Jenn McKinlay

Word to the Wise is 300-plus pages that come oh-so-close to being perfection. The only thing that kept it from being perfect was a killer who was a bit too easy to pick out of a lineup, but you know what? I don't care because I loved every other molecule of this story.

The more Jenn McKinlay writes, the better she gets-- and she was good to begin with. There's something for everyone in Word to the Wise: a killer to catch, wedding plans to carry out, a stalker to make readers' blood run cold, show more and meeting up with all these characters who have become good friends.

Being an introvert like Lindsey, I think McKinlay nailed her character's reactions to things like wedding planning and constantly being in a group of people (even when they're people she cares about). Then there's the ongoing evolution of a lemon called Ms. Cole. The Lemon has gone from the early days of me wanting to lock her in an iron maiden to now when I find myself cheering her on. Don't worry, though, all her rough edges have not been worn down!

For those readers like me who don't care for a lot of gushy romance stuff in their mysteries, McKinlay has a light touch that never makes me growl or scowl. And for those who appreciate scenes that ratchet up the suspense, I'll tell you right now that McKinlay's stalking scenes are right on target and so vivid that they brought back memories of the stalker I had to deal with. (Don't like to be too scared when you read a book? Don't worry. Jenn takes care of you.)

One element after another in Word to the Wise made this a gripping read, but if I had to choose one word to describe it, I would choose "happy." It made me smile and feel all's right with the world. This isn't the only book of Jenn McKinlay's to show the all-encompassing power of friendship, but it's certainly one of her best. show less

Lindsey and Sully's winter wedding is coming up soon and while all the final details have Lindsey pretty stressed, she's still looking forward to the big day and starting married life. But while doing some last minute reviewing of plans on the nearby island where they're planning to host the wedding, Lindsey and Sully find the body of the justice of the peace that was supposed to officiate. Now with a week to go, they need to find a new officiant, deal with a bunch of unexpected wedding show more guests, and, if they have time, they might also help solve what might just be another murder in their small town.

As book eleven in the series, readers should know what they're getting here. It's a cozy mystery with fun background characters, a dash of romance, and plenty of bookishness. Plus, most importantly to this reader, all the library work details are highly accurate. While the final section of the novel pushes the limits of disbelief, I still had a good time and I'll be back for another round of coziness when the mood next strikes me. show less

For Batter or Worse by Jenn McKinlay is the 13th A Cupcake Bakery Mystery. This is a sweet addition to a scrumptious series. It is finally time for Joe and Mel’s wedding (hooray), but a murder may put a crimp in the big day. I thought For Batter or Worse was well-written with developed characters and it moved along at quick pace. I love the snappy dialogue between the characters. I find the movie quotes (the game they play) delightful. I have enjoyed following Mel and Angie since the show more beginning of this scrummy series. There is a delightful cast of characters that includes Angie, Mel, Tate, Joe, Oz, and Marty. The DeLaura brothers are a hoot. I laughed often while reading about their antics. Marty is another humorous character. The detailed descriptions of the cupcakes will have you salivating and heading for the closest bakery. The mystery is well-plotted with several suspects, misdirection, and a tantalizing twist. I had fun solving this zestful whodunit. I like the romance between Uncle Stan and Mel’s mother, Joyce. I wonder if wedding bells are in their future. There are some special moments in this story. I just loved the ending. If you are new to the series, I would not recommend starting with For Batter or Worse. A Cupcake Bakery Mystery series is one I highly recommend reading in order. For Batter or Worse has lovable characters, laugh out-loud humor, scrumptious cupcakes, and an enticing mystery. This is one cozy mystery you do not want to miss. For Batter or Worse is a tasty tale with delectable delights, marriage arrangements, a pregnant partner, a frantic friend, bothersome and brilliant brothers, and an exultant ending. show less

I've long been a fan of Jenn McKinlay's feel good writing, and she's delivered another winner with Better Late Than Never. In the midst of speculation over the state of Lindsey and Sully's relationship and the meddling of that British actor who insists on hanging around Briar Creek, we are served up a story about the power of friendship in a setting that showcases how libraries are changing with the times.

The characters are of utmost importance, as they should be in any cozy series worth its show more salt, and you can tell I've fallen under their spell after reading my remark about "that British actor." Fortunately there are some very interesting developments with that man in the book, and I certainly want to know where those are headed in the next installment.

But it's not just the characters in Better Late Than Never that make it a winner. The solution to the mystery came out of left field and beaned me right upside the head. I love, love, love being surprised when I learn who done it! Jenn McKinlay's Library Lovers series is one of my favorites, and if you haven't given it a try, I just have to ask-- What are you waiting for? show less