Although my cozy mystery reading has fallen off a bit in the past few years, there are favorite series that I refuse to abandon. Jenn McKinlay's Library Lovers mystery series is one of them. McKinlay not only is one of the nicest, funniest people you will ever meet but she is also a former librarian and a very talented writer. Entries in her Library Lovers series have been enshrined on my Best Reads lists (like this year's, for example).
So... when I learned that there was a Christmas-themed Library Lovers mystery being released this year, I think the next-door neighbors might've heard a resounding "Yippee!" from this direction. Let me tell you more about it!
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| Available October 8, 2024! |
Synopsis:
"During the most wonderful time of the year, famous author Helen
Monroe arrives in Briar Creek to be the writer in residence, but her
“bah humbug” attitude excludes her from the many holiday celebrations
the town residents enjoy. To try to spread some Christmas cheer, library
director Lindsey Norris invites the new writer in town to join her
crafternoon club. Helen politely refuses and when an altercation happens
between Helen and another patron, Lindsey begins to suspect the author
has been keeping to herself for a reason.
Another newcomer, Jackie Lewis, reveals she’s visiting Briar Creek to be near Helen because she believes they are destined to meet. Having dealt with a stalker in the past, Lindsey feels compelled to tell Helen about Jackie, as she suspects that Helen is unaware her “number one” fan is in town.
When Jackie’s body is later discovered in the town park beneath the holiday-light display with a copy of Helen’s latest manuscript in her hand, the reclusive novelist becomes the prime suspect in the murder of her self-proclaimed mega-fan. Helen’s frosty demeanor melts when Lindsey offers her help, and now the librarian and her crafternoon pals must prove the author innocent before "The End" becomes Helen's final sentence."
Another newcomer, Jackie Lewis, reveals she’s visiting Briar Creek to be near Helen because she believes they are destined to meet. Having dealt with a stalker in the past, Lindsey feels compelled to tell Helen about Jackie, as she suspects that Helen is unaware her “number one” fan is in town.
When Jackie’s body is later discovered in the town park beneath the holiday-light display with a copy of Helen’s latest manuscript in her hand, the reclusive novelist becomes the prime suspect in the murder of her self-proclaimed mega-fan. Helen’s frosty demeanor melts when Lindsey offers her help, and now the librarian and her crafternoon pals must prove the author innocent before "The End" becomes Helen's final sentence."
I wonder why Jackie Lewis automatically made me think of Annie Wilkes, the Number One Fan in Stephen King's Misery? (Yet here, she's the one whose ticket is punched...) Regardless the character she reminded me of, A Merry Little Murder Plot certainly sounds like another excellent entry in this fun series, and I look forward to reading it! Are there any other Library Lovers fans out there? (I bet there are!)
It's such a good feeling, isn't it, when an author whose work you really like has a new one coming out. And a library themed series? What's not to love? It's funny, I don't usually go for holiday-themed books, but sometimes that background can work well. I hope this one lives up to the promise, Cathy!
ReplyDeleteI'm sure it will, Margot!
DeleteCathy, I keep telling myself that I should try this series by Jenn McKinlay. I love her 'cupcake' mysteries, but I'm behind on those too. I just finished Linda Castillo's new Kate Burkholder book and wowie - kind of grim. Liked it, but bet some will think it's too, too whatever. Maybe I need to read a more cozy book next. LOL
ReplyDeleteSounds like a plan to me, Kay. :-)
DeleteMcKinlay does write some very fun books. I've read more of her romances than her mysteries, though. This series sounds like one I really need to try.
ReplyDeleteI think you'd really like this series, Lark. :-)
DeleteI haven't read any of McKinlay's books but I do have her on my list of writers that I need to read. Maybe later this year...
ReplyDeleteIt's good to have a nice, healthy Need to Read list, I always say.
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