I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.

We return to Chapters B&B in Beaufort NC for the next set of guests. Shhh, it is a secret guest - world famous author Amanda Nobel, her pubisher representative, and 3 contest winners. There are secrets all around and when one of the guests is murdered along the waterfront, everyone is a suspect.

I really do enjoy the Book Lovers B&B Mysteries by Victoria Gilbert. Reserved for Murder, the second installment of the series was just as enthralling as the first novel in the series, possibly more so. I felt like there was a more exciting dynamic between Charlotte, her guests, staff, neighbor Ellen and of course the chemistry between Charlotte and Gavin kept the story flowing. I was kept guessing throughout the story until the end and that means a lot to me as the majority of my reads are mystery. Thank You to Victoria Gilbert, her publisher, and of course Netgalley for the complimentary ebook, what a fantastic whodunnit!

This was a very enjoyable next in series. I especially loved the references to being an author and the world of publishing. I read the first in series and highly recommend this series. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. Reserved for Murder is the second book in the Book lovers B&B Mystery series.

The author wonderfully draws on the charm of Beaufort North Carolina and even the history of Blackbeard. I loved the Southern charm and the references to living in the South.

The murder mystery involves the many pressures on authors and publisher . It was very interesting and relates to the murder and the plot. I love the charcters who are all endearing. The sleuth will keep you guessing to conclusion as the red herrings abound and the suspects line up. Add in more information about the family,, the book retreat Inn and running a Southern B&B and this is a wonderful next in series.

Well, I had high hopes for this book after reading the first one. I was underwhelmed. This second book was so much like the first. It felt like I was reading the same story but with different characters.
I hope book three is a little more original than book two. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the book in exchange for an honest review.

Second book in this new series by Victoria Gilbert

Chapters Bed and Breakfast in Beaufort NC, is the home if Charlotte Reed. Who invites readers from far and wide to special events to meet authors of their favorite genres.

Charlotte is expecting the biggest name in romantic fantasy this July weekend for a get away from her fans. The author has promised to do a sit down with some of her fans at Tea and Talk held at the bed and breakfast. She will also do a signing at Bookwaves the bookstore that Charlottes friend owns.

When the president of a writers club is found dead in the harbor by the docks do to a blunt force blow to the head its up to Charlotte and Ellen her neighbor who used to be a spy to uncover the clues and suspects.

Because the next one the list could be the best selling author.

I love this new series and can’t wait for the next book in this series.

This is the second book of the series & it’s definitely a great one to read. I love the idea of a B&B for books events & wish I could go to a real one myself. Gilbert writes a completely charming locale & the heroine is smart & capable. Overall the series is solid & the mystery is interesting. It’s not my absolute favourite series but it’s definitely not a bad read.

I enjoyed this second installment in this new series and believe that even if you've not read the first one, it can be read as a standalone without much difficulty. The spy theme is continued in this one, albeit in a different vein and with the introduction of a(n obvious) love interest which is a bit of a stretch, but it's fiction after all and the story rolls along well to a decent resolution. I did initially ping the murderer but then second-guessed myself before coming back to them, but it certainly didn't ruin the story for me in any way.

This is a great series - a B&B devoted to books and reading is somewhere I'd definitely check in to! I'll definitely keep an eye out for the next book in the series.

This review of Reserved for Murder by Victoria Gilbert is courtesy of Netgalley.
Rating: 3/5 #ReservedforMurder #NetGalley

I tend to read culinary cozies but love reading so when I saw the description of this book available on Netgalley, I added it to my list to grab. Mention of a character's terrier being part of the team in the description was also a pull since usually that means cute animal moments.

I've never read any books by Victoria Gilbert before and Reserved for Murder is the second in Booklover’s B&B series. Despite that, I didn't feel lost by mentions of the characters since ample background was provided for each.

The mystery starts off with an exciting intro of "When your neighbor is a retired spy, it's easy to imagine innumerable dangers haunting the house next door." With a retired spy being a key character, there's a bit more intrigue compared to most cozies but it comes to a satisfying conclusion. For folks who like a little romance mixed into their cozy series, there's a character who I hope shows up in later books as he had some sparks with Charlotte. As for the terrier, alas, mostly he was used as an excuse for Ellen to show up or leave.

I absolutely loved every bit of this book. Strong character portrayal and excellent storytelling are the highlights of Reserved for Murder.

Charlotte Reed runs a book-themed B&B. Things go awry when one of the guests is found dead (yet again!). Charlotte wonders if the murderer is one of the guests at her B&B. Apart from the murder mystery, the story (and the series) has its spotlight on Charlotte's neighbour Ellen - who worked for the US intelligence, and Charlotte's late great-aunt, Isabella. We also have a dash of romance which brought about a new angle to the series.

Highly recommended!

Now on to today's book review. Reserved for Murder is the second book in the Booklovers B&B Mystery series.

Gosh, I really enjoyed this book! The murder mystery not only involves an author, but it also involved fan fiction, Goodreads reviewing, and the pressure of publishing. It was the most bookish of book mysteries I've read to date! I also really enjoy how Victoria Gilbert weaves the real-life history of Beaufort into her series, from Blackbeard's sunken ship to the Olde Burying grounds--the actual town of Beaufort is seamlessly a part of her series.

The murder mystery of the book is one that will keep you guessing, there are a handful of suspects that all could be the killer. The overarching mystery continues as we learn more about Charlotte's great-aunt, international woman of mystery, Isabella.

I was happy to read about Charlotte's growing relationships with Alicia and Damian. Charlotte is slowly growing roots in the community and I want her to be surrounded by good friends, she deserves it. I think she also deserved love, so we will see if that develops as the series moves along. Mind you, I don't need any sort of love triangle, but Charlotte is still young and written in such a way that you want her to find a partner to share her life.

Because this is the most bookish of book mysteries and because Victoria Gilbert integrates Beaufort, NC so well in her fiction, I rate this book a full 5 stars. If you like a cozy read, you've gotta read this series. The book will be out on June 8th! Add it to your Goodreads shelf here or ask your local library to order a copy!

I received an ARC of this book from #NetGalley all the opinions are my own. The text of the book might change a little before publishing so I don't have any quotes to share.

#ReservedforMurder #NetGalley

Charlotte Reed inherited the B&B, Chapters from her Great-Aunt Isabella. In the first book in the series Charlotte and her next-door neighbor Ellen worked together to help solve a murder. They're at it again in this second book of the Book Lovers B&B Mystery series I like how they rationalize who the murder suspects in this latest murder might be and then eliminate them from their suspect list as they discover more information. I liked the characters and storyline and look forward to the next book in the series.

I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.

Reserved for Murder has lits of secrets and twist that will keep you guessing until almost the end. The characters will find you wondering who to believe. You'll wonder who the guardian angel is and who to trust with your heart.

This is the second book in this relatively new series. I thought it began a little slow. I had to read the first five chapters before the plot gained momentum. I love the mention of all the books and the literary references. There were a lot of characters and at times I had to go back and refresh who was who in the story. The ending has a really good twist and surprise. It is a decent cozy read.

Charlotte Reed is a widowed former high school English teacher who inherited Chapters B&B after the death of her Great-Aunt Isabella. This week she is hosting Amanda Novel who is a best-selling author of historical fantasies and contest winners from her various fan clubs. Charlotte has only read one of her books and isn't a fan.

The first thing Charlotte notices when her guests arrive is the amount of tension between them all. Amanda and her publicity guy Tony are at odds. The three contest winners - Lisette, Harper, and Molly - aren't friends either. There are questions about Amanda's latest book which is the thirteenth in her series. There are discussions about scandals in the fan clubs with some references to fan fiction and possible plagiarism.

There is also some tension with her neighbor Ellen and her unexpected houseguest Gavin. Ellen is a former spy and it seems apparent that Gavin is also a spy. Ellen and Charlotte has solved a murder mystery the previous year and Charlotte, at least, is hoping that had been a once in a lifetime experience.

But when Lisette is found dead, Charlotte knows that it is likely the killer is one of her guests. Along with Ellen they begin an investigation looking into the pasts and present of all of them while trying to figure out why Gavin has come to see Ellen.

The story was filled with lots of nice twists and turns and lots of information about fan clubs, fan fiction, publishing and even spycraft.

“Reserved for Murder" is the 2nd instalment in the "A Booklover's B&B Mystery" series by Victoria Gilbert. I think this series will be on my must read list, I really enjoy the setting and am beginning to like the main characters.

Meeting your favorite author in the flesh can be the chance of a lifetime. But for one unlucky fan, her plum place in line at a book signing will lead to her untimely demise.

I found myself engrossed in the story and reading it over a couple of days. As a booklover , would love to be staying at a B&B along with one of my favorite authors. Learning the ins and out as well as the pitfalls of trying to make it as a writer these days.

I loved the characters of Ellen and Charlotte and the bond that’s forming as we slowly find out more of their backstory in each new book. Could there be a bit of romance in charlottes future...

Overall the mystery was entertaining, full of twists and turns as well as a few surprises. I didnt guess the killer before Charlotte this time!

I can’t wait to read the next book and see how things are at Chapters B&B in Beaufort, North Carolina.

I highly recommend this book to all my cozy loving friends.

I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.

A lovely B&B, a woman looking for a new start after tragedy, a senior retired CIA operative and her adorable Yorkie , a decades old case of spy intrigue , a handsome mystery man and a present day murder are not quite what Charlotte Reed had in mind for a new quiet life. Now, she and her friend Ellen and Yorkie Shandy are in the middle of a romance author's murder!

What a great book! So many things to like - Charlotte who is. a relatable main character, quirky and likable supporting characters, a mystery you can't put down (I couldn't!) and an ocean setting that is lush and very southern. I would love to relax on the B&B's porch under the outside fan, with a cocktail or sweet tea.. Having a senior retired CIA operative - Ellen - brought even more to the mystery.. Add in the handsome Gavin and you have a delightful and intriguing cozy mystery with an international feel!

I adore a cosy mystery - especially one that is done well. ‘Reserved For Murder’ is entertaining, has great characters and a wonderful setting. Charlotte Reed runs the Chapters B&B she inherited from her great aunt. The local book club meets there in her extensive library, and when a world famous author is booked in as part of her tour, Charlotte is delighted. A select few super-fans are booked in too as part of a prize, but when the president of the fan club is found dead, Charlotte and her neighbour Ellen must try and solve the mystery.

This was exactly the kind of mystery I want to read as I while away a few hours relaxing in the garden. It reminded me of the feeling I get when reading an Agatha Christie. It was the perfect small-town mystery, with enough twists and turns and a myriad of suspects, to keep my brain trying to work out whodunnit. I loved the dynamic between Charlotte and Ellen, her elderly neighbour, and the book club members and locals added extra flavour. I look forward to reading more in this series.

I was given this ARC to review.

Charlotte Reed is hosting best-selling author Amanda Nobel at her B&B, Chapters. Also there is Tony Lott, her publicity and marketing manager, Lisette Bradford, the head of Amanda's fan club, Harper Gregg and Molly Zelesky, who are fans who won the trip. They have a Book interview with Amanda and a book signing sponsored by Julie, Charlotte's friend who owns a bookstore. Julie brings her good friend Scott, who has invited a former Professor of History, Roger. During the question period, Roger asks Amanda why she didn't do more research on the period and the pirates she writes fiction about. Several of the people in the audience are very angry with Roger, and threaten him with fake bad reviews of his research papers. During the signing, Charlotte needs to call the police because Lisette's former husband Billy is stalking her. The guests of the B&B all go out for the evening, but Lisette doesn't return.

Charlotte gets a call from Detective Amber Johnson at 3am. She can't find Billy, but she has found Lisette, whose dead body was pulled out of the water near the docks. There are several possible suspects including Billy, Roger and Scott, who angered fans with the question on researching, and the fans. Meanwhile, Charlotte's next door neighbor has a visitor, Gavin Harris, who is asking questions about Charlotte's aunt and a friend Ophelia. There is also a possible romance blooming between Gavin and Charlotte while Charlotte and Ellen try to figure out Lisette's killer. As we near the end of the book, things get very exciting and we nearly have more dead bodies!

I enjoyed this installment of the Booklovers B&B series. I thought the characters were well developed and they brought variety to the mystery. The plot was interesting and kept me intrigued. I look forward to Charlotte’s next adventures.
Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

Victoria Gilbert is a new author to me, and this is the second book in her Booklovers B&B Mysteries collection.
Chapters Bed and Breakfast in Beaufort, North Carolina, is owned by Charlotte Reed. When the author is on a book tour, she decides to host a popular author who is also trying to relax, as well as three of her "mega" fans. However, things go awry when the author's fan club president is discovered dead from blunt force trauma. Now Charlotte and her next-door neighbor Ellen must locate a murderer before the author and her famous book series are targeted.
Reserved For Murder piqued my interest based on the introduction, and I couldn't wait to start reading it! A BnB, and a bookstore sound like the ideal atmosphere for a mystery!! One issue I had with this book was that the plot was mostly told in the voices of the characters. There was a lot more showing that needed to be done. All was being discussed, which irritated me because I like any other reader, can read between the lines and figure out what's going on without being told every step of the way. I really didn't think the spies subplot was necessary. It was intriguing, but it didn't belong in the novel. Overall, I believe this book had a good story/plot, but it was poorly executed.
The subplot concerning spies and a brief love affair decades earlier, on the other hand, seems far-fetched. Also, I didn't like how certain characters implied that a stalker's ex-husband really loved his wife while attempting to discover who murdered her. So, what are your options? That doesn't take away from the fear and threat that stalked people face. They are always on the lookout for the guy, never knowing when they will appear or what they will do. They never get a break. They are the ones who are in pain. I only figured it was a clever way of making stalking and bullying seem a bit less severe.
The book's premise and storyline piqued my interest, but it fell short for me in the end. Much of the plot was told through dialogue, and I believe that further world-building would have helped.
Thank you to Netgalley for an eARC of Reserved For Murder!