Tag: Jenn McKinlay

REVIEW: A Merry Little Murder Plot by Jenn McKinlay

REVIEW: A Merry Little Murder Plot by Jenn McKinlay

Posted on by Jaymie

Summary

Helen Monroe is the “writer in residence” in Briar Creek this winter. After completing her long-running thriller series (by killing off her main character), Helen is working on a new, secret project.

Helen’s “biggest fan,” Jackie Lewis, has also shown up in Briar Creek. And her presence has alarm bells going off in Lindsey’s head. Lindsey has dealt with a stalker before, and this feels all too familiar. And when Jackie crashes a community event trying to paint Helen as a plagiarist who stole Jackie’s book ideas, Lindsey’s fear is confirmed.

But Jackie isn’t the only person with a grudge or vendetta against Helen. Helen’s novels based on true crimes have angered the families involved. And a new member of the library board has a vendetta against Helen as well.

So when  Lindsey discovers a dead body, she has some investigating to do.

Review

This was great! A few holiday activities give this a Christmas-y feel, but the story is a solid mystery for readers to enjoy at any time of the year.

I loved the writing-based mystery, and the many twists kept me guessing to the end. I loved getting to spend some time with Lindsey and Sully and their friends while watching the mystery unfold.

Newcomers could easily start this series here. The mystery is terrific and doesn’t rely too much on series history. But the Library Lover series has been a favorite for me for awhile – so be sure to check out the whole series. And once you are hooked, you can check out Jenn McKinlay’s other mysteries and romance books. You won’t be disappointed.

Rating: ♥♥♥♥½*

*♥♥♥♥½ = I loved it! Would re-read.

REVIEW: Love at First Book by Jenn McKinlay

REVIEW: Love at First Book by Jenn McKinlay

Posted on by Jaymie

[I received a free electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley and Berkley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]

Summary

Emily Allen has stepped away from her life in Martha’s Vineyard to work at the Last Chapter bookshop in Ireland and be an assistant to a writer in residence.  Siobhan Riordan – Emily’s favorite author. This has the potential to be a dream come true for Emily. Except for Kiernan Murphy – bookstore owner, all-around jerk who wants nothing to do with Emily, and Siobhan’s son.

For some reason, Kiernan seems determined to send Emily back to America asap. But she’s just as determined to stay. Siobhan’s books accompanied her through many difficult years. She wants to return the favor by helping Siobhan with her writer’s block. Being an ocean away from her toxic mother is just an added perk.

As Em becomes a bigger part of the Last Chapter family and Siobhan starts writing again, Kier thaws towards her – and then things between them heat up. But a secret has the potential to tear down everything Emily has found in Finn Hollow – everything she’s ever wanted.

Review

This was so good! I completely fell in love with the main character and the bookshop staff. What a delight to spend time with all of them!

The main story beats were pretty obvious going in, but I can’t complain that this was “predictable” because the execution was terrific. I loved Emily’s journey toward redefining herself in this new place without the burden of her mother. (BTW, her mother was deplorable – the absolute worst.) Siobhan was fantastic – both as a writer but also as a mentor. Kier and Em together were great, but it was the larger story of Emily’s journey that really clicked for me.

Romance fans, McKinlay fans, Summer Reading fans (these two books are loosely connected), and book/writing story fans should absolutely pick this up. And be sure to have tissues handly for the last quarter. (Language, sex)

Rating: ♥♥♥♥*

*♥♥♥♥ = Great! Might re-read

REVIEW: Fatal First Edition by Jenn McKinlay

REVIEW: Fatal First Edition by Jenn McKinlay

Posted on by Jaymie

Summary

While enjoying a train ride home from an archivist convention, Sully and Lindsey get connected to another murder. By the end they will endure a blizzard and a kidnapping as well as discover a valuable book. But the Crafternoon crown help Lindsey, Sully, and local law enforcement save the day.

Review

This was a fun mystery! It was super easy to fall back into the flow with these characters. I loved the mystery on a train angle, although Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect does it “better” in that the whole story takes place on the train. In this, the train is just one of several settings, but it was a fun one. And the other locations helped draw Lindsey and Sully’s usual community into the case. And that’s half the fun of a long-running series like this one. (This is book 14.)

McKinlay does a good job of giving context to the series regulars which I love because I don’t always remember well after a year’s wait between books. But while I think a newcomer could start here, I would recommend reading this series in order. I find it more satisfying. For example, I think I appreciated Lindsey and Sully’s relationship more in this because I’ve watched it develop from the start.

Series fans should enjoy this latest adventure for Lindsey and Sully – don’t miss this one!

Rating: ♥♥♥♥*

*♥♥♥♥ = Great!

2023 Year In Review, Part 1

2023 Year In Review, Part 1

Posted on by Jaymie

2023 was a tough reading year for me. I read the fewest number of books that I have since I started keeping track on Goodreads. But even more than just numbers, I didn’t encounter a lot of books that left a lasting impression. When I tried to figure out what my top 10 books were, I struggled to remember things I read in the earlier part of 2023.  This makes me want to look deeper at my past reading numbers to see how this year measures up.

I read 145 books in 2023, and I feel good about that number, even if it’s the lowest of the last seven years. I set a one book goal on Goodreads for 2023, which was a brilliant idea I came across on Instagram – it kept me from obsessing about meeting a goal. And it freed me up to go with the flow a bit more this year with my reading. I’m looking forward to digging into some of my other reading stats later this year.

Now, let’s take a look at my favorites from 2023. Of the 10 books on my list, two are nonfiction. Half of the list are books I read from review copies this year. There are 3 YA books on the list and 1 middle grade book, and there are two graphic novels on the list.

Today we will cover books 10 through 6, plus an Honorable Mention. Then Friday we will pick up the rest. (You can see my lists from past years here.) Here we go!

Honorable Mention: The Labors of Hercules Beal – This was not a 5 star book when I read and rated it, which pushed it out of consideration for my Top Ten list. But the story, and the character of Hercules, really stuck with me this year, unlike a lot of other things I read that I loved in the moment but then forgot. So I had to make mention of this book for 2023. You can read my full review here.

 

 

10. A Letter to My Congregation – I didn’t post a full review of this on the blog in 2023, but this was a hugely influential read for the year. I rated this “5+++” when I initially read it. My Goodreads review reads: “This was exceptionally good and a perfectly timed read for me. I loved the tone of it which made it easy to plow through over a couple of days. I was underlining something on almost every page. While I thought the chapters on the author’s journey to acceptance and alliance were excellent, my favorites were the two chapters (4 & 5) on how the Church can disagree on this issue – and other issues as they arise over time – without splitting or tearing each other apart. I hope to get some people together to talk about those chapters in particular.” ♥♥♥♥♥+++

 

9. Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library (Graphic Novel) – This is the one middle grade book on the list this year. I loved this adaptation of a “classic” middle grade novel. You can read my full review here.

 

 

 

8. Manslaughter Park – This is the third book in the Jane Austen Murder Mystery series for teens and young adults – and I loved it! I read this on a retreat so I will always associate it with that whole experience which adds to its specialness. You can read my full review here.

 

 

 

7. Summer Reading – I discovered Jenn McKinlay through her mysteries, but I have become an even bigger fan of her romance novels. You can read my full review of this one here.

 

 

 

6. Starter Villain – My husband and I both enjoyed this stand alone book from John Scalzi – it’s quirky and fun, and one I will happily read again. You can read my full review here.

 

 

 

Be sure to come back Friday for the rest of the list!

REVIEW: Summer Reading by Jenn McKinlay

REVIEW: Summer Reading by Jenn McKinlay

Posted on by Jaymie

[I received a free review copy of this book from Netgalley and Berkley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]

Summary

Samantha says she is on Martha’s Vineyard for the summer to watch her teenaged half-brother, Tyler, while his parents are on an extended vacation. But in reality, she quit her job as a chef in Boston when she was passed over for a job. She needs a soft place to land and re-group.

Sam did not count on meeting a handsome stranger on the ferry. She knew Ben was bookish because she accidentally knocked his book into the ocean. But he’s also a librarian. She’s not sure what to make of all of that bookishness. Sam’s dyslexia means that reading is a tremendous challenge. There are just too many other things she’d rather do instead. Things that don’t fill her with shame.

But the chemistry between them is undeniable. And Ben doesn’t seem to think Sam has anything to be ashamed of. But Sam has lost boyfriends and jobs over her dyslexia in the past, so she’s not sure she can trust him long term. But a summer fling might be all right, if she can keep herself from falling head over heels for him.

Review

That summary really doesn’t do this book justice, but if I try to explain all of the magic of this story, I will end up spoiling it. And this is too perfect to risk spoiling it.

I. Loved. Everything.

All of the characters are fantastic. And the set up – the family things, the reading things, the romance, the setting – is all perfect. There are funny moments and swooning moments and heart-tugging moments and angsty moments. And I adored them all. This was definitely a book I wanted to hug when I was done.

The author’s note about dyslexia and the choices she and the publisher made in the production of this novel were icing on the cake. I loved how that aspect of the story was handled. I can’t wait to see this book in person to see the dyslexia-friendly font they chose and other accommodations.

Finally, there’s a teaser for a companion novel focusing on another character – and I need it in my hands immediately!

Jenn McKinlay has never failed me before, and she certainly hasn’t here. Fans of her other romances – and fans of her mysteries if you  also like books with some spice – should absolutely pick this up. She really hits this one out of the park. Highly recommend! (Language, sex)

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥*

*♥♥♥♥♥ = Outstanding!

REVIEW: Killer Research by Jenn McKinlay

REVIEW: Killer Research by Jenn McKinlay

Posted on by Jaymie

Summary

The mayoral race between Ms. Cole from the library and the incumbent, Mayor Hensen, is heating up. And Lindsey and her Crafternoon friends are all in for the campaign. In fact, children’s librarian, Beth, is serving as Ms. Cole’s campaign manager.

But when a dead body is found in Ms. Cole’s car, the mayor and his cronies smell blood in the water and turn up the heat on their smear campaign.

So Lindsey, Sully, and Beth start sleuthing, determined to clear Ms. Cole and clear a path to her election victory.

Review

This is one of those series that’s easy to fall into no matter how long it’s been since you read the last one. This is the 12th book in the Library Lovers Mystery series by Jenn McKinlay, and it’s a must-read for me and has been from the beginning. The main characters feel like old friends, and it’s no work at all to dive into a new book.

My book friends did not disappoint in this outing. I was completely invested in seeing Ms. Cole cleared, and I cheered every time she verbally stomped on the mayor when he tried to stir up trouble. The mystery kept me guessing, and I enjoyed watching the story and the solution play out.

I don’t know that you have to read this series in order. It helps, though, because of the history with Ms. Cole throughout the series. It’s so satisfying to have seen her evolution from the beginning of the series until now, especially in her relationships with Lindsey and the Crafternoon group. That said, I still think the story is easy enough to follow if you decide to drop into the series here.

Series fans, of course, should absolutely pick this one up and enjoy watching Lindsey work the case – and Ms. Cole work the election!

Rating: ♥♥♥♥*

*♥♥♥♥ = Great! Might re-read

BONUS REVIEW: One for the Books by Jenn McKinlay

BONUS REVIEW: One for the Books by Jenn McKinlay

Posted on by Jaymie

[I received an electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley and Berkley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]

Summary

Christmas is coming, which means Lindsey and Sully’s wedding is too. And the whole town is looking forward to it. In fact, thanks to a glitch with the invitations, it looks like the couple will have at least three times as many guests as they had planned for.

When Lindsey, Sully, and some friends head out to the wedding site to make plans for their extra guests, they find the body of a friend. Steve and Sully had known each other for years. He was going to perform their wedding. They had just seen him the night before at a Christmas party in his home.

Lindsey has to wonder if something from the party led to Steve’s death. There was the huge argument with Steve’s former business partner; everyone saw it. And then the frosty relationship with his wife. And what about the story of a strange woman dressed all in black in the house during the party?

While Lindsey would love to leave the sleuthing to the police this time, the island where her wedding should be is off limits as a crime scene. If she wants her wedding to go as planned, she’s going to need to help the case along.

Review

Terrific! I have enjoyed this series from the start. This latest story does not disappoint.

It’s finally time for Sully and Lindsey to get married. I enjoyed all the wedding prep and the sweet little moments between the couple in their excitement. The issue of an officiant drags through the whole book, and the solution is pretty obvious. But it does lead to one encounter with a possible fill in who was a hoot! That interaction alone made the officiant quest worth it. I would love to see that character in another book.

The mystery was top notch! The twists almost felt like they were circling in on each other – in the best way. I loved watching it all play out.

This is a come-for-the-characters-stay-for-the-mystery sort of series for me. This is book 11, and the Library Lovers Mystery series is as strong as ever.  The author does an excellent job of not sacrificing either part – the setting and characters or the mystery – striking just the right balance. This is why I read anything and everything Jenn McKinlay writes. I am already thinking about where future stories in this series might go – Ms. Cole is running for mayor after all! And I am here for that tale and any other with Lindsey and Sully.

Rating: ♥♥♥♥½*

*♥♥♥♥½=Loved it. Would re-read.

BONUS REVIEW: Paris Is Always a Good Idea by Jenn McKinlay

BONUS REVIEW: Paris Is Always a Good Idea by Jenn McKinlay

Posted on by Jaymie

[I received an electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley and Berkley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]

Summary

Chelsea Martin discovers her father is engaged when he asks her to meet him, saying it’s urgent. She finds him at a bridal shop.  Her twice-married younger sister is completely on board. The fact that the couple met through a bachelor auction two weeks ago is only a factor to Chelsea.

Chelsea’s mom died 7 years ago. At the time, Chelsea was spending a gap year in Europe. As soon as she heard her mom was sick, she dropped everything and went home. When her dad announces his sudden engagement, Chelsea realizes everyone else has moved forward after her mother’s death except her.

So Chelsea takes a leave from her job to go back to Europe. Her plan is to look up the men she fell in love with during her gap year and see if reconnecting with them will help her find herself and her happiness again.

Review

This was fun. I loved the travel as well as the premise of Chelsea trying to find herself or find the person she used to be. There were many laugh-out-loud moments in this, too. That levity was a lovely contrast to the world I find myself in these days.

The story isn’t all light, though. Chelsea is a fundraiser for a cancer charity, so there are characters tied to her work, herself included, who have experienced grief and loss. So there are some heavy, emotional moments in this as well.

Chelsea’s co-worker – and nemesis – Jason Knightley – is probably my favorite character in the whole book. I loved the evolution of Jason and Chelsea’s relationship from the start of the book to the end.

The resolution to Chelsea’s quest was satisfying and wrapped up the book nicely. The journey was fun from start to finish.

McKinlay fans, especially of her romance novels like the ones in the Bluff Point series and the Happily Ever After series, including The Christmas Keeper (♥♥♥♥), should be sure to check this one out. Contemporary romance fans and readers who enjoy books with travel aspects (like One to Watch) or personal quests (like A Dozen Second Chances or My Great Ex-Scape) should check this one out, too. (Language, sex, TW: grief/loss, gaslighting/manipulation in relationships)

Rating: ♥♥♥♥

REVIEW: Word to the Wise by Jenn McKinlay

REVIEW: Word to the Wise by Jenn McKinlay

Posted on by Jaymie

[I received an electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley and Berkley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]

Summary

Lindsey Norris is in a good place in life. She’s prepping for her wedding to Sully in December. She loves her extended family-to-be, including Sully’s niece Josie. She’s in a good place with her job at the library and at peace with her co-workers.

But it’s one task for her job – one she performs well – that turns everything upside down.

Aaron Grady and his wife are new to town. He raises roses, and is concerned about the impact of a recent drought. Since Lindsey is on the reference desk when he comes in, she takes him to their books on gardening and roses and connects him with a local gardening group.

While Lindsey thought she was just doing her job, Aaron thinks it’s something much more. He tracks Lindsey down at her house to bring her flowers, stares at her for hours while she’s at work, and stalks her, sending texts while she is shopping for her wedding dress. While the local police are taking it seriously, Aaron has yet to really cross a line. The mayor tells Lindsey she’s over reacting. He thinks she should be “flattered” by the attention. He refuses to let her ban Aaron from the library.

When Aaron’s stalking extends to following Lindsey while they are out to dinner, Sully’s had enough. He and Aaron argue publicly. The next day Aaron is dead, Sully’s gun is missing, and he’s the number one suspect for the murder.

Review

This is the second harassment story I’ve read in two days, and I have to say they both have been unsettling. The victims feel skittish and trapped while clueless outsiders excuse the perpetrators’ lack of boundaries. Ugh. It feels awful. The author here does a great job of painting that emotional picture before the murder. I felt a real sense of relief that the guy would not be stalking Lindsey any more.

The mystery here is top notch. Everything moves along quickly. While Sully – and Lindsey – are suspects, their community believes in them and supports them as they seek the truth. There are great twists and turns in this one. I really enjoyed the journey to the truth.

This is the 10th book in the Library Lovers Mystery series by Jenn McKinlay – and it’s not slowing down at all. I love spending time with these characters. I’m looking forward to the next book.

Rating: ♥♥♥♥½

REVIEW: The Good Ones by Jenn McKinlay

REVIEW: The Good Ones by Jenn McKinlay

Posted on by Jaymie

[I received an electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley and Berkley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]

Summary

Maisy inherited her great-aunt Eloise’s lovely – but old – Victorian home and her overwhelmingly large collection of romance novels. In fact, the books are piled precariously throughout the house – stacked on steps, piled in rooms, and heaped in the living spaces. And Maisy’s dream is to turn the house into a romance bookstore and share her great-aunt’s favorite stories with her customers. As a literature professor with two Master’s degrees, Maisy is definitely qualified to run the store. And since her ex just snaked a promotion out from under her, it’s time to throw caution to the wind and follow her dream.

The first step in the process is to have an expert in to assess the work the house will need to update it and convert it into a book store. Enter Ryder Copeland. He’s far too good looking for Maisy’s own good. With his cowboy hat and rugged good looks, he looks exactly like the guy on the cover of her favorite romance novel.

No matter how much chemistry Maisy feels with Ryder, it doesn’t matter. The wedding ring on his left hand means he is off limits. But Ryder only wears the ring to discourage relationships. He’s been divorced for 3 years, but he’s not ready to tread into a relationship again. Right now, he has set a course for himself and his teenage daughter that will be taking them out of Fairdale. And that course has no space for the petite bookseller whose smile could break down his resolve.

Review

I have enjoyed Jenn McKinlay‘s mysteries for years, but after reading her Bluff Point books last year and this first book in her new Happily Ever After series, I think her romance books are even better than the mysteries! After finishing this book, I wanted to go re-read the Bluff Point books. That series is a lot of fun. I think I caught a sentence that ties this book to that series, as well.

I was hooked at the start when I realized this was a book book. The main character is a reader and a literature professor. The house at the center of the story is stuffed to overflowing with books. The goal is to turn it into a bookstore. I was sold on the story at that point!

And then I got to know the characters. After that, there was no putting this one down until I finished. Maisy and Ryder are fantastic together, but the supporting cast – including Ryder’s daughter Perry, and King George the cat – round out the story so well. There are some fun hints at potential future stories – including the relationship at the center of book 2, The Christmas Keeper, out in the fall of 2019. And I am absolutely here for those future stories! I highly recommend this funny, endearing romance. (Language, sex)

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥