Step into the cozy, captivating world of the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries, where small-town charm meets spine-tingling secrets! Penned by former librarian Victoria Gilbert, this delightful cozy mystery series follows Amy Webber, a sharp-witted librarian in Taylorsford, Virginia, as she unravels historical and modern crimes with equal finesse. Set against the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, the series blends library lore, intellectual intrigue, and a dash of romance, making it a must-read for mystery lovers and book enthusiasts alike.
With its quirky townsfolk, richly detailed setting, and puzzles that keep you guessing, Blue Ridge Library Mysteries offers a warm escape into a world where every book holds a clue and every corner hides a story. Ready to dive into this literary adventure?
How Blue Ridge Library Mysteries Began
Victoria Gilbert, a North Carolina resident with a lifelong passion for books, drew on her extensive experience as a librarian to craft the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries. Raised near the Blue Ridge Mountains, Gilbert’s love for the region’s history and landscapes infuses the series with authenticity. Her inspiration? A desire to showcase librarians as clever sleuths, using research skills to solve crimes. Launched in 2017 with A Murder for the Books, the series quickly won fans for its fresh take on the cozy mystery genre, blending small-town vibes with intellectual depth.
The Heart of Blue Ridge Library Mysteries
The series kicks off with A Murder for the Books (2017), where Amy Webber, fleeing a bad breakup, takes a librarian job in Taylorsford and stumbles upon a murder in the library archives. She teams up with her charming neighbor, dancer Richard Muir, to solve both a recent crime and a decades-old mystery tied to local folklore. In Shelved Under Murder (2018), Amy investigates an artist’s death and uncovers forged paintings, diving into art history research. Past Due for Murder (2019) sees Amy tackling a missing person case during a lively spring festival, while Death in the Margins (2022) brings backstage betrayal at a theater production.
Themes of community, history, and intellectual curiosity run deep. Gilbert masterfully weaves dual timelines—modern mysteries paired with historical secrets—creating a layered narrative that appeals to fans of both cozy and traditional mysteries. The Taylorsford setting, with its vibrant foliage and historic charm, acts as a character itself, grounding the stories in a vivid sense of place. A touch of romance, particularly Amy’s evolving relationship with Richard, adds warmth without overshadowing the sleuthing.
Why Blue Ridge Library Mysteries Resonates
The Blue Ridge Library Mysteries have carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre by celebrating the unsung heroism of librarians. Fans praise Amy’s relatability and Gilbert’s knack for crafting intricate, satisfying plots. The series’ blend of bookish themes and small-town dynamics appeals to readers who crave both comfort and intellectual stimulation. Its growing fanbase, evident in glowing reviews on platforms like Goodreads, highlights its ability to connect with those who love a good whodunit with heart. As the series continues, its legacy lies in proving that libraries are far more than quiet spaces—they’re gateways to adventure.
- First Book Published: 2017 (A Murder for the Books)
- Number of Books: 9 (as of 2025)
- Setting: Taylorsford, Virginia
- Genre: Cozy Mystery
Grab A Murder for the Books and dive into the Blue Ridge Library Mysteries’ world of secrets, smarts, and small-town charm! Whether you’re a cozy mystery fan or just love a good puzzle, Amy Webber’s adventures will keep you turning pages late into the night.