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Starlit Bookshop Mystery #2
In the Event of Murder
It’s the star-studded event of the season in Silvercrest, Colorado—but some of the guests might not make it to the last dance alive in the second charming installment in the Starlit Bookshop mysteries, perfect for fans of Paige Shelton and Kate Carlisle.
Nestled on the banks of a breathtaking Rocky Mountain river and dotted with upscale restaurants, boutiques, and galleries, Silvercrest, Colorado, is a book lover’s paradise. Emma Starrs is flourishing at her aunt Nora’s famed bookstore, Starlit Books—and now, she’s looking forward to attending the annual gala at the Silvercrest Library. It will be a glamourous evening with celebrities including movie legend and Silvercrest native Whitney Willton and her niece, caterer-to-the-stars Lyra Willton. At the tea preceding the gala, library board president Tabitha Baxter is basking in the glow of her success—until Lyra is found dead during the evening’s film screening.
At an emergency meeting the next morning, the planning committee replaces Lyra with Emma as event planner. With the gala only three days away, Tabitha—long Emma’s nemesis—is bristling over the choice. Whitney knows Emma’s legendary sleuthing skills, and at Lyra’s memorial service, she begs her to find the killer. But the case grows ever more complex with the disappearance of a priceless antique from the silent auction and a brutal attack on one of the attending celebrities. And in an awful twist, the Baxter Ballroom burns to the ground, leaving Emma without a venue.
Miraculously, Emma finds a new site, and the gala gets underway. But a killer still lurks in the shadows—and murder just might be the main event.
Nestled on the banks of a breathtaking Rocky Mountain river and dotted with upscale restaurants, boutiques, and galleries, Silvercrest, Colorado, is a book lover’s paradise. Emma Starrs is flourishing at her aunt Nora’s famed bookstore, Starlit Books—and now, she’s looking forward to attending the annual gala at the Silvercrest Library. It will be a glamourous evening with celebrities including movie legend and Silvercrest native Whitney Willton and her niece, caterer-to-the-stars Lyra Willton. At the tea preceding the gala, library board president Tabitha Baxter is basking in the glow of her success—until Lyra is found dead during the evening’s film screening.
At an emergency meeting the next morning, the planning committee replaces Lyra with Emma as event planner. With the gala only three days away, Tabitha—long Emma’s nemesis—is bristling over the choice. Whitney knows Emma’s legendary sleuthing skills, and at Lyra’s memorial service, she begs her to find the killer. But the case grows ever more complex with the disappearance of a priceless antique from the silent auction and a brutal attack on one of the attending celebrities. And in an awful twist, the Baxter Ballroom burns to the ground, leaving Emma without a venue.
Miraculously, Emma finds a new site, and the gala gets underway. But a killer still lurks in the shadows—and murder just might be the main event.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published August 20, 2024
12 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Kuhn
11 books499 followersCynthia Kuhn writes the Starlit Bookshop Mysteries and Lila Maclean Academic Mysteries. Her work has also appeared in Mystery Most Edible, McSweeney’s Quarterly Concern, Literary Mama, Copper Nickel, Prick of the Spindle, Mama PhD, and other publications.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
August 23, 2024
It’s the final week of the year, which means it is time for the annual fundraiser for the library in Silvercrest, Colorado. Like the rest of the town, Emma Starrs is thrilled that the cast of Chasers, the popular mystery TV show, is coming to town to headline the events. However, when murder threatens the event, Emma is asked to step in and help make sure the gala on New Year’s Eve goes off without a hitch. Can she do that?
It's been a couple of years since the first book in this series came out, so I wasn’t sure how much I’d remember about the characters. Fortunately, I was able to slip back into their world without too much effort. Sadly, the mystery was disappointing. The emphasis was more on the planning for the event, and those scenes grew repetitive. We did reach a solution, but parts of it felt forced to me. On the other hand, the characters were charming. I really did enjoy seeing Emma and her family and friends again. I wanted to like this more than I did, but it was mixed for me.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
It's been a couple of years since the first book in this series came out, so I wasn’t sure how much I’d remember about the characters. Fortunately, I was able to slip back into their world without too much effort. Sadly, the mystery was disappointing. The emphasis was more on the planning for the event, and those scenes grew repetitive. We did reach a solution, but parts of it felt forced to me. On the other hand, the characters were charming. I really did enjoy seeing Emma and her family and friends again. I wanted to like this more than I did, but it was mixed for me.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
February 7, 2025
Meh ! It just couldn’t keep my attention. The mystery went in and out, and I didn’t love any of the people in it.
March 6, 2024
Cynthia Kuhn delivers another irresistible mystery featuring intrepid and immensely appealing heroine Emma Starrs. Party planner Emma does a masterful job of balancing sleuthing with sidestepping obstacles enemies toss in her path as she plans the Gala of the year in scenic Silvercrest, Colorado. Humor, suspense, and surprising twists make every party in Kuhn’s delightful series an event you won’t want to miss!
September 2, 2024
Dollycas's Thoughts
Silvercrest, Colorado is a book lover's dream on the banks of the Rocky Mountain River and readers arrive just in time for the annual Silvercrest Library Gala. The event has brought celebrities from the hit crime show Chasers including the legendary Whitney Willton to town. Her niece, Lyra Willton, party planner-to-the-stars is in attendance as well. Library Board President Tabitha Baxter was thrilled with the success of the events until Lyra Willton's body was found dead behind the scenes. Tabitha panics because Lyra had organized much of the gala and the board asks her arch-enemy Emma Starrs to take over. She accepts knowing that dealing with Tabitha will be a challenge but she would do anything for the library.
Whitney also begs Whitney to find her niece's killer. Soon another celebrity is attacked and priceless items go missing. Can Emma untwist the clues and catch the killer before the main event starts? or will the killer be in attendance for the big event?
____
I am not sure why there was such a big gap from the first book, How to Book a Murder (December 7, 2021) to this one (August 20, 2024) but it took a few chapters to get back in the groove with the core characters. In this story, like the previous Emma steps in to replace a party planner while trying to save the family bookshop. Again her nemesis Tabitha Baxter is in charge and driving Emma crazy. Emma, her sister Lucy, and her aunt Nora, all feel true to life and relatable. Tabitha pushes my buttons as much as she does Emma's.
The murder mystery is set after Christmas with several activities ending with the gala on New Year's Eve. Before that is a screening of an episode of the TV show Chasers at Bluestone complete with cocktails which was very well attended and the scene of the murder. That means plenty of suspects but both Emma and I pared those down quickly. The mystery was not as complex as I expected. There was a lot of focus on the event and its planning. There was a bit of repetition as Emma worked through the clues while at Tabitha's beck and call. Emma had the patience of a saint and behaved much better than I would have. The guilty party was at the top of my list and the confession revealed a very petty person.
Ms. Kuhn does an excellent job at setting each scene. An unfortunate event put the gala in jeopardy and I was thrilled with how Emma handled it and the help she received. The space was so aptly described I felt like I was right there peering over Emma's shoulder.
In the Event of Murder was an enjoyable read with characters I want to get to know better. Silvercrest and Starlit Books sound like my happy place being a book lover’s paradise. I could easily spend days, months, or years traveling from shop to shop. I am anxious to return. I hope we don't have to wait too long for the next installment of the Starlit Bookshop Mystery Series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Silvercrest, Colorado is a book lover's dream on the banks of the Rocky Mountain River and readers arrive just in time for the annual Silvercrest Library Gala. The event has brought celebrities from the hit crime show Chasers including the legendary Whitney Willton to town. Her niece, Lyra Willton, party planner-to-the-stars is in attendance as well. Library Board President Tabitha Baxter was thrilled with the success of the events until Lyra Willton's body was found dead behind the scenes. Tabitha panics because Lyra had organized much of the gala and the board asks her arch-enemy Emma Starrs to take over. She accepts knowing that dealing with Tabitha will be a challenge but she would do anything for the library.
Whitney also begs Whitney to find her niece's killer. Soon another celebrity is attacked and priceless items go missing. Can Emma untwist the clues and catch the killer before the main event starts? or will the killer be in attendance for the big event?
____
I am not sure why there was such a big gap from the first book, How to Book a Murder (December 7, 2021) to this one (August 20, 2024) but it took a few chapters to get back in the groove with the core characters. In this story, like the previous Emma steps in to replace a party planner while trying to save the family bookshop. Again her nemesis Tabitha Baxter is in charge and driving Emma crazy. Emma, her sister Lucy, and her aunt Nora, all feel true to life and relatable. Tabitha pushes my buttons as much as she does Emma's.
The murder mystery is set after Christmas with several activities ending with the gala on New Year's Eve. Before that is a screening of an episode of the TV show Chasers at Bluestone complete with cocktails which was very well attended and the scene of the murder. That means plenty of suspects but both Emma and I pared those down quickly. The mystery was not as complex as I expected. There was a lot of focus on the event and its planning. There was a bit of repetition as Emma worked through the clues while at Tabitha's beck and call. Emma had the patience of a saint and behaved much better than I would have. The guilty party was at the top of my list and the confession revealed a very petty person.
Ms. Kuhn does an excellent job at setting each scene. An unfortunate event put the gala in jeopardy and I was thrilled with how Emma handled it and the help she received. The space was so aptly described I felt like I was right there peering over Emma's shoulder.
In the Event of Murder was an enjoyable read with characters I want to get to know better. Silvercrest and Starlit Books sound like my happy place being a book lover’s paradise. I could easily spend days, months, or years traveling from shop to shop. I am anxious to return. I hope we don't have to wait too long for the next installment of the Starlit Bookshop Mystery Series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
January 26, 2024
I had some difficulties with this one. The behaviors that Tabitha and Emma displayed with one another was tiresome. Tabitha was depicted to be one of these mean girls that never grew up. Emma played into this. This kind of interaction was overblown and detracted from the story as it seemed to become the focus at times. I found the actually mystery just popped up here and there and was really not cohesive.
August 22, 2024
When I received the ARC of 'How to Book a Murder', the first book in the series, I absolutely enjoyed it! I had found it engaging and well written with interesting characters and looked forward to reading more in the series.
But the thing is, that was almost 3 years ago and it's only now that the second book has been published. So while I did enjoy reading 'In the Event of Murder', it took me a while to recap all the characters and their back stories in my head and even then I wasn't able to recall all the details. I can only hope the author and publisher do not wait too long to publish the next book because this cozy mystery series does have potential.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author Cynthia Kuhn for the e-Arc of the book.
But the thing is, that was almost 3 years ago and it's only now that the second book has been published. So while I did enjoy reading 'In the Event of Murder', it took me a while to recap all the characters and their back stories in my head and even then I wasn't able to recall all the details. I can only hope the author and publisher do not wait too long to publish the next book because this cozy mystery series does have potential.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author Cynthia Kuhn for the e-Arc of the book.
June 24, 2024
In The Event of Murder is the second in the Starlit Bookshop Mysteries. There are many returning characters, most are involved in the library gala in one way or another, and few are any more likable than they were in the first book. Emma is working hard, but she is still acting like a teenager when it comes to her old high school enemy. The mystery has some interesting twists but in truth, it seemed to play a secondary part to the overall immaturity of the main character and her adolescent leanings. Overall I felt this story lacked any real intrigue and had too much childish behavior. I found the entire story rather blasé
January 21, 2024
#IntheEventofMurder #NetGalley featuring Emma Starrs is the latest book in the series.
Emma works in her aunt's bookstore, Starlit Books and now she's looking forward to attending the annual gala at the Silvercrest Library.
The guest list is exclusive and includes Silvercrest native Whitney Willton and her niece, caterer-to-the-stars Lyra Willton.
Whitney and Lyra are extremely close, and it seems everything is perfect in their world, until Lyra suffers an accident, and not long after, becomes the victim of foul play.
Lyra's sudden death devastates her aunt and the other gala members, but it also leaves them without a planner and caterer.
Emma is asked to step in, even though the gala organizer, Tabitha Baxter, is against it. Tabitha holds a grudge against Emma and she is really an awful person.
Emma, of course, shines in her role, leaving Tabitha irritable and mean.
Unexpected events begin to happen and Emma soon finds herself involved in the murder investigation, piecing the clues together and stunned when it's solved.
I really liked this book and I'm happy to recommend it to other readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
Emma works in her aunt's bookstore, Starlit Books and now she's looking forward to attending the annual gala at the Silvercrest Library.
The guest list is exclusive and includes Silvercrest native Whitney Willton and her niece, caterer-to-the-stars Lyra Willton.
Whitney and Lyra are extremely close, and it seems everything is perfect in their world, until Lyra suffers an accident, and not long after, becomes the victim of foul play.
Lyra's sudden death devastates her aunt and the other gala members, but it also leaves them without a planner and caterer.
Emma is asked to step in, even though the gala organizer, Tabitha Baxter, is against it. Tabitha holds a grudge against Emma and she is really an awful person.
Emma, of course, shines in her role, leaving Tabitha irritable and mean.
Unexpected events begin to happen and Emma soon finds herself involved in the murder investigation, piecing the clues together and stunned when it's solved.
I really liked this book and I'm happy to recommend it to other readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
January 28, 2025
I had not read the first book and jumped right into the second. I had no issues with backstories or felt like I was missing anything. The tv show that the celebrities are from sounds very interesting. I would definitely watch if that was a real show. Man, Tabitha got on my nerves. I have to give kudos to Emma for handling her with grace. She knows exactly how to handle to push back a little and take a stand while maintaining her composure. There was a lot of focus on the event itself. It almost felt like the mystery took a backseat. It was still an enjoyable read for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for a review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for a review.
February 1, 2024
I enjoyed the his book. There are several unlikeable characters, who definitely don’t redeem themselves, lol but the killer isn’t one of them, which is a surprise. I liked how the characters, (most) rise to the difficulties of getting the gala off and the aftermath. #IntheEventofMurder #NetGalley
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September 3, 2024I received a review copy of this book as part of the Great Escapes Virtual book tour.
In the Event of Murder is an enjoyable cozy mystery read, with a great small-town setting and characters who are definitely distinctive! From the opening, we are swept into the events of the Library Gala, and Emma's efforts to remain on the outskirts are of course doomed to failure, as she finds herself the event manager coping with ever-accumulating disasters.
If I have a criticism of the story, it's that Emma is too good at fixing the problems, and Tabitha is just too, too horrible. I don't think I've ever met anyone quite that catty, but maybe I'm just oblivious. In a way, her dreadfulness reminded me of the unabashedly absurd characters Charlotte MacLeod (dubbed by one critic "the queen of the whimsical whodunnit) created in her classics of the cozy mystery genre, so I didn't mind.
The mystery is well-plotted, with lots of great pointers directing me to all the wrong people (though it is pretty clear which set of people are the most likely suspects). I found the pacing about perfect, with something happening all the time, but not at a pace or level of danger to cause tension and anxiety in the reader. In other words, it does exactly what a cozy mystery ought to do. Oh, and I love that all this fund-raising to-do is for the benefit of the library!
In the Event of Murder is an enjoyable cozy mystery read, with a great small-town setting and characters who are definitely distinctive! From the opening, we are swept into the events of the Library Gala, and Emma's efforts to remain on the outskirts are of course doomed to failure, as she finds herself the event manager coping with ever-accumulating disasters.
If I have a criticism of the story, it's that Emma is too good at fixing the problems, and Tabitha is just too, too horrible. I don't think I've ever met anyone quite that catty, but maybe I'm just oblivious. In a way, her dreadfulness reminded me of the unabashedly absurd characters Charlotte MacLeod (dubbed by one critic "the queen of the whimsical whodunnit) created in her classics of the cozy mystery genre, so I didn't mind.
The mystery is well-plotted, with lots of great pointers directing me to all the wrong people (though it is pretty clear which set of people are the most likely suspects). I found the pacing about perfect, with something happening all the time, but not at a pace or level of danger to cause tension and anxiety in the reader. In other words, it does exactly what a cozy mystery ought to do. Oh, and I love that all this fund-raising to-do is for the benefit of the library!
July 20, 2024
In the second Starlit Bookshop mystery, Emma finds herself subbing for the murdered event planner who should have been organizing the gala to support the Public Library. With only days before the event, things would be difficult. They are made even more difficult because Emma's old high school rival Tabitha is in charge of the event. Tabitha is quick to grab credit while piling more and more onto Emma's to-do list.
Things get even more difficult when someone is trying to sabotage the event by canceling reservations and doing other mischief. Naturally, Tabitha is blaming Emma for the mischief even though there are others who might want the event to fail.
Tabitha has pulled off a coup by getting the star of a very popular television series to appear. Each of the show's episodes is based on a classic mystery which is right up Emma's alley since she is an aspiring mystery author herself. Not only does Tabitha secure Whitney's attendance, but she is surprised to learn that Whitney's co-stars Nat and Stella arrive too.
Emma has a lot more to do than just make sure the event is successful. She needs to find a killer and discover who is sabotaging the event.
I like the small-town setting for this story. Emma has come back home to help keep her family's bookshop going and fits right back in with her circle of friends who have useful skills if she's to pull off the gala and solve the mystery.
Things get even more difficult when someone is trying to sabotage the event by canceling reservations and doing other mischief. Naturally, Tabitha is blaming Emma for the mischief even though there are others who might want the event to fail.
Tabitha has pulled off a coup by getting the star of a very popular television series to appear. Each of the show's episodes is based on a classic mystery which is right up Emma's alley since she is an aspiring mystery author herself. Not only does Tabitha secure Whitney's attendance, but she is surprised to learn that Whitney's co-stars Nat and Stella arrive too.
Emma has a lot more to do than just make sure the event is successful. She needs to find a killer and discover who is sabotaging the event.
I like the small-town setting for this story. Emma has come back home to help keep her family's bookshop going and fits right back in with her circle of friends who have useful skills if she's to pull off the gala and solve the mystery.
May 14, 2024
I. Love. This. Book.
First of all, a cozy mystery with a bookshop cat named Anne Shirley? Be still my bibliophile heart.
Filled with a cast of extremely likeable characters, and an engaging mystery (that doesn’t end in the usual way), you have a winning book.
Protagonist Lucy is relatable, with a community of friends and family around her that feels true to life. Joined in the book by a cast of Hollywood stars, she becomes entangled in the truly complex webs that have been created.
Also, can we please have a real life “Chasers” tv show?!
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read this book for free and provide my honest opinion.
First of all, a cozy mystery with a bookshop cat named Anne Shirley? Be still my bibliophile heart.
Filled with a cast of extremely likeable characters, and an engaging mystery (that doesn’t end in the usual way), you have a winning book.
Protagonist Lucy is relatable, with a community of friends and family around her that feels true to life. Joined in the book by a cast of Hollywood stars, she becomes entangled in the truly complex webs that have been created.
Also, can we please have a real life “Chasers” tv show?!
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read this book for free and provide my honest opinion.
September 30, 2024
TV stars, entourages, event planners, oh my! Lots of big personalities competing for the spotlight in this Colorado college town as the community library fundraising gala gets closer. And as one disaster after another (including murder) leaves the star-studded event on shaky ground, our poor protagonist Emma gets dragged into the drama whether she wants to or not. One of those big personalities is Tabitha, the library board president who sees Emma as her arch nemesis… so you know that the two of them working together is gonna go sooooo well. Ha! Narcissistic Tabitha provides such a contrast to friendly Emma, and the fact that we’ve all known someone who reminds us of Tabitha makes her utterly ridiculous demands and credit-hogging not that ridiculous after all.
I haven’t yet read book one in this series, so I enjoyed meeting Emma for the first time while reading In The Event of Murder. She’s gregarious and relatable, and it’s clear she’s a good friend based on how quickly her friends & family come through for her in this book. There’s also some romantic sparks that fly between her and the swoony local detective – and possibly a new guy, too – which of course made my KissingBooks-fan heart happy. This doesn’t overpower the story though, so you mystery purists don’t need to panic. Speaking of the mystery… there are several layers to this one that had me delightedly trying to figure out what was connected and what wasn’t. Not only does a murder send the gala planning into a tizzy, they also have to contend with some significant sabotage and a handful of accidents that may not be so accidental. It’s well-plotted with some surprising twists, too, before all is said and done.
Bottom Line: Cynthia Kuhn’s engaging writing voice drew me immediately into In the Event of Murder and kept me invested in the story until the end. I liked meeting Emma and her inner circle, and I appreciated that I couldn’t quite put all the pieces together before all was revealed. As it was, I focused too much on the well-placed red herrings and ignored the also-well-placed clues until I had an entirely wrong theory of what happened… and I had a fun time doing so! If you enjoy small town bookstore settings with a likable protagonist, a little dash of Hollywood and a hint of romance with your cozy mysteries, then look no further than In the Event of Murder!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
I haven’t yet read book one in this series, so I enjoyed meeting Emma for the first time while reading In The Event of Murder. She’s gregarious and relatable, and it’s clear she’s a good friend based on how quickly her friends & family come through for her in this book. There’s also some romantic sparks that fly between her and the swoony local detective – and possibly a new guy, too – which of course made my KissingBooks-fan heart happy. This doesn’t overpower the story though, so you mystery purists don’t need to panic. Speaking of the mystery… there are several layers to this one that had me delightedly trying to figure out what was connected and what wasn’t. Not only does a murder send the gala planning into a tizzy, they also have to contend with some significant sabotage and a handful of accidents that may not be so accidental. It’s well-plotted with some surprising twists, too, before all is said and done.
Bottom Line: Cynthia Kuhn’s engaging writing voice drew me immediately into In the Event of Murder and kept me invested in the story until the end. I liked meeting Emma and her inner circle, and I appreciated that I couldn’t quite put all the pieces together before all was revealed. As it was, I focused too much on the well-placed red herrings and ignored the also-well-placed clues until I had an entirely wrong theory of what happened… and I had a fun time doing so! If you enjoy small town bookstore settings with a likable protagonist, a little dash of Hollywood and a hint of romance with your cozy mysteries, then look no further than In the Event of Murder!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
September 1, 2024
IN THE EVENT OF MURDER by Cynthia Kuhn
The Second Starlit Bookshop Mystery
Everyone in Silvercrest, Colorado is excited for the Silvercrest Library Gala. Emma Stars is preparing for the classic mystery panel to be held at her family's bookstore as part of the event and is excited to attend the gala itself. This year the fundraiser is featuring stars from the popular television series Chasers, including hometown native Whitney Willton. Whitney's niece, Lyra, who also left Silvercrest for Hollywood, is joining her as event planner for the gala and associated events. But excitement turns to tragedy when Lyra is found murdered. However, the show must go on and Emma takes over as the event planner. As she and her nemesis and event chair butt heads, more problems plague the event. Is someone sabotaging the gala? Or targeting the Chasers cast? Emma will do her best to make the event a success as she quietly tries to solve the murder.
I really enjoyed the second Starlit Bookshop Mystery. Emma is a likable protagonist. She's smart, but has a few foibles. I also really like her aunt and sister, even though they have much smaller roles in this story. Meanwhile, Tabitha is the character we love to hate. She's the stereotypical mean girl who continues to believe she's the Queen Bee even as an adult. I admit to some satisfaction seeing her put in her place a few times.
IN THE EVENT OF MURDER is unique in that Lyra's murder is almost secondary to the gala preparation itself. She was murdered and Emma took over her role and the story concentrated on planning and executing the event instead of solving Lyra's murder.
Despite all the pettiness and character assassinations, there was an element of romance as well. Ryan's transformation of the event space was magical and despite Emma's protestations, there may be romance ahead for her and there's definitely romance for a few other characters!
With Hollywood drama and Colorado common sense, IN THE EVENT OF MURDER is a high spirited mystery of jealousy and ruthless ambition.
The Second Starlit Bookshop Mystery
Everyone in Silvercrest, Colorado is excited for the Silvercrest Library Gala. Emma Stars is preparing for the classic mystery panel to be held at her family's bookstore as part of the event and is excited to attend the gala itself. This year the fundraiser is featuring stars from the popular television series Chasers, including hometown native Whitney Willton. Whitney's niece, Lyra, who also left Silvercrest for Hollywood, is joining her as event planner for the gala and associated events. But excitement turns to tragedy when Lyra is found murdered. However, the show must go on and Emma takes over as the event planner. As she and her nemesis and event chair butt heads, more problems plague the event. Is someone sabotaging the gala? Or targeting the Chasers cast? Emma will do her best to make the event a success as she quietly tries to solve the murder.
I really enjoyed the second Starlit Bookshop Mystery. Emma is a likable protagonist. She's smart, but has a few foibles. I also really like her aunt and sister, even though they have much smaller roles in this story. Meanwhile, Tabitha is the character we love to hate. She's the stereotypical mean girl who continues to believe she's the Queen Bee even as an adult. I admit to some satisfaction seeing her put in her place a few times.
IN THE EVENT OF MURDER is unique in that Lyra's murder is almost secondary to the gala preparation itself. She was murdered and Emma took over her role and the story concentrated on planning and executing the event instead of solving Lyra's murder.
Despite all the pettiness and character assassinations, there was an element of romance as well. Ryan's transformation of the event space was magical and despite Emma's protestations, there may be romance ahead for her and there's definitely romance for a few other characters!
With Hollywood drama and Colorado common sense, IN THE EVENT OF MURDER is a high spirited mystery of jealousy and ruthless ambition.
April 26, 2024
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First of all, thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing an arc of the book. This book will be released on 20th August 2024.
Step into Silvercrest, Colorado, where the annual gala at the Silvercrest Library promises glamour and intrigue. In the second Starlit Bookshop mystery, Emma Starrs, thriving at her aunt’s bookstore, faces a chilling challenge when Lyra Willton is murdered. With her sleuthing skills summoned, Emma uncovers secrets amidst whispers of foul play. As the danger escalates, Emma races against time, confronting adversaries and unmasking a killer. From a priceless antique’s disappearance to a brutal attack, each twist intensifies the mystery. With resilience and determination, Emma navigates treacherous waters, ensuring justice prevails as the gala becomes a battleground where murder steals the spotlight.
You won’t want to miss any party in Kuhn’s wonderful series because of the humour, suspense, and unexpected turns! You’re expected to detest the characters in this thriller, even if several unlikeable individuals don’t end up redeeming themselves! I read the book quickly and found it to be quite engaging, although at times I found it confusing because I wasn’t familiar with the characters from the previous book.
Celebrities from a true crime program are the special guests, and there are lots of mysteries, rumours, mishaps, and injuries. Finding out more about this adorable tiny town and all of its oddball residents was a pleasure. I discovered that the riddle itself was disjointed, appearing here and there. But after going through my lists of potential suspects, I discovered that, ultimately, I was entirely mistaken.
First of all, thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing an arc of the book. This book will be released on 20th August 2024.
Step into Silvercrest, Colorado, where the annual gala at the Silvercrest Library promises glamour and intrigue. In the second Starlit Bookshop mystery, Emma Starrs, thriving at her aunt’s bookstore, faces a chilling challenge when Lyra Willton is murdered. With her sleuthing skills summoned, Emma uncovers secrets amidst whispers of foul play. As the danger escalates, Emma races against time, confronting adversaries and unmasking a killer. From a priceless antique’s disappearance to a brutal attack, each twist intensifies the mystery. With resilience and determination, Emma navigates treacherous waters, ensuring justice prevails as the gala becomes a battleground where murder steals the spotlight.
You won’t want to miss any party in Kuhn’s wonderful series because of the humour, suspense, and unexpected turns! You’re expected to detest the characters in this thriller, even if several unlikeable individuals don’t end up redeeming themselves! I read the book quickly and found it to be quite engaging, although at times I found it confusing because I wasn’t familiar with the characters from the previous book.
Celebrities from a true crime program are the special guests, and there are lots of mysteries, rumours, mishaps, and injuries. Finding out more about this adorable tiny town and all of its oddball residents was a pleasure. I discovered that the riddle itself was disjointed, appearing here and there. But after going through my lists of potential suspects, I discovered that, ultimately, I was entirely mistaken.
July 26, 2024
Literary Cozy Mystery featuring a Colorado bookseller, literary event planner and aspiring writer who turns sleuth after the library's star-studded gala's caterer is murdered.
5/5 stars: This is the second entry in Kuhn's Starlit Bookshop Mystery series, it's a Literary Cozy Mystery that takes place in Colorado and features a literary event planner and aspiring writer who who works with her sister and aunt at the family bookstore. After the library's star-studded gala's caterer is murdered, she takes over the job and when the victim's actress aunt asks her to look into the death she agrees to investigate. But her sleuthing job won't be easy, someone's determined to sabotage the gala week events so she'll have to work fast to save the gala and catch the killer. Kuhn has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Additionally, Kuhn's writing and character work are stellar; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable. It's great to catch up with Emma, her family, the staff at Starlit Bookshop and the folks of Silvercrest. Emma's a great character and I love seeing her figure everything out. Oh and I have to say I love how she handles her longtime nemesis, Tabitha. And of course, one must not forget one of the best named bookstore cats... Anne Shirley, the red tabby. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, How to Book a Murder.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
5/5 stars: This is the second entry in Kuhn's Starlit Bookshop Mystery series, it's a Literary Cozy Mystery that takes place in Colorado and features a literary event planner and aspiring writer who who works with her sister and aunt at the family bookstore. After the library's star-studded gala's caterer is murdered, she takes over the job and when the victim's actress aunt asks her to look into the death she agrees to investigate. But her sleuthing job won't be easy, someone's determined to sabotage the gala week events so she'll have to work fast to save the gala and catch the killer. Kuhn has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Additionally, Kuhn's writing and character work are stellar; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable. It's great to catch up with Emma, her family, the staff at Starlit Bookshop and the folks of Silvercrest. Emma's a great character and I love seeing her figure everything out. Oh and I have to say I love how she handles her longtime nemesis, Tabitha. And of course, one must not forget one of the best named bookstore cats... Anne Shirley, the red tabby. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, How to Book a Murder.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
August 14, 2024
This is the second in the charming series "Starlilt Bookshop Murder Series"
by cozy author Cynthia Kuhn. Thank you to the publisher, Net Galley and the author for the opportunity.
My review opinions are my own. This is a endearing series with a beautiful Rocky Mountain setting of a small town. This is a exciting addition to the series
Our protagnist Emma will be attending a gala at the local library. She and the invited guests are first attending a tea a few days before the main event. When a famous guest caterer is murdered at the tea the board committee votes for Emma to take over. the event She is determined to investigate the murder while taking on new duties. Her most disliked person has also asked her to please investigate the murder. As attacks continued on the celebrity guests and a fire occurs Emma is challenged to not only put on the successful gala but solve the mysterious death and attacks on others attending. A fun sleuth that kept me guessing to conclusion. This was a exciting read with much action and growth for our protagnist Emma. Well done to the author.
by cozy author Cynthia Kuhn. Thank you to the publisher, Net Galley and the author for the opportunity.
My review opinions are my own. This is a endearing series with a beautiful Rocky Mountain setting of a small town. This is a exciting addition to the series
Our protagnist Emma will be attending a gala at the local library. She and the invited guests are first attending a tea a few days before the main event. When a famous guest caterer is murdered at the tea the board committee votes for Emma to take over. the event She is determined to investigate the murder while taking on new duties. Her most disliked person has also asked her to please investigate the murder. As attacks continued on the celebrity guests and a fire occurs Emma is challenged to not only put on the successful gala but solve the mysterious death and attacks on others attending. A fun sleuth that kept me guessing to conclusion. This was a exciting read with much action and growth for our protagnist Emma. Well done to the author.
March 27, 2025
I was so glad to find out that Cynthia Kuhn wrote a second mystery in her Starlit Bookshop Mystery series. Reading the first book I felt like I lived in this town and that I had been to Emma's Bookshop. I went to the college, visited the cafe, and shopped at the second hand close shop. I never wanted the book to end. I felt the same way about In the Event of Murder.
In this second installment, we find our main character Emma trust into the middle of planning a star studded fundraising Gala after the original planner and family member of one of the Hollywood guests is killed. Color me intrigued to say the least! But add in the fact that Emma is working for her arch nemesis from the first book? Well, talk about drama!
I loved how I immediately felt like I knew these characters and was highly invested in their highs and lows. When I first started reading I wasn't sure I remembered the plot of the first book, but not even a full chapter in, the characters and the settings came rushing back and to me that is a staple of cozy mysteries!
I highly recommend the Starlit Bookshop series and I hope we get many more!
In this second installment, we find our main character Emma trust into the middle of planning a star studded fundraising Gala after the original planner and family member of one of the Hollywood guests is killed. Color me intrigued to say the least! But add in the fact that Emma is working for her arch nemesis from the first book? Well, talk about drama!
I loved how I immediately felt like I knew these characters and was highly invested in their highs and lows. When I first started reading I wasn't sure I remembered the plot of the first book, but not even a full chapter in, the characters and the settings came rushing back and to me that is a staple of cozy mysteries!
I highly recommend the Starlit Bookshop series and I hope we get many more!
February 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
In the event of murder
ARC publication date: August 20, 2024
When I tell you this is the COZIEST murder mystery you will ever read. Think murder in Stars Hollow, Virgin River, Sweet Magnolias. It is wholesome. The backdrop is a hallmark worthy town - Silvercrest, Colorado. The main character owns a family bookstore and is so close with her aunt and her sister. It’s all just very charming.
The main character, Emma Starrs, finds herself at the heart of a murder mystery while trying to plan a charity gala to benefit the town library. The special guests are celebrities from a true crime show and all sorts of mystery, gossip, accidents and injury occur. It is filled with beautiful people, some romances and of course, murder. This book is fun and easy to read and even though murder is the main focus - the atmosphere really pulls you in to the charm of the town and its people.
August 22, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I will be checking out her other books. This is also book 2 of this series but I did not have any trouble keeping track of characters or events.
This is a cozy mystery that takes place in a small town in Colorado. Emma owns the local bookstore and winds up stepping in at the last minute as an event coordinator for the biggest event of the year after the previous coordinator was murdered.
There was a lot going on in this book between crimes committed, personal conflicts between different characters, romances, potential romances, etc. There was never a dull moment. I liked many of the characters that I hope will be regulars in future installments. I can’t wait to see what happens with some of the storylines left hanging at the end of this book. And the ending did make me smile. It was an Awwwwwww! moment.
I did receive this book as a free ARC from NetGalley and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a cozy mystery that takes place in a small town in Colorado. Emma owns the local bookstore and winds up stepping in at the last minute as an event coordinator for the biggest event of the year after the previous coordinator was murdered.
There was a lot going on in this book between crimes committed, personal conflicts between different characters, romances, potential romances, etc. There was never a dull moment. I liked many of the characters that I hope will be regulars in future installments. I can’t wait to see what happens with some of the storylines left hanging at the end of this book. And the ending did make me smile. It was an Awwwwwww! moment.
I did receive this book as a free ARC from NetGalley and am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2024
This cozy mystery involves a delightful cast of characters: bookshop co-owners Emma Starrs and her sister, Lucy, and their charming Aunt Nora. But trouble begins when Emma, who is also an event planner, steps in to manage the annual library fundraising gala after the original planner gets bumped off. Emma is grudgingly hired by her nemesis, small-town socialite Tabitha, a mean girl back in high school and just as nasty now. I thoroughly enjoyed following the story as Emma tries to solve the mystery while coping with Tabitha’s demands as well as more threats to the gala: a last-minute venue disaster, a wardrobe malfunction, and three Hollywood TV actors with enormous egos. The trio are not only the gala’s guest stars but are on Emma’s A-list of murder suspects. This second Starlight Bookshop Mystery was as much fun to read as the first in the series, How to Book A Murder. I’m looking forward to book three!
December 6, 2024
It's the annual gala at the Silvercrest Library, Colorado. It will be a glamorous evening with celebrities including movie legend and Silvercrest native Whitney Willton and her niece, caterer-to-the-stars Lyra Willton. Emma and her Aunt Nora of the famous Starlit bookshop, cannot wait in spite of the sour note provided by fellow organizer, Tabitha.
All seems to be going brilliantly until Lyra's murdered body is found during the gala presentation. Suddenly Emma find herself responsible for ensuring that the show goes on. This puts her in Tabitha's cross hairs. Hopefully, the murderer doesn't follow her example.
This is the second book in this series. It's a fun and enjoyable read with a good twist.
Thanks to the author, publisher and #NetGalley for an Advanced Copy and the opportunity to provide this review.
4 stars. Recommended.
All seems to be going brilliantly until Lyra's murdered body is found during the gala presentation. Suddenly Emma find herself responsible for ensuring that the show goes on. This puts her in Tabitha's cross hairs. Hopefully, the murderer doesn't follow her example.
This is the second book in this series. It's a fun and enjoyable read with a good twist.
Thanks to the author, publisher and #NetGalley for an Advanced Copy and the opportunity to provide this review.
4 stars. Recommended.
February 11, 2025
This is a really fun book! This is the second in the Starlit Bookstore Mystery series, however it can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed the premise of the story, a big gala supporting the local library is underway - a week-long series of celebrations the week after Christmas. There is a local celebrity who returns home to draw support for the gala, and she brings with her two co-stars of her popular TV show based on famous mystery novels.
When one member of the entourage, who is also the event planner, is found dead, the town is left scrambling to secure the event activities and find a killer.
I liked the story and did not find it to be predictable. I thought that the characters are memorable and for the most part likeable (except for Tabitha, of course!) I would recommend this book and look forward to more in the series.
When one member of the entourage, who is also the event planner, is found dead, the town is left scrambling to secure the event activities and find a killer.
I liked the story and did not find it to be predictable. I thought that the characters are memorable and for the most part likeable (except for Tabitha, of course!) I would recommend this book and look forward to more in the series.
August 12, 2024
This was an enjoyable easy to read book. Even though this is the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone. I personally like to read a series from the beginning though. Things I liked: - the setting, the focus on family and community, at least one character that you just love to hate, a murder mystery and an amateur sleuth. Things that I would have wanted to be different: - more in-depth character development, a bit less focus on Tabitha and Emma’s contentious relationship (sometimes it was just too over the top) and more focus on the murder investigation and less on the library fundraising gala. All in all, I think this is a good series and cozy mystery readers will find lots to like in the series.
September 4, 2024
I really enjoyed the first one in this series so I have been eagerly anticipating this one and it did not disappoint. It has been awhile, though, so I wasn’t sure if I would remember much from the first one but it was all explained well and I caught up in no time. There was a lot of event planning in this one, which I love, so this was right up my alley but not so much anything about the bookshop, which is supposed to be the focus of this series. The mystery solution was a little convoluted and underwhelming, almost like an afterthought, so this felt more like a book about event planning where they discuss a case they heard about rather than a real investigation but I still enjoyed it. I just wish it had been focused more on the mystery.
November 16, 2024
Cozies are my thing. I enjoyed this book. What's not to love, a cozy about a booksto0re. Emma works are her Aunts bookstore and is excited about the annual gala benefitting the library. The stars for a popular TV show are the guest stars. The main character is played by a local, Whitney Willton. Her niece is the event planner, until she is murdered. Emma is asked to substitute for the recently murdered woman. Lots of twists, suspects, and excitement. I liken cozies to candy. They are fun and don't require major concentration. They are a nice escape and this one fits the bill. It was fun to read and kept me engaged. Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book and offer my unbiased review.
March 18, 2024
Thank you Net Galley and publishers for letting me read an arc of this book for my honest review!
I really liked this cozy murder mystery. It's the second installment of the series and it wonderfully continues the story and characters from the first. I liked it even better than the first because it didn't add any unnecessary details or dragged on. I was fully attentive from page one. I loved learning more about this cute little town and all of it's quirky characters. I do hope she writes more to this series, I hoping for the love interest to fully bloom into something other than flirty tension.
I really liked this cozy murder mystery. It's the second installment of the series and it wonderfully continues the story and characters from the first. I liked it even better than the first because it didn't add any unnecessary details or dragged on. I was fully attentive from page one. I loved learning more about this cute little town and all of it's quirky characters. I do hope she writes more to this series, I hoping for the love interest to fully bloom into something other than flirty tension.
June 20, 2024
For the most part, I enjoyed this cozy mystery set on the banks of Rocky Mountain River in Silvercrest, Colorado. Emma, along with her sister, is a bookstore owner. She is excited to attend the gala and all the surrounding activities for the Silvercrest Library. But, when one of the main organizers is murdered, Emma steps in to help and gets caught up in a tangled web of mystery. Emma has to work with Tabitha, a mean girl from Emma's high school days. This relationship will hopefully work itself out because it was a bit tiresome in this book- my only complaint. The rest of the cast of characters were likable.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an advanced copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an advanced copy.
July 8, 2024
This was my first book from Cynthia Kuhn it won't be the last but it didn't work his charm on me. The mystery it's very slow paced for my taste. I know cozy mystery it's all about small town charming and I enjoyed the dinámics of the characters for a while but then, by chapter ten I was so ready for the mystery to pick up.
I love starlit books and the sisters and aunt dinámics they feel like a family but I was expecting more of the investigation from Emma's part.
The book certainly was a feel good book and I will recommend it for cozy mystery fans who wants their mystery a bit more spaced.
I like it but it didn't drive me crazy. #netgalley
I love starlit books and the sisters and aunt dinámics they feel like a family but I was expecting more of the investigation from Emma's part.
The book certainly was a feel good book and I will recommend it for cozy mystery fans who wants their mystery a bit more spaced.
I like it but it didn't drive me crazy. #netgalley
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