I admit that it took me a bit to get into the story. A somewhat reclusive bachelor (mid 30's) hired Jan, an archivist (old enough to be his mother) to help catalog his library. It was refreshing to have a book with a platonic friendship. The employer, Cameron "Cam" Clewe is primarily a homebody as he struggles with agoraphobia and is a bit socially awkward. Having worked with all kinds of people as a librarian, Jane is not at all put off by Cam's idiosyncrasies. Jane could be described as a reluctant retiree, not really expecting to have been let go. When the opportunity to archive a personal collection came up, Jane jumped at the chance. Just as Jane is learning the ropes and where things are in the expansive home, a body turns up (in the library, of course).
Cam needs someone to help clear his name because he is the primary suspect in the recent murder. And so Jane's duties immediately expand to include sleuthing. Librarian-turned-detective is not so very large a leap as every good librarian does a fair amount of detection in helping patrons explore new titles or dive into research projects. And those skills prove invaluable as Jane and Cam methodically sift through clues to find the killer.
Although it took a bit to get into the story, I would say this was an overall pleasant read, not too complicated and nicely wrapped up in the end (with perhaps a hint of future mysteries to come?). If you are looking for a cozy mystery for reading at the beach or lounging by the pool, check out A Cryptic Clue and see if you can guess the guilty party before the final chapter.
Disclaimer: I received a free digital audio recording of A Cryptic Clue from NetGalley for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.
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