Death in the Romance Aisle

Book 3: Survivors' Book Club Mystery

by Lynn Cahoon

Genres: Amateur Sleuth; Animal Cozy Mysteries

Synopsis

Rarity Cole is taking full advantage of her second chance at life after recovering from breast cancer—running a bookstore in Sedona and a support group for fellow survivors. She's also discovered a knack for defeating other kinds of deadly threats . . .



Rarity is excited about expanding the romance section of her store—but not nearly as excited as her best friend Sam is about reuniting with her brother after many years. Marcus makes the trek from California to Arizona, is welcomed with a party, and hints that he may stick around now that remote work is an option.



But is it just a coincidence that not long after his arrival, a body is found near a local swimming hole? Especially considering that the dead woman had recently gone on a date with him—and even worse, that Marcus has a startling secret in his past? The police suspect him, but Rarity hopes to find another explanation before Sam is once again separated from her sibling—by prison walls . . .

Release date: September 5, 2023

Publisher: Lyrical Press

Print pages: 212

Reader says this book is...: entertaining story (1) female sleuth (1)

Sample

Praise for Lynn Cahoon and Her Irresistible Cozy Mysteries

THREE TAINTED TEAS

“A kitchen witch reluctantly takes over as planner for a cursed wedding... This witchy tale is a hoot.”

—Kirkus Reviews

ONE POISON PIE

“One Poison Pie deliciously blends charm and magic with a dash of mystery and a sprinkle of romance. Mia Malone is a zesty protagonist who relies on her wits to solve the crime, and the enchanting cast of characters that populate Magic Springs are a delight.”

—Daryl Wood Gerber, Agatha winner and nationally best-selling author of the Cookbook Nook Mysteries and Fairy Garden Mysteries

“A witchy cooking cozy for fans of the supernatural and good eating.”

—Kirkus Reviews

A FIELD GUIDE TO HOMICIDE

“The best entry in this character-driven series mixes a well-plotted mystery with a romance that rings true to life.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“Informative as well as entertaining, A Field Guide to Homicide is the perfect book for cozy mystery lovers who entertain thoughts of writing novels themselves... This is, without a doubt, one of the best Cat Latimer novels to date.”

—Criminal Element

“Cat is a great heroine with a lot of spirit that readers will enjoy solving the mystery.”

—Parkersburg News & Sentinel

SCONED TO DEATH

“The most intriguing aspect of this story is the writers’ retreat itself. Although the writers themselves are not suspect, they add freshness and new relationships to the series. Fans of Lucy Arlington’s ‘Novel Idea’ mysteries may want to enter the writing world from another angle.”

—Library Journal

OF MURDER AND MEN

“A Colorado widow discovers that everything she knew about her husband’s death is wrong... Interesting plot and quirky characters.”

—Kirkus Reviews

A STORY TO KILL

“Well-crafted... Cat and crew prove to be engaging characters and Cahoon does a stellar job of keeping them—and the reader—guessing.”

—Mystery Scene

“Lynn Cahoon has hit the golden trifecta—Murder, intrigue, and a really hot handyman. Better get your flashlight handy, A Story To Kill will keep you reading all night.”

—Laura Bradford, author of the Amish Mysteries

“A Colorado widow discovers that everything she knew about her husband’s death is wrong... Interesting plot and quirky characters.”

—Kirkus Reviews

TOURIST TRAP MYSTERIES

“Lynn Cahoon’s popular Tourist Trap series is set all around the charming coastal town of South Cove, California, but the heroine Jill Gardner owns a delightful bookstore/coffee shop so a lot of the scenes take place there. This is one of my go-to cozy mystery series, bookish or not, and I’m always eager to get my hands on the next book!”

—Hope By the Book

“Murder, dirty politics, pirate lore, and a hot police detective: Guidebook to Murder has it all! A cozy lover’s dream come true.”

—Susan McBride, author of the Debutante Dropout Mysteries

“This was a good read and I love the author’s style, which was warm and friendly... I can’t wait to read the next book in this wonderfully appealing series.”

—Dru’s Book Musings

“I am happy to admit that some of my expectations were met while other aspects of the story exceeded my own imagination... This mystery novel was light, fun, and kept me thoroughly engaged. I only wish it was longer.”

—The Young Folks

“If the Shoe Kills is entertaining and I would be happy to visit Jill and the residents of South Cove again.”

—MysteryPlease.com

“In If the Shoe Kills, author Lynn Cahoon gave me exactly what I wanted. She crafted a well told small town murder that kept me guessing who the murderer was until the end. I will definitely have to take a trip back to South Cove and maybe even visit tales of Jill Gardner’s past in the previous two Tourist Trap Mystery books. I do love a holiday mystery! And with this book, so will you.”

—ArtBooksCoffee.com

“I would recommend If the Shoe Kills if you are looking for a well written cozy mystery.”

—Mysteries, Etc.

“This novella is short and easily read in an hour or two with interesting angst and dynamics between mothers and daughters and mothers and sons... I enjoyed the first-person narrative.”

—Kings River Life Magazine on Mother’s Day Mayhem

Chapter 1

The Tuesday night Survivors’ Book Club was starting in less than thirty minutes, and Sam Aarons still hadn’t shown up with the treats for the meeting. Rarity Cole, bookstore owner, texted her friend for the third time after she saw Shirley Prescott coming into the shop. Besides Rarity, who’d started the club, Shirley had been the first member, and she considered herself second-in-command for the club, especially surrounding the treat portion of the night. Shirley looked like the group mom or grandmother. With her gray hair pulled into a bun at the back of her head, no one could stand up to her bulldozing her way into their heart. Rarity tucked her phone away and smiled, hoping Shirley was in a good mood. “Good evening, Shirley. How’s George?”

“He’s fine. Grumpy as usual.” Shirley glanced back at the treat table that currently held only coffee and lemonade. “Was it my turn to bring treats for this evening? I can run home and get something really quick. Sometimes I’m so forgetful.”

“Sam’s bringing cookies tonight. I talked to her earlier. I’m not sure why she’s late, but she’ll be here. I’ve got a few things to finish up before we start. I’ll meet you by the fireplace.” Rarity walked over and set up the We’re Open, so Yell if You Need Help sign. She didn’t think it was necessary, but she didn’t want people to think that just because the book club was in session, they couldn’t buy a book. And she still hadn’t seen the need, or the income, to hire someone to cover the register while the club was in session. She was more focused on setting up additional book clubs. At least now that her first employee, Darby, had put in her notice. Rarity grabbed Killer’s lead and took him out front to make sure he wouldn’t need to go while they were talking.

Killer was a tan Yorkie she’d taken in as a foster for a few weeks until they’d found out that his former owner had been killed. Then he’d just stayed and became Rarity’s dog. Constant companion. Confidante. Okay, she treated the dog like he was her kid. But she wasn’t going to change that. She adored the little guy. A lot of people thought he was a Pom. Or at least a lot of people who came into the bookstore said that. He sniffed at several spots on the artificial-grass yard—okay, a few squares—that she’d set up in the front. He had a second place in the alley at the store for when she was working while it was closed.

Rarity saw a glimpse of herself in the window of the closed door. The darkness outside with the streetlamp made it look more like a mirror than a window. Her curly dark hair cascaded over the side of her face, hiding the worry she felt that must have been apparent to everyone else in the room. She put the negative thoughts away and turned to the right and to something she could actually fix tonight.

Sam’s crystal shop was next door to the bookstore. Rarity could see Sam on the phone through the window. She waved at her, hoping to catch her gaze, and she did. Sam nodded and pointed to the phone. Apparently, that meant she’d be over as soon as she locked up her business and finished the phone call. Rarity nodded and hoped that Sam hadn’t forgotten cookies, because if she had, Shirley would leave the meeting and run home to whip the group up something for a treat.

Shirley was a big believer that when two or more shall meet, there should be food. Feeding people was her way of serving others and showing her love. With her husband in a memory care facility, Rarity knew Shirley needed to feel needed. Shirley still hadn’t told many people that George wasn’t living at home, but that was her secret to tell, not Rarity’s.

Killer was ready to go back inside, and he whined at her feet. He’d done his business, now he needed a treat.

She returned to the register and took a sip of the water she’d poured earlier. The ice had already started to melt. She must have been busy researching her next book order and had let drinking it slip. Drinking more water to stay hydrated in the desert air was one of Rarity’s personal goals. But it wasn’t working out. Maybe she should try another tactic. Just having water nearby didn’t mean she’d drink it. Rarity needed to trick herself into actually consuming the liquid. But that was a worry for another time. She got a dog treat out from under the desk and praised Killer for his good work.

Then she headed over to start the meeting, hoping Sam wouldn’t be too late. She took her spot at the front of the group circle, where she could still watch the front door for customers.

“Good evening, everyone. Why don’t we gather ’round, take our seats, and find out how everyone’s doing this week.” Rarity saw Shirley’s hand shoot up. “Oh, and Sam’s running a little late with the treats, but we’ll take a short break when she comes in to keep you all from starving to death.”

A chuckle ran through the group, but the announcement had worked. They didn’t need to worry about the food; it was on its way.

“First up, I wanted to let you know about Darby, in case you haven’t heard. She’s attending school abroad this year in Scotland, so we won’t be seeing her until the spring term ends. We’re having a bon voyage party over at her place on Thursday night before she leaves on Saturday. She’s asking that we don’t bring presents, but I’m sure she’d take cards and money. College students are always short on money. Especially when they’ll be studying in a Scotland castle.” Rarity swallowed a sigh. She wasn’t going to be sad about Darby’s great news. But she’d miss her first employee at the bookstore. She glanced over to her right and kept going.

“Now, I’ve got some local good news in case any of you have kids or know any random kids.” The chuckle came back again, this time louder. “The Next Chapter is starting another book club—hopefully, four —for our younger Sedona residents. I’ve hired a couple of college students to run the events here at the bookstore on Saturday mornings. Each age group will meet once a month. That way, they’ll have time to read the books before the next meeting. Flyers are over on the register counter, so please take a few and get the word out. I’d like to introduce two new employees of The Next Chapter, Janey Ford and Caleb Thompson. Janey will be running the elementary school–age club and doing Mommy and Me book readings for the preschool group every Thursday afternoon. Caleb’s handling our middle school club and working with the local high school library to set up events.”

Janey and Caleb stood as Rarity introduced them. Then Janey quickly sat down. Caleb grinned at the group. At six feet plus, he looked like an adult version of a popular kid wizard, with dark hair and smoldering eyes. “We flipped a coin to see who would talk, and I lost. I’m always losing the coin flip. I’m beginning to think Janey has a rigged coin. Anyway, she and I are excited to meet the residents of Sedona. If you’re looking for a recommendation for a gift book, we’d be glad to give you some tips there as well. I read high fantasy, and Janey, well, she’s in love with love.”

Janey blushed at that introduction. Her long, straight blond hair and bright blue eyes made her look like many of the heroines in the books she loved to read. “I have to admit, I am. It’s a guilty pleasure, but I’m also boning up on kids’ books, so just reach out if you need anything.”

Rarity stood as Caleb sat. “I’m so excited to learn more about Janey and Caleb. They’ll be attending our book club until they get comfortable in their new roles; then we might not see them again. At least not in the Tuesday night group. So let’s get started talking about our newest read.”

Sam came in about twenty minutes late, her face flush with either exertion or excitement. She had a stack of cookie containers from Annie’s Bakery. Malia Overstreet, one of the regular club attendees, was listing off all the things she hadn’t understood in the book. And the list was long.

Rarity smiled at Malia and held up her hand. “Since refreshments have arrived, let’s put a pin in your list and return to let the group chime in after a few minutes. Maybe someone else had some of the same issues with the book?”

Malia glanced around the circle at the others. “I’d like to hear what other people think about her personality. I just didn’t get her. At all.”

“Malia, you never get characters who are the slightest bit different than you. You expect everyone to act the way you would.” Holly Harper, another member of the group and Malia’s best friend, stood and walked over to the treat table. “Sam, can I help open the oatmeal chocolate chip container?”

“I do not think everyone should be like me.” Malia had followed Holly to the treat table. “Hi, Sam. Nice to see you. And don’t give her the cookies. She just wants to eat them.”

Rarity smiled as she watched the exchange. Shirley hadn’t gotten up for cookies. Instead, she was still crocheting a pink afghan. She saw Rarity watching her, and she paused.

“No cookies?” Rarity asked.

“My doctor says I need to cut out sweets. I’m not going to waste my sugar allotment on Annie’s cookies when I have a batch of my peanut butter drops sitting at home waiting for me to take over to the home tomorrow. They’re George’s favorite.” Shirley went back to her project.

Rarity went over and sat next to her, Killer on her heels. He always seemed to know when someone was hurting. “How’s George doing?”

Shirley wiped her cheek with the back of her hand and pulled out yarn to keep from losing her stitch. “He’s fine. Calmer now that I’m not mother henning all the time. You know they asked me to limit my time at the home to evenings.”

Rarity nodded. “That must be hard on you.”

“I was a stay-at-home wife for years. When the kids left, it was me and George. Besides my volunteer stuff, my life was making George happy. Now I don’t even do his laundry. What am I supposed to do with my time? My doctor doesn’t want me baking cookies.” She locked gazes with Rarity. “It’s hard not to be needed anymore.”

Rarity reached out and squeezed her shoulder. “You’re needed. You just need more structure in your life. I told you to come work for me. I need someone a few days a week, even with hiring Janey and Caleb. It would give you something to do.”

“I don’t know. I love books, but do I want to make what I love my job?” Shirley chuckled. “You’re trying to solve my problems, and I’m complaining. Sorry about that. Let me think about it, and I’ll let you know soon. I need to get some more coffee now and stretch my legs. Sitting is the new smoking, you know.”

Rarity watched as Shirley moved to the back, greeting other club members as she went. Killer whined from where he sat on Rarity’s lap. She ran a hand down his back. “I know, buddy. Shirley’s sad. But people get that way sometimes. We’ll just have to watch her.”

“Watch who?” Sam bounced into the chair next to Rarity. “And who are you talking to? Killer?”

“Sometimes he’s the only one around to listen. So why were you so late? Did you get a big order?” Rarity asked.

Sam ran the crystal shop next door, and she knew a ton about the different types of stones. She turned the stones into jewelry for people to clean their chakras or bring some energy into their lives. Sam had made Rarity a necklace when she went through chemo, and she still wore it, mostly because she loved the way it looked.

“No, not an order. I’m still working on getting stock ready for the Fall into Sedona festival next week. It’s better than that.” Sam giggled and bounced in her chair. “My brother is coming to town tomorrow. Actually, he’s already here. He’s staying at the hotel at the end of town. He’s coming by the shop tomorrow. I haven’t seen Marcus in years. And the best part? He’s thinking about moving here. He works from home, so he can work anywhere. Isn’t that amazing!”

Rarity didn’t know a lot about Marcus except that he went away for college and never came back to Arizona, not even for his parents’ anniversary party Sam held last year. Oh, and he did something in computer software development. But Sam was happy. Rarity didn’t want to be that friend who rained on everyone’s parade. “That’s wonderful. I hope to meet him.”

“Of course you will. I’ll bring him over to the shop. And he can come to Darby’s party. It’s going to be amazing. I hope Drew likes him. Being a cop, he has a certain standard. Marcus can be a bit unconventional.” Sam pursed her lips, as if she was thinking about the differences between her brother and her boyfriend.

“And on that note, it’s time to finish up this discussion.” Rarity stood and clapped her hands. “Let’s get back together and finish up with this book. I’ve got a new one I want you all to consider for the next open slot. I’ve also got next month’s book ready to purchase at the front counter.”

They continued discussing the current book, a domestic thriller. Malia allowed that maybe some of the reasons she didn’t like the character were her personal bias, but several other members agreed with her that the main character let herself be victimized, then whined rather than taking control of her life. Anytime the group read a book where the main character didn’t deal with the cards she’d been given gracefully and full force ahead, the book got slammed in the meeting.

Rarity thought it was probably because many of the Tuesday night group were cancer survivors. They knew life wasn’t fair. They’d lost friends during their journey. Now, they took their lives into their own hands. And, mostly, didn’t whine about their circumstances.

After they’d finished the meeting, Rarity was ringing up a purchase for Holly when Janey and Caleb stopped at the register. They looked like they were heading back to Flagstaff, where they lived by the college.

“Thanks for coming tonight. I wanted to give you a flavor of what a book club might be like and have you meet some of our patrons. Of course, your clubs will be kids, so it’s probably not comparable.”

“I loved being here. My mind is filled with ideas for my clubs.” Janey pointed to the treat table. “Do we have a budget for food? I’m thinking about finding a kids’ book about a certain food; then we can taste it at the end.”

“I hadn’t thought about a food or supplies budget, but yes. Just let me know what you’re spending, and we’ll figure out a reasonable budget for both groups.” Rarity handed Holly’s credit card back to her. “I suspect you’re off to work?”

“Yeah, I’m still digitizing records. Now I’m working with the electric bureau. It’s a ton of fun. Not.” She turned toward Janey and Caleb. “Make sure you check the boxes about being willing to travel when you meet with the career counselors. Or you could wind up stuck in a little town like this.”

Janey’s eyes went wide, but Caleb laughed. “Believe me, my only requirement for a long-term career plan is to be in a city that actually has more than two stoplights. Not that I don’t appreciate working at your bookstore, Rarity. I just want to have a place where I can explore and meet interesting people. Like New York or LA.”

Janey shook her head. “No way I’d go somewhere that big. I want a job where I can make a good living but also have a great life. I guess I’m looking for the picket fence kind of world.”

Rarity thought she saw a shadow cross Caleb’s face, but it changed so fast, she wasn’t sure she’d even seen it. “It takes all kinds. That’s why the store has an entire frozen food case just for ice cream.”

They laughed, and the three headed out the door. As Rarity watched, Caleb’s hand gently touched Janey’s back as he held the door open for her. A friendly gesture or more? Rarity would need to watch her new hires to make sure an office romanc. . .