Something Read, Something Dead

The love for books is front and center, but I'm curious how that influenced the story structure and character development. Was this a conscious choice from the start?

The small-town vibe and bookshop backdrop add such a warm touch, but I wondered if that also softens the tension a bit. What do others think about the balance between coziness and suspense?

It feels like such a natural fit for a cozy mystery, but I'm curious whether this was based on personal experience or a deliberate way to celebrate books.