September 2, 2024
Gerber (the Fairy Garden Mysteries) underwhelms in this formulaic series launch centered on Asheville, N.C., caterer Allie Catt. Despite her self-described good looks and “smoldering sage-green eyes,” Alice has been unlucky in love, a streak that may finally end when she meets handsome police detective Zach Armstrong. Zach is investigating the poisoning of bookstore owner Marigold Markel—the aunt of Allie’s best friend, Tegan Potts. Marigold was found dead inside her locked shop, clutching a copy of Pride and Prejudice. Tegan, who clerked at the store and stood to inherit a share of it, is accused of the killing by her half sister, Vanna Harding, leading Allie, a mystery buff, to play sleuth. While Allie tries to clear Tegan’s name and nurses a secret crush on Zach, Gerber methodically hits all the familiar cozy beats, including a timely intervention by Allie’s cat, Darcy, who can not only read her thoughts but harbors “a particular fondness for Pride and Prejudice.” The romance lacks spark and the central mystery is underheated. Cozy fans have loads of better options. Agent: Jill Marsal, Marsal Lyon Literary.