Book Review: By Hook or By Book

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

[4 stars]

By Hook or By Book Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
D. R. Meredith
Class/Genre: Mystery Amateur Sleuth Cozy
Series: Megan Clark - Reading Group Mysteries # 2
Berkley, May 2000, $5.99, 272 pp.

In Amarillo, Texas, there is not much call to autopsy a mummy. Thus, Ph.D. Dr. Megan Clarke earns her living as a reference librarian rather than as a physical anthropologist specializing in paleopathology. Megan also belongs to the local reading group, Murder by the Yard. The member's meet to discuss mystery books but usually become involved in homicide investigations when one of Megan's ideas goes awry.

Megan's excitement in discovering string figures leads her to hosting the annual conference of the International String Figures Association. She inveigles her reading group to assist her with the logistics supporting the conference. At the conference, someone sets up a private auction where individuals can bid on a long lost manuscript of Caroline Furness Jayne, the person recognized by hobbyists and the ISFA as the definitive writer on string figures. However, an unknown culprit kills antique collector Clyde Brownleigh, the greedy and unpleasant who found the missing document. Megan and her literary cronies begin to investigate the murder.

Mystery fans who enjoy a combination cozy and amateur sleuth tale will gain much pleasure from the entertaining BY HOOK OR BY BOOK. The likable heroine is a fresh character enjoying life. The reading group serves as her support element, yet are fully developed so they come across as individuals with specific eccentricities. Their little subplots add a cozy-like depth to the tale. They also provide insight into Megan and this part of Texas without slowing down her amateur sleuth investigation. The difficult mix of blending the minor subplots of the secondary cast into the main story line showcases the talent of D.R Meredith.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner