Jenn McKinlay’s first Christmas book in the Library Lover’s Mystery series, A Merry Little Murder Plot, manages to successfully incorporate the Christmas programs in Briar Creek, Connecticut, the library activities, and a murder mystery. And, it’s fun with the return of familiar characters.
The Briar Creek Public Library has a writer-in-residence. Helen Monroe works in the library’s fishbowl room every day, and is expected to present a weekly program at the library. But, Library Director Lindsey Norris is extremely uncomfortable when she meets Jacki Lewis who swears she’s Helen’s biggest fan. Lindsey once had a stalker, and she’s afraid she recognizes the signs of a stalker, not a fan. And, when Jacki shows up at the library’s Ugly Sweater Contest, where Helen is a judge, it’s obvious the two know each other, and Jacki is not a fan.
Despite her reclusiveness, Helen participates in several town activities, and does her best to steer away from trouble, despite several confrontations. But, she’s on the scene to rescue Lindsey when Lindsey stumbles across Jacki’s body, and someone attacks Lindsey. However, police suspicion falls on Helen because of her past history with the dead victim.
McKinlay incorporates current problems in libraries as she discusses book banning and people who get on library boards in order to ban books. It’s an essential element in the story, not just a library issue.
Some of the answers don’t come as a surprise in A Merry Little Murder Plot. It didn’t take me long to guess how some of the characters related to Helen Monroe. But, this was a solid mystery that kept my attention.
And, as always, Jenn McKinlay’s characters are charming. This time, Police Chief Emma Plewicki, and her actor partner, Robbie, add the humor to the story, as they frantically try to participate in every Christmas activity. Lindsey is the one who discovers why Emma is obsessed this year.
A Merry Little Murder Plot is a fun Christmas cozy, something light that is needed right now.
Jenn McKinlay’s website is https://jennmckinlay.com/.
A Merry Little Murder Plot by Jenn McKinlay. Berkley Prime Crime, 2024. ISBN 9780593639368 (hardcover), 308p.
FTC Full Disclosure – Library book
I finished this one last night too, Lesa. I thought it was one of the better entries in the series.
I agree, Sharon. I liked this one. And, I really liked the Christmas setting.
I love this series. I’m looking forward to reading it.
I’m sure you’re going to enjoy it, Bonnie.
I’ve been reading a lot of books in this series lately.
Some are better than others, Glen, but I liked this one. I wasn’t as crazy about Fatal First Edition.
I like this series a lot and I am all over the place in it – trying to catch up. There are ones in the middle that need to be read.
Just put it on hold. Thank you so much for the review.