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Larkspur Library Mysteries #2
Mayhem in Circulation
Librarian Greta Plank is hard at work planning and preparing for Larkspur’s Fall Festival and regional tourism showcase which, if successful, will be a boon to the local economy. But disaster strikes and chances of a positive review look slimmer than a periodical’s spine when a series of pranks escalates and one of Larkspur’s own is found dead the same day the reporter is set to arrive.
Desperate to defend her town’s character and get to the bottom of the circulating mayhem, Greta begins indexing suspects. Could the crimes be an outside job, undertaken by someone intent on harming the town’s reputation? Or is someone closer to home trying to ruin Larkspur from the inside?
With destruction of property, sabotage, and strange animal mishaps piling up on top of murder, Greta wouldn’t recommend this ‘choose your own (disastrous) adventure’ to anyone. In the end, she must decide who she can trust so she can close the book on these crimes before the shadowy vandal authors another kill.
Desperate to defend her town’s character and get to the bottom of the circulating mayhem, Greta begins indexing suspects. Could the crimes be an outside job, undertaken by someone intent on harming the town’s reputation? Or is someone closer to home trying to ruin Larkspur from the inside?
With destruction of property, sabotage, and strange animal mishaps piling up on top of murder, Greta wouldn’t recommend this ‘choose your own (disastrous) adventure’ to anyone. In the end, she must decide who she can trust so she can close the book on these crimes before the shadowy vandal authors another kill.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2023
14 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Leah Dobrinska
14 books284 followersLeah Dobrinska is the author of the Songwriter Sleuth Mysteries, the Larkspur Library Mysteries, the Fall In Love romcom series, and the Mapleton novels. She earned her degree in English Literature from UW-Madison where she was awarded the Dean’s Prize and served as a Writing Fellow. She has since worked as a freelance writer, editor, and content marketer. As a kid, she hoped to grow up to be either Nancy Drew or Elizabeth Bennet. Now, she fulfills that dream by writing mysteries and love stories.
A sucker for a good sentence, a happy ending, and the smell of books—both old and new—Leah lives out her very own happily ever after in a small Wisconsin town with her husband and their gaggle of kids. When she's not writing, handing out snacks, visiting the local library, or doing projects around the house, Leah enjoys reading and running. Find out more about Leah, join her newsletter community, and connect with her through her website, leahdobrinska.com.
A sucker for a good sentence, a happy ending, and the smell of books—both old and new—Leah lives out her very own happily ever after in a small Wisconsin town with her husband and their gaggle of kids. When she's not writing, handing out snacks, visiting the local library, or doing projects around the house, Leah enjoys reading and running. Find out more about Leah, join her newsletter community, and connect with her through her website, leahdobrinska.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
September 12, 2023
I’ll be honest, I saw Mayhem in Circulation by Leah Dobrinska on Net Galley and was 100% influenced to request it based on the cover. The illustrations and color give off the perfect fall vibes! 🍁🎃📚
Librarian Greta Plank is preparing for Larkspur’s fall festival and spotlight feature in the Midwest News. Larkspur’s tourism business is counting on the fall festival to go off without a hitch to impress Rex Rossman, an honest (but fair) tourism journalist. But disaster strikes and a positive review is looking unlikely. Not only does he witness a series of vandalism throughout the town, but a body is discovered- and it’s one of Larkspur’s own residents. Who is intent on harming Larkspur’s reputation? Is it someone close to home, or one of the many visitors in town for the upcoming event? Greta uses her sleuthing skills and enlists the help of her friends and fellow librarians to uncover a list of suspects. But she must decide who she can trust so she can close the book on these crimes before the shadowy vandal authors another kill.
I didn’t even realize it was the second book in the Larkspur Library Mysteries series at first, but couldn’t wait to read this one. I did not read book one, but would recommend it, as details from book one are mentioned throughout. I also think it’ll give you better background on the characters and their relationships.
Despite that, I loved the female main character, Greta, and was rooting for her budding “friendship” with Detective McHenry. Her friends and co-workers, Josie & Iris were likable and made fun additions to the sleuthing team. The author also did a great job building some suspicious characters for suspects. And for sneaking in a few fun book puns along the way 😂 I thought I had it all figured out but couldn’t have guessed the way it all played out.
This series is for fans of the Aurora Teagarden series by Charlaine Harris, another librarian incapable of staying out of a murder investigation.
Mayhem in Circulation will be published on December 5, 2023, just after the fall season, but who doesn’t want cozy vibes all year long. I’d love to visit Larkspur, the town library, the Fall Festival, and especially the cozy cafe- Hugs & Mugs. ☕️🧁💕
“I like books that read like Hallmark movies, okay? Real life can get a little chaotic, so I like the guaranteed happy ending of romance novels.”
This one might be a cozy mystery complete with a murder investigation, but I’m rooting for all the main characters to get their happily ever afters. We need more books in this series! 🙏🏼 In the meantime, you’ll find me going back to read Death Checked Out, the first book in the series to spend more time in Larkspur with Greta and her crew. ❤️
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5 stars- rounded up)
Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Librarian Greta Plank is preparing for Larkspur’s fall festival and spotlight feature in the Midwest News. Larkspur’s tourism business is counting on the fall festival to go off without a hitch to impress Rex Rossman, an honest (but fair) tourism journalist. But disaster strikes and a positive review is looking unlikely. Not only does he witness a series of vandalism throughout the town, but a body is discovered- and it’s one of Larkspur’s own residents. Who is intent on harming Larkspur’s reputation? Is it someone close to home, or one of the many visitors in town for the upcoming event? Greta uses her sleuthing skills and enlists the help of her friends and fellow librarians to uncover a list of suspects. But she must decide who she can trust so she can close the book on these crimes before the shadowy vandal authors another kill.
I didn’t even realize it was the second book in the Larkspur Library Mysteries series at first, but couldn’t wait to read this one. I did not read book one, but would recommend it, as details from book one are mentioned throughout. I also think it’ll give you better background on the characters and their relationships.
Despite that, I loved the female main character, Greta, and was rooting for her budding “friendship” with Detective McHenry. Her friends and co-workers, Josie & Iris were likable and made fun additions to the sleuthing team. The author also did a great job building some suspicious characters for suspects. And for sneaking in a few fun book puns along the way 😂 I thought I had it all figured out but couldn’t have guessed the way it all played out.
This series is for fans of the Aurora Teagarden series by Charlaine Harris, another librarian incapable of staying out of a murder investigation.
Mayhem in Circulation will be published on December 5, 2023, just after the fall season, but who doesn’t want cozy vibes all year long. I’d love to visit Larkspur, the town library, the Fall Festival, and especially the cozy cafe- Hugs & Mugs. ☕️🧁💕
“I like books that read like Hallmark movies, okay? Real life can get a little chaotic, so I like the guaranteed happy ending of romance novels.”
This one might be a cozy mystery complete with a murder investigation, but I’m rooting for all the main characters to get their happily ever afters. We need more books in this series! 🙏🏼 In the meantime, you’ll find me going back to read Death Checked Out, the first book in the series to spend more time in Larkspur with Greta and her crew. ❤️
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5 stars- rounded up)
Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 18, 2024
Book 2 in the Larkspur Library Mystery series - I really enjoyed book 1, which felt fresh for a cozy mystery. Book 2 wasn’t quite as fresh or gripping for me, but still a nice installment in a cute, small town mystery series. I wish the action had picked up earlier in the book and that the characters had been a little more fleshed out in book 2. Enjoyed the further development between Greta, our MC, and the detective!
The potential premise for a third book sounds promising (a library conference in larkspur), so I’d probably pick it up for a low stakes, cozy read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a digital arc for review. All opinions are my own.
The potential premise for a third book sounds promising (a library conference in larkspur), so I’d probably pick it up for a low stakes, cozy read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a digital arc for review. All opinions are my own.
October 2, 2023
Greta and the gang are back in this second book of the Larkspur Library Mysteries, Mayhem in Circulation.
I loved being transported back to this small Wisconsin town with all the cozy fall vibes. There is another murder in Larkspur that has Greta determined to find the one responsible. There were several characters with motive established in this mystery which made it a thrilling read. The red herrings throughout had me constantly guessing who done it. I didn’t figure out who the killer was until the very end, which is a well written book in my opinion! I could not put it down because I had to know what happened next! I love books with a strong female lead and unique or quirky side characters, and this one delivers!
Overall, this was a fabulously written cozy mystery with the perfect amount of romance sprinkled in. The author has written some of my favorite books and I’m pleased to say this one is no exception. I can’t wait to see what Greta gets into next!
I loved being transported back to this small Wisconsin town with all the cozy fall vibes. There is another murder in Larkspur that has Greta determined to find the one responsible. There were several characters with motive established in this mystery which made it a thrilling read. The red herrings throughout had me constantly guessing who done it. I didn’t figure out who the killer was until the very end, which is a well written book in my opinion! I could not put it down because I had to know what happened next! I love books with a strong female lead and unique or quirky side characters, and this one delivers!
Overall, this was a fabulously written cozy mystery with the perfect amount of romance sprinkled in. The author has written some of my favorite books and I’m pleased to say this one is no exception. I can’t wait to see what Greta gets into next!
March 23, 2024
Dollycas's Thoughts
In this second Larkspur Library Mystery, the small Wisconsin town is gearing up for its Fall Festival. The stakes are high because a tourism journalist from Midwest Now is attending the event. A positive review from him could mean a boost to the economy when new tourists see it and flock to Larkspur. But concerns for a good review look bleak when Larkspur Lane and the municipal complex are vandalized and a dead body is found.
Soon Librarian Greta Plank is on the case. Did the victim have enemies? or did the killer want to mar the town's image to keep tourists away? or was there some other motive for the murder and the destruction? She and her friends and fellow librarians, Josie and Iris, team up to find the truth. They want to throw the book at the killer before more murder and mayhem happens in Larkspur.
____
Greta is a strong protagonist and amateur sleuth. I love the relationships she has throughout the community especially the strong bond that she, Josie, and Iris have. I like that the author is giving time for Greta's and Detective McHenry's relationship to bloom. I also liked that her parents came to town for the festival and she had them to lean on when the mayhem got personal. Ms. Dobrinska has created genuine true-to-life characters, I could walk out of my Wisconsin home and easily meet the same kind of people who care for their community and have huge hearts to take up any worthy cause.
The author plotted out a grand mystery with several suspects, twists, turns, and red herrings. She also included a very surprising incident that shook up everything. It changed my thinking completely. I was on the entirely wrong track and just between you and me, I love when that happens. It added extra excitement to my reading as I tried to quickly figure out which important clue I missed. The event also culminated excitingly. I truly was on the edge of my seat.
Being from Wisconsin like the author I appreciate her attention to detail. Her descriptions of Larkspur's places, people, beautiful fall foliage, and the leaves' rustle make me look forward to the season. I enjoy watching the leaves put on the color show each year and the beauty it can be against the sandstone bluffs as you travel the state and the woods galore as you continue north. Leaf peeping tours are popular here in the fall, as are fall festivals and this book gives you a good idea of why.
Mayhem in Circulation takes readers on a delightful little vacation to the small lakeside town of Larkspur. The residents were friendly, the mystery was intriguing, and the setting was ideal. I am already planning for my next visit. Bring on book 3 Ms. Dobrinska. I can't wait!
In this second Larkspur Library Mystery, the small Wisconsin town is gearing up for its Fall Festival. The stakes are high because a tourism journalist from Midwest Now is attending the event. A positive review from him could mean a boost to the economy when new tourists see it and flock to Larkspur. But concerns for a good review look bleak when Larkspur Lane and the municipal complex are vandalized and a dead body is found.
Soon Librarian Greta Plank is on the case. Did the victim have enemies? or did the killer want to mar the town's image to keep tourists away? or was there some other motive for the murder and the destruction? She and her friends and fellow librarians, Josie and Iris, team up to find the truth. They want to throw the book at the killer before more murder and mayhem happens in Larkspur.
____
Greta is a strong protagonist and amateur sleuth. I love the relationships she has throughout the community especially the strong bond that she, Josie, and Iris have. I like that the author is giving time for Greta's and Detective McHenry's relationship to bloom. I also liked that her parents came to town for the festival and she had them to lean on when the mayhem got personal. Ms. Dobrinska has created genuine true-to-life characters, I could walk out of my Wisconsin home and easily meet the same kind of people who care for their community and have huge hearts to take up any worthy cause.
The author plotted out a grand mystery with several suspects, twists, turns, and red herrings. She also included a very surprising incident that shook up everything. It changed my thinking completely. I was on the entirely wrong track and just between you and me, I love when that happens. It added extra excitement to my reading as I tried to quickly figure out which important clue I missed. The event also culminated excitingly. I truly was on the edge of my seat.
Being from Wisconsin like the author I appreciate her attention to detail. Her descriptions of Larkspur's places, people, beautiful fall foliage, and the leaves' rustle make me look forward to the season. I enjoy watching the leaves put on the color show each year and the beauty it can be against the sandstone bluffs as you travel the state and the woods galore as you continue north. Leaf peeping tours are popular here in the fall, as are fall festivals and this book gives you a good idea of why.
Mayhem in Circulation takes readers on a delightful little vacation to the small lakeside town of Larkspur. The residents were friendly, the mystery was intriguing, and the setting was ideal. I am already planning for my next visit. Bring on book 3 Ms. Dobrinska. I can't wait!
March 27, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed Death Checked Out – my introduction to Leah Dobrinska’s work & this Larkspur Library Mystery series – so I was super excited to read Mayhem in Circulation too. Being reunited with all of the great characters, including our very likable protagonist Greta, made it easy to slip back into this setting, but it works just as well as a standalone too. I once again loved the warm relationships between Greta and her friends and (most of) the community, especially the budding romance potential with Greta and Detective McHenry. It’s still just simmering there beneath the surface but there were some really cute moments between them in this book, and I have a feeling that book three will lead to some real progress on that front! (Of course… given the teaser that I think we’re given as to the parts of Greta’s past that may cause problems in book three – and maybe even give McHenry the push he needs to really purse her – I will be stalking the internets for word of its release!)
The mystery in Mayhem in Circulation has plenty of layers and misdirections and surprising twists. I didn’t have it figured out until almost the end, and even then I was missing a key part. The author did a great job of weaving several threads together that keep McHenry and Greta – and readers – on their toes, trying to sort out what’s relevant, what’s related, and what isn’t… not to mention whodunit. I really enjoyed watching Greta sleuth things out and work with McHenry to piece everything together, and my heart was in my throat a couple of times too as the danger intensifies.
Bottom Line: Mayhem in Circulation by Leah Dobrinska is a wholly entertaining read in a charming setting with layered characters and a complex mystery to solve. The author’s warm and witty writing voice is matched in Greta’s engaging personality, and readers will love tagging along for the well-plotted investigation. Especially when swoony Detective McHenry tags along too. (Just when I thought he couldn’t get any cuter, he goes and blushes a little and flirts a little and reveals a surprising reading preference that endeared him to me for life.) I really enjoy the community of Larkspur and look forward to more visits in the hopefully-near future!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
The mystery in Mayhem in Circulation has plenty of layers and misdirections and surprising twists. I didn’t have it figured out until almost the end, and even then I was missing a key part. The author did a great job of weaving several threads together that keep McHenry and Greta – and readers – on their toes, trying to sort out what’s relevant, what’s related, and what isn’t… not to mention whodunit. I really enjoyed watching Greta sleuth things out and work with McHenry to piece everything together, and my heart was in my throat a couple of times too as the danger intensifies.
Bottom Line: Mayhem in Circulation by Leah Dobrinska is a wholly entertaining read in a charming setting with layered characters and a complex mystery to solve. The author’s warm and witty writing voice is matched in Greta’s engaging personality, and readers will love tagging along for the well-plotted investigation. Especially when swoony Detective McHenry tags along too. (Just when I thought he couldn’t get any cuter, he goes and blushes a little and flirts a little and reveals a surprising reading preference that endeared him to me for life.) I really enjoy the community of Larkspur and look forward to more visits in the hopefully-near future!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
December 14, 2023
A cute cozy mystery and a quick read. We're back in the town of Larkspur. It doesn't take long before another body is found! It's on the heels of a festival and celebration for the town, and recognition from a big magazine the town's tourism could use.
I loved the characters in this one, just like the first one. Greta is feisty and fun and I like her POV. The budding romance with the new detective in town is just adorable and I loved their interactions. Cozy mysteries are so fun to just sit back and roll with the twists, so I didn't even try to solve this one and just rolled with each new suspect the MC focused in on. Even if the ending had some over-the-top moments, I loved it all the same. I think I'll read book 3, it's such a cute little group of librarians - I'd love to visit them again for another mystery!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
I loved the characters in this one, just like the first one. Greta is feisty and fun and I like her POV. The budding romance with the new detective in town is just adorable and I loved their interactions. Cozy mysteries are so fun to just sit back and roll with the twists, so I didn't even try to solve this one and just rolled with each new suspect the MC focused in on. Even if the ending had some over-the-top moments, I loved it all the same. I think I'll read book 3, it's such a cute little group of librarians - I'd love to visit them again for another mystery!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
June 9, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the digital ARC of this title. Here is the long-awaited review.
Greta is still reeling from the last debacle that she dealt with since moving to Larkspur. And trying to figure out the new detective in town. But, once again, she is thrown into the mix when the mayor is found dead right before the big town festival is set to begin. Not to mention the journalist that has arrived to write a piece on Larkspur as a community and tourist attraction. A lot hangs in the balance here.
So, I love the characters. They are all virtual golden retrievers. However, I was not buying the whole "love of town and community" to the degree that it was being rammed down your throat. It got really annoying and repetitive. While I did figure it out, it was still pretty fun.
Greta is still reeling from the last debacle that she dealt with since moving to Larkspur. And trying to figure out the new detective in town. But, once again, she is thrown into the mix when the mayor is found dead right before the big town festival is set to begin. Not to mention the journalist that has arrived to write a piece on Larkspur as a community and tourist attraction. A lot hangs in the balance here.
So, I love the characters. They are all virtual golden retrievers. However, I was not buying the whole "love of town and community" to the degree that it was being rammed down your throat. It got really annoying and repetitive. While I did figure it out, it was still pretty fun.
December 6, 2024
I enjoyed this return to Larkspur Lane in another of Leah Dobrinska’s cozy, small town mysteries! While this mystery wasn’t as compelling or gripping as the first in the series, it still kept me guessing until the end. I also appreciated more backstory about all the characters and the budding romance for the MC and the detective. I’ll definitely be reading the next one in the series.
December 31, 2023
My trip back to Larkspur did not disappoint! Thanks for another chance to visit this small northern Wisconsin town where a murder happens and mayhem ensues. Greta and the gang met all my expectations! I’m already looking forward to their next chance at sleuthing! Keep ‘em coming, Leah!
December 5, 2023
I was so excited to return to Larkspur and its fabulous people. Everything is just what a small town should be, including an excellent library, but with a cozy murder mystery to shake things up. Once again, Leah proves that cozy mystery doesn’t mean easily solved and she kept me guessing almost to the very end. I loved how things played out and how exciting the story was. Greta and McHenry have reached a semi-truce and he’s letting her be involved in the case - though from a (mostly) safe distance. I loved watching them continue their dance around their attraction to each other and them learning to listen to the other. I cannot wait to see where Leah will take them next but I am definitely here for it. Get this fantastic story on your TBR friends, it should not be missed if you’re a cozy mystery lover.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the author via NetGalley. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the author via NetGalley. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
November 22, 2023
Thank you to Leah Dobrinska, NetGalley for an ARC. This is a fair and honest review.
If you are looking for a feel good mystery this is the book for you. The main character Greta is sweet and the book is full of rich characters.
I found myself loving all the supporting characters, Detective McHenry and her co-workers Josie and Iris. The mystery has plenty of suspects, and it's not something you figure out in the first few chapters. The town it's self, Larkspur, is another character, it's the type of town we all wish we lived in, it has that "Hallmark" movie town feel. A place you want to visit and be a part of.
The story starts out with Greta planning the fall festival, in hopes of impressing Rex Rossman a tourism journalist. However, that positive review looks unlikely when he witnesses a vandalism happing throughout Larkspur, coupled with finding the body of one of Larkspur’s own residents. It seems that someone want's to ruin Larkspur's reputation? Who is it? Greta enlists the assistance of her friends and fellow librarians to sleuth out the suspects, and uncover who has done this before they find another body.
I didn't realize this was the second book in a series, and excited to go back and read the first book. I am rooting for all the characters to eventually find their happily ever after. I hope the author continues to write about Greta and Larspur, they feel like book friends to me!
If you are looking for a feel good mystery this is the book for you. The main character Greta is sweet and the book is full of rich characters.
I found myself loving all the supporting characters, Detective McHenry and her co-workers Josie and Iris. The mystery has plenty of suspects, and it's not something you figure out in the first few chapters. The town it's self, Larkspur, is another character, it's the type of town we all wish we lived in, it has that "Hallmark" movie town feel. A place you want to visit and be a part of.
The story starts out with Greta planning the fall festival, in hopes of impressing Rex Rossman a tourism journalist. However, that positive review looks unlikely when he witnesses a vandalism happing throughout Larkspur, coupled with finding the body of one of Larkspur’s own residents. It seems that someone want's to ruin Larkspur's reputation? Who is it? Greta enlists the assistance of her friends and fellow librarians to sleuth out the suspects, and uncover who has done this before they find another body.
I didn't realize this was the second book in a series, and excited to go back and read the first book. I am rooting for all the characters to eventually find their happily ever after. I hope the author continues to write about Greta and Larspur, they feel like book friends to me!
October 16, 2023
There's something about this series that just has me hooked! I really enjoyed this book, so much resonated with me especially that the main characters are involved with the library. It's fun, sweet, mysterious, and just good. The characters are very relatable, and you feel like you know them as you're reading them. The story, the plots, everything works together for a great story. This is the second book in the Larkspur Library mystery series and although I don't think it's necessary to read the first one to follow the second one, you'll miss out on a lot fun. Very good book, highly recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
November 20, 2023
I loved the first book in the series as it was a change from the same characters and plots I came across in the books recently. However, as is often the case with book series, the second book unfortunately remains in the shadow of the first. I do not want to read another book with the same plot, but this was the case for Mayhem in Circulation. I know that it a mystery novel and how much can you deviate without shifting to another genre, but, at least I would have wanted to read that Greta is not meddling in everything. Granted, as this is a mystery so we should be on tenterhooks but somethings may happen to other people as well, like coming across a heated argument or hearing a phone call. Those as well can be shared with Greta, which in turn we would learn but no! You'd think, after coming back from the brink of death in the 1st book, she had learnt her lesson.
Also, I do not like when writers want to be contemporary while writing the books. Indeed, somethings like cancel culture or sourdough bread-making kick are recent happenings but if I read this book 10 years later, I would not understand what the writer was referring to.
Additionally, a person's surname is not a pet name. The writer uses "pet name" in two places, which, only one of them is true: babe. How is "Miss Plank" a pet name?
The book hints that the 3rd book would take place during the librarian conference but honestly I'm neither intriguied nor looking for it. If Leah Dobrinska didn't develop her characters in this book, I don't think she will in the 3rd one.
Also, I do not like when writers want to be contemporary while writing the books. Indeed, somethings like cancel culture or sourdough bread-making kick are recent happenings but if I read this book 10 years later, I would not understand what the writer was referring to.
Additionally, a person's surname is not a pet name. The writer uses "pet name" in two places, which, only one of them is true: babe. How is "Miss Plank" a pet name?
The book hints that the 3rd book would take place during the librarian conference but honestly I'm neither intriguied nor looking for it. If Leah Dobrinska didn't develop her characters in this book, I don't think she will in the 3rd one.
November 17, 2023
Leah Dobrinkska
Mayhem in Circulation
2023
4.5 Stars
Thank you NetGalley and Publisher Level Best Books for my copy of Mayhem in Circulation. I have not received any rewards or compensation for this review and therefore all views and opinions are of my own, the reviewer.
In summary: Nancy Drew grew up and solves mysteries as a librarian in the small town Larkspur. It give off a 1980’s television series such as Murder She Wrote etc.
This is my first book by Leah Dobrinksa, however this book is part of a series and Mayhem in Circulation is book number two in the series.
In the book there is a lot happening, a murder, a kidnapping and an explosion to name some of the plot points. Greta the main character with her friends solve mysteries. The difference is Greta is a librarian. My main thought here was that Greta is such a nosey person sticking her nose where she shouldn’t and even manages to override McHenry time after time so she can solve the mystery.
I liked unique storytelling by the author. I found myself getting invested in the actual story which wasn’t flakey or unsubstantial, I wanted to know what nosey Greta was going to get herself into next. The book certainly lives up to its title.
I enjoyed this book mainly for the lightness of it, satisfyingly interesting and well built characters. I would like McHenry to be a stronger character though. Meaning I think he let Greta get away with too much. Maybe Greta is in the wrong job as a librarian? Seriously though, it was enjoyable read.
Mayhem in Circulation
2023
4.5 Stars
Thank you NetGalley and Publisher Level Best Books for my copy of Mayhem in Circulation. I have not received any rewards or compensation for this review and therefore all views and opinions are of my own, the reviewer.
In summary: Nancy Drew grew up and solves mysteries as a librarian in the small town Larkspur. It give off a 1980’s television series such as Murder She Wrote etc.
This is my first book by Leah Dobrinksa, however this book is part of a series and Mayhem in Circulation is book number two in the series.
In the book there is a lot happening, a murder, a kidnapping and an explosion to name some of the plot points. Greta the main character with her friends solve mysteries. The difference is Greta is a librarian. My main thought here was that Greta is such a nosey person sticking her nose where she shouldn’t and even manages to override McHenry time after time so she can solve the mystery.
I liked unique storytelling by the author. I found myself getting invested in the actual story which wasn’t flakey or unsubstantial, I wanted to know what nosey Greta was going to get herself into next. The book certainly lives up to its title.
I enjoyed this book mainly for the lightness of it, satisfyingly interesting and well built characters. I would like McHenry to be a stronger character though. Meaning I think he let Greta get away with too much. Maybe Greta is in the wrong job as a librarian? Seriously though, it was enjoyable read.
December 5, 2023
It hasn’t been long since the small town of Larkspur was thrown into chaos, after a shocking murder. Unfortunately, it’s happened again, and this time just before their beloved Fall Festival. Other strange occurrences have everyone on edge, including our favorite librarian sleuth, Greta, and her besties. Although she promises to not get involved in the murder investigation, she can’t help but try to solve all the other weird things happening around town. But she just may find herself once again in the middle of a murder mystery.
This series has so far been really cute and cozy. I enjoy it being low-stakes, without being overly easy to solve or cliche. It certainly feels like a contemporary Nancy Drew. I also am excited to see where the flirtation between Greta and the sheriff will go.
Thank you NetGalley and to the publisher, for this advanced copy, in exchange for my unbiased review!
This series has so far been really cute and cozy. I enjoy it being low-stakes, without being overly easy to solve or cliche. It certainly feels like a contemporary Nancy Drew. I also am excited to see where the flirtation between Greta and the sheriff will go.
Thank you NetGalley and to the publisher, for this advanced copy, in exchange for my unbiased review!
October 26, 2024
Greta is preparing for the fall festival in her small town of Larkspur, Wisconsin. Everything must go right as the festival has attracted the attention of a reporter from Midwest News. However, the reporter arrives to a crime scene and one of the town's residents has been murdered. Could the murder be related to the acts of vandalism that have been occurring around town? Determined to defend the town, Greta and her friends set out to find the culprit and save the town's reputation.
This series is the perfect cozy mystery for Fall. The atmosphere of Larkspur is the perfect town for a cozy mystery series. I loved Death Checked Out and immediately started Mayhem in Circulation. Greta is such a strong character, and I loved the growing chemistry between Greta and the Detective. I am excited to see what is next for Greta and her friends in the next book. Luckily, I won't have to wait long as I was approved for A Killer Hold set to release on December 8th (review to come soon).
Thank you to NetGalley and Level Best Books for the opportunity to review Mayhem in Circulation. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and
This series is the perfect cozy mystery for Fall. The atmosphere of Larkspur is the perfect town for a cozy mystery series. I loved Death Checked Out and immediately started Mayhem in Circulation. Greta is such a strong character, and I loved the growing chemistry between Greta and the Detective. I am excited to see what is next for Greta and her friends in the next book. Luckily, I won't have to wait long as I was approved for A Killer Hold set to release on December 8th (review to come soon).
Thank you to NetGalley and Level Best Books for the opportunity to review Mayhem in Circulation. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and
November 11, 2023
Fall festival feels in a small town, makes for one cozy setting. Add in a splash of murder and you have created some mayhem. Book two in the series takes us back to Larkspur, where we get a peek more into the lives of the librarians we have come to love. Greta and her gang try to solve the latest string of vandalism and a dead body before the sabotage takes over the town and leaves some of the local businesses questioning if they can continue.
I enjoy this book, not as much as the first one but I would 100% pick up the next book in the series to see what adventures await the librarians.
Thank you Net Galley for this ARC. This book hits the shelves December 5, 2023.
I enjoy this book, not as much as the first one but I would 100% pick up the next book in the series to see what adventures await the librarians.
Thank you Net Galley for this ARC. This book hits the shelves December 5, 2023.
November 24, 2024
"'...The vandalism tripped me up, but then I started thinking big picture. Who would be hurt most by the vandalism?'
' The whole town. It's not a good look to have mayhem in circulation around here.' Iris offered."
Book 2 of the Larkspur Library Mystery series, set in small grown Wisconsin sees librarian Greta Plank and love interest police detective Mark McHenry investigating a sudden death and spate of vandalism during the town's fall festival. Cosy, autumnal crime with a librarian protagonist makes for relaxing reading. I enjoyed the setting and the returning characters in particular. A lovely read.
Book 3 in the series, A Killer On Hold, publishes on 3rd December 2024.
' The whole town. It's not a good look to have mayhem in circulation around here.' Iris offered."
Book 2 of the Larkspur Library Mystery series, set in small grown Wisconsin sees librarian Greta Plank and love interest police detective Mark McHenry investigating a sudden death and spate of vandalism during the town's fall festival. Cosy, autumnal crime with a librarian protagonist makes for relaxing reading. I enjoyed the setting and the returning characters in particular. A lovely read.
Book 3 in the series, A Killer On Hold, publishes on 3rd December 2024.
October 8, 2023
Okay, so at the beginning I did find it a little slow to get into, but to be fair I find that with most novels. However it shortly became an addicting read I couldn’t put down! It’s a great cozy murder mystery novel with a hint of romance which I really liked. I do wish it touched a little bit more on the romance between the main character and her love interest, but it was still great nonetheless. The characters were well written and I liked all of the side characters. I’m excited to read more! Thank you to the publishers and author for letting me read an early arc :)
October 20, 2023
This is a delightful cozy mystery about Larkspur, a small town in Wisconsin.
Local librarian Greta Plank and her library posse are helping prepare the town for the Fall Festival and its profile in the publication Midwest Now. Things do not go according to plan. Somebody is sabotaging the town, and the day the reporter is set to arrive, someone is found dead.
As a librarian, I was really fascinated by this book. I especially enjoyed Greta and McHenry’s interactions. The book gave off major cozy fall vibes, and I would have really loved to go there and spend time with the librarians around town or at Mugs & Hugs.
The book will keep you on your toes wondering who is behind it all.
This is a great book to read on a crisp fall day with a nice cup of cocoa and a warm blanket.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #LevelBestBooks for the ARC.
Local librarian Greta Plank and her library posse are helping prepare the town for the Fall Festival and its profile in the publication Midwest Now. Things do not go according to plan. Somebody is sabotaging the town, and the day the reporter is set to arrive, someone is found dead.
As a librarian, I was really fascinated by this book. I especially enjoyed Greta and McHenry’s interactions. The book gave off major cozy fall vibes, and I would have really loved to go there and spend time with the librarians around town or at Mugs & Hugs.
The book will keep you on your toes wondering who is behind it all.
This is a great book to read on a crisp fall day with a nice cup of cocoa and a warm blanket.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #LevelBestBooks for the ARC.
October 30, 2025
This was a cute cozy mystery!
Mayhem in Circulation is book two in the series, although it can definitely be read as a standalone. (I read it without reading book one first.)
This book had all the normal elements of a cozy mystery. It was half around the town gossip and half mystery! It wasn’t necessarily a fast paced book, but it kept me guessing throughout.
It wasn’t the most memorable of books, but it was still a quick, fun read. I definitely think I’ll go back and read book one and read the next one as well.
Mayhem in Circulation is book two in the series, although it can definitely be read as a standalone. (I read it without reading book one first.)
This book had all the normal elements of a cozy mystery. It was half around the town gossip and half mystery! It wasn’t necessarily a fast paced book, but it kept me guessing throughout.
It wasn’t the most memorable of books, but it was still a quick, fun read. I definitely think I’ll go back and read book one and read the next one as well.
January 12, 2025
If you're in the mood for a clean mystery read, (no cursing, sex, etc) then this is for you. There are two in this series, but you don't have to read them in order, (I would), unless you want to know how the characters lives connect and evolved over time. There is enough to keep you interested with trying to figure out who done it, love, friendship, and family.
February 3, 2024
I couldn’t put this book DOWN and could not get enough of the story. I loved “Death Checked Out” and “Mayhem” was even better. More surprising, more intrigue, and loved the slow burn romance. I can’t wait for the next book.
October 20, 2023
Greta & her sleuthing are back for another stroll through Larkspur! I was so excited to grab this book off NetGalley!
Larkspur sounds wonderful & I still want to go visit there. While there’s some weird stuff going on, it still has that small town, close knit vibe that I love so much.
Greta is such a lovable & relatable character! She’s kind, loves reading, and works at the library. She’s also very community oriented! She loves her small town and (most) of the people who live there.
Then there’s Detective McHenry. His banter with Greta is *chefs kiss* He’s sweet, funny, and means business.
As with Death Checked Out I loved all of the side characters as well. I enjoyed reading more about Josie and Iris—and all of the other characters that make Larkspur amazing.
The entire time I kept thinking I knew what happened. Mayhem in Circulation definitely kept me guessing!
Leah knows how to write a good cozy mystery, that’s for sure!
If you’re looking for small town, cozy mystery vibes with a splash of romantic banter check out Mayhem in Circulation! It will be available December 5 on Amazon!
Larkspur sounds wonderful & I still want to go visit there. While there’s some weird stuff going on, it still has that small town, close knit vibe that I love so much.
Greta is such a lovable & relatable character! She’s kind, loves reading, and works at the library. She’s also very community oriented! She loves her small town and (most) of the people who live there.
Then there’s Detective McHenry. His banter with Greta is *chefs kiss* He’s sweet, funny, and means business.
As with Death Checked Out I loved all of the side characters as well. I enjoyed reading more about Josie and Iris—and all of the other characters that make Larkspur amazing.
The entire time I kept thinking I knew what happened. Mayhem in Circulation definitely kept me guessing!
Leah knows how to write a good cozy mystery, that’s for sure!
If you’re looking for small town, cozy mystery vibes with a splash of romantic banter check out Mayhem in Circulation! It will be available December 5 on Amazon!
December 10, 2023
All I have to say is oh my stars was that book good!!
The story gripped me and pulled me in from the first chapter. Each chapter had new twists and turns I wasn’t expecting I could hardly put it down.
Greta (our heroine & Larkspur’s head librarian) is just so loveable and relatable. She brings an undeniable energy to the story, keeping everyone around her on their toes, especially Detective McHenry.
Detective McHenry is so deliciously broody I can hardly stand it. And when he finally delivers those flirtatious one liners to Greta?? Oh he still my heart! It left me squealing and kicking my feet every dang time!
Writing reviews for mysteries is so hard because I don’t want to give anything anyway, so I’ll just say this: the story is fantastic and you’ll have just as much fun piecing together the clues as Greta does. It will make you feel like Nancy Drew!
Leah Dobrinska has become one of my favorite authors. Everything she writes is full of life and tells an unputdownable story.
Mayhem in Circulation is a must read for any cozy mystery lover.
📖 Thank you to the author for the advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
The story gripped me and pulled me in from the first chapter. Each chapter had new twists and turns I wasn’t expecting I could hardly put it down.
Greta (our heroine & Larkspur’s head librarian) is just so loveable and relatable. She brings an undeniable energy to the story, keeping everyone around her on their toes, especially Detective McHenry.
Detective McHenry is so deliciously broody I can hardly stand it. And when he finally delivers those flirtatious one liners to Greta?? Oh he still my heart! It left me squealing and kicking my feet every dang time!
Writing reviews for mysteries is so hard because I don’t want to give anything anyway, so I’ll just say this: the story is fantastic and you’ll have just as much fun piecing together the clues as Greta does. It will make you feel like Nancy Drew!
Leah Dobrinska has become one of my favorite authors. Everything she writes is full of life and tells an unputdownable story.
Mayhem in Circulation is a must read for any cozy mystery lover.
📖 Thank you to the author for the advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
November 30, 2023
ARC Review ~ Mayhem in Circulation ~
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Leah Dobrinska’s sequel starts just a few weeks after the first and Larspur is thrown into craziness once again, this time at the hands of vandalism and then the murder of their mayor. Despite promising the detective to stay out of the murder investigation, Greta didn’t promise to stop investigating the other weird occurrences going on and somehow still finds herself in the middle of it all!
I adore this one just as much as the first, maybe a little bit more as we got a pinch of the budding romance developing and a lot more banter! I loved watching Greta’s curiosity keeping her just outside of the murder investigation until circumstances force her to fall well into it. We got to learn more about her and the detective as well as her friends and the mystery had me guessing and speculating like a game of clue.
Side note: one of my favorite bits is the foreshadowing for an event coming to Larkspur in the near future that has me dying for the next book!
Thank you NetGalley and Level Best Books for this ARC!
*******************************************
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Leah Dobrinska’s sequel starts just a few weeks after the first and Larspur is thrown into craziness once again, this time at the hands of vandalism and then the murder of their mayor. Despite promising the detective to stay out of the murder investigation, Greta didn’t promise to stop investigating the other weird occurrences going on and somehow still finds herself in the middle of it all!
I adore this one just as much as the first, maybe a little bit more as we got a pinch of the budding romance developing and a lot more banter! I loved watching Greta’s curiosity keeping her just outside of the murder investigation until circumstances force her to fall well into it. We got to learn more about her and the detective as well as her friends and the mystery had me guessing and speculating like a game of clue.
Side note: one of my favorite bits is the foreshadowing for an event coming to Larkspur in the near future that has me dying for the next book!
Thank you NetGalley and Level Best Books for this ARC!
September 7, 2023
I love cozy mysteries. One strong willed main character deciding to solve the mystery themselves, usually with friends help is an amazing comfort read.
Greta doesn't dissapoint as usual with her take charge attitude, the book opening with what at first looks like a teenagers prank of vandalism.
But it wouldnt be a mystery if thats all it was right? The fall showcase has many on edge as we begin our journey so everything needs to go smoothly. But of course it doesn't when a murder of a local happens right before and our Greta finds herself involved again as she helps get ready for the festival.
As always I love the accuracy of a close knit community in between the suspense but also like any good mystery youre faced with several options for the who dun it.
This kept me guessing until the end and I canf wait for our next adventure in Lakespur.
Thank you to the author and netgalley for allowi ng me to read this arc!
Greta doesn't dissapoint as usual with her take charge attitude, the book opening with what at first looks like a teenagers prank of vandalism.
But it wouldnt be a mystery if thats all it was right? The fall showcase has many on edge as we begin our journey so everything needs to go smoothly. But of course it doesn't when a murder of a local happens right before and our Greta finds herself involved again as she helps get ready for the festival.
As always I love the accuracy of a close knit community in between the suspense but also like any good mystery youre faced with several options for the who dun it.
This kept me guessing until the end and I canf wait for our next adventure in Lakespur.
Thank you to the author and netgalley for allowi ng me to read this arc!
September 29, 2023
Fall festival full of romance , murder and mystery!
I found myself in love with the small town of Larkspur and with the beautiful descriptions I can clearly see why it is so beloved to the characters. I especially loved Eds cabins which reminds me of the lake where I used to camp by.
I loved how the suspicion of the who done it kept changing while still having a clear motive to why they might have committed the crime it kept me on my toes the whole way through. Greta and her girls were easy to love and root for. The slow burn of Greta and McHenrys love story was fantastic and kept you wanting more from them and look forward to their love blossoming in the next book.
So many twists to look forward to without it being confusing.
While I have not yet the first book in this series (Death checked out) I found it easy to read and understand the story line so I will be going back to read this.
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for providing the chance to read this e arc.
I found myself in love with the small town of Larkspur and with the beautiful descriptions I can clearly see why it is so beloved to the characters. I especially loved Eds cabins which reminds me of the lake where I used to camp by.
I loved how the suspicion of the who done it kept changing while still having a clear motive to why they might have committed the crime it kept me on my toes the whole way through. Greta and her girls were easy to love and root for. The slow burn of Greta and McHenrys love story was fantastic and kept you wanting more from them and look forward to their love blossoming in the next book.
So many twists to look forward to without it being confusing.
While I have not yet the first book in this series (Death checked out) I found it easy to read and understand the story line so I will be going back to read this.
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for providing the chance to read this e arc.
January 7, 2024
Mayhem in Circulation is the second book in the Larkspur Library Mysteries series. After discovering this was the second book, I read the first one called Death Checked Out.
This is a cozy mystery that is perfect to cuddle up with in the fall and winter months with a blanket and warm cup of coffee or tea!
It was a quick, easy read and I don't feel readers absolutely had to read the first one to enjoy this one. While there were certain characters and events from Death Checked Out that were mentioned, readers would get enough information to not feel lost in Mayhem in Circulation.
Anytime a librarian collides with a cozy mystery, I'm all in!
This was certainly a four out of five star read for me. I'd definitely read additional books in the series.
Thank you NetGalley, Leah Dobrinska, and Level Best Books for the opportunity to enjoy this novel. It was released in December so readers can go grab this now!
This is a cozy mystery that is perfect to cuddle up with in the fall and winter months with a blanket and warm cup of coffee or tea!
It was a quick, easy read and I don't feel readers absolutely had to read the first one to enjoy this one. While there were certain characters and events from Death Checked Out that were mentioned, readers would get enough information to not feel lost in Mayhem in Circulation.
Anytime a librarian collides with a cozy mystery, I'm all in!
This was certainly a four out of five star read for me. I'd definitely read additional books in the series.
Thank you NetGalley, Leah Dobrinska, and Level Best Books for the opportunity to enjoy this novel. It was released in December so readers can go grab this now!
October 2, 2023
This is the second book in Larkspur Library Mysteries Series. I think I fell even more in love with Greta, the gang, and the quirky town. You have a mystery to solve with Greta & the gang without going into graphic gory details of the incident. The story focuses on a fun town with some curious characters. There is always some kind of activity going on in this town. But I absolutely love the slow burn romance that is building up between Greta and the detective in the first book they had just met and now they are slowly getting to know one another. If you like your books with a bit of mystery, great friendships, and a slow burn romance this book is for you.
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