I've been reading a lot of cozy mysteries lately trying to find that elusive series that pulls you in and won't let you go. I think I've found it with Books Can Be Deceiving by Jenn McKinlay, the first book in the Library Lovers Mystery series.
I really liked Lindsey. She was a very relatable character and it was easy to see aspects of yourself and your friends in her. Lindsey enjoys her community, is always there for her friends, and is still hurt by betrayal of ex-fiance. She's someone you feel like you know and would be friends with if she was in your town.
Lindsey's best friend Beth reminds me of the best possible elementary school teacher you can think of - the teacher we all want for our kids because she's creative and really wants kids to love learning. Beth's not overly confident in self and wants to rescue people which can be annoying but she also shows spunk and humor and has a backbone at unexpected times keeping her from tipping over the line of being weak.
The Crafternoon book club members were awesome! I loved reading about this group of characters. They had fun, distinct personalities, and were all ready to lend a hand when needed as the story moved forward. These secondary characters can make or break a book, especially one set in a small town like this, and the Crafternoon characters definitely helped take this book from good to great.
The obligatory love interest of our intrepid librarian, Sully was actually an interesting but slightly inscrutable character. I was surprised that he seems like a good match for Lindsey and was very happy that McKinlay didn't feel the need to try to create a "love triangle" as so frequently happens in cozy mysteries - to the detriment of the overall plot in most cases.
Beth's boyfriend Rick is an icky, pompous jerk and I didn't like him at all. I was glad he was killed and frankly, I think some of the characters in the book were glad too! Of course, he caused even more problems for Beth dead than he did alive - which is saying something!
If you like cozy mysteries, I highly recommend Books Can Be Deceiving. I will definitely be reading the rest of the Library Lovers Mystery series and am going to read McKinlay's other cozy mysteries as well.
Synopsis
Lindsey is getting into her groove as the director of the Briar Creek Public Library when a New York editor visits town, creating quite a buzz. Lindsey's friend Beth wants to sell the editor her children's book, but Beth's boyfriend, a famous author, gets in the way. When they go to confront him, he's found murdered-and Beth is the prime suspect. Lindsey has to act fast before they throw the book at the wrong person.
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