Books matching: small town settings
100 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
The Christmas Jigsaw Murders by Alexandra Benedict is a cozy mystery set in a small town during the holiday season. The plot unfolds around an annual jigsaw puzzle competition that takes a dark turn when a series of murders occur, each victim connected to the contest. As the local community's festive atmosphere begins to crumble, amateur sleuths, including the quirky octogenarian Edie O'Sullivan, must band together to uncover the truth behind these chilling events. The story expertly weaves elements of suspense with a warm holiday spirit, making for a unique and engaging read.
The writing style is approachable and matches the cozy mystery genre, providing a slow build of tension with enough twists to keep readers engaged. Benedict's attention to detail brings the small-town setting to life, filled with familiar cozy elements and an immersive holiday atmosphere. While some readers found the character development and pacing lacking, others praised the relatable characters and the refreshing inclusion of LGBTQIA content. Overall, the novel presents a delightful blend of intrigue, humor, and festive magic, making it a charming pick for cozy mystery fans.
- #2
Deputy Mattie Cobb and her K-9 partner, Robo, are tasked with solving a murder mystery involving a teenage girl in the mountains outside Timber Creek, Colorado. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover secrets within the small town that challenge Mattie's perceptions of her community. The book weaves personal lives into the series seamlessly, adding depth to the characters and their interactions. The story involves intricate crimes, a captivating setting, and a strong female detective partnered with a dedicated K-9 officer, creating an absorbing tapestry of mysteries and challenges.
Deputy Mattie Lu Cobb liked her new partner. In fact, she was quite taken with him. She enjoyed being with him, something she’d found lacking with previous partners, and they seemed compatible. She ho... - #3
Man Hunt by Vanessa Vale is a delightful and steamy romance novel set in Hunter Valley. The story follows Bridget, a lovable math nerd with a heartbreaking past, who finds herself working for Maverick, a kind and understanding billionaire. As their relationship develops, Bridget's low self-esteem and Maverick's respectful nature create a beautiful dynamic that keeps readers hooked. The plot is filled with humor, spice, and amazing characters, making it a fun and enjoyable read. Vanessa Vale's writing style shines through in this book, blending steamy romance with wit and humor, creating a story that is both captivating and entertaining.
- #4
"Virgin River" by Robyn Carr follows the story of Melinda Monroe, a recent widow who seeks solace and a fresh start in the remote mountain town of Virgin River. Initially disappointed by her new surroundings, Melinda's perspective changes when she discovers an abandoned newborn, leading her to find community, love, and healing in unexpected ways. Set against the backdrop of small-town life, the book introduces a cast of lovable characters, including the charming ex-Marine Jack Sheridan, as Melinda navigates her new life and relationships in Virgin River. The writing style is described as cozy and heartwarming, focusing on themes of reinvention, second chances, and the power of love.
Mel squinted into the rain and darkness, creeping along the narrow, twisting, muddy, tree-enshrouded road and for the hundredth time thought, am I out of my mind? And then she heard and felt a thump a... - #5
Beulah is a novel that delves into the life of Georgie, a girl on the cusp of adulthood who is grappling with her unique ability to see ghosts while navigating through everyday dramas and personal struggles in a small town in Idaho. The story is character-driven, focusing on Georgie's internal perspective and her relationships with her family members, as well as the haunting presence of ghosts in her life. Christi Nogle's writing style is described as simple, honest, and filled with subtle truths that reflect the complexities of human emotions and experiences.
- #6
"Animal Magnetism" by Jill Shalvis is a small-town contemporary romance that follows the story of Lilah Young, a kind-hearted woman who runs an animal kennel and shelter in Sunshine, Idaho. When Brady Miller, an ex-Army ranger turned pilot, returns to town at the request of his foster brothers, he is instantly drawn to Lilah despite his aversion to settling down. As their chemistry ignites, they both struggle with the idea of a short-term relationship, leading to a heartwarming tale of love, loyalty, and finding a place to call home. The writing style is described as light-hearted, humorous, and filled with steamy romance scenes that perfectly complement the charming setting and endearing characters.
- #7
The Great and Secret Show by Clive Barker is a dark fantasy novel that delves into the quest for mastery of a powerful craft called the Art, which has the capability to tear a hole in the fabric of reality and create an opening to another dimension called Quiddity. The storyline follows Randolph Jaffe's pursuit of the Art, leading to a titanic struggle between good and evil where battles often take surreal forms, ultimately triggering a possible supernatural apocalypse that threatens all human lives.
The book is populated by bizarre and often disgusting creatures, surreal dream-like moments, and even romantic bits, all narrated in Clive Barker's unique prose style that alternates between lyricism and gritty language. The multiple protagonists, including the evil Randolph Jaffe and the kickass heroine Tesla, are vividly developed through dialog, adding depth to the complex plot that explores the nature of dreams and reality.
Randolph stepped into the room. It was large, painted the same bilious yellow and battleship gray as every other office and corridor in the Omaha Central Post Office. Not that much of the walls was vi... - #8
"The Good Daughter" by Karin Slaughter is a gripping tale of two sisters, Charlie and Sam, who witness the murder of their mother in a tragic incident that leaves them physically and mentally scarred. Set in rural Georgia, the story unfolds 28 years later during a school shooting, bringing to light the family's past trauma and the secrets that have haunted them. The novel delves deep into the themes of family relationships, grief, recovery, and the impact of past tragedies on present lives, all while exploring complex characters and a compelling plot.
Charlie Quinn walked through the darkened halls of Pikeville middle school with a gnawing sense of trepidation. This wasn’t an early morning walk of shame. This was a walk of deeply held regret. Fitti... - #9
'Truly Madly Yours' by Rachel Gibson is a romance novel set in Truly, Idaho, revolving around the lives of Delaney and Nick. Delaney returns to Truly for her stepfather's will reading, which includes conditions that force her to stay in the town for a year. Nick, the illegitimate son of Delaney's stepfather, also has conditions to fulfill in order to inherit. The story explores their complicated past, the control exerted by Delaney's deceased stepfather, and the developing relationship between Delaney and Nick.
The plot delves into themes of unrequited love, family dynamics, and the struggle between past influences and forging one's own path. The writing style combines humor, passion, and emotional depth, creating a story that captures the readers' attention with its quirky characters, funny situations, and intense chemistry between the lead characters.
“Death comes, as it must, to all men, and with it the inevitable separation from loved ones,” Reverend Tippet droned in his flat solemn tone. “We will miss Henry Shaw, beloved husband, father, and pro... - #10
Bats by William W. Johnstone is a creature feature novel set in a small town where a horde of mutant bats terrorizes the residents. The story follows a group of people, led by the ex 'spook' named Johnny, as they fight against these intelligent and vicious creatures. The book is described as a mix of gruesome scenes, humorous dialogues, and light romance, with a nostalgic old-school charm that appeals to readers.
He was being chased. Same old dream. He knew it was a dream. Scared the crap out of him anyway. “No!” he shouted, and the shout woke him. He opened his eyes, sitting up in bed. “Damnit!” he said, swin...