Review: Death in Castle Dark

Review: Death in Castle Dark by Veronica Bond

Actor Nora Blake finds her dream job when she is cast in a murder-mystery troupe that performs in an imposing but captivating old castle. When she stumbles upon a real murder, things take a nightmarish turn in this first book in an exciting new series.

Maybe it was too good to be true, but when Nora Blake accepted the job from Derek Corby, proprietor of Castle Dark, she could not see any downsides. She would sink her acting chops into the troupe's intricately staged murder-mystery shows, earn free room and board in the fairy tale-like castle, and make friends with her new roommates, which include some seriously adorable kittens.

But something sinister lurks behind the walls of Castle Dark. During Nora's second performance, one of her castmates plays the part of the victim a little too well. So well, in fact, that no one can revive him. He has been murdered. Not ready to give up her dream gig--or to be the next victim--Nora sets out to see which one of her fellow actors has taken the role of a murderous real-life villain.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Plot: It was so good! It took multiple twists, and I really liked how the mystery played out. PLUS, I didn't figure out the culprit in this one until the main character did, which is so rare for me, so this book gets extra bonus points for that! I won't share anymore for fear of spoiling it for people. I also really liked the romance in it!

Characters: I really liked all the characters! Nora was a fantastic main character, and I like how she went about solving the mystery. It felt very natural, and not at all forced. And Nora and Dash's romance was fun! I liked the castle staff, but won't say anything more about them for fear of spoiling certain plot points!

The Cover: I like it!

Overall: I really loved this book! From the mystery to the characters, everything was really well written. I also loved the ending! Overall, a five star read that I highly recommend to cozy mystery fans! I eagerly anticipate more books!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher.