• Arsenic and Old Books

  • Cat in the Stacks Mystery, Book 6
  • By: Miranda James
  • Narrated by: Erin Bennett
  • Length: 8 hrs and 23 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (377 ratings)

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Arsenic and Old Books

By: Miranda James
Narrated by: Erin Bennett
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Publisher's summary

Lucinda Beckwith Long, the mayor of Athena, has donated a set of Civil War-era diaries to the archives of Athena College. The mayor would like Charlie to preserve and to substantiate them as a part of the Long family legacy - something that could benefit her son Beck as he prepares to campaign for the state senate.

Beck's biggest rival is Jasper Singletary, and their families have been bitter enemies since the Civil War. He'd like to get a look at the diaries in an attempt to expose the Long family's past sins. Meanwhile, a history professor at the college is also determined to get her hands on the books in a last-ditch bid for tenure. Now Charlie is left with a catalog of questions. The diaries seem worth killing for, and one thing is certain: Charlie will need to be careful, because the more he reads, the closer he could be coming to his final chapter...

©2015 Dean James (P)2015 Tantor

Critic reviews

"Combines a kindhearted librarian hero, family secrets in a sleepy Southern town, and a gentle giant of a cat that will steal your heart." (Lorna Barrett, author of the Booktown Mysteries)

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What listeners say about Arsenic and Old Books

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Very interesting story

I enjoyed this story immensely. Learning about things that happened during the civil war is enlightening.

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Library Donation is to DIE for

When Mayor Lucinda Beckwith Long makes a donation to the archives of University of Athena’s library, Charlie Harris is very excited to get a look at them . . . and so are some other folks, so much so that before Charlie can even catalog the four editions of the Civil War Diaries, they are knocking at his door asking to see them. The problem is some have political connections, pulling rank on the others, and before long, Charlie has a mess on his hands. Seemingly the diaries have an impact on the upcoming senatorial election, and tempers are running hot. The coveted volumes are stolen, a university professor is murdered and Charlie, once again gets involved in the investigation. Great addition to the series, with all the beloved characters, that I've come to know.

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Love the series

I started this series a couple of months ago. I normally just listen in the car but I find myself listening all the time. Great book.

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Arsenic and old books

Loved it, I think this was was the best book so far.
I loved the story line.

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ALL ABOUT ARCHIVE'S CHARLEY AND DIESEL

I LOVE these stories!!! I believe this one had me on the edge of my seat more than the others!! Couldn't put it down! I like the family atmosphere in other books. Was exciting to have Charley so involved with the history of two family's to help solve the crime.
Thank you for the beautiful presentation of the morals Charley, his family and friends convey. Your books I can share with my family that teach the goodness in people. Of course we all love Diesel and the bond he and Charley share. A cat we would all love to have and know!!
Erin Bennett is so good at making us feel the story.

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awesome

on track. Great 👍 fits with others but skipped a wedding. still Great. love series

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Another great story of Charlie & Diesel

Every book I read in the Cat in the Stacks series I’m sad when I reach the end. The end means I have until the next one in the series comes out.
This one does not disappoint!

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  • GL
  • 10-11-18

Glittle

I have truly enjoyed the series. Love the characters and the setting. A most enjoyable read/listen. On to the next one.

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The Cat's Meow!! of a good mystery 💖

What a good mystery, and read by the great voice of Erin Bennett. This is one to take your time with, but it's so good you'll what to know the end quickly!

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I want diesel

I so enjoy these books. I am a cat and book lover. This is the perfect series for me.

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