by Cynthia Chow
Details at the end of this post on how to enter to win a copy of Hitting the Books along with a link to purchase the book from Amazon, and an indie bookstore where a portion of the sale goes to help support KRL.
Briar Creek Public Library Director Lindsey Norris had thought that her biggest challenge of the day would be staying awake after a late night of “one more chapter” compulsive reading. The death of a beloved fictional character can’t compare to real-life tragedy, though, which almost occurs when Lindsey witnesses the hit-and-run of tennis coach Theresa Huston outside of the library. Chief of Police Emma Plewicki quickly locates the vehicle as having been stolen from Kayla Manning, who rather suspiciously is the ex-girlfriend of Theresa’s fiancé.
The solution may not be that simple, though, as a burglary hides yet another attempt at murder, necessitating the need for some rather attractive bodyguards. Less appealing is the discovery that Theresa’s fiancé may have already lost a spouse to nefarious means, and life insurance policies could make another death exceedingly lucrative. Lindsey’s inherent curiosity as a librarian wars with her professional ethics, though, as a clue left at the scene of the crime has the police chief demanding information that Lindsey is sworn to protect. Never underestimate a librarian’s adherence to the American Library Association code of ethics, or her bravery in the face of opposing law enforcement officers. That doesn’t mean that Lindsey still won’t do everything she can to help those involved of course, although this case of possible murderous spouses may be hitting a little close to home as she and her boyfriend Sully move closer to making a commitment.
The author of four outstanding mystery series, McKinlay absolutely shines with this one showcasing her librarian and library-loving background. It’s a nerdy inside detail, but anyone who has worked in a library will revel in the budget-stretching acts of whacking toner cartridges, turning computers on and off again to trouble-shoot, and the compulsive need to promote library services to everyone they meet. Less known will be how librarians enforce confidentiality rules, demanding subpoenas to protect the privacy of all patrons, no matter their age. Perhaps more relatable to all readers will be Lindsey’s absolute terror when contemplating a future with Sully, having never previously discussed the topic of marriage, much less children. It’s becoming critical now that after moving in together, Lindsey discovered just how much she can’t stand happy whistlers in the morning and that she herself doesn’t care about putting away her shoes. Their relationships, as well as their friendships with other couples and patrons of Briar Creek Public Library, continue to make this a welcoming and heart-warming series to return to again and again. This ninth installment contains more than its share of witty banter, clever plot twists, and abundance of affection of libraries and library users. This is a series that rewards readers who have grown to love all of its delightful characters and leaves them anticipating even more adventures for the vividly-drawn residents of Briar Creek.
To enter to win a copy of Hitting the Books, simply email KRL at krlcontests@gmail[dot]com by replacing the [dot] with a period, and with the subject line “hitting,” or comment on this article. A winner will be chosen November 10, 2018. U.S. residents only. If entering via email please include your mailing address (so if you win we can get the book sent right out to you), and if via comment please include your email address. You can read our privacy statement here if you like.
Check out other mystery articles, reviews, book giveaways & mystery short stories in our mystery section. And join our mystery Facebook group to keep up with everything mystery we post, and have a chance at some extra giveaways. Also listen to our new mystery podcast where mystery short stories and first chapters are read by actors! They are also available on iTunes and Google Play.
Use this link to purchase the book & a portion goes to help support KRL & indie bookstore Mysterious Galaxy:
You can also use this link to purchase the book on Amazon. If you have ad blocker on you may not see the link:
Disclosure: This post contains links to an affiliate program, for which we receive a few cents if you make purchases using those links. KRL also receives free copies of most of the books that it reviews, that are provided in exchange for an honest review of the book.
This should be good, I enjoy library and books that are in mysteries! Cover’s pretty also!
Book sounds really good. Thanks for the chance to win. I love the cover!
I am a huge fan of Jenn.
It sounds so interesting and the library is the best place to have a mystery. This series is so much fun to read.
Sure would love to win – thank you for the chance.
Would love to win this book. Thanks.
I really have enjoyed the previous books in this series. Can’t wait to read.
A very favorite author of mine. Her mysteries are always entertaining, engaging, enjoyable.
kpbarnett1941[at]aol.com
I read all her series. I love her character development and writing style. Thanks for the delightful review! I can’t wait for the semester to end so I can read it.
This sounds great!
donah42 at aol dot com
Great review. I love all of Jenn’s books, but agree, the Library Lovers really are outstanding.
This sounds like a good series. Thanks for the contest.
Thank you for the chance! My email is jl_minter@hotmail.com
Love reading mysteries & this sounds like another great one. Thanks for this amazing chance. lindamay4852@yahoo.com
Thank you for the chance to win this.
debprice60@gmail.com
thanks for the review.
kckendler at gmail dot com
Love this series. Thanks for the review & giveaway.
This series sounds made to order for us booklovers. I’d love to win a copy, please enter my name in the draw. crs(at)codedivasites(dot)com
This series has been on my TBR list for some time now. I absolutely love the Cupcake Bakery Mysteries and this one sounds as good. Thanks for the chance!
Please enter me.
I love all of Jenn McKinlay’s series.. such a great author!
Renee
MickeyMania1@aol.com
I love Jenn McKinlay’s books and especially this series. Thank you for providing more insight into her latest. robeader53@yahoo.com
Thanks for the chance and Thanks for sharing this book with us
iamabho AT gmail DOT com
RT’ed your Tweet
https://mobile.twitter.com/KingsRiverLife/status/1059486890699587584
Jenn McKinlay is one of my favorite authors. Looking forward to reading “Hitting the Books”.
diannekc8(at)gmail(dot)com
I love reading and giveaways! ??
I would definitely love to hit the books. Please enter me in the giveaway.
Read some other series by this author that I enjoyed. Would like to read this one too.
Sounds like a good book- would love to win!
Legallyblonde1961@yahoo.com I’d so love to read this!
We have a winner!