Reviews

Buried in the Stacks by Allison Brook, Marilyn Levinson

leasummer's review against another edition

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3.0

I enjoyed catching up with the characters. The mystery around the homeless population at the library and a few day house was a unique setting. I hope it brings light on an important issue. Smokey Joe is a great character, I enjoy his antics.

I didn’t like Dylan’s character. His character seems off, always delaying his return and Carrie just accepting it. He kind of gave me the creeps a few times.

ozziemarie's review against another edition

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3.0

3.5

cryptidreader's review against another edition

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lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.25

nerdglasses08's review against another edition

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lighthearted mysterious

3.75

bookmarked_north734's review against another edition

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emotional lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.25

kristirose's review

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mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

melli80's review against another edition

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4.0

I got a Arc of this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**

I love a good cozy mystery and his one was no different.. the plot and writing were great and I loved the MC and how she was nosy but not obvious. Definitely will continue the series

meezcarrie's review against another edition

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4.0

I really enjoy this Haunted Library Mystery series by Allison Brook! The protagonist (with the best name ever) Carrie is very likable in her role as director of programs and events at the local library. A setting which gives her the prime spot for gathering the ‘word on the street’ when investigating the most recent murder – especially when the most recent victim is her former nemesis & coworker at said library. And, let’s face it, what self-respecting bookworm wouldn’t want to spend their days at a library and get paid for it? Not to mention the delightful cat (did I just use those words together??) Smoky Joe who has a personality all his own and adds to the story in his own way. And Evelyn, the library’s resident ghost who aids Carrie in crime-solving.

Dorothy’s murder presents a wealth of suspects since Dorothy was probably one of the least likable people in town, blackmailing her neighbors and coworkers with barely concealed glee. This allows the author to craft a very layered plot, with plenty of suspects and motives to keep you guessing. What makes her story even more interesting is the possible connection to the murder of Evelyn – Dorothy’s aunt, former librarian, and resident library ghost. As mentioned, Evelyn also happens to be Carrie’s partner in investigating the crimes Carrie stumbles across, which raises the stakes in Carrie’s ongoing quest to figure out who murdered Evelyn too.

Another thing I really liked about Buried in the Stacks was the subplot involving the local homeless population who spend their days in the haven of the library. This is a reality in my own public library system, and I so appreciated the author’s compassionate and insightful portrayal of the people involved, giving them dimension and dignity while not sugarcoating the situation. Carrie’s heart for one of the couples who make the library their day shelter is very touching – as is the equal compassion shown by her friends as they also step in to help out in little ways.

Dylan. Sigh. I used to think Dylan was a swoony match for Carrie, but since we share the same name I feel compelled to watch out for her. And to be honest, Dylan was kind-of a jerk in Buried in the Stacks. I don’t sense a lot of chemistry between them anymore either, but that can be overlooked if he actually took Carrie’s feelings and opinions into consideration. As it is, I think she deserves better so he’d better get his act together in the next book!

Bottom Line: Buried in the Stacks is well-written with a multi-layered mystery plot and delightful characters. Carrie is a strong protagonist with her own set of vulnerabilities (that make her even more likable) and a fun network of family and friends (including Smoky Joe & Evelyn). The plethora of suspects will keep you on your reading toes, and the reveal is nicely done. I’m curious to see how the various storylines involving Dylan, Evelyn, and Carrie’s mom (all separately lol) play out in the next book, too. A fun cozy with some depth too, in a lovely bookish setting.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower

kookie327's review against another edition

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3.0

2.5*

rants_n_reads's review against another edition

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mysterious medium-paced

2.0