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SCHOOLED IN MURDER, book one in the Campus Sleuth Mystery series

Published by Crooked Lane Books on Jan. 7, 2025

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“An appealing sleuth with an engaging love interest lights up this series debut.”
—Kirkus Reviews

“A satisfying cozy that will appeal to bibliophiles who like a hint of romance.”
—Booklist

“Schooled in Murder is a first-rate debut for a wonderful new series! Talented author Victoria Gilbert has crafted an intelligent and skillfully told mystery with plenty of twists to keep readers turning the pages. A cast of well-drawn characters and a touch of romance lend additional charm to the story. Highly recommend!” —Marjorie McCown, author of the Hollywood Mystery series

“Wonderfully paced, brimming with great characterization, and with a terrific lead in Jen, this novel will appeal to many mystery readers, from cozy lovers to those just seeking a good, traditional read.” — First Clue

“Clever and witty, Schooled in Murder provides readers an entertaining and authentic glimpse into the competitive and often cutthroat world of college, as well as the camaraderie a campus environment can provide. The author earns an A+ for her creative premise, unique setting, unpredictable plot, and charming cast of characters.” —Diane Kelly, award-winning author of the House-Flipper Mystery series

COMING SOON!

Releasing in JULY 2025

Blue Ridge Library Mystery series, book nine

To be published by Crooked Lane Books on July 8, 2025

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It’s summertime in Virginia, but things are about to get out of hand when murder darkens the annual arts festival in this ninth installment of the critically acclaimed Blue Ridge Library mystery series, perfect for fans of Ellery Adams and Miranda James. 

Despite their friendship, Library director Amy Muir has always had a few suspicions about wealthy art dealer Kurt Kendrick, who happens to have been the foster son of her husband Richard’s great uncle and the former best friend of her beloved aunt’s late husband. As closely entwined in her family as he is, Kurt’s murky past is occasionally concerning, especially since Kurt is also the godfather to Amy and Richard’s six-year-old twins.

When a visitor to their small, historic Virginia town is found dead after publicly accusing Kurt of committing a decades-old murder, Amy is determined to prove that Kurt didn’t kill anyone, in the past or the present. But the evidence Kurt’s accuser sent to Sheriff Brad Tucker before her untimely demise indicates otherwise. With Amy’s own aunt and other older town residents corroborating some of the details related to the first murder, and a witness placing Kurt near the scene of the second crime, it seems Kurt is doomed to swift, and severe, justice.

Amidst the fun and excitement of an arts festival that features the premiere of Richard’s new dance company, Amy faces her own challenging performance—balancing her work and family life while dancing on the edge of danger. With family and friends harboring suspicions about Kurt, and Amy bedeviled by her own wavering trust in his innocence, she must fight to uncover the truth before a hidden killer strikes again.

“Gilbert does a terrific job of keeping the pace while showcasing a realistic small town with relatable characters.” — First Clue