Source: Publisher
Description: 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 residence 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.
Genre: Mystery - Cozy
Why I Picked This Book: This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series.
My Impression: It's Christmas time in Briar Creek which means there are tons of festivies, there's a new writer in residence program going on in the libary, and a bit of drama going on with the politics of the Friends of the Library. And of course there's a murder.
I always enjoy a visit to this series. Lindsey and Sully and all of their friends are front and center and I am especially glad to see Robbie have some page time. I really liked Helen. She's a bit standoffish and direct but she reads as an authentically introverted person who is happiest in her own company. Jackie is dreadful but not as awful as the Betty who makes her presence known from the beginning with her rudeness and disdain for the residents of Briar Creek.
The mystery was entertaining and kept me guessing from start to finish and I thoroughly enjoyed the investigation. This is a solid series with an enjoyable community around the main characters. I really love seeing Ms Cole - formerly known as "the Lemon" - getting comfortable in her new role as Mayor Cole. The book can easily be read as a standalone but is even more enjoyable when read as part of the series.
Would I Read More of this Series/Author? Of course! McKinlay is one of my favorite cozy mystery authors.
Would I Recommend this Book? If you like cozy mysteries you really must try this author and this series.
* I received this book in exchange for an honest review. As always my opinions and impressions are completely my own. *
Would I Recommend this Book? If you like cozy mysteries you really must try this author and this series.
* I received this book in exchange for an honest review. As always my opinions and impressions are completely my own. *
Sounds like a good one!
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I love the cover of this one. I really have to read this series and start with the first book.
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