When In Doubt . . .

Go to the library!

The title this week is a reference to a Harry Potter quote (regarding Hermione, of course: “‘Because that’s what Hermione does,’ said Ron, shrugging. ‘When in doubt, go to the library.'”). Now, I myself am not in doubt — what I am is getting ready to go to a family wedding! And also, very tired after finishing up the most recent draft of my novel (we’re on number four, I think; or was it five? four and a half?) and sending it off for some professional editing. (Yay!!) All that to say, I’m using libraries as a bit of a blog-shortcut this week. 🙂

So, if you have ever been in doubt, particularly about what a cozy mystery is/what it looks like/why on earth anyone would read one, this post is the answer for you. It’s a library! Specifically, I urge you to check out the online Cozy Mystery Library, set up by author Astoria Wright. She has answers to FAQs, lists of subgenres, and links to free ebooks if you want to check out the genre. She also recently organized an awesome Virtual Book Fair, and I’d encourage anyone with an interest to check out the next one in July (I’ll probably be posting about it when the time comes!). Not only is the library a neat resource, it’s a wonderful example of how kind and enthusiastic the cozy community can be.

My pre-trip “To Do” list is calling, so I’ll close with one more quote . . .

“[D]on’t ever apologise to an author for buying something in paperback, or taking it out from a library (that’s what they’re there for. Use your library). Don’t apologise to this author for buying books second hand . . . What’s important to me is that people read the books and enjoy them.”

Neil Gaiman