About the Book

Helma Zukas is a no-nonsense librarian in the quiet coastal town of Bellehaven, Washington. When a body turns up in the stacks of her beloved library, Helma’s ordered world is thrown into chaos. With her keen eye for detail, strict sense of order, and the help of her free spirited artist friend Ruth, Helma reluctantly steps into the role of amateur sleuth. To restore peace to Bellehaven and to the shelves, she must follow the clues, navigate small town gossip, and catch a killer hiding behind a very bookish façade.

About the Author

Jo Anne Dereske (October 1, 1947 – July 5, 2025) was the beloved author behind the long running Miss Zukas Mysteries series. A librarian herself who worked in academic and college libraries in Washington, Dereske drew on her deep love for libraries, small town life, and her Lithuanian American heritage to create the witty and charming Helma Zukas. Over her career, she wrote 18 novels including the Miss Zukas and Ruby Crane mystery series as well as children’s fiction, short stories, and poetry.

Her writing was praised for its warmth and sharp wit. The New York Times called Miss Zukas “a loving send up of the stereotype of the prim librarian,” while the Toronto Sun assured readers, “You’re in for a good time.”

Jo Dereske passed away on July 5, 2025, leaving fans with an unforgettable series filled with charm, clever plotting, and a librarian they will not soon forget.