Cyndi J. (cyndij) reviewed on 9/24/2018 + 1031 more book reviews

Cute cozy, second in a series. I haven't read the first but the author provides enough background to acquaint a new reader with the characters and setting. Small-town library director Amy discovers the body of a famous local artist when she arrives at the house to collect some paintings promised for the annual festival. When the police arrive, they instantly find a hidden cache of what looks like forged masterworks. The sheriff asks Amy, who has a background in art history, to do some research for him.
Like many cozies this book relies on the protagonist having enough burning curiousity to insert herself into harm's way, and the willingness of everyone else to play along. I liked the characters and the setting; the romance angle was maybe a tad much, but considering it's a continuing series no doubt Gilbert is setting up for the next book. Gilbert also provides a little information about art forgery and what authorities do to find missing art. Despite a very convoluted plot, with enough red herrings to fill a fishing net (one of the more amusing bits in the book is Amy thinking to herself all the possible permutations), the villain was obvious and the denouement was way too long...they might as well have been sitting in a coffee shop while the villain explained in vast detail every aspect of the crime. But all gets wrapped up nicely in the end.

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