Hitting the Books: A Library Lover’s Mystery by Jenn McKinlay

    Some series have so many books, it is strange to think of a time when the characters won’t be around anymore.  Sometimes this happens because I am all caught up and am waiting for the next book to be released.  Other times the series has officially ended. 

    Thankfully, with the Library Lover’s Mysteries, there are more books to read.  When I finish one, I am always eager to read the next to see what is going to happen.

    Nobody expects to witness a hit-and-run.  At least I certainly hope they don’t.  Library Director Lindsey Norris certainly didn’t.  She was merely looking out the library window when she happened to see a car come straight at tennis coach Theresa Huston.  Thankfully, as awful as the situation was, Teresa’s only big injury is a broken leg.  Unfortunately, the terrible events do not stop there.

    While recuperating at home, someone breaks into Theresa’s house and tries to suffocate her.  With the new alarm system installed by her furniture store owner fiancé, Larry Milstein, the police are able to get to Theresa in time.

    Now even more concerned for Theresa’s safety than before, Larry moves Theresa in with him and his college-age daughter.  He also hires bodyguards.

    But even with the bodyguards, the attempts on Theresa’s life don’t stop.  With a collection of checked out library CDs mixed into the mystery of who is out to get Theresa, Lindsey decides to do whatever she can to help Theresa stay alive and safe.

Book Stack/Artwork by Kate Dorsey

    While helping Theresa, Lindsey must figure out some things going on in her own life.  For several months she has been living with her boyfriend, Sully.  She loves Sully, but there are things about him that drive her absolutely crazy. 

    Lindsey is also wondering if there is something wrong with her because she is not sure about marriage and children.  If that is what Sully wants, she does not want to hold him back from getting it.  Their conflicting desires could mean Lindsey has to separate from the man she loves.  Something she is willing to do if it means Sully will be able to get the life he wants.

    I’m really glad to see the author, Jenn McKinlay, has included a storyline about Lindsey being unsure she wants the traditional things in life.  All those around her keep trying to push Lindsey in the direction of marriage and children, but she’s trusting her own instincts.  None of these people will have to deal with the consequences of Lindsey going against her instincts.  Only Lindsey will. 

    Over time Lindsey’s instincts and feelings may change.  I just hope if they do, it is Lindsey herself who is driving the change.  Not those around her or society forcing her to do so.  If that is the case, she, and those she is involved with, whether it is Sully or someone else, will never be happy.