When someone asks me, “What's a good mystery to read?” I would share that there are a variety of types and styles. Perhaps you might like a detective story by authors such as P.D. James, Jeffery Deaver, Bruce Coffin or Tony Hillerman. For a cozy mystery (who dun it), pick one by well-known

Sarah Graves, Lea Wait, Charlotte MacLeod or Barbara Ross. Let's say that you want to get into the forensic aspect; in that case, check out one of the medical examiner series by Tess Gerritsen, Patricia Cornwell, or Kathy Reichs.

There is always the maritime theme by authors Charlene D'Avanzo, Claire Booth, or Linda Greenlaw. For those of you who love the woods of Maine, I would highly recommend Paul Doiron. Two others to try are Sandra Neily and Bernadine Fagan.

Then there are those of us who like a challenge: the psychological thriller. Authors well known for this subject are Michael Connolly, James Patterson, Ruth Ware, and Shari Lapena.

The second question might be, “How do I make my selection?” Most people will read the blurb inside the book's jacket or check out a best seller list. You might ask a librarian or friend for a recommendation. I like to read the first paragraph, something I learned while taking creative writing classes. One of my first assignments was to write a hook in an opening paragraph. I found my old notes and for fun thought I would share one with you.

The Sea Ghost: The sea's choppy water was frigid to the touch. Its never ending hostility was evident as it battered the shore, daring its next victim. Sandy stood on the lonely beach, her sad blue eyes were riveted on the deserted summer cottage. Splintered clap boards dangled from broken hinges on its weather worn exterior. The wind whipped at faded lace curtains that still hung from the broken windows. She felt the October chill against her frail body. Sandra brushed the sand from her feet and started toward the ramshackle house and the past that still haunted her. She had to do this, it was the only way to overcome her fear and the whispers that she was insane.

You get the idea … happy reading mystery lovers!

* Upcoming Events *

So Near & So Far Book Group: Saturday, May 4 from 10:30 a.m. to noon, “In the Cold of the Malecon” by Antonio Jose Ponte. Great Room.

I Love a Mystery! Book Club: Saturday, May 11 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. “The Couple Next Door” by Shari Lapena.

Monday Night Book Club: Monday, May 13 at 7 p.m. “Circe” by Madeline Miller.

Author Talk: Frederick D. Barton, “Peace Works: America’s Unifying Role in a Turbulent World,” Wednesday, May 22 at 5:30 p.m. Great Room.

Author Talk: Brian Daniels, “It Seemed Like a Compliment to Me,” Wednesday, May 29, 5:30 p.m. Great Room.

A Summer Weekend of Jazz: Joint fundraising concerts on Saturday, July 20, 7-10 p.m. and Sun., July 21, 2-3 p.m. Visit boothbayseaandsciencecenter.org or bbhlibrary.org for tickets.