Book Reviews: Mystery at the Masquerade by Josh Lanyon

 

One of those books that you plan to only read a chapter before bed then next you know you're on the last chapter. 

Ellery has settled into town and the Crow's Nest bookshop has become home. Then he gets an invitation to the most exclusive party in town, hosted by a descendant of a pirate Tom Blood, Mrs. Bloodworth-Ainsley. His relationship with the chief was over as soon as it started and now he doesn't know where they stand in their casual friendship, with the handsome Jack seeming to be happy to just have a few casual chats and dinners. So he doesn't see the harm in accepting the invite or flirting with the Bloodworth heir, Julian. All should be right in Ellery's world, but when Julian's stepfather is murdered, all suspicion falls on him and even Jack seems to think he's guilty. So when Julian begs Ellery for help, he's conflicted between keeping his promise to Jack and tracking down the real killer.

Ellery has an ideal job at the Crow's Nest bookstore which is the only place in town to find mystery books and after two murder investigations under his belt, he's a pro at solving mysteries. The story is decked out in pirate finery with the whole town themed in piracy and the upcoming ball is no exception. Now Ellery gets a chance at some romance with a mask, a pirate costume, and a handsome bachelor that actually seems interested in him. The ball adds a touch of Cinderella to the plot. If Cinderella was filled with piracy, murder, and a nosy sleuth. Jack doesn't want him to investigate another murder, but Ellery can't quit his curiosity and this lands him into just a bit of water. But as he dives into this new mystery, he seems to get a chance at getting closer to Jack in a way that he's been hoping for. The writing is witty, clever, and charming, driven out of the voice of Ellery and the characters that surround him. The romance elements shine through and you'll find yourself rooting for the complex dynamic of Jack and Ellery.

On the surface, Julian is everything that Ellery hoped for. He's a regular prince charming and seems to reciprocate interest, but Ellery's thoughts still seem to venture to Jack. Though that relationship has been a tangled web since the beginning. The connection with Jack is at the core of his drama, frustration, and tension that creates a charming mystery that has the undercurrent of romance. The story opening a side of vulnerability to the chief that allows a chance to get to know the character on a deeper level. Their connection is at the heart of the story and adds a sweetness that is addicting with every page making you want to know how they'll end up. 

Lanyon has a talent for witty and entertaining characters that fill Ellery's life. Nan, Dylan, and Nora create a unit for him that acts in the vein of "mother hens" that take care of him, support him, encourage him, and even give him advice on his love life. They're also a great source of gossip about the town that comes in handy for his investigation and create a family unit that helps to ground him in the community. The characters make you feel like part of the story and make you want to take your own trip into the town to shop at the Crow's Nest, don a pirate's costume, and eat at the Salty Dog. 

Loved every second of this mystery and can't wait for the next one!