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Library Lover's Mystery #5
On Borrowed Time
Loving a good cup of coffee runs in the family for Briar Creek library director Lindsey Norris. But when her brother, Jack, a consultant for a coffee company, goes missing, her favorite beverage becomes a key clue in a dangerous mystery.
Between preparing the library for the holidays and juggling the affections of ex-boyfriend, Captain Mike Sullivan, and her new crush, actor Robbie Vine, Lindsey has her hands full. But the mysterious disappearance of her world-traveling playboy brother takes precedence over all.
Afraid that involving the police could brew trouble for Jack, Lindsey takes matters into her own hands. But as her quest for her brother embroils her in a strange case involving South American business dealings and an enigmatic and exotic woman, it’ll take the help of both her library book club—the crafternooners—and her eager-to-please suitors to keep Jack from ending up in hot water…
Between preparing the library for the holidays and juggling the affections of ex-boyfriend, Captain Mike Sullivan, and her new crush, actor Robbie Vine, Lindsey has her hands full. But the mysterious disappearance of her world-traveling playboy brother takes precedence over all.
Afraid that involving the police could brew trouble for Jack, Lindsey takes matters into her own hands. But as her quest for her brother embroils her in a strange case involving South American business dealings and an enigmatic and exotic woman, it’ll take the help of both her library book club—the crafternooners—and her eager-to-please suitors to keep Jack from ending up in hot water…
271 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
197 people are currently reading
2643 people want to read
About the author
Jenn McKinlay
70 books5,251 followersJenn is the New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of several mystery and romance series. She is also the winner of the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award for romantic comedy and the Fresh Fiction award for best cozy mystery. A TEDx speaker, she is always happy to talk books, writing, reading, and the creative process to anyone who cares to listen. She lives in sunny Arizona in a house that is overrun with books, pets, and her husband’s guitars.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 541 reviews
March 26, 2018
Good series continuity with On Borrowed Time. Great addition of the brother, I was looking forward to meeting him. His story was a little over the top, but I definitely like where the series is going. I look forward to #6 which should be in paperback in about 3 months! I have enough to keep me reading until then but I will be back!
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I read A LOT. I write A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll also find TV & Film reviews, the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge and lots of blogging about places I've visited all over the world. And you can find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Vote in the poll and ratings. Thanks for stopping by. Note: All written content is my original creation and copyrighted to me, but the graphics and images were linked from other sites and belong to them. Many thanks to their original creators.
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I read A LOT. I write A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll also find TV & Film reviews, the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge and lots of blogging about places I've visited all over the world. And you can find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Vote in the poll and ratings. Thanks for stopping by. Note: All written content is my original creation and copyrighted to me, but the graphics and images were linked from other sites and belong to them. Many thanks to their original creators.
February 6, 2015
Very disappointing, especially coming from Jenn McKinlay. I think she might be spreading herself too thin with all the series she has going right now. The characters did SUCH stupid things. Sully & Robbie acted like pre-adolescent schoolboys and the story was over-the-top. I expect SO much more from this author. Hoping this was just a stumble and will read the next in this series. If it's not a damn sight better, though, this is one series that can be put aside.
February 26, 2019
4.5 Stars.A great addition to the series!Jenn Mckinlay is quickly becoming one of my favourite cozy mystery authors and I am looking forward to reading more books by her.
December 20, 2014
I love this series - I love the setting and the characters. But this one was bad. The men bickering wasn't funny, it just made them both look immature, and the plot line was a farce. The scene in the bay at the climax was a complete defiance of the laws of physics. Every series has to have a bomb I guess, and this one was it. I hope.
Full review: http://jenn.booklikes.com/post/106709...
Full review: http://jenn.booklikes.com/post/106709...
June 15, 2021
Second time reading and I still couldn't put it down. I love this series so much.
August 6, 2016
I love reading Jenn McKinlay's cozy mystery series. Her library lover's series is my favorite out all the series she writes. This is the fifth book in the series.
For some reason, I just couldn't connect with this story. The mystery sounded very interesting at first. But, it just fell flat and uninteresting as the story continued.
The fighting between Sully and Robbie for Lindsay's affection, was a little over blown and in my opinion, a little childish at times. I felt I was rolling my eyes through those moments.
I still love these characters and I hope, I well like the sixth book better than I liked this one.
For some reason, I just couldn't connect with this story. The mystery sounded very interesting at first. But, it just fell flat and uninteresting as the story continued.
The fighting between Sully and Robbie for Lindsay's affection, was a little over blown and in my opinion, a little childish at times. I felt I was rolling my eyes through those moments.
I still love these characters and I hope, I well like the sixth book better than I liked this one.
October 16, 2018
Thanks to the Meridian Library for my copy. Who would expect to find themselves in a spy tale when in the library? It all starts in the 5th book of Library Lover series. Lindsey Norris finds her brother Jack in a room at the Briar Creek Library. The next time Lindsey enters the room, Jack has been replaced with a dead man. That evening Lindsey watched in horror a sNack is kidnaped by a beautiful woman. What trouble has Jack managed to get into? Lindsey and Sully are followed one evening the same night her apartment was vandalized before answers are found.
Another exciting adventure in this series. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS SERIES.
Another exciting adventure in this series. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS SERIES.
March 16, 2024
Not much of a mystery but fun and enjoyable
June 30, 2019
On Borrowed Time was another excellent installment in the Library Lover’s Mystery series with an interesting plot and some intriguing developments for the characters.
Lindsey Norris has little free time between getting the Briar Creek library ready for the holidays and juggling the affections of her two beaus. When her brother unexpectedly arrives at the library, Lindsey is delighted and sets him up in an empty room until she can find a break in her day to talk to him. However when Lindsey gets back to the room, her brother is gone and there’s a dead man on the floor. Hoping to avoid getting Jack into trouble, Lindsey keeps his arrival a secret and sets out to solve the murder herself. But it quickly becomes apparent that Lindsey is in over her head and someone is determined to end her search before it truly begins.
The mystery in this book was well done and had me hooked from the start to find out what happened. Lindsey’s brother Jack works as an economic consultant and is currently consulting for a coffee company in South America which is what sets off the events of the book. In the course of trying to identify the dead man in the library, Lindsey discovers a connection to a South American coffee cartel which was not something I’d heard of but was interesting to read about. I felt the ending of the mystery plot was the best part and I loved the plan Lindsey came up with to catch those responsible.
Lindsey continues to be one of my favorite main characters in a cozy mystery series. She has numerous moments in this book where she makes some great witty comments and I loved getting to see more of that side of her. Throughout the course of her investigation, Lindsey once again turns to her friends, the crafternooners, as well as with her two love interests for assistance. I love how everyone has different skill sets that come in handy during the investigation and how willing they are to help. One thing I didn’t love was that the love triangle between Lindsey, Sully, and Robbie that was introduced in the previous book is still ongoing in this one. I have my favorite between the two men and because my introduction to this series was a later book, I know who Lindsey ends up with which makes the back and forth frustrating.
Overall I really enjoyed On Borrowed Time and the Library Lover’s Mystery series continues to be one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I highly recommend this series for readers new to the genre as well as those who enjoy books centered around books.
Lindsey Norris has little free time between getting the Briar Creek library ready for the holidays and juggling the affections of her two beaus. When her brother unexpectedly arrives at the library, Lindsey is delighted and sets him up in an empty room until she can find a break in her day to talk to him. However when Lindsey gets back to the room, her brother is gone and there’s a dead man on the floor. Hoping to avoid getting Jack into trouble, Lindsey keeps his arrival a secret and sets out to solve the murder herself. But it quickly becomes apparent that Lindsey is in over her head and someone is determined to end her search before it truly begins.
The mystery in this book was well done and had me hooked from the start to find out what happened. Lindsey’s brother Jack works as an economic consultant and is currently consulting for a coffee company in South America which is what sets off the events of the book. In the course of trying to identify the dead man in the library, Lindsey discovers a connection to a South American coffee cartel which was not something I’d heard of but was interesting to read about. I felt the ending of the mystery plot was the best part and I loved the plan Lindsey came up with to catch those responsible.
Lindsey continues to be one of my favorite main characters in a cozy mystery series. She has numerous moments in this book where she makes some great witty comments and I loved getting to see more of that side of her. Throughout the course of her investigation, Lindsey once again turns to her friends, the crafternooners, as well as with her two love interests for assistance. I love how everyone has different skill sets that come in handy during the investigation and how willing they are to help. One thing I didn’t love was that the love triangle between Lindsey, Sully, and Robbie that was introduced in the previous book is still ongoing in this one. I have my favorite between the two men and because my introduction to this series was a later book, I know who Lindsey ends up with which makes the back and forth frustrating.
Overall I really enjoyed On Borrowed Time and the Library Lover’s Mystery series continues to be one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I highly recommend this series for readers new to the genre as well as those who enjoy books centered around books.
October 18, 2015
I am still on the fence about this series. I used to love it but the last two books have not been up to par IMO (it could be because the author has too many series going at the same time??) I was glad it appears there has been some resolution to the dreaded love triangle (I think at least) and I still love the setting and the characters so will continue with the series for now.
I will also add that the convoluted mystery in this one did NOT help. It was not good. Not good at all.
I will also add that the convoluted mystery in this one did NOT help. It was not good. Not good at all.
February 26, 2019
This was my least favorite book in this series. This author has done a terrific job of creating a cast of interesting and engaging characters, with story lines that have just zipped along for me. I really liked the part of the plot dealing with the sibling relationship between Jack and Lindsey. I am not a fan of the love triangle and the one in this series is starting to drag and detract from the overall story. I found that Lindsey's love life was more predominate than the mystery - which fell a little flat for me. I really enjoy this author and have enjoyed this series so I will continue with it in hopes that the author resolves the love triangle quickly.
April 21, 2019
Fun fast reading.
November 25, 2019
Lindsey's brother Jack was visiting in this book and he kept things exciting! Lots of action going on and hopefully Lindsey's relationships are moving in the right direction. The crafterevening had me cracking up at the end. I really enjoy this series - good characters, good writing style and just a lot of overall fun.
May 19, 2021
On Borrowed Time
1 Star
What the absolute HECK was that?!
Up until now, this has been a charming and reasonably plausible cozy mystery series. Unfortunately, this installment has the most ridiculous, pointless, and absurd plot ever. The explanation for the crime is so far-fetched and ludicrous as to be insulting to the intelligence of the reader.
Lindsay's actions throughout the book are completely out of character. Gone is the intelligent, rational, and forthright librarian, and in her place is a foolish, reckless, and even deceitful idiot who places not only herself but others in unnecessary danger. For a supposedly intelligent woman, Lindsay fails to use any common sense whatsoever, and the excuse that her behavior is to protect her brother does not hold water.
Even the information on Sully's past and the minor developments in his relationship with Lindsay cannot compensate for the mess of this storyline.
If the next book is anything like this one, I will be calling it quits on the series.
1 Star
What the absolute HECK was that?!
Up until now, this has been a charming and reasonably plausible cozy mystery series. Unfortunately, this installment has the most ridiculous, pointless, and absurd plot ever. The explanation for the crime is so far-fetched and ludicrous as to be insulting to the intelligence of the reader.
Lindsay's actions throughout the book are completely out of character. Gone is the intelligent, rational, and forthright librarian, and in her place is a foolish, reckless, and even deceitful idiot who places not only herself but others in unnecessary danger. For a supposedly intelligent woman, Lindsay fails to use any common sense whatsoever, and the excuse that her behavior is to protect her brother does not hold water.
Even the information on Sully's past and the minor developments in his relationship with Lindsay cannot compensate for the mess of this storyline.
If the next book is anything like this one, I will be calling it quits on the series.
May 25, 2015
Now I remember why I'd been debating reading any more of this series. Charming, likeable characters have turned into ridiculous caricatures.
The sniping between Sully and Robbie made them seem like teenagers and their hovering over Lindsey was beyond irritating.
And Lindsey's refusal to go the authorities was dumb. Especially when she seemed to recognize it wasn't what she should be doing.
I won't be back. 2.5 stars
(Ps-breaking the fourth wall to put a positive spin on love triangles is not a good way to start a book.)
The sniping between Sully and Robbie made them seem like teenagers and their hovering over Lindsey was beyond irritating.
And Lindsey's refusal to go the authorities was dumb. Especially when she seemed to recognize it wasn't what she should be doing.
I won't be back. 2.5 stars
(Ps-breaking the fourth wall to put a positive spin on love triangles is not a good way to start a book.)
December 16, 2019
Lindsey Norris is getting ready for the weekly Crafternoon meeting, but she finds a surprise guest hiding out in their usual meeting room – her brother Jack. She wasn’t expecting to see him for a few more weeks when her entire family arrived for Christmas. He begs her to keep his presence a secret and promises to explain everything after a nap. Lindsey returns after the meeting, but instead of her brother, she finds a dead body on the floor. Who is the dead man? Where is her brother? And how much danger is he in?
I originally picked up this book thinking I’d get a Christmas themed cozy. It was quickly obvious that wasn’t going to be the case, but that is hardly a complaint at all. The story was so strong I didn’t want anything slowing it down. It kept my attention the entire time, from the fast-paced opening until it reached the action-packed climax. The love triangle is still going strongly here, although it seems obvious to me which way Lindsey is leaning. It doesn’t take over from the main mystery, and it provides some fun humor along the way. One of the guys gets some nice character development. All the regulars are here and very strong. The new characters don’t get a whole lot of page time, but they do come alive with what little page time they do have. This is a great book that will please fans of the series.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I originally picked up this book thinking I’d get a Christmas themed cozy. It was quickly obvious that wasn’t going to be the case, but that is hardly a complaint at all. The story was so strong I didn’t want anything slowing it down. It kept my attention the entire time, from the fast-paced opening until it reached the action-packed climax. The love triangle is still going strongly here, although it seems obvious to me which way Lindsey is leaning. It doesn’t take over from the main mystery, and it provides some fun humor along the way. One of the guys gets some nice character development. All the regulars are here and very strong. The new characters don’t get a whole lot of page time, but they do come alive with what little page time they do have. This is a great book that will please fans of the series.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
May 21, 2017
As Jenn McKinlay's On Borrowed Time opens, Lindsey Norris is about to hold her weekly crafternoon group at the library where she is the head when she opens the meeting room only to see her brother asleep on one of the sofas. Begging Lindsey to let him hide out there for a time, Jack seems to go back to sleep, but when Lindsey returns as soon as her craft, lunch, and book discussion group concludes, rather than finding her brother where she left him, Lindsey finds a stranger, and he has been strangled. Worried about her brother's safety, Lindsey keeps quiet about her brother's visit and soon runs into him at a local teen dance. Cryptically, Jack talks about the need for secrecy and that he escaped from the room while two men were fighting but had no idea one would kill the other. Then, shortly after, Lindsey sees Jack hurry out of the building with a dramatic-looking woman, who proceeds to push Jack into a speed boat and take off with him.
Read the rest of this review, more reviews, and other wonderful, geeky articles on FangirlNation
Read the rest of this review, more reviews, and other wonderful, geeky articles on FangirlNation
March 13, 2020
Well, the best thing about this book is that the dreaded and STUPID love triangle MIGHT be over. Hopefully, Lindsey's brains will also come back to her and she will stop being the stupidest character ever written [and she went from being a really smart, awesome, fun MC]. Due to a friend telling me that the love triangle ends, I read this one, but if she doesn't smarten up by the next one, I may have to end this series.
And just an FYI - just because someone has three cats [that they have rescued], does not mean that they now need a man. . What a stupid statement. I totally sprained my eyes in this one.
The basic mystery was actually very good. It would have been neat to have read more about coffee rust and what causes it [I mean, I know, but not everyone does and it would have been cool to have more information about it], but the whole mystery was good and the reveal was...interesting. That is what saved this from being a 2-star read. Hopefully book 6 will be back to the 4-star reads that I am used with with this author.
And just an FYI - just because someone has three cats [that they have rescued], does not mean that they now need a man. . What a stupid statement. I totally sprained my eyes in this one.
The basic mystery was actually very good. It would have been neat to have read more about coffee rust and what causes it [I mean, I know, but not everyone does and it would have been cool to have more information about it], but the whole mystery was good and the reveal was...interesting. That is what saved this from being a 2-star read. Hopefully book 6 will be back to the 4-star reads that I am used with with this author.
May 26, 2020
Lindsey 's brother comes to town for a visit and brings trouble with him, in the form of a dead body in her library, and then he disappears. She of course spends the book trying to track down his kidnappers and the killer who goes along with the body, hindered every step of the way by the two handsome guys who are vying for her attention.
Another entry in another cozy series that is more cozy than quality (although this series is holding together quite a bit better than the Sefton series). The pacing is good, and I like these characters tons. Of course, the idea of a heroine who works in a small town library is very appealing as well...
Another entry in another cozy series that is more cozy than quality (although this series is holding together quite a bit better than the Sefton series). The pacing is good, and I like these characters tons. Of course, the idea of a heroine who works in a small town library is very appealing as well...
March 20, 2017
Now that Lindsay has put down roots in Briar Creek, she's eager for Christmas when her whole family will be joining her for the first time in years. When her beloved brother Jack shows up unexpectedly early, Lindsay is eager to show him off to her friends. However, Jack doesn't want anyone to know he's there and just wants to lie low. Lindsay is willing to cover up his arrival but when she returns to check on Jack, he has disappeared and there's a dead body on the floor! Lindsay knows Jack would never kill anyone but was it a matter of being in the wrong place at the right time or was Jack right in his suspicions that someone was following him? Lindsay is determined to protect her brother at all costs and when he's kidnapped by an exotic beauty, Lindsay sets out on a daring adventure that will require all her brain power and lots of luck.
This plot is completely ridiculous! Jack is an economist, not an international spy, yet this adventure reads like something about of an adventure story like James Bond. The plot didn't make much sense, practically speaking. It was just so over-the-top that I didn't enjoy it. The bad-guy catching moment was even more ridiculous than the scenario and Lindsay could have gotten them all killed. It doesn't take a librarian or cyber crimes expert to search for an IP address... anyone can do it. Also, anyone can mask their IP- not just criminals and I would think Jack would have done that in the first place if he was worried about trouble following him.
I could have done without the love triangle but I was so happy Sully opened up to Lindsay about his past. He's so sensitive though he tries to be a tough guy. I am team Sully all the way and think Lindsay should just accept him as he is and get back together. I find Robbie a little too false to be enjoyable. He's charming but insincere. I don't see him in a serious relationship with anyone, let alone Lindsay. However, he could get her to lighten up a bit. She's a little intense. The Crafternoon ladies are largely absent from the plot and I missed them. I love Nancy and her cookies and Beth's creativity. Heathcliff is quickly becoming one of my favorite literary hounds even if he isn't a Scottish Terrier like the book cover showed.
The new characters in this book either villains or good guys and Lindsay isn't sure which is which. The bad guys were soooo stereotypical. I can't even describe any of them because it would spoil the plot and they're so two-dimensional anyway. I was appalled at what they were doing but perplexed as to why they were going after Jack. I guess I need to read the ending again.
I look forward to Lindsay's next great adventure.
Books read:
The Woman in White and The Secret Garden
This plot is completely ridiculous! Jack is an economist, not an international spy, yet this adventure reads like something about of an adventure story like James Bond. The plot didn't make much sense, practically speaking. It was just so over-the-top that I didn't enjoy it. The bad-guy catching moment was even more ridiculous than the scenario and Lindsay could have gotten them all killed. It doesn't take a librarian or cyber crimes expert to search for an IP address... anyone can do it. Also, anyone can mask their IP- not just criminals and I would think Jack would have done that in the first place if he was worried about trouble following him.
I could have done without the love triangle but I was so happy Sully opened up to Lindsay about his past. He's so sensitive though he tries to be a tough guy. I am team Sully all the way and think Lindsay should just accept him as he is and get back together. I find Robbie a little too false to be enjoyable. He's charming but insincere. I don't see him in a serious relationship with anyone, let alone Lindsay. However, he could get her to lighten up a bit. She's a little intense. The Crafternoon ladies are largely absent from the plot and I missed them. I love Nancy and her cookies and Beth's creativity. Heathcliff is quickly becoming one of my favorite literary hounds even if he isn't a Scottish Terrier like the book cover showed.
The new characters in this book either villains or good guys and Lindsay isn't sure which is which. The bad guys were soooo stereotypical. I can't even describe any of them because it would spoil the plot and they're so two-dimensional anyway. I was appalled at what they were doing but perplexed as to why they were going after Jack. I guess I need to read the ending again.
I look forward to Lindsay's next great adventure.
Books read:
The Woman in White and The Secret Garden
January 16, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Lindsey’s brother comes to town and he seems to be living “on borrowed time”! One minute he is there in the library crafternoon room resting after his long trip and when Lindsey goes back to check on him, he gone, but there is a dead body in his place. Hang on tight because the next 260 pages are packed with action as Lindsey tries to find her brother and figure out just what kind of trouble he has gotten himself into. The crafternooners and Lindsey’s love interests are more than happy to help her but they also need to keep Lindsay safe. They know her reputation to leap before she looks.
I love this series. The characters are real and fun. I think I would fit right in with the Crafternoon Book Group. Ms.Cole (Lemon) reminds me of a few librarians I have known personally. It is nice to see her softening just a little bit. She still tries to keep Lindseay minding her p’s and q’s. I do like both Sully and Robbie and this tug of war in Lindsey’s love life but we learn more about Sully in this story and I think it is time for Lindsey to make up her mind. The way these guys try to to one up each other though is pretty funny.
This story was a very fast read because there was so much action. There was a boat chase that kept me turning those pages as fast as I could. There were some curlicue twists and some sharp turns to keep us readers fully engaged and even enraged at one point when our protagonist gets just a little too close to being hurt.
Jenn McKinlay is a fantastic storyteller. I anxiously await each and every book in this series. Every one surpasses the last. It is wonderful to see each character grow in each new adventure. The Briar Creek Library is just where the fun begins. From there who knows where Lindsey and and her friends will take us. All I know is I can’t wait to find out!
November 5, 2014
On Borrowed Time is the fifth book in the A Library Lover's Mystery series.
The holidays are just around the corner in beautiful Briar Creek and Lindsay is busy getting the library ready. As she enters the meeting room to get ready for the Craftnooner group meeting, she is shocked to see her brother, Jack, there. He asks her to not ask any questions and to let him get some sleep. Later when she returns to the room, her brother is gone and a man who has been strangled is in the room. Soon she sees Jack being kidnapped by beautiful woman. Jack has been consulting for a coffee company and a coffee cartel has taken him hostage till they get important information that he has gotten out of South America.
With the help of the craftnooners and the men in her life, Sully and Robbie, they start to look for who has taken Jack and where the information might be.
Lindsay is undecided between Sully, who has hurt her feelings and the debonair Robbie as to who she might commit to. That means Sully and Robbie always have her in their sights, so that the other doesn't get an advantage. It has been interesting to watch these two vie for her approval. Of course the craftnooner are there to help also. Miss "Lemon" is around to provide some pointed comments. Miss Lemon does seem to have mellowed since she has gotten a gentleman caller.
Craft hints, a reading to Wilke Collins' The Woman in White and recipes are also included.
Definitely looking forward to the next book.
The holidays are just around the corner in beautiful Briar Creek and Lindsay is busy getting the library ready. As she enters the meeting room to get ready for the Craftnooner group meeting, she is shocked to see her brother, Jack, there. He asks her to not ask any questions and to let him get some sleep. Later when she returns to the room, her brother is gone and a man who has been strangled is in the room. Soon she sees Jack being kidnapped by beautiful woman. Jack has been consulting for a coffee company and a coffee cartel has taken him hostage till they get important information that he has gotten out of South America.
With the help of the craftnooners and the men in her life, Sully and Robbie, they start to look for who has taken Jack and where the information might be.
Lindsay is undecided between Sully, who has hurt her feelings and the debonair Robbie as to who she might commit to. That means Sully and Robbie always have her in their sights, so that the other doesn't get an advantage. It has been interesting to watch these two vie for her approval. Of course the craftnooner are there to help also. Miss "Lemon" is around to provide some pointed comments. Miss Lemon does seem to have mellowed since she has gotten a gentleman caller.
Craft hints, a reading to Wilke Collins' The Woman in White and recipes are also included.
Definitely looking forward to the next book.
May 12, 2015
Quite disappointed. All very unlikely scenarios and heavy-handed explanations and descriptions, it seems the author had a hard time compiling this. (Or did Joanne Fluke fill in for her?) I didn't buy the story, either. Or even get into it. One panic-driven librarian single-handedly taking on a South American cartel? Oh yes, she had her ladies' club plus two besotted admirers (whom she kept sending off like little kids) to assist her eventually. And pretty please, not another love triangle!!! Actually the budding bromance between the admirers was the best part of the story. :)
My best friend is in fact a Connecticut librarian, so I just might give this series a last chance ...
My best friend is in fact a Connecticut librarian, so I just might give this series a last chance ...
June 24, 2020
Enough with the ridiculous love triangle!
June 1, 2023
I love this series, its characters, and the charm of the small town on the coast with islands all around. I enjoy the primary setting, the library, and all the book references. And mostly, I enjoy the mystery.
August 20, 2025
It’s the holidays in Briar Creek and Lindsay’s brother is in town. And with him comes trouble … murder, kidnapping, a Brazilian coffee cartel and espionage. It’s Lindsay and her crafternoon friends to the rescue. And Lindsay and Sully get closer… Cute read but a little outrageous plot. I like this series so I’ll keep going.
December 31, 2023
12-31-23 I liked this book in the series but not as well as #4. I still liked the characters and liked the introduction of Jack. The mystery in this one seemed a little unrealistic. Also, the situation with Sully and Robbie was very middle school and there was way too much talk about it! Hopefully, in the next book, that all gets resolved.
November 7, 2014
http://openbooksociety.com/article/on...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jeanie
Lindsey Norris encourages groups to meet at or start-up at the library in Briar Creek since she became director. This library has heart, and Lindsey is at the heart of its heart. On Borrowed Time opens before the start of a crafternooners meeting, where reading and crafting are brought together. The regular meeting room holds a surprise, however; she finds her world-traveling brother as she turns the lights on. When she returns a short time later, instead of finding her brother napping on the sofa, Lindsey finds the dead body of a stranger. And the last glimpse she does get of her brother shortly afterwards is when he is kidnapped and spirited away on a speedboat that even her boat-tour friend Sully can’t keep up with. But to be kidnapped over…coffee beans? Could almost make a gal pass on the java!
Lindsey’s brother Jack is an economist and works for companies around the world to help strategize business plan improvements and increasing profits. He is top-notch in his field, makes good money and enjoys some of the benefits. His good looks and easy charm don’t hurt his chances, either! Lindsey may not hear from him for weeks at a time, but with the upcoming holidays, she hopes to have her family together to celebrate.
Her own life takes a back seat while she tries to find Jack. That includes managing the holiday programs planned for the library and deciding which of two eager suitors, if either! – to spend time with: Robbie, the famous British stage and screen actor, and Sully, the local boat captain. Both are solid and dependable but Robbie has the little problem of … you’ll see when you read it! Sully and Lindsey had been an item for a while, but he broke her heart and desperately wants another chance. Lindsey is a professional, however, and few at the library that were not close to her were aware of how desperate her life was becoming.
On Borrowed Time is the fifth book in the series, the Library Lover’s Mysteries. Each novel can be read as a stand-alone, as the characters and background are defined sufficiently so one doesn’t struggle to get up to speed with Lindsey and the little coastal New England town she lives in.
The characters are energetic, creative, and intelligent, very well-defined and very likable. Each person has their own role that complements the others. I really like Lindsey and envy the close relationship she and Jack have. Lindsey knows Jack better than she thinks as she tries to put together the clues to rescue him. She also has friends that are supportive, as is seen throughout the ongoing crisis. Sully is also a character that I like. While Robbie has the artistic talent, Sully has the skills inherent in a hero, including courage and the ability to respond quickly in a crisis.
It is so hard to put this novel down; it is an enticing read that tempts one to stay up way too late (just tell your boss that it’s Jenn’s fault you overslept!). The plot has interesting turns and twists, including the roller-coaster ride that propels one into the ultimate chase scene where Lindsey’s friends all get into the act – do not miss it!! This is an overall satisfactory read, one that is sooo good … in spite of there being a dog instead of a cat in the series. Seriously, it is too good to miss, from the dedication to the craft instructions and recipes for items mentioned in the novel.
I highly recommend this to everyone who has enjoyed one of the earlier Library Lover’s Mysteries, or enjoys cozy mysteries with libraries or readers and crafters, or who is looking for a new series to become attached to. It is a fun, fast-paced cozy mystery at its best!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review as part of their ongoing blog tour*
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jeanie
Lindsey Norris encourages groups to meet at or start-up at the library in Briar Creek since she became director. This library has heart, and Lindsey is at the heart of its heart. On Borrowed Time opens before the start of a crafternooners meeting, where reading and crafting are brought together. The regular meeting room holds a surprise, however; she finds her world-traveling brother as she turns the lights on. When she returns a short time later, instead of finding her brother napping on the sofa, Lindsey finds the dead body of a stranger. And the last glimpse she does get of her brother shortly afterwards is when he is kidnapped and spirited away on a speedboat that even her boat-tour friend Sully can’t keep up with. But to be kidnapped over…coffee beans? Could almost make a gal pass on the java!
Lindsey’s brother Jack is an economist and works for companies around the world to help strategize business plan improvements and increasing profits. He is top-notch in his field, makes good money and enjoys some of the benefits. His good looks and easy charm don’t hurt his chances, either! Lindsey may not hear from him for weeks at a time, but with the upcoming holidays, she hopes to have her family together to celebrate.
Her own life takes a back seat while she tries to find Jack. That includes managing the holiday programs planned for the library and deciding which of two eager suitors, if either! – to spend time with: Robbie, the famous British stage and screen actor, and Sully, the local boat captain. Both are solid and dependable but Robbie has the little problem of … you’ll see when you read it! Sully and Lindsey had been an item for a while, but he broke her heart and desperately wants another chance. Lindsey is a professional, however, and few at the library that were not close to her were aware of how desperate her life was becoming.
On Borrowed Time is the fifth book in the series, the Library Lover’s Mysteries. Each novel can be read as a stand-alone, as the characters and background are defined sufficiently so one doesn’t struggle to get up to speed with Lindsey and the little coastal New England town she lives in.
The characters are energetic, creative, and intelligent, very well-defined and very likable. Each person has their own role that complements the others. I really like Lindsey and envy the close relationship she and Jack have. Lindsey knows Jack better than she thinks as she tries to put together the clues to rescue him. She also has friends that are supportive, as is seen throughout the ongoing crisis. Sully is also a character that I like. While Robbie has the artistic talent, Sully has the skills inherent in a hero, including courage and the ability to respond quickly in a crisis.
It is so hard to put this novel down; it is an enticing read that tempts one to stay up way too late (just tell your boss that it’s Jenn’s fault you overslept!). The plot has interesting turns and twists, including the roller-coaster ride that propels one into the ultimate chase scene where Lindsey’s friends all get into the act – do not miss it!! This is an overall satisfactory read, one that is sooo good … in spite of there being a dog instead of a cat in the series. Seriously, it is too good to miss, from the dedication to the craft instructions and recipes for items mentioned in the novel.
I highly recommend this to everyone who has enjoyed one of the earlier Library Lover’s Mysteries, or enjoys cozy mysteries with libraries or readers and crafters, or who is looking for a new series to become attached to. It is a fun, fast-paced cozy mystery at its best!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review as part of their ongoing blog tour*
March 11, 2017
What had been a charming little cozy mystery series has denigrated into a book filled with unbelievable plots and hijinks.
Lindsey has gone from a thoughtful librarian, incapable of behaving as an adult in a relationship would, she and Sully never discuss anything and she becomes emotionally entangled with whatever other single man flirts with her, to being melodramatic while she chases her disappearing brother sound.
So much happens, in this novel, that is just overblown and ridiculous that I found myself literally rolling my eyes and saying, "that would not ever happen". This author did too much and the effects are terrible.
I became increasingly frustrated with Lindsey's middle school equivalent behavior with Sully and Robbie. No self respecting person would chase her as we are supposed to believe two men with lives to live do. I really liked Lindsey, her group and Sully but the is becoming more of a farcical series than a cozy mystery series with an adult romantic storyline.
Lindsey has gone from a thoughtful librarian, incapable of behaving as an adult in a relationship would, she and Sully never discuss anything and she becomes emotionally entangled with whatever other single man flirts with her, to being melodramatic while she chases her disappearing brother sound.
So much happens, in this novel, that is just overblown and ridiculous that I found myself literally rolling my eyes and saying, "that would not ever happen". This author did too much and the effects are terrible.
I became increasingly frustrated with Lindsey's middle school equivalent behavior with Sully and Robbie. No self respecting person would chase her as we are supposed to believe two men with lives to live do. I really liked Lindsey, her group and Sully but the is becoming more of a farcical series than a cozy mystery series with an adult romantic storyline.
March 8, 2017
The writing is fine...my issue is this was supposed to be a cozy mystery. Lindsey, the main character who is supposed to be the sleuth spent most of the book going back and forth between her ex-boyfriend Sully who wanted her back and newcomer to town, Robbie, who wants to date her but he's married. The antics of the two men were entertaining - but if I wanted to read a chik lit/contemporary romance I'd pick one up.
The past few years there has been this annoying trend in cozy mysteries of the authors creating a love triangle. If I want to read a romance I'll pick one up -- and I do read a lot of romances. I pick up mysteries and specifically cozies for a change of pace. The triangle seems to happen in books 3 and 4....maybe I need to start skipping those although in Denise Swanson's Scumble River series, even in books 20+ there still occasionally appears a triangle.
The past few years there has been this annoying trend in cozy mysteries of the authors creating a love triangle. If I want to read a romance I'll pick one up -- and I do read a lot of romances. I pick up mysteries and specifically cozies for a change of pace. The triangle seems to happen in books 3 and 4....maybe I need to start skipping those although in Denise Swanson's Scumble River series, even in books 20+ there still occasionally appears a triangle.
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