Book Review: The Village Library Demon-Hunting Society by C.M. Waggoner
I have to admit, the title The Village Library Demon-Hunting Society immediately hooked me. I mean, who could resist a cozy mystery that includes a talking cat possessed by a historical figure? C.M. Waggoner has blended humor, mystery, and a sprinkle of the supernatural in a way that feels both fresh and familiarly cozy. When I received an ARC from Berkley via NetGalley, I couldn’t contain my excitement, and I dove right in!
The story revolves around Sherry Pinkwhistle, a bubbly librarian with a knack for solving murders in the quaint town of Winesap, NY. This isn’t your typical quiet librarian stereotype; Sherry is sassy, inquisitive, and fiercely determined to get to the bottom of things, even as the stakes rise with each turn of the page. Losing her not-quite-a-boyfriend Alan catapults Sherry into a frantic quest where a demon and a growing body count threaten her cozy world. I was immediately endeared to Sherry, not just for her determination but also for her quirky friendships, particularly with a local priest and her best friend. The humor, coupled with heartfelt moments, initially had me invested.
Waggoner’s writing style has a delightful warmth, effortlessly combining humor with tension. Early scenes sparkle with Sherry’s wit and the charming dynamics of Winesap’s residents. The dialogue flows naturally, making it easy to visualize this small town—one that feels like it could be near my own home in New York. References to Albany, which I also hold dear, felt like cozy nods to a shared experience, drawing me in even further.
However, about halfway through, I found my interest wavering. While the charm of the initial chapters held strong, the plot began to feel convoluted rather than intricately woven. My enthusiasm turned into impatience as the pacing slowed, making me yearn for Sherry to reach her conclusion sooner rather than later. The demon, initially a significant and captivating character, faded into the background, leaving me wanting more from this intriguing premise.
Though Waggoner clearly aimed for a hybrid of Murder, She Wrote meets a cozy demon-hunting escapade, it ultimately felt as if the narrative lost focus—a disheartening realization. With the promise of a series, the groundwork for character relationships and lore was laid, yet I craved a deeper connection to them all. The emotional gravitas I felt at the start, particularly regarding Sherry’s loss, dissipated as her quest overshadowed her personal journey.
In conclusion, The Village Library Demon-Hunting Society might not align entirely with my tastes, yet its blend of humor, mystery, and a dash of the paranormal makes it an engaging read for those who lean towards cozy mysteries with a unique twist. If you enjoy warm characters in whimsical settings and don’t mind a few narrative hiccups along the way, this book might just become your delightful escape. While it left me wanting more depth and cohesion in the latter half, the heart of Sherry Pinkwhistle and the charm of Winesap certainly lingered on. For those seeking a cozy, slightly humorous mystery with demonic delights, this one could be right up your alley!
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