The Cherry Cola Book Club by Ashton Lee

Maura Beth couldn't believe it when the Council called her to a meeting with them to discuss the library and told her they were probably shutting it down.  The Councilmember wanted to use the funds to develop an industrial park and bring more revenue to the city.  Being a librarian was her life and she loved the library she managed.  She wasn't going down without a fight...

Kensington Books sent me an ARC of this book for review (thank you).  Check with your local bookstore for a copy.

Maura Beth doesn't like to be threatened, but she does appreciate an opportunity to work on increasing library usage.  First she has to figure out what she can do.  She has no budget for computers and hardly any for new books.  What she does have is a community who likes her and the library.

First comes the idea of a bookclub, from a new resident to the town.  Then comes the name of the club, which actually was inspired by a young child.  The little girl can't say Cherico, so she calls the town Cherry Cola.  OK, Maura has a new event for the library, now where will she get her participants?

I enjoyed reading this story because it's small town where everyone knows everyone else (including all the dirt on them) and everyone is eccentric.  (Isn't that a requirement for long-time residents of small towns?)

Another advantage of small towns is that everyone will get behind a good project.  Soon the book club is growing, petitions are beings signed, and quiet people are beginning to talk and participate.  The author has added a couple of quiet romances, some marriage rehabilitation, and lots of good food to the story.  What's not to like?

Why not get a copy and see if you can read about all the good food without drooling.  I dare you.

Happy reading.