Lee and Joe are growing comfortable with their new relationship just as the Fourth of July arrives and the resort begins to fill up. A romantic evening boat ride seems to be in order to escape the crowds, but the ride quickly turns to disaster as the pair discovers the smashed canoe of Hershel Perkins, the man with whom Joe just had a public argument.

Joe becomes the prime suspect in Hershel’s murder, especially since everyone in town knows Joe and Hershel were at odds over the Root Beer Barrel drive-in, a piece of property Joe has recently acquired and that Hershel thinks should stand as a historic landmark. Even though Lee cannot alibi Joe, she’s certain he’s innocent and sets out to prove it so they can finally have their romantic boat ride in peace.

The Chocolate Frog Frame Up is a fast-paced, light read, full of chocolate facts and delectable treats. Lee is an endearing heroine, though at times her habit of misspeaking seems contrived. She is a bright young woman; though she is gaining more assuredness, she still needs more self-confidence.

In addition, Lee has quickly made herself an important part of her aunt’s business and is making a good companion for the aging widow.

Warner Pier is a very quaint town that swells in population during the summer, especially around the Fourth of July. Yet there remains a core cast of rival characters, many of whom have known each other since high school and sometimes still hold grudges.

Hershel, while he appears to be the general town pest, seems to have one issue - the town preservation - near and dear to his heart. He is noisy enough about it to make it the obvious motive for his murder. The mystery is well plotted and though there are few surprises readers will enjoy the time they spend with Lee and Joe in Warner Pier and will look forward to returning for more murder dipped in chocolate.

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry