Chaos at the Lazy Bones Bookshop (A Halloween Bookshop Mystery)

Many thanks to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing, and most importantly the author - Emmeline Duncan. As it usually goes… I received a free ARC from NetGalley, and this review is voluntaryThis story follows Bailey Briggs, who operates the Lazy Bones Bookshop, in Elyan Hollow, Oregon. What Elyan Hollow is famous for is its annual Halloween festival, and Bailey’s participation in this year’s festivities has her time stretched thin. From ensuring the bookstore’s stock is full and just right for the season, to wrangling authors to coordinate schedules for the book signings, and of course the rest of the festival, all items now within her purview. What she does not need is another distraction, and during the first night’s activities for the festival, a dead body is found. Enter the police with their investigation, and their operating theory: murder.Based on evidence collected at the time, although Bailey does become a suspect and is questioned, but its not enough information to point one way or another. She’s allowed to continue with her overseeing of the festival, but now Bailey has it within her mindset to figure out exactly what happened, and to ensure her name is cleared of any wrongdoing. What transpires past this point in time is primarily focused on Bailey, and all the things she has to do in order to ensure the festival runs smoothly. However, she is also sleuthing around to gain more insight into the murder. As the story progresses, Bailey discovers that some secrets are a little too close to home in this small town, and some truths - if uncovered, produce more questions than answers.I found this to be less murder mystery by way of a police procedural, but a comfy, cozy type of read that just so happens to have a murder investigation occuring. Besides what’s happening in the background with the investigation via the police, and Bailey doing her own thing, what the author did well was really set the tone for the atmosphere of not just the festival, but how important the Halloween season is to the town of Elyan Hollow, Oregon. When we think about a small town, it’s usually how connected it is, sometimes much to the dismay of those who wish not to participate in gossip, or indulge in drama. It’s still going to happen, because everyone knows everyone; word spreads quickly. Elyan Hollow is also a small town with its own connected elements, but it’s also a place with its own secrets, and ghosts that have yet to be revealed.I was stumped until the end, is what I will say; and, the build up to this one was worth the wait.

"Chaos at the Lazy Bones Bookshop" by Emmeline Duncan takes us to Elyan Hollow, Oregon, a town that lives and breathes Halloween all year round. The story centers on Bailey Briggs, who inherits her grandfather’s beloved bookshop, Lazy Bones Books. But life gets complicated when Bailey stumbles upon the town’s hidden dark side.Halloween has always been Bailey's favorite time, but managing the bookshop, working on her graphic novel, and organizing the Spooky Season Literary Festival leaves her overwhelmed. Things get even more chaotic with the presence of Gone Ghouls, a ghost-hunting reality TV show filming around town. Their antics are everywhere, adding to her stress.The plot thickens when the Literary Festival, meant to kick off the Halloween Fair, begins with a murder. Bailey discovers the victim and becomes the prime suspect, with some pretty incriminating evidence against her. Determined to clear her name, Bailey dives into solving the mystery with the help of her friend Colby and her loyal dog, Jack Skeleton.Duncan does a fantastic job of bringing Elyan Hollow to life, making it feel like a place you'd want to visit despite the chaos. The town’s permanent Halloween vibe is a charming setting for this cozy mystery. Bailey’s character is relatable, juggling her responsibilities while trying to honor her grandfather’s legacy. Her interactions with the quirky townsfolk, like Ash from the Mortuary & Deli Bottle Shop, add depth and humor to the story.The festive atmosphere of Elyan Hollow is enchanting, capturing the spirit of Halloween in a way that makes you wish you were there. The arrival of Taylor Edison, the snooty ghost-hunting show researcher, adds a fun twist and hints at possible supernatural elements.As Bailey’s investigation unfolds, it delves into family secrets, professional rivalries, and town feuds, with the list of suspects—and victims—growing. Duncan blends cozy mystery with a vibrant, character-driven narrative, making this a delightful read for anyone who loves small-town settings and festive mysteries."Chaos at the Lazy Bones Bookshop" is a heartwarming and intriguing adventure that celebrates community and the joy of embracing your roots. Emmeline Duncan has crafted a captivating tale where ordinary life meets the extraordinary, all wrapped up in Halloween charm. Bailey’s journey to clear her name and uncover the town’s secrets will keep you turning the pages.

Thank you Netgalley for providing this ARC!The story takes place in a small town, Elyan Hollow, in Oregon, who celebrates Halloween year round. The town itself is made famous by being the backdrop to a movie! Cue everyone's love of HalloweenTown! The book starts by introducing us to Bailey Briggs who excitedly inherits a cozy bookshop from her grandfather. Each year, the town holds a literary Halloween themed festival that Bailey is hosting. Things are going great for Bailey until she stumbles upon a dead body in the festival's maze. A dead body of which she is the prime suspect. The story follows Bailey as she tries to clear her name of any wrong doing.Overall, this book is a perfect example of a small town, cozy mystery. It made me really look forward to the Fall season! The writing wasn't terrible but it was very redundant. A lot of repetition making me think it was to fill the pages. I also felt like the characters lacked emotion. Especially, when the dead body was found it seemed like it was just an ordinary day to find a dead body even though the police officer said there hadn't been a murder in decades.