What do you think?
Rate this book
The Librarian Sleuth #2
The Sleuth's Dilemma
Anna loves her job as a high school English teacher until everything goes sideways. The one bright spot in her life is Titus Gains, the school counselor, who is there for her at every turn. Titus’ boss complicates his ordered world when she tasks him with running a meeting that changes everything. How had he not noticed Anna earlier? Someone is out to destroy her, and he can’t let that happen.
As the head of the English department, part of Luke Harms’ job is to make sure everything runs smoothly. Things went haywire when Anna was put in charge of the big writing contest. Entries are missing, Anna appears to be in danger, and her job is on the line. Luke is investigating and wants to make things right for this woman he’s starting to care about.
Can a trio of school officials along with Nancy Daley, the town sleuth, stop the saboteur before it’s too late? And will Anna choose the right man, or lose them both?
As the head of the English department, part of Luke Harms’ job is to make sure everything runs smoothly. Things went haywire when Anna was put in charge of the big writing contest. Entries are missing, Anna appears to be in danger, and her job is on the line. Luke is investigating and wants to make things right for this woman he’s starting to care about.
Can a trio of school officials along with Nancy Daley, the town sleuth, stop the saboteur before it’s too late? And will Anna choose the right man, or lose them both?
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2019
67 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Rose Johnson
53 books319 followersAward winning author Kimberly Rose Johnson married her college sweetheart and lives in Montana. From a young child Kimberly has been an avid reader. That love of reading fostered a creative mind and led to her passion for writing. She especially loves romance and writes contemporary romance that warms the heart and feeds the soul.
Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington, and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.
You can sign up for Kimberly's newsletter via her website at: https://kimberlyrjohnson.com/
Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington, and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.
You can sign up for Kimberly's newsletter via her website at: https://kimberlyrjohnson.com/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 8, 2019
I didn’t think it was possible, but I enjoyed this book even more than the first one in this series! The characters are endearing, the suspense never stops building all the way through the story, and the mystery takes surprising twists and turns. I love the spiritual truths woven throughout the story of taking everything to the Lord & asking for His help, realizing that we have to trust God with our lives and trust Him for our protection, acknowledging that God gave us instincts for a reason, and that He loves us far more than we can even imagine. Love this quote: “It’s the trials of life that make us who we are.” And this one: “The Lord had never failed her, even when she didn’t like the answer. Through the years she realized that His way was always the best way.” Although I haven’t heard it put this way, I like the phrase “Evangelist dating”. And I chuckled over “the black screen of death”, which is so fitting. If you enjoy reading mystery & suspense, this is a MUST read!
January 19, 2019
Teachers are notoriously overworked and I could certainly feel, as a former teacher and one who has many teacher friends, the huge weight of an additional, unwanted assignment. English teacher Anna Plum is saddled with running the high school writing contest as the former chair has refused to continue in that role. While Anna agrees to chair the contest, bad things begin to happen and she begins to wonder if it was a huge mistake.
The characters are well-drawn. I especially liked Anna as a former teacher. Her fears were very believable. The whole scenario of a single teacher with a few close friends who would go to bat for her was a home run for me. Nancy Daley, the librarian, is very loyal and would be a great friend to have. I enjoyed the tension between Nancy and her deputy sheriff boyfriend as they learn how to trust each other without necessarily giving up delicate information. I liked the romantic aspect as well as the mystery that kept me guessing. In short, I really loved it, even though I haven’t yet read book one. ( Which is now higher on my TBR pile.) If you are looking for a sweet, mysterious romance that includes asking for God’s guidance, buckle in and come along for the ride Kimberly Rose Johnson provides.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are expressly my own and no positive review was required.
The characters are well-drawn. I especially liked Anna as a former teacher. Her fears were very believable. The whole scenario of a single teacher with a few close friends who would go to bat for her was a home run for me. Nancy Daley, the librarian, is very loyal and would be a great friend to have. I enjoyed the tension between Nancy and her deputy sheriff boyfriend as they learn how to trust each other without necessarily giving up delicate information. I liked the romantic aspect as well as the mystery that kept me guessing. In short, I really loved it, even though I haven’t yet read book one. ( Which is now higher on my TBR pile.) If you are looking for a sweet, mysterious romance that includes asking for God’s guidance, buckle in and come along for the ride Kimberly Rose Johnson provides.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are expressly my own and no positive review was required.
January 3, 2019
I have always enjoyed a good mystery. I especially like trying to follow the clues to see if I can figure things out before the big reveal at the end of the story. The author has included enough twists and turns in this one to keep the reader off balance throughout the story. And I have no intention of giving away any clues here. One thing about the book that made a great impression on me was the value placed on modesty and propriety by the main characters. None of them wanted to be in situations that could cause tongues to wag. They had wisely established boundaries and consciously chose to avoid pushing the limits. I admired how Anna dealt with the young female student who approached her for advice about dealing with a pushy boyfriend. What a tremendous life lesson that needs to be stressed over and over again! I will refrain from preaching but I appreciate the care that Kimberly Rose Johnson takes in communicating this through story without getting on a soapbox or pounding on a pulpit. However, we find that at least one of the characters frequently tries to push through other boundaries, especially if they stand in the way of her solving a mystery. You have to love Nancy’s tenacity for trying to help her friends. Even though her boyfriend is a deputy and her mother is the sheriff, she does not hesitate to charge ahead if she believes they are not working hard enough to solve a case. She seems like the kind of friend that one would want to keep around. I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
January 4, 2019
The Sleuth's Dilemma ( The Librarian Sleuth - #2 )
By: Kimberly Rose Johnson
The Sleuth's Dilemma is book two in The Librarian Sleuth Series. This is part of a series , but I think you can read it as a stand a lone. I absolutely love this series. I am a big fan of a good mystery , and if you love a good mystery then you will love The Sleuth's Dilemma. I was drawn in at the start and did not want to put it down. I was not disappointed. There are twist and turns that the author will have you guessing till the end. I like the true friendship and good lesson on values. It seem that I could not read fast enough to see what was going to happen next. There was times that I caught myself holding my breath.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
By: Kimberly Rose Johnson
The Sleuth's Dilemma is book two in The Librarian Sleuth Series. This is part of a series , but I think you can read it as a stand a lone. I absolutely love this series. I am a big fan of a good mystery , and if you love a good mystery then you will love The Sleuth's Dilemma. I was drawn in at the start and did not want to put it down. I was not disappointed. There are twist and turns that the author will have you guessing till the end. I like the true friendship and good lesson on values. It seem that I could not read fast enough to see what was going to happen next. There was times that I caught myself holding my breath.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
January 31, 2019
I loved this book!!! Anna is having trouble at work and she had two men helping her out. I wasn't sure at first who I wanted her with but love who she picked. She handled IMO the triangle quite well. It was great seeing Nancy again and how she worked through her feelings about sleuthing and how it affected certain loved ones. A really good mystery that kept me guessing as well as a romance or two. Forgiveness, giving advice, and working through problems as a believer was written so well. Loved how the adults weren't made to look stupid (very common in books today) but wise and teens looked to them for guidance.
January 1, 2019
Unexpected danger comes to school teacher Anna. Should she be afraid or just let things go and not worry? This story kept me wondering from page to page as to what would happen next. I really enjoyed the interaction with the characters. From high school age to adults, each character has a unique personality and life story. Great read. I received a complimentary copy of this book. This is my personal honest opinion. No review was required.
December 28, 2018
Well written. Sweet characters. Subtle twists. &an amazing backdrop. You won't regret reading this series!
February 1, 2019
It was a very special story. I would encourage young adults to read it because I think it would reach out to them more than anyone. This being the first novel by Kimberly Rose Johnson that I have ever read, I was not disappointed.
September 17, 2019
It was refreshing to read a mystery that didn't include murder. Kimberly kept you guessing on which man Anna was going to choose. I'm glad Nancy and Carter were still involved in the book so we could continue with their story as well. I did figure out the culprit before it was revealed, but I like being able to do that. Some mysteries, at the end, I wonder how I was supposed to figure it out when the person was only mentioned in passing. I look forward to the next mystery in the series! Will Nancy be successful in matching up her mom? Thank you, Kimberly, for an enjoyable mystery!
January 30, 2019
Lies, threats, and turmoil. Someone is angry with Anna, and he is making her life miserable.
I really loved the characters, as I seem to do with this author's books. They are richly developed with an emphasis on their character. It was fun that the author had two men at the school with an interest in Anna and that they were both so full of great Christian traits that I didn't know which of them I wanted her to end up with.
This cozy mystery kept my interest throughout and the clues were dispensed at just the right pace that I was able to figure out what was going on before the characters did (yay me!) but they were not presented so obviously that there was no challenge.
While the main theme of the story was not about anger, there was an important lesson learned by the one who was causing all the problems because of anger directed at Anna. Giving in to anger and letting it fester is never the right solution and will always lead to problems.
The author's heart for the Lord shines clearly in this story as she teaches her characters to draw closer to Him.
Read my full review with a Preview at Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
I really loved the characters, as I seem to do with this author's books. They are richly developed with an emphasis on their character. It was fun that the author had two men at the school with an interest in Anna and that they were both so full of great Christian traits that I didn't know which of them I wanted her to end up with.
This cozy mystery kept my interest throughout and the clues were dispensed at just the right pace that I was able to figure out what was going on before the characters did (yay me!) but they were not presented so obviously that there was no challenge.
While the main theme of the story was not about anger, there was an important lesson learned by the one who was causing all the problems because of anger directed at Anna. Giving in to anger and letting it fester is never the right solution and will always lead to problems.
The author's heart for the Lord shines clearly in this story as she teaches her characters to draw closer to Him.
Read my full review with a Preview at Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
January 23, 2020
Librarian Nancy Daley id known to consult with the Sheriff’s department , using her detecting skills. Now her best friend and neighbor, Anna Plum, a respected English teacher needs her help. This time the mystery is of an academic nature. Anna is in charge of a writing contest when the electronic submissions are missing from her computer. Who is angry enough at Anna to pull this not so nice prank? And to what end? To win the contest? Other not so funny things begin to happen and soon Anna is fearful.
Ms. Johnson poses a unique problem for the friends to solve and she throws in some romance to boot in the persons of two possible suitors for Anna. The cute antics of a couple of dogs add to the atmosphere. Through it all we learn more about the population of Tipton, and continue the romance of Nancy and deputy Carter Malone.
An enjoyable mystery in a quaint town with a nice underpinning faith thread.
*I won this book from the author for an AFCW bookclub for discussion.I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *
Ms. Johnson poses a unique problem for the friends to solve and she throws in some romance to boot in the persons of two possible suitors for Anna. The cute antics of a couple of dogs add to the atmosphere. Through it all we learn more about the population of Tipton, and continue the romance of Nancy and deputy Carter Malone.
An enjoyable mystery in a quaint town with a nice underpinning faith thread.
*I won this book from the author for an AFCW bookclub for discussion.I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *
January 1, 2019
"The Sleuth's Dilemma" is the 2nd book in the Librarian Sleuth series. It would be best to read the first book before reading this one as some of the story line starts in the first book and is expanded upon in this book. I enjoyed getting to see characters that we met in the first book and getting to know some of them even better. Although I did have my suspicions of who was behind the incidents against Anna that turned out to be true, I still enjoyed trying to unravel what was going on and who was doing it. Usually when there are two options of guys for the heroine to love, I have a definite favorite. This time, I wasn't sure who I wanted her to end up with. I think in the end she makes the right decision. I found the book to be well written and flowed well. I look forward to reading more about the librarian sleuth.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
January 31, 2019
The Sleuth’s Dilemma is the second book in The Librarian Sleuth series by author Kimberly Rose Johnson. Any scripture references in the story are from the King James Version (KJV) Bible.
Anna Plum was to oversee this year’s writing contest. The story takes a twist when someone makes a threat toward Anna. With a bit of mystery and romance this makes a great read.
This is the first book in this series I have read and it kept me guessing to the end. This book can act as a standalone however I hope to read the whole series. I recommend this book to YA -Adult readers who enjoy a good mystery.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Anna Plum was to oversee this year’s writing contest. The story takes a twist when someone makes a threat toward Anna. With a bit of mystery and romance this makes a great read.
This is the first book in this series I have read and it kept me guessing to the end. This book can act as a standalone however I hope to read the whole series. I recommend this book to YA -Adult readers who enjoy a good mystery.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
February 27, 2020
The Sleuth's Dilemma was the second book in a series in which I did not read the first. I felt as though it was easily a stand alone book, but the only time I felt like it wasn't was I felt like I was missing some of the history between the two male pursuers and why she chose the one she did. I love, love triangles, I like to pick the team, but was left still wondering why she chose the one she did, so that's the only frustration for me, other than that. It was a fun, quick read. I didn't figure out the mystery until it was put out there, but that's just me and how I read, though I kept wondering and trying to figure it out. All in all a good fun read and with all that was said about the first book throughout this one, I want to read the first book to see what I missed! This was a cute Hallmark-ish mystery romance!
February 4, 2019
The Slueth's Dilemma is the second in the series. We met Anna in the first novel. She is happy at her job in the English department at the high school. However, when she is asked to take over the essay contest, things start to go downhill. With the help of her neighbor Nancy and her fellow co-workers, Anna must find out who is putting her job and security in jeopardy.
I love how the characters are developed in the book. Even though we have already met some, the author takes the time to introduce more facts and traits about them. The love triangle and love interests grow and develop. I cannot wait to see where these characters go next. Looking forward to a book 3. I recieved a copy from the author. I review was not a requirement.
I love how the characters are developed in the book. Even though we have already met some, the author takes the time to introduce more facts and traits about them. The love triangle and love interests grow and develop. I cannot wait to see where these characters go next. Looking forward to a book 3. I recieved a copy from the author. I review was not a requirement.
February 9, 2019
After finishing the first book in the series, I wasn't sure I really liked it. The writing seemed kind of choppy, and the plot didn't seem to flow very smoothly. Since I'd already purchased this second book, I went ahead and read it, and felt much more positive about both books after reading #2. I think getting to know the characters well over two books helped a lot. I decided my main problem wasn't the writing so much as I don't enjoy reading about people committing crimes and how it affects others. If you're a real mystery buff, you'll probably love this series!
October 6, 2023
Kept Me Guessing.......
Kimberly kept me guessing most of the way through the book. I did suspect the perp not long after they were mentioned in the storyline.
I truly enjoyed "The Sleuth's Dilemma."
This book can be enjoyed by teens to adult, although young teens may find the beginning a little boring since it is mostly speaking of adults not teenagers.
I love mysteries. The fact that they are Christian and are clean are a definite must for me. "The Sleuth's Dilemma" checks those boxes.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a light, entertaining read.
Kimberly kept me guessing most of the way through the book. I did suspect the perp not long after they were mentioned in the storyline.
I truly enjoyed "The Sleuth's Dilemma."
This book can be enjoyed by teens to adult, although young teens may find the beginning a little boring since it is mostly speaking of adults not teenagers.
I love mysteries. The fact that they are Christian and are clean are a definite must for me. "The Sleuth's Dilemma" checks those boxes.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a light, entertaining read.
February 6, 2019
The Reviewer's Dilemma
Johnson requests that no one discuss the mystery itself. It is a little tough to review a mystery without mentioning the mystery!
I can say a few words. Nobody gets killed and my suspect didn't do it.
The dilemma is not that of the sleuth. It is that of the victim, who has a decision to make about which of her suitors she should favor.
The story concludes satisfactorily.
Recommended for readers of gentle, clean Christian romantic suspense.
Johnson requests that no one discuss the mystery itself. It is a little tough to review a mystery without mentioning the mystery!
I can say a few words. Nobody gets killed and my suspect didn't do it.
The dilemma is not that of the sleuth. It is that of the victim, who has a decision to make about which of her suitors she should favor.
The story concludes satisfactorily.
Recommended for readers of gentle, clean Christian romantic suspense.
January 25, 2020
Another fun mystery
I just love this light-hearted romantic mystery series. The character development keeps you engaged, and there is just enough mystery to keep you guessing. This is definitely not a stress-filled, high tension suspense, but the author knows how to craft a delightfully, fun story!
I just love this light-hearted romantic mystery series. The character development keeps you engaged, and there is just enough mystery to keep you guessing. This is definitely not a stress-filled, high tension suspense, but the author knows how to craft a delightfully, fun story!
June 9, 2020
I really liked this second installment in the series. I liked getting Nancy’s perspective and seeing where her relationship with Carter went. I liked how there was both a love triangle and some enemies to love overtures. I enjoyed seeing Maddie and Gavin. It was a fun mystery with a lot of high school in it. I’m excited to grab the next in the series!
August 22, 2020
Great story and great ethics
These books are great, clean mysteries with a romantic twist. The issues presented are real life issues that many people face, especially as Christians. I love the Biblical views and the non-judgemental way things are presented. Thank you for books I can share with my young teenaged daughter, too.
These books are great, clean mysteries with a romantic twist. The issues presented are real life issues that many people face, especially as Christians. I love the Biblical views and the non-judgemental way things are presented. Thank you for books I can share with my young teenaged daughter, too.
February 14, 2019
Great
I am really enjoying this series! Can't wait for the next one. The mystery and suspense is really well done. The characters exceptional. Enjoyed every minute of it. Great ending too.
I am really enjoying this series! Can't wait for the next one. The mystery and suspense is really well done. The characters exceptional. Enjoyed every minute of it. Great ending too.
May 3, 2021
Intriguing mystery
I really enjoyed getting to know the characters . They are real and face challenges yet rely on God to help them through. It’s well written and the mystery element gives the romance a bit of spark.
I really enjoyed getting to know the characters . They are real and face challenges yet rely on God to help them through. It’s well written and the mystery element gives the romance a bit of spark.
June 11, 2021
This book is hard to put down once you start reading it. Your a long way into it before you have clue.
I'm anxious to start the next book in the series now and I'm was that book three is the last one.
I'm anxious to start the next book in the series now and I'm was that book three is the last one.
August 3, 2025
I would call this a cozy Christian mystery. It just hit the spot for me. The characters were all well-written and the story well developed. When I read the first book in the series I was happy to discover it was a series.
February 6, 2019
Kimberly’s books are always a treat to read. This series is no exception and this second book was fun with a little mystery included.
February 9, 2019
Library sleuth
I loved both books. I could not put it down. It kept me reading and interested i loved the mystery and romance. Thanks.
I loved both books. I could not put it down. It kept me reading and interested i loved the mystery and romance. Thanks.
February 9, 2019
An enjoyable mystery
This book is a good blend of mystery and romance with interesting characters and a good plot. An enjoyable read.
This book is a good blend of mystery and romance with interesting characters and a good plot. An enjoyable read.
January 28, 2020
Fun easy mystery read that I did for book club! I really enjoyed the lightness of it!
February 4, 2020
Intriguing
So nice to read a well written book with NO typos! A mystery with no murder is a nice change too. Worth reading in my book.
So nice to read a well written book with NO typos! A mystery with no murder is a nice change too. Worth reading in my book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews