in this series.

Note: There's a warning at the beginning of this book stating it's not intended for children under 18. In my opinion, there are a handful of potty mouth words, but that's about it. Maybe later books in this series are more "adult" in nature, but don't let the warning dissuade you from reading this book. It's really good.

Disclosure: We received a free ARC of this book. No guarantee of a review or other compensation was made.
Profile Image for Carla.
330 reviews19 followers
October 27, 2025
A Charm to read this Charmed Inn Mystery Series.I am ready to continue on to the next one in Misty's Series
Profile Image for Karen Siddall.
Author 1 book115 followers
June 17, 2025
Fun start to this unique new paranormal cozy mystery series.

By Hook or By Book is the first book in author Misty Simon's delightful new Charmed Inn Mysteries series featuring an unusual family with unique paranormal gifts who own and operate a lovely old inn. It's the 30th annual authors' weekend at the Charmed Inn, an event that innkeeper Roxanne Gleeson has long helped put together, but this year, she's heading it up on her own for the first time since her grandfather, the previous owner, retired. But when one of their long-time guests and good friend is discovered dead, and the bumbling local police officer with a grudge against Roxy is put in charge of the investigation, she has her hands full, trying to unmask the real murderer before an innocent person is wrongly charged.

Roxanne is an engaging and likable young woman, with a houseful of anxious guests and quirky family members who possess special paranormal skills. She herself is a bibliomancer; she can use books or text to answer questions and clarify the unknown. Unfortunately, she hasn't quite mastered this unpredictable gift, and the answers she gets are often as not to be pretty cryptic. I enjoyed her attempts to manage her investigation and her unrecognized feelings for her best friend, Dean. She really puts him through some hoops early on as she tries to use her gift without him seeing her, running him to the library, then to the kitchen, and then abandoning him with the cat back in the library, leaving their untouched picnic feast behind. Her lively family and staff are a highlight of the book.

The plot moves quickly, with the murder occurring early in the story. The authors' group is gung-ho to try their hand at solving their friend's murder, but one of their number may actually be the killer. Roxanne must put her plans to solve the crime into high gear to come to a solution before the weekend is over and the group scatters for another year. There are plenty of suspects to consider before the truth comes out.

I recommend BY HOOK OR BY BOOK to cozy mystery readers who enjoy a touch of the paranormal in their stories.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.

Profile Image for Katreader.
954 reviews49 followers
June 14, 2025
BY HOOK OR BY BOOK by Misty Simon
The First Charmed Inn Mystery

Roxy Gleason comes from a gifted family. Her Aunt Helen is a respected tasseomancer capable of leading seances while Uncle Vince can scry. Roxy is not as happy being a bibliomancer. Getting cryptic phrases from books she feels that her gift is passive and not always correct. The family not only share paranormal gifts, they also run the Charmed Inn. This weekend they're hosting the writers group that has been visiting annually for decades. When Roxy takes a walk before the welcoming dinner she sees one of her guests on the deck of the ferry, a place he shouldn't have been. When she tells him he needs to move, she discovers he's dead. Now the officer in charge thinks Roxy is involved, the writer's group are chomping at the bit to investigate, and Roxy is getting messages from her books. Will she be able to find the real killer, prove her innocence, all while successfully managing her inn?

A gathering of writers, a family well versed in divination, a possible lost treasure, and murder make for a delightful debut to a new mystery series. Roxy is charming, self deprecating, and an all around fun protagonist. I love how she keeps saying Dean is her best friend, but nothing else. And just when I thought things may be percolating, I got very, very worried.

As Roxy tries to solve the murder she also tries to get to the bottom of a few other things, notably her bibliomancy and what happened between her aunt and uncle that has them always at loggerheads. The more Roxy tries to solve the murder the more mysteries pop up!

Murder with a hint of romance and brushed with the paranormal BY HOOK OR BY BOOK is an entertaining and engaging mystery. I enjoyed getting to know the wonderful characters and I can't wait to see Roxy learn and appreciate her gift even more.
Profile Image for JoAnne.
3,156 reviews32 followers
June 25, 2025
Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking the link below. It is also posted in full.

https://novelsalive.com/2025/06/25/4-...

I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.

By Hook or By Book is the first book in The Charmed Inn Mysteries series by Misty Simon. A cozy paranormal mystery set in Pennsylvania where a body is found at the start of the book, but is it murder?

Roxy has taken over as innkeeper of the family inn from her grandfather, serving as the backdrop for the story. A writer’s weekend, which takes place annually, has just begun when one of the participants turns up dead. Everyone’s ready to pitch in to find the murderer, much to the chagrin of the local police. Who will figure out whodunnit?

There are a slew of characters, clues, and red herrings, along with people who are not as they seem. There are magical powers, secrets galore, and numerous stories being told. There’s even a hint or two of romance. Roxy is a bibliomancer, which means books answer her questions in different ways, all with a supernatural bent. Everyone in her family seems to have various powers and abilities. There are detailed descriptions, which made it easy to visualize what was happening and where. When the whodunnit is revealed, will things return to normal or as normal as possible?

By Hook or By Book is a cozy mystery that had me turning the pages to see what would happen next. Some quirky characters and various magical abilities added layers to the story. I can’t wait to see what transpires in the next book.

I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
Profile Image for Vicky.
Author 26 books69 followers
June 3, 2025
THOUGHTS: I loved this book! It’s the first in a new series and is a paranormal cozy mystery. Roxy Gleason has taken over her family’s inn at her grandfather’s request. The inn had been in her family for decades and she’s the newest one to take over, though she’s a little nervous about living up to the standards set. In this one, there’s a whole group of authors coming in for an author weekend. But before they can get started, one of them is murdered and a manuscript goes missing.

Roxy is what’s called a bibliomancer which means books give her clues to different things, not just in the pages, but sometimes shining in gold letters that hover above the books. That gift will help her solve the problems she’s facing and still keep the inn’s reputation.

I loved the characters. They are fun (especially Roxy’s grandfather!) and there’s a bit of romance going on, which is a nice addition. I also love that the story takes place in Millersburg along the Susquehanna River in Pennsylvania, an area I actually know well. A place that has the last ferry that crosses the Susquehanna. Adding this touch of reality to the story enhances the setting. And the satisfying ending doesn’t hurt.

Definitely recommended.
Profile Image for Short, Sweet and Cozy.
1,505 reviews
June 4, 2025
By Hook or By Book is the debut of Misty Simon's The Charmed Inn Mystery series and it is off to a great start. The characters are likeable and the cozy mystery kept me guessing. There is a little paranormal that adds a fun touch. Roxy Gleason is the manager of the family's Charmed Inn. Roxy is a Bibliomancer and gets info and clues from books and her family members have other talents. Her Aunt Hellen, Uncle Vince and grandfather Poobah all help, along with her friend Dean. They are hosting an annual writer's conference and everything is going well until one if the attendees is found dead. The suspects are the other writers and guests. There are some problems around the Inn with things missing, unexpected people showing up, and lots of secrets. This was an enjoyable story and it didn't take long to get wrapped up in the antics of Roxy's relatives, Owen's death, the writers group and her attraction to Dean. There is family, friendship, humor and a little magic that make this story so enjoyable. I'm looking forward to more books in this fun cozy mystery series. I received an advance copy from Author Misty Simon and I voluntarily leave this review.
#ByHookOrByBook #TheCharmedInnMystery #RowanProsePublishing #MistySimon
448 reviews12 followers
June 7, 2025
As the first book in The Charmed Inn Mystery series, it introduced a unique mix of cozy mystery, family secrets, and a touch of the paranormal that made the story even more intriguing.

Roxy Gleason has taken over managing her family's Charmed Inn, a place full of history, charm, and a little bit of magic. She has a rare ability as a bibliomancer—books literally give her clues, guiding her toward important discoveries. When the inn hosts a writer’s conference, everything seems to be going smoothly until one of the attendees is found dead. Suddenly, Roxy finds herself caught in a mystery filled with secrets, missing items, and unexpected surprises.

The interactions between Roxy and her quirky relatives were well done. Her grandfather, especially, had such a great personality.

I never felt like the plot slowed down, and there were plenty of twists to keep me guessing. Roxy’s investigative skills, combined with her magical ability, made the mystery feel fresh and unique.

Misty Simon does a fantastic job of bringing the inn to life, making it a place that feels both inviting and mysterious. The balance between the paranormal and the traditional mystery elements was handled well, never overshadowing the suspense but instead complementing it.
Profile Image for Country Mama.
1,452 reviews66 followers
June 6, 2025
By Hook or By Book by Misty Simon is the first book in The Charmed Inn Mystery book series. Roxy is our FMC and she owns the Charmed Inn in a small town in Pennsylvania. Roxy's inn is hosting a writer's convention for the first time and she is well prepared for the event. Or so she thinks. Especially when a dead body shows up at her inn during the convention. Owen is dead and she doesn't know who killed him and why. And then the cops show up but Norm, a detective who Roxy doesn't get along with shows up and there is almost a fight between her friend Dean and Norm.
The mystery is well written and I was highly engaged as I love cozy mystery books especially involving Inn's. I loved the relationship that Roxy has with her Aunt and Uncle. It is very reminiscent for me of a close family. I also loved the friendship between Dean and Roxy, it is a close friendship that may eventually turn into something more:) And I was surprised by the who dun it at the end of the book but also super happy for Roxy! I would love to read more of this series by the author!

If you are a fan of cozy mysteries you will love this book!
Profile Image for Danielle Urban.
Author 12 books166 followers
June 7, 2025
By Hook or By Book from Misty Simon is a delightful cozy murder mystery. If you love Sherlock Homes this is the read to have. I loved that the main protagonist had a power that involves books. As a book lover that will forever stay with me. In the beginning, readers are introduced to Roxy. She takes over her family's inn. There's a big event featuring writers. She thinks there will be no problem. However, that is exactly what happened. Trouble brews over in this exciting read. It is the heroine that finds the deceased and is set on finding the killer. Then, there is Dean. He is a great hero. A bit of romance between these two main characters adds to the plot. I loved how they were like Sherlock Holmes and Watson but with a twist.

Murder, mayhem, and a family with special gifts made this novel pop. Plus, once again, there is a whodunnit vibe which I absolutely love! Misty Simon did an excellent job in creating the first of many adventurous mysteries. I cannot wait to read her next book.

I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.


Profile Image for Annarella.
14.2k reviews167 followers
June 19, 2025
Any book cover featuring cats and books is like a magnet—a call to read. This one showcases all the elements that promise a mystery ticking nearly all my cozy favorite boxes.

I had so much fun reading this novel.
With so many cozy mysteries out there, I always look for an original, realistic, and well-developed main character who speaks to me. I was fascinated by the bibliomancer aspects and appreciated that she’s likeable and well-rounded.
Some elements of the plot reminded me of Lynn Cahoon’s *Cat Latimer* series and Angela Sanders’ *Witch Way Librarian*. That’s a compliment—both are among my favorite series. I say “echo” because Mysti Simon creates her *own* version of bibliomancy, and I loved it.
The mystery is solid, kept me guessing, and had enough twists to keep me turning the pages to reach the solution.
This is an excellent start to a new cozy series—please give me the next novels!

Many thanks to the publisher and Partners in Crime for the digital copy. All opinions are mine."
Profile Image for Patricia.
205 reviews10 followers
June 13, 2025
I always enjoy the beginnings of a new cozy mystery series, and Misty Simon’s Charmed Inn Mysteries is very promising, indeed. The writing is loose and flowing, lending an air of familiarity and comfort to the reader as the story progresses.

I enjoyed the colorful characters, especially Roxy and her bibliomancy skills. I’ve read a few stories where books “speak” to the protagonist, but Simon handles that piece of the story with colorful imagination, helping the reader to imagine the letters, sparking and dancing in the air, form the crucial messages that help Roxy unravel the mystery.

Simon successfully introduces an endearing and appealing cast of characters who will undoubtedly continue to encounter murder mysteries in future books. I was hooked from the first sentence describing Roxy’s uncle as “Cheezy Rider,” which immediately clues in the reader to expect a fun story.

Recommended for cozy mystery fans.
Profile Image for Joan.
4,365 reviews127 followers
June 11, 2025
I usually do not read cozy mysteries with a paranormal aspect so I was glad to find that this one is mild in that area. And the gift was unusual, as words in books would rise up and sparkle for Roxy. But she had some trouble as the gift didn't always work for her. And she had issues with family members that kept distracting her. The murder mystery does get solved in the end, not so much by Roxy's dedicated investigation but more by events happening.

This is a good start to a new series for readers who like cozy mysteries with a paranormal aspect as well as a hint of romance.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Profile Image for Ashley Kanazawich .
132 reviews6 followers
June 18, 2025
This book brought magical and whimsy to murder and mystery. I loved the secret and slightly wacky gifts our protagonist and her family had, and the impact these gifts had on the community brought a level of humorous charm that was really enjoyable to read.

When one of her hotel guests is found dead, Roxy is determined to turn sleuth and figure out who done it. She stumbled her way through, mostly making it up as she goes, and often finds herslef in the middle of several mysterious clues that don't add up and leave her (and we the reader) even more confused.

I loved how small towny the vibe was, and Roxy brought a very relatable feel to the whole story. The mystery itself was layered perfectly, and the reveals were surprising and often unpredictable!

Great book! Highly Recommend!
Profile Image for Miss W Book Reviews.
1,783 reviews153 followers
May 27, 2025
By Hook or by Crook is the first book in The Charmed Inn Mysteries by Misty Simon.

I really enjoyed this cozy mystery.

Roxy has bibliomancer magic, which she gleams from words on paper. All of her family have some sort of magic, all a bit different.

She owns a bread and breakfast, which has been in the family for generations and she has recently taken over.

This weekend is the annual writers conference but there is a murder, and Roxy is the prime suspect.

I really liked Roxy and Dean's friendship, and I see a potential romance there.

The characters were well written and fleshed out. The mystery was great.

I can't wait for the next book in this series!
Profile Image for Anita.
659 reviews27 followers
September 29, 2025
roxy Gleason has taken over running the Charmed Inn that has been in her family for generations. She is also a bibliomancer. The inn is hosting a writer's conference when one of the writer's, Owen Schultz, is found dead on the ferry that is currently not in service. With her aunt and her bibliomancy acting strange she has to investigate the old fashioned way by snooping through Owen's room, listen through vents and hiding on the stairwell. She learns of the book the Owen had that has disappeared and the mystery it contained. With so much going on she needs help and has enlisted Dean to help her sort it all out.
A wonderful story with interesting characters.
Profile Image for Christine Woinich.
2,795 reviews26 followers
June 22, 2025
This story kept me turning the pages. Roxy had her abilities which she did her best to keep hidden from guests, and suddenly, they enhanced. In the middle of all this, a murder occurred in the Inn. She was so much fun as she stumbled through the investigation, learning of her ability, and possibly finding a little romance. The secondary characters, guests, police, added to the storytelling, and I look forward to more in this series. Well worth the read.

I received a copy through Rowan Prose Publishing, and this is my unsolicited review.
Profile Image for Nanasbookreviews.
1,826 reviews52 followers
April 30, 2025
✨ ARC Review ✨
By Hook or By Book by Misty Simon is a cozy mystery with a magical twist! 🔮📚

Roxy inherits the Charmed Inn and is hosting a weekend for writers—but when one of them turns up dead, she has to use her bibliomancer powers to solve the mystery. 🕵️‍♀️💫

Loved the small-town vibes, quirky characters, and the sweet romance with Dean 😍 Plus, Roxy’s arguments with Norm? Hilarious! 😂

If you're into magical mysteries and a dash of romance, add this one to your TBR!
Profile Image for Catrina.
90 reviews
September 5, 2025
This is first book in series of 3. Since this was my first book into bibiliomancer I wasn’t sure what to except but I was pleasant surprise. Roxy owns the family inn. She’s hosting a weekend writers conference. Roxy goes out on a walk to come across one of her guest Owen on the ferry dead. The storyline keeps you wonder who did it. I enjoy the corky personalities of Roxy’s family. The hint of romance between Roxy and Dean was nice. I definitely picking this book up and reading it.
489 reviews6 followers
October 15, 2025
The characters and their abilities and how they work is interesting. The mystery is good, though we don't really get to know the guests well enough to try to solve the case before the solution is presented. There's some funny moments and lines that made me laugh. It feels like this is farther along in the series than book one, like there's some information missing. Perhaps it will be better explained in the next book.
Profile Image for Kathleen.
709 reviews
July 27, 2025
Entertaining and engaging with some interesting characters. It was interesting following Roxy’s train of thought as she works to solve a number of problems running the family inn. It doesn’t help when she discovers the dead body of one of her guests.

The book could have used a good editor but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the story. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Kathy Crouch.
388 reviews19 followers
September 18, 2025
Loved the Book

Unfortunately, I read book 2 before book 1. I enjoyed reading this one. Misty has a way of telling you a story that pulls you in. It holds you captive until the end.
Profile Image for Lori.
1,306 reviews
June 8, 2025
Absolutely loved this! A fantastic start to a new series!
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