For the Love of Reading: April 2021

Time to share what I read in April and the bottom line is . . . not very much!

The Searcher

The Searcher by Tana French
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this character study about a retired American police officer living in Ireland and aiming for a fresh start yet getting drawn back into his detective role when he finds himself in the middle of a missing persons situation. The setting, from the birds and animals to the sparse scenery, is beautifully described and the other characters are complex and richly drawn. Highly recommended but keep in mind this is a slow paced story that reveals itself bit by bit.

Murder at the Taffy Shop

Murder at the Taffy Shop by Maddie Day
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
For me, the best part of this cozy mystery series is that it’s set on Cape Cod. The town is fictional but the setting is realistic and makes me feel like it’s summer on the Cape. Beyond that, it’s a typical cozy mystery series, full of fun and quirky characters, with an easy to follow plot. It’s the perfect palate cleanser.

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Clammed Up (Maine Clambake Mystery, #1)

Clammed Up by Barbara Ross
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This cozy mystery set in a fictitious town in Maine (which bears a strong resemblance to Boothbay Harbor) is light and easy. The setting is perfectly described, the characters are interesting and not too badly stereotyped, and the plot is entertaining. Recommended for those who enjoy a good cozy mystery series.

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Boiled Over (A Maine Clambake Mystery, #2)

Boiled Over by Barbara Ross
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Book 2 in an enjoyable cozy mystery series set in Maine. Authentic setting, interesting characters, and a plot that kept me guessing, it’s everything I need in a book of this type.


I’m on track with my annual reading goal of 75 books but this was definitely a slow month for me. Summer Book Bingo is right around the corner, though, and you can bet that will provide me with some great reading inspiration.


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This Post Has 10 Comments

  1. Like you, I really liked The Searcher. I thought it was a real change for Tana French, but a good one. I have had a slow reading month as well. Happy Monday, Carole!

  2. My reading was limited to re-reading during a period of stress. Happy endings were required. However, I might have read two new cozy mysteries this weekend. I seldom have time for that. But what a great escape.

  3. I enjoyed The Searcher, too, even if it was a bit slow-paced. I hope Tana French writes more about Cal Hooper as I would like to see his character further developed. Even the covers of the cozy mysteries are bright and summery!

  5. Thanks for the recommendations. I need something light but engaging.

  6. I’ve read everyone of Barbara Ross’s in the series. I think of the cozy mysteries as palate cleansers for the thrillers or other books I read. I haven’t read a Tana French yet but will keep a look out at a used bookstore I visit.

  7. You did an excellent job writing my book review of The Searcher! Really… my thoughts exactly.

  8. The Searcher isn’t even on my radar … thank you! and I’m so glad you’re looking forward to Bingo! a string of cozy mysteries sounds like a wonderful way to prep 🙂

  9. I’ll have to look into those Cape-set mysteries. We won’t be vacationing there anytime soon, so at least I can go there in my reading!

  10. I haven’t read a Tana French book in a while. May have to check this out. B

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