Hitting the Books By Jenn McKinlay: Review/Giveaway

Nov 3, 2018 | 2018 Articles, Cynthia Chow, Mysteryrat's Maze

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.

mystery book coverThe 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:

Cynthia Chow is the branch manager of Kaneohe Public Library on the island of Oahu. She balances a librarian lifestyle of cardigans and hair buns with a passion for motorcycle riding and regrettable tattoos (sorry, Mom).

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.

31 Comments

  1. This should be good, I enjoy library and books that are in mysteries! Cover’s pretty also!

    Reply
  2. Book sounds really good. Thanks for the chance to win. I love the cover!

    Reply
  3. I am a huge fan of Jenn.

    Reply
  4. It sounds so interesting and the library is the best place to have a mystery. This series is so much fun to read.

    Reply
  5. Sure would love to win – thank you for the chance.

    Reply
  6. Would love to win this book. Thanks.

    Reply
  7. I really have enjoyed the previous books in this series. Can’t wait to read.

    Reply
  8. A very favorite author of mine. Her mysteries are always entertaining, engaging, enjoyable.
    kpbarnett1941[at]aol.com

    Reply
  9. 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.

    Reply
  10. This sounds great!
    donah42 at aol dot com

    Reply
  11. Great review. I love all of Jenn’s books, but agree, the Library Lovers really are outstanding.

    Reply
  12. This sounds like a good series. Thanks for the contest.

    Reply
  13. Love reading mysteries & this sounds like another great one. Thanks for this amazing chance. lindamay4852@yahoo.com

    Reply
  14. thanks for the review.
    kckendler at gmail dot com

    Reply
  15. Love this series. Thanks for the review & giveaway.

    Reply
  16. 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

    Reply
  17. 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!

    Reply
  18. Please enter me.

    Reply
  19. I love all of Jenn McKinlay’s series.. such a great author!
    Renee
    MickeyMania1@aol.com

    Reply
  20. Thanks for the chance and Thanks for sharing this book with us
    iamabho AT gmail DOT com

    Reply
  21. Jenn McKinlay is one of my favorite authors. Looking forward to reading “Hitting the Books”.
    diannekc8(at)gmail(dot)com

    Reply
  22. I love reading and giveaways! ??

    Reply
  23. I would definitely love to hit the books. Please enter me in the giveaway.

    Reply
  24. Read some other series by this author that I enjoyed. Would like to read this one too.

    Reply
  25. Sounds like a good book- would love to win!

    Reply
  26. We have a winner!

    Reply

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

SUBSCRIBE NOW!

podcast