The Bookshop Detectives: Tea and Cake and Death by Gareth Ward and Louise Ward

There is everything to love about this cosy crime thriller by real-life bookshop owners Gareth and Louise Ward – an entertaining bookselling, crime-fighting duo, a fast-paced and compelling plot and heart-warming humour. Can the fictional protagonists, Garth and Eloise, unmask the identity of a prolific poisoner ahead of their fundraising event, Battle of the Book Clubs?

As they count down to this significant event on their calendar, people around them are succumbing to poisoning, some even dying. But when their beloved dog Stevie is poisoned, it is the last straw as they race to find the serial killer. It seems that Pinter, a serial killer from Eloise’s past – although locked up in prison – has an accomplice on the outside, picking people off. Can Garth and Eloise keep those around them safe?

Bursting with personality and suspense, The Bookshop Detectives: Tea and Cake and Death is a terrific read with a big heart. I especially loved the insights into running a bookshop, with its many references to books and authors. A bibliophile's delight, this book will appeal to everyone, with two entertaining madcap characters centre stage and an appealing cast of personalities from the community. Fabulous fun!

Reviewer: Karen McMillan

Penguin