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Lakeside Library Mystery #2
Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library
An icy cold murder and a library patron collide in Holly Danvers' second Lakeside Library Mystery.
A glowing wood stove, a cozy log cabin, and shelves full of books are all Rain Wilmot needs to ride out the Wisconsin winter, now that she's made her family's Lofty Pines library her year-round home. But the warm-hearted librarian's blood runs cold when local man, Wallace Benson, is found dead during the annual Ice Fishing Jamboree.
After Benson's body is found in his ice shanty, Rain recalls that she recently saw the victim in her library, borrowing a few cookbooks to prepare for the fishing tournament's communal "chili dump." She later finds these same books returned to the library's drop box, with an enigmatic note from Benson to Rain.
As Rain seeks to understand the message, the prime suspect becomes Rain's friend Nick, who was the last person to see Wallace alive and who returned to the Jamboree with a nasty cut on his hand. The knife found in his tackle box only makes Nick's troubles worse. But Rain keeps fishing for other suspects. Was the killer Danny, who lost his arm to a logging accident involving Wallace? Or Danny's bitter father, whose dreams of retirement were dashed by his son's accident?
With the help of her friends Julia and Jace, Rain sets out to hook the real culprit and clear Nick's name. But can her sleuthing skills protect her from a killer who'd like to take her out of circulation?
A glowing wood stove, a cozy log cabin, and shelves full of books are all Rain Wilmot needs to ride out the Wisconsin winter, now that she's made her family's Lofty Pines library her year-round home. But the warm-hearted librarian's blood runs cold when local man, Wallace Benson, is found dead during the annual Ice Fishing Jamboree.
After Benson's body is found in his ice shanty, Rain recalls that she recently saw the victim in her library, borrowing a few cookbooks to prepare for the fishing tournament's communal "chili dump." She later finds these same books returned to the library's drop box, with an enigmatic note from Benson to Rain.
As Rain seeks to understand the message, the prime suspect becomes Rain's friend Nick, who was the last person to see Wallace alive and who returned to the Jamboree with a nasty cut on his hand. The knife found in his tackle box only makes Nick's troubles worse. But Rain keeps fishing for other suspects. Was the killer Danny, who lost his arm to a logging accident involving Wallace? Or Danny's bitter father, whose dreams of retirement were dashed by his son's accident?
With the help of her friends Julia and Jace, Rain sets out to hook the real culprit and clear Nick's name. But can her sleuthing skills protect her from a killer who'd like to take her out of circulation?
293 pages, Hardcover
First published February 8, 2022
130 people are currently reading
750 people want to read
About the author
Holly Danvers
15 books231 followersDid you know? Holly Danvers also writes the Handcrafted Mystery series under Holly Quinn and the Mainely Murder Mystery series under Sherry Lynn.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
February 9, 2022
Rain Wilmot was pleased she’d decided to stay permanently in Lofty Pines, Wisconsin with her library now opening all year round instead of just the warmer months. She, her friend Julie who was also her neighbour and Marge with her dog Rex, made a good team at the library and when the annual Ice Fishing Jamboree was coming up, the weather was also getting colder with storms threatening massive snow dumps. But it was the death of local man Wallace Benson, whom Rain had talked to just the day before, that shattered the community. And when Julie’s husband Nick was arrested for the murder, Rain and Julie, along with Jace, Julie’s brother and local cop, decided to work on the investigation themselves.
Jace had been taken off the case as he was too close to Nick, so he was able to help the women. But the dogged questioning by Rain and Julie ruffled some feathers, and danger came knocking. Could they discover who the killer was before someone else died? Or before Nick was locked up for good?
Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library is the 2nd in the Lakeside Library Mystery series by Holly Danvers and I enjoyed it much more than the first one. I picked the murderer at the beginning, straight after the murder, but it was entertaining to see how the author came to the same conclusion 😉 An enjoyable cozy mystery which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Jace had been taken off the case as he was too close to Nick, so he was able to help the women. But the dogged questioning by Rain and Julie ruffled some feathers, and danger came knocking. Could they discover who the killer was before someone else died? Or before Nick was locked up for good?
Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library is the 2nd in the Lakeside Library Mystery series by Holly Danvers and I enjoyed it much more than the first one. I picked the murderer at the beginning, straight after the murder, but it was entertaining to see how the author came to the same conclusion 😉 An enjoyable cozy mystery which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 9, 2022
The second book in the series and it was as enjoyable as the first.
Rain and her friend Julia work at the Lakeside Library. During a lake fishing contest a man turns up murdered and Julia's husband is the number one suspect. Of course Rain and Julia have to investigate for themselves (the police are always so incompetent in cosies!)
It was an interesting mystery set in snow and ice which always makes following up clues much harder. I did enjoy reading about a winter way of life which I have never experienced. Rain investigates methodically and carefully Julia just goes crazy but then it is her husband who has been arrested.
Rain's relationship with Jace develops a little although Jace needs to try harder. The author has introduced Ryan so now we have a love triangle which may progress things! I will have to read the next book to see what happens!
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Rain and her friend Julia work at the Lakeside Library. During a lake fishing contest a man turns up murdered and Julia's husband is the number one suspect. Of course Rain and Julia have to investigate for themselves (the police are always so incompetent in cosies!)
It was an interesting mystery set in snow and ice which always makes following up clues much harder. I did enjoy reading about a winter way of life which I have never experienced. Rain investigates methodically and carefully Julia just goes crazy but then it is her husband who has been arrested.
Rain's relationship with Jace develops a little although Jace needs to try harder. The author has introduced Ryan so now we have a love triangle which may progress things! I will have to read the next book to see what happens!
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
July 21, 2022
Yessss, I've been waiting to read this since finishing the first one end of 2020! Another cute cozy mystery. I loved the difference between the seasons, I'd deffo prefer visiting the lake in the summer! I see she's writing a 3rd one and this is getting me excited all over again!!
May 4, 2022
⭐⭐⭐
Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library was an okay read for me. I didn't love it; I didn't hate it. I adored the setting of the book (a log cabin library in Lofty Pines, Northern Wisconsin.) For some reason, it gave me Little House on The Prairie vibes. 🤷🏻♀️ It held up well as a standalone. The characters were all likable as well. That said, I found it really slow moving. The "baddie" was obvious right from the start, and I loathe love triangles in my cozy mysteries and it looks very much like this author is laying the groundwork for one with Jace and Ryan. This one was definitely a mixed bag for me. I enjoyed it enough to give the next book a read just to see where this author is headed with these characters.
**ARC Via NetGalley*
Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library was an okay read for me. I didn't love it; I didn't hate it. I adored the setting of the book (a log cabin library in Lofty Pines, Northern Wisconsin.) For some reason, it gave me Little House on The Prairie vibes. 🤷🏻♀️ It held up well as a standalone. The characters were all likable as well. That said, I found it really slow moving. The "baddie" was obvious right from the start, and I loathe love triangles in my cozy mysteries and it looks very much like this author is laying the groundwork for one with Jace and Ryan. This one was definitely a mixed bag for me. I enjoyed it enough to give the next book a read just to see where this author is headed with these characters.
**ARC Via NetGalley*
February 23, 2022
Rain Wilmot just wants to coast through winter in Wisconsin working at the Lofty Pines library. Local winter festivities like the annual ice fishing tourney and chili cookoff are ruined though when a local is found dead in his ice shanty. Rain goes fishing for clues to catch a killer and prevent the wrong man from being arrested.
I loved this winter themed cozy! I wish the Lofty Pines library was a real place -- the idea of a log cabin library just sounds so cozy, relaxing and inviting!!! I grew up in the Midwest, but have lived in NC for 20 years, so the winter theme was enjoyable as well. Haven't gone through a "real'' winter in a long, long time. Here in NC they call off school for any amount of snow -- two flakes....no school. It snows once or twice per season and then only a small amount. And it hardly ever gets below 20 degrees. I kinda miss those "real'' winters sometimes....this book made me feel nostalgic for snow measured in feet, ice creeping in the back door, and being snowed in. :)
I enjoy this series. The setting is fun. The characters are hometown-y and engaging. And, there is plenty of amateur sleuthing....plus....log cabin library! :)
I'm definitely onboard for the next book!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
I loved this winter themed cozy! I wish the Lofty Pines library was a real place -- the idea of a log cabin library just sounds so cozy, relaxing and inviting!!! I grew up in the Midwest, but have lived in NC for 20 years, so the winter theme was enjoyable as well. Haven't gone through a "real'' winter in a long, long time. Here in NC they call off school for any amount of snow -- two flakes....no school. It snows once or twice per season and then only a small amount. And it hardly ever gets below 20 degrees. I kinda miss those "real'' winters sometimes....this book made me feel nostalgic for snow measured in feet, ice creeping in the back door, and being snowed in. :)
I enjoy this series. The setting is fun. The characters are hometown-y and engaging. And, there is plenty of amateur sleuthing....plus....log cabin library! :)
I'm definitely onboard for the next book!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
July 16, 2021
Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library is the second in the series. It picks up with the main characters, Rain Wilmot and friends and neighbors, Julia and Nick. The story takes place in a small town called Lofty Pine. Rain runs the library attached to her home that was started by her grandfather. At the fishing tournament Wallace Benson is found dead in his fishing shanty. Nick is arrested for the murder and it is up to Rain and Julia to find out who killed him. The other characters in the story add to the suspense. There are many twists and turns that it keeps the reader interested until the end. I enjoyed the book and look forward to the next in the series.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC.
July 16, 2021
Rain lives adjacent to a library in a log home in Wisconsin. Usually the library is only open to summer visitors, but she decides to try winter hours. The weather is pretty intense, and I enjoyed not only the description of all the snow, but also learning about ice fishing. When the man who hoped to win the ice fishing contest is murdered, Rain and her pushy best friend Julia decide to investigate. I really had to suspend disbelief to accept that two women would plow a potential murderer's driveway, leave their truck outside the house, and walk in when there's no one home, leaving their boots in the hall.. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC.
January 16, 2022
Long Overdue At The Lakeside Library is the second book in the “Lakeside Library Mystery” series. This series is growing quickly and is fast becoming a favorite. The characters are wonderful, inquisitive, intelligent, and kind. The location is to die for! The very idea of a lakeside log cabin library just gives you a feeling of peace and contentment. The mystery is thought-provoking without being too high-handed. Ice fishing takes on a whole new meaning in this delightful story.
Rain is a wonderful character. Her desire to spend all of her days reading and helping others find books is admirable and a secret wish for many bibliophiles. In the latest additions to the series, it is the annual chili and ice-fishing jamboree, and Rain is smack in the middle of it all. Her family’s cabin library is overflowing with patrons, and everyone is enjoying the fishing and the camaraderie. But not everything is honky dory. As the chili dump gets closer, murder invades the festivities, and Rain’s best friends are at the center of all the action. Rain and friends work the investigation and find several suspects, even though the police are determined to pin the murder on her friend Nick. Evidence suggests that several people had motives to kill the victim, and any one of them had the opportunity.
Things take a turn, and Rain finds herself in danger. Someone thinks she is getting too close to solving the crime and that someone isn’t going down without a fight. Clues are followed, suspects questioned, and chaos ensues. Before long, Rain and friends have found the killer, and the crime comes to a satisfying conclusion. But not before, Rain and company put themselves in a life-threatening situation. The lakeside cabin library is adorable and will keep readers amused, and might even give them a desire to experience what life is like out on the ice.
There are a few issues with Long Overdue At The Lakeside Library, I disapprove of love triangles, and the characters need to mature a bit more. Julia in particular, but Rain as well. I knew who the killer was instantly, but the mystery was interesting enough to read through to the end. I think most readers will enjoy this book and will learn a thing or two about life out on the ice in a place that turns cold weather into an event. I look forward to seeing where the author takes Rain in the next installment.
Rain is a wonderful character. Her desire to spend all of her days reading and helping others find books is admirable and a secret wish for many bibliophiles. In the latest additions to the series, it is the annual chili and ice-fishing jamboree, and Rain is smack in the middle of it all. Her family’s cabin library is overflowing with patrons, and everyone is enjoying the fishing and the camaraderie. But not everything is honky dory. As the chili dump gets closer, murder invades the festivities, and Rain’s best friends are at the center of all the action. Rain and friends work the investigation and find several suspects, even though the police are determined to pin the murder on her friend Nick. Evidence suggests that several people had motives to kill the victim, and any one of them had the opportunity.
Things take a turn, and Rain finds herself in danger. Someone thinks she is getting too close to solving the crime and that someone isn’t going down without a fight. Clues are followed, suspects questioned, and chaos ensues. Before long, Rain and friends have found the killer, and the crime comes to a satisfying conclusion. But not before, Rain and company put themselves in a life-threatening situation. The lakeside cabin library is adorable and will keep readers amused, and might even give them a desire to experience what life is like out on the ice.
There are a few issues with Long Overdue At The Lakeside Library, I disapprove of love triangles, and the characters need to mature a bit more. Julia in particular, but Rain as well. I knew who the killer was instantly, but the mystery was interesting enough to read through to the end. I think most readers will enjoy this book and will learn a thing or two about life out on the ice in a place that turns cold weather into an event. I look forward to seeing where the author takes Rain in the next installment.
April 30, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Winters in northern Wisconsin can be brutal and definitely aren’t for everyone but Rain Wilmot decides it is the perfect place for her. She plans to make it her year-round home and keep her family’s Lofty Pines Library open so that everyone in the area will be able to check out books to snuggle up with on the cold winter days and nights. She is already meeting new people like Wallace Benson. Wallace plans to take part in the annual chili dump that takes place during the Ice Fishing Jamboree. He just needs to find the right recipe and Rain shows him the library has plenty of cookbooks to choose from. She sends him on his way promising to check his entry out on the big day.
The Ice Fishing Jamboree opens with plenty of ice shanties out on the lake and Rain notices Wallace’s prime spot. But soon chaos erupts when a woman breaks through the crowd claiming her husband has been murdered and she points her finger at Rain’s friend and neighbor Nick as the murderer. Rain soon realizes the woman is saying that her new friend Wallace is dead. Why would Nick kill Wallace? Heck, Nick wouldn’t kill anyone. Looking around she sees a whole crowd of suspects. She has to help her friends. Nick’s wife Julia needs support especially when her brother Jace has been pulled off the case. Hopefully, the three of them can cast a line and catch the real killer, and set Nick free. That is if the killer doesn’t catch her first . . .
After living here my whole life it is not hard to imagine the weather the characters experienced in this book. This year we had a pretty mild winter where I live in Wisconsin but I know that wasn’t the case up north. It was fun to slip into Rain’s world while snuggled up in a comfy chair with a blanket knowing I wasn’t going to have to deal with the blustery wind, blowing snow and frigid temperatures she was dealing with while crossing my fingers we are really headed to spring and have no big storms in our future. Aside from the weather outside, Rain’s family cabin and library would be a place I could easily call home. Ms. Danvers’s descriptions really take her readers inside this marvelous place effortlessly. The fire in the fireplace, the books on the shelves, the coffee brewing. A grand place in the woods perfect for a booklover.
In the last book, Murder at the Lakeside Library, I thought Julia was a really pushy woman. This time, because her husband is the prime suspect, she is a bit more subdued by the shock of what is happening around her. I liked seeing this vulnerable side and her letting Rain be the strong one. Don’t get by wrong, Julia still pushed, just not as hard or the over the top way she had before. Marge, who usually heads south for the winter just couldn’t stay away knowing the library was open. I loved that she returned. Both Rain and Julia needed her.
Rain’s sleuthing did make me a little nervous but she really shined in this story. She is still finding her way and reconnecting with people but she seems much more comfortable now. She has more confidence. I love that she is making the cabin her home and I love all the ideas she has for the library including a new wood stove. A stove that has bought a new young man into Rain’s life setting up the dreaded romantic triangle found in most cozy mysteries. Some people hate them but I enjoy them when done right. I really like Jace but Ryan is very nice too. Time will tell where these romantic ties will go and if I will be Team Jace or Team Ryan.
I was sad that Wallace was our victim. He seemed like such a nice man that was clearly working through something. He was so excited about both the chili and ice fishing contests. The mystery surrounding his death evolved slowly over the course of the book with Rain and Julia taking some real risks and making Jace a little crazy. The killer wasn’t thrilled by their actions either and tried to make that known. I solved this one pretty easily but was still very entertained following all the clues with the girls. The ending was super exciting and had me at the edge of my seat. I loved it!
Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library was a delightful addition to this series. The characters continue to evolve and become even more engaging. The Wisconsin setting is a big draw for me too. I am really looking forward to the next book in this series.
Winters in northern Wisconsin can be brutal and definitely aren’t for everyone but Rain Wilmot decides it is the perfect place for her. She plans to make it her year-round home and keep her family’s Lofty Pines Library open so that everyone in the area will be able to check out books to snuggle up with on the cold winter days and nights. She is already meeting new people like Wallace Benson. Wallace plans to take part in the annual chili dump that takes place during the Ice Fishing Jamboree. He just needs to find the right recipe and Rain shows him the library has plenty of cookbooks to choose from. She sends him on his way promising to check his entry out on the big day.
The Ice Fishing Jamboree opens with plenty of ice shanties out on the lake and Rain notices Wallace’s prime spot. But soon chaos erupts when a woman breaks through the crowd claiming her husband has been murdered and she points her finger at Rain’s friend and neighbor Nick as the murderer. Rain soon realizes the woman is saying that her new friend Wallace is dead. Why would Nick kill Wallace? Heck, Nick wouldn’t kill anyone. Looking around she sees a whole crowd of suspects. She has to help her friends. Nick’s wife Julia needs support especially when her brother Jace has been pulled off the case. Hopefully, the three of them can cast a line and catch the real killer, and set Nick free. That is if the killer doesn’t catch her first . . .
After living here my whole life it is not hard to imagine the weather the characters experienced in this book. This year we had a pretty mild winter where I live in Wisconsin but I know that wasn’t the case up north. It was fun to slip into Rain’s world while snuggled up in a comfy chair with a blanket knowing I wasn’t going to have to deal with the blustery wind, blowing snow and frigid temperatures she was dealing with while crossing my fingers we are really headed to spring and have no big storms in our future. Aside from the weather outside, Rain’s family cabin and library would be a place I could easily call home. Ms. Danvers’s descriptions really take her readers inside this marvelous place effortlessly. The fire in the fireplace, the books on the shelves, the coffee brewing. A grand place in the woods perfect for a booklover.
In the last book, Murder at the Lakeside Library, I thought Julia was a really pushy woman. This time, because her husband is the prime suspect, she is a bit more subdued by the shock of what is happening around her. I liked seeing this vulnerable side and her letting Rain be the strong one. Don’t get by wrong, Julia still pushed, just not as hard or the over the top way she had before. Marge, who usually heads south for the winter just couldn’t stay away knowing the library was open. I loved that she returned. Both Rain and Julia needed her.
Rain’s sleuthing did make me a little nervous but she really shined in this story. She is still finding her way and reconnecting with people but she seems much more comfortable now. She has more confidence. I love that she is making the cabin her home and I love all the ideas she has for the library including a new wood stove. A stove that has bought a new young man into Rain’s life setting up the dreaded romantic triangle found in most cozy mysteries. Some people hate them but I enjoy them when done right. I really like Jace but Ryan is very nice too. Time will tell where these romantic ties will go and if I will be Team Jace or Team Ryan.
I was sad that Wallace was our victim. He seemed like such a nice man that was clearly working through something. He was so excited about both the chili and ice fishing contests. The mystery surrounding his death evolved slowly over the course of the book with Rain and Julia taking some real risks and making Jace a little crazy. The killer wasn’t thrilled by their actions either and tried to make that known. I solved this one pretty easily but was still very entertained following all the clues with the girls. The ending was super exciting and had me at the edge of my seat. I loved it!
Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library was a delightful addition to this series. The characters continue to evolve and become even more engaging. The Wisconsin setting is a big draw for me too. I am really looking forward to the next book in this series.
January 13, 2022
Rain Wilmot has decided to live year-round in Lofty Pines. Her family's library remains open to the surrounding community. When she meets Wallace Benson and assists him in finding a few cookbooks to prepare for the fishing tournament’s communal “chili dump," she doesn't realize the impact he would have on her life. When Wallace's body is found during the tournament and her best friend's husband is arrested, Rain decides to find the true culprit. Will she be able to find the truth before her number is up?
I really enjoyed this cozy mystery. The author expresses the setting so well that I could feel the cold during certain scenes. The characters are likeable, and I keep wanting to know more about them. It's an easy read, and there were no dull moments. The only thing I didn't like was the little cliffhanger the author left concerning Rain's new relationship. That was a little annoying. But I was going to read the next installment anyway. I received an advanced reader's copy from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
I really enjoyed this cozy mystery. The author expresses the setting so well that I could feel the cold during certain scenes. The characters are likeable, and I keep wanting to know more about them. It's an easy read, and there were no dull moments. The only thing I didn't like was the little cliffhanger the author left concerning Rain's new relationship. That was a little annoying. But I was going to read the next installment anyway. I received an advanced reader's copy from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
October 29, 2021
This is the second installment of the Lakeside Library Mystery series, and I enjoyed returning to the log cabin library in Wisconsin. Rain has decided to stay in Lofty Pines year-round and keep the library open throughout the year, as it had only opened during the summers in previous years. Then a man is found dead during the annual Ice Fishing Jamboree. Rain is given a blow when she finds out the prime suspect is her neighbor and best friend's husband, Nick. Nick's wife Julia is Rain's best friend. Rain and Julia have to find out what really happened and clear Nick's name.
Rain is even-tempered and thoughtful, while her friend Julia is impulsive with a quick temper. They seem to balance each well. The book was at times humorous and made me laugh at some of the escapades Rain and Julia got into during their investigation. They were definitely bold and determined, but sometimes making very risky choices. I liked the setting and the people of Lofty Pines. A good cozy mystery.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on February 8, 2022.
Rain is even-tempered and thoughtful, while her friend Julia is impulsive with a quick temper. They seem to balance each well. The book was at times humorous and made me laugh at some of the escapades Rain and Julia got into during their investigation. They were definitely bold and determined, but sometimes making very risky choices. I liked the setting and the people of Lofty Pines. A good cozy mystery.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on February 8, 2022.
February 25, 2025
I really enjoyed this cozy mystery set in the Northern woods of Wisconsin, where it is very cold. The MC, Rain, has moved back to Lofty Pines Wisconsin to try and start her life over. She made it through the summer, and now the winter season is on. She already had to solve a murder in her first book, so of course, there's one this time.
There's a fishing tournament where men set up ice shanties so they can ice fish for the biggest one. Just as the festivities are starting, a man is found dead and Rain's best friend's husband Nick is brought in as the number one suspect. Rain and Julie (her bff) do some detective work and get in a little trouble. But at the end the murderer is captured and Nick is released.
I want to thank the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for giving me an e-copy of this book, in return for an honest review.
There's a fishing tournament where men set up ice shanties so they can ice fish for the biggest one. Just as the festivities are starting, a man is found dead and Rain's best friend's husband Nick is brought in as the number one suspect. Rain and Julie (her bff) do some detective work and get in a little trouble. But at the end the murderer is captured and Nick is released.
I want to thank the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for giving me an e-copy of this book, in return for an honest review.
April 23, 2022
On the Goodreads scale, this was a true two star. “It was ok.” But I really can’t bring myself to be that generous.
So much of this book is unbelievable.
Start with a semi-honor system library that is run out of a private residence. An apparently good sized library that somehow manages to have an extensive selection in all genres. Logistics and finances of that is beyond comprehension.
The parents, owners of previously mentioned private residence, are again absent as they were in the series’ first book. Like the older son on Happy Days, Dad has disappeared without a mention in this book. Mom at least merited a phone call.
Readers are told there’s a terrible blizzard causing schools to close and law enforcement encouraging drivers to stay off the road. Yet the library is open and busy, ostensibly to allow patrons to get books to last through an extended snowstorm. But kids are enjoying Storytime with Marge while parents are picking out books with no indication of urgency.
The legitimate reason for the amateur sleuths to be involved (husband/friend arrested for murder) is severely offset by the actions of said sleuths. There are varying degrees of Too Stupid to Live instances. The most extreme Stupid is the main characters enter a home and, after confirming no one is there, start rifling through the resident’s paperwork and exploring their workshop.
The maturity level of the main characters has not progressed beyond high school. There is much elbow nudging, shoulder bumping, lip zipping and winking. And let’s not forget while the main character ponders a visit to the murder victim’s wife she chews the inside of her cheek until it bleeds. That’s not normal.
The only positive is that the murderer is clear from the get-go but readers will likely buy into the red herrings in the hope that the author could not possibly be that obvious.
Let’s finish with the thing I absolutely hate most. Why do authors feel it necessary to add a love triangle? The cherry on top of things wrong with this book is ending it with the main character poised to have two men smitten with her.
So much of this book is unbelievable.
Start with a semi-honor system library that is run out of a private residence. An apparently good sized library that somehow manages to have an extensive selection in all genres. Logistics and finances of that is beyond comprehension.
The parents, owners of previously mentioned private residence, are again absent as they were in the series’ first book. Like the older son on Happy Days, Dad has disappeared without a mention in this book. Mom at least merited a phone call.
Readers are told there’s a terrible blizzard causing schools to close and law enforcement encouraging drivers to stay off the road. Yet the library is open and busy, ostensibly to allow patrons to get books to last through an extended snowstorm. But kids are enjoying Storytime with Marge while parents are picking out books with no indication of urgency.
The legitimate reason for the amateur sleuths to be involved (husband/friend arrested for murder) is severely offset by the actions of said sleuths. There are varying degrees of Too Stupid to Live instances. The most extreme Stupid is the main characters enter a home and, after confirming no one is there, start rifling through the resident’s paperwork and exploring their workshop.
The maturity level of the main characters has not progressed beyond high school. There is much elbow nudging, shoulder bumping, lip zipping and winking. And let’s not forget while the main character ponders a visit to the murder victim’s wife she chews the inside of her cheek until it bleeds. That’s not normal.
The only positive is that the murderer is clear from the get-go but readers will likely buy into the red herrings in the hope that the author could not possibly be that obvious.
Let’s finish with the thing I absolutely hate most. Why do authors feel it necessary to add a love triangle? The cherry on top of things wrong with this book is ending it with the main character poised to have two men smitten with her.
February 9, 2022
Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library by Holly Danvers has Rain trying to prove her best friend’s husband did not kill a fellow competitor at the fishing competition. Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library is the second A Lakeside Library Mystery. I suggest reading Murder at the Lakeside Library before embarking on Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library. I like the premise of this series. A cozy cabin that has been turned into a library on the shore of Pine Lake in Lofty Pines, Wisconsin. The author brought the scenery to life with her vivid word imagery. I could see the cabin by the lake with the snow falling and inside it is cozy with books and a new Franklin stove. Rain is a likeable and relatable main character. I like her friends, Julia and Marge as well. Julia was a little off in this book. Her husband is accused of murder which I can understand would make her a little touchy, but she goes off on people (Rain should have known better than to bring her along). The ladies spend their time at the cozy library helping people find the right book as well as chatting with their friends. I liked how the murder took place in an ice shanty. I thought this was unique for a cozy mystery. There are limited suspects, though, and the investigation plods along slowly. For the first third of the book, there is little to no sleuthing. Rain’s snooping is mixed in with spending time with Julia, taking care of the library, and flirting with Ryan, the stove guy. I would like to see Rain and Julia be more responsible when investigating. I know cozy sleuths skirt the law on occasion, but most of them try to stay on the right side of it. You do need to suspend your disbelief at times at things that Rain and Julia do. There are limited suspects so solving this whodunit is a cinch. I did not appreciate a love triangle being thrown into the mix. I am not a fan of them (as you can tell). Rain finds herself torn between Jace and Ryan, the wood stove installer. I was glad to see less repetition in this book. Readers who enjoy charming cozy mysteries set in picturesque settings with friendly characters will enjoy Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library. Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library is a cute cozy with a welcoming library, a friend from Florida, a fish shack clash, a chili cookoff, and a bothersome blizzard.
January 9, 2022
Another series where I am going to part ways.
From the beginning, the who-done-it was obvious. The author spent most of the book, which could have been skimmed without losing any context, beating around multiple bushes while dragging her readers through uninteresting dialogue before revealing the absurd reason and murder weapon.
Don’t be disheartened by this series; there are better cozy mysteries out there. So, keep looking, and soon you will find the right author, setting, and series which works for you.
From the beginning, the who-done-it was obvious. The author spent most of the book, which could have been skimmed without losing any context, beating around multiple bushes while dragging her readers through uninteresting dialogue before revealing the absurd reason and murder weapon.
Don’t be disheartened by this series; there are better cozy mysteries out there. So, keep looking, and soon you will find the right author, setting, and series which works for you.
August 30, 2021
Rain has returned to the Northwoods of Wisconsin, starting her life over again. She's decided to keep her family's library open during the long, cold winter and she's ready to make the little log library the favorite winter hot spot of Lofty Pines. In addition to a new wood stove, they've got a coffee bar and they're all set for the local ice fishing tournament. Unfortunately their best-laid plans have gone awry and when Wallace Benson is found dead in his fishing shack, Rain's BFF Julia's husband finds himself the number one suspect.
There is a lot to love in this series. The setting is wonderful. I love the lake, the library, Rain's cabin, I would go live in Lofty Pines if I could. The main characters are very nice and the relationship between them is fun, two young women who've been friends since childhood.
There were also some speed bumps. The dialogue was really awkward in some places. There was a lot of repetition, where people say the same things over and over again or say things that don't need to be said. The descriptions were like that in some places as well, though I felt like it was improved from the first book. In the first book I noticed the author had a tendency to always describe what the characters were doing with their hands and that continued here as well. Everything seemed padded, as though it needed a good, hardy edit. Another theme through the story was that Jace is facing some struggles with a new coworker who seems to be gunning for his job and we don't get a resolution or update for that at the end.
On the whole I enjoyed this book but I think a solid edit would have made this book really excellent.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
There is a lot to love in this series. The setting is wonderful. I love the lake, the library, Rain's cabin, I would go live in Lofty Pines if I could. The main characters are very nice and the relationship between them is fun, two young women who've been friends since childhood.
There were also some speed bumps. The dialogue was really awkward in some places. There was a lot of repetition, where people say the same things over and over again or say things that don't need to be said. The descriptions were like that in some places as well, though I felt like it was improved from the first book. In the first book I noticed the author had a tendency to always describe what the characters were doing with their hands and that continued here as well. Everything seemed padded, as though it needed a good, hardy edit. Another theme through the story was that Jace is facing some struggles with a new coworker who seems to be gunning for his job and we don't get a resolution or update for that at the end.
On the whole I enjoyed this book but I think a solid edit would have made this book really excellent.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
February 8, 2022
I liked this very intriguing cozy mystery better than the first in series. Seeing the “three musketeers”, Rain, Julia, and Marge, together again was a delight. Marge handled library patrons while Rain and Julia followed clues. The author gives eloquently paints pictures of the snowy setting. Characters are defined primarily through realistic dialog and behaviors. The mystery was complex, and while I had a good idea whodunit, there were still questions in my mind of why it couldn’t be.
It is winter in the Northland of Wisconsin, with huge storms rushing to Lofty Pines. Rain decided to stay through the winter in this multigenerational cabin, built by her grandfather. The library in the original cabin is typically only open in the summer, but Rain will keep it open this season. She arrived earlier in the year and ran the library ever since. It has begun to feel like home. Best friend Julia and her husband Nick are year-round residents and live next door. Rain and Julia are as close as ever, as if Rain had never left. And Jace, Julia’s older brother, is now a police officer in Lofty Pines.
The annual ice fishing tournament is the next day, with prizes the envy of all the area fishermen. There will also be a chili dump, as well as a contest for the best-tasting chili before it is dumped into one huge caldron. A man Rain hasn’t seen before came into the library to look at cookbooks for a chili recipe for the next day. His eyes, however, are on the big tournament prize, and his ice shanty is already set up on the lake in front of Rain’s family’s cabin. It is thought to be the best spot on the lake. They chatted for a bit, and Rain got the impression that either his wife left him or passed away. She had almost forgotten about him by the time the festival started the next day. At least, until Julia’s hubby Nick is upset that somebody took his favorite shanty spot. A short time after Nick went to give Wallace a piece of his mind, a woman came screaming from his shanty. Wallace, her beloved husband, had been murdered. She pointed the finger at Nick, and evidence planted in their home led to Nick’s arrest.
Julia is adamant – they must find who killed Wallace and get Nick out of jail. After finding a killer earlier this year, she was sure they could do so again. Because of his relationship with Nick and Julia, Jace cannot be on the case, and the rest of the police force thinks they have their man.
There is an excellent balance between the mystery and the friendships and relationships. I very much enjoyed catching up with Julia, Rain, and Marge. I understand, for different reasons, Rain’s FOGO – fear of going out, and am happy to watch her heal from events that led her back to Lofty Pines. One thing that hasn’t changed is their love of this library and of reading, especially Rain: “Any chance to escape in an author’s words, for just a moment, was pure joy.” Oh, yes. Absolutely!
This mystery kept me guessing throughout, even though I did have a couple pet suspects. I was very satisfied with the resolution, and all loose ends were tied up. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries, libraries, and stormy winter settings that make for perfect reading weather.
From a thankful heart: I received an eARC of this novel from the publisher and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
It is winter in the Northland of Wisconsin, with huge storms rushing to Lofty Pines. Rain decided to stay through the winter in this multigenerational cabin, built by her grandfather. The library in the original cabin is typically only open in the summer, but Rain will keep it open this season. She arrived earlier in the year and ran the library ever since. It has begun to feel like home. Best friend Julia and her husband Nick are year-round residents and live next door. Rain and Julia are as close as ever, as if Rain had never left. And Jace, Julia’s older brother, is now a police officer in Lofty Pines.
The annual ice fishing tournament is the next day, with prizes the envy of all the area fishermen. There will also be a chili dump, as well as a contest for the best-tasting chili before it is dumped into one huge caldron. A man Rain hasn’t seen before came into the library to look at cookbooks for a chili recipe for the next day. His eyes, however, are on the big tournament prize, and his ice shanty is already set up on the lake in front of Rain’s family’s cabin. It is thought to be the best spot on the lake. They chatted for a bit, and Rain got the impression that either his wife left him or passed away. She had almost forgotten about him by the time the festival started the next day. At least, until Julia’s hubby Nick is upset that somebody took his favorite shanty spot. A short time after Nick went to give Wallace a piece of his mind, a woman came screaming from his shanty. Wallace, her beloved husband, had been murdered. She pointed the finger at Nick, and evidence planted in their home led to Nick’s arrest.
Julia is adamant – they must find who killed Wallace and get Nick out of jail. After finding a killer earlier this year, she was sure they could do so again. Because of his relationship with Nick and Julia, Jace cannot be on the case, and the rest of the police force thinks they have their man.
There is an excellent balance between the mystery and the friendships and relationships. I very much enjoyed catching up with Julia, Rain, and Marge. I understand, for different reasons, Rain’s FOGO – fear of going out, and am happy to watch her heal from events that led her back to Lofty Pines. One thing that hasn’t changed is their love of this library and of reading, especially Rain: “Any chance to escape in an author’s words, for just a moment, was pure joy.” Oh, yes. Absolutely!
This mystery kept me guessing throughout, even though I did have a couple pet suspects. I was very satisfied with the resolution, and all loose ends were tied up. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries, libraries, and stormy winter settings that make for perfect reading weather.
From a thankful heart: I received an eARC of this novel from the publisher and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
July 8, 2021
A log cabin library, an ice fishing tournament, and a mighty blizzard set the theme for Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library.
Rain is still getting accustomed to living in the bitter cold, but spending time with books and friends makes it all worthwhile.
When Wallace Benson visits the library seeking cookbooks for the Chili Dump, Rain is happy to help him. Unfortunately, it’s the last time she will see him, alive that is.
When her best friend’s husband is accused of the crime, Rain will stop at nothing to prove his innocence.
I really enjoyed this book, there’s something about a story that involves a blizzard that always appeals to me.
I was hooked from the beginning and didn’t stop until I was finished.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#LongOverdueattheLakesideLibrary #NetGalley
Rain is still getting accustomed to living in the bitter cold, but spending time with books and friends makes it all worthwhile.
When Wallace Benson visits the library seeking cookbooks for the Chili Dump, Rain is happy to help him. Unfortunately, it’s the last time she will see him, alive that is.
When her best friend’s husband is accused of the crime, Rain will stop at nothing to prove his innocence.
I really enjoyed this book, there’s something about a story that involves a blizzard that always appeals to me.
I was hooked from the beginning and didn’t stop until I was finished.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#LongOverdueattheLakesideLibrary #NetGalley
January 6, 2022
Rain and Julia are back on the case when someone they love is on the hook for the latest dead body to be found! It's wintertime and the snow is piling up and the girls need to unravel this mystery before one or both of them becomes the next to perish! I absolutely love the setting of a lakeside small town with a library in a log cabin! My absolute dream job! The characters are well developed and quite engaging so that you feel like you really know them! Lots of potential suspects to round out the "who done it" aspect of the story and keep you turning pages until the girls figure it out! Great storyline and wonderful introductions to new characters. I can't wait to see where these characters go in the next book!
March 31, 2022
I enjoyed the first one, but this one's bad. Let's start with the fact that the spouse is usually the key suspect in a murder, but she comes out of the fishing shack, the guy's dead, she blames someone else, and the police just arrest him. Then there's the breaking into the house towards the end, just too dumb. Finally, an ice knife? Completely unnecessary and an abuse of an old trope.
Still, she has a good writing style. I'll hope this is a sophomore jinx and I'll try the next when it comes out.
Still, she has a good writing style. I'll hope this is a sophomore jinx and I'll try the next when it comes out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2022
This is a fitting cozy mystery for the dead of winter as it takes us to the snowy regions of Wisconsin. A man is found in his fishing shanty atop the frozen lake. He has been murdered. The husband of Rain's good friend is arrested for the murder. Rain knows he must be innocent but can she and her friend find the real killer before it is too late?
I enjoyed this mystery. The setting is well described with characters trudging through winter snow. The characters are done well too. We get to see more of Julia's character as her husband is the accused. I like how Rain and Julia pursue rumors and stories, interviewing people the police might never think of questioning. And they solve the mystery in a final suspenseful quest.
This is a good novel for readers who like a mystery set in an interesting location with two brave female amateur murder mystery aficionados.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I enjoyed this mystery. The setting is well described with characters trudging through winter snow. The characters are done well too. We get to see more of Julia's character as her husband is the accused. I like how Rain and Julia pursue rumors and stories, interviewing people the police might never think of questioning. And they solve the mystery in a final suspenseful quest.
This is a good novel for readers who like a mystery set in an interesting location with two brave female amateur murder mystery aficionados.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
July 12, 2021
Rain Wilmot has a charming log cabin ho.e and library and is adjusting to life in the Northwoods.. However, when a likable library patron she just met is murdered, Rain has to investigate to save her best friend's husband from a murder charge.
I didn't read the first book and found the second book easy to follow. The supporting characters were fun, but this book focuses on Rain and her friend Julia. I would have liked to see more of Marge (an older lady who works at the library) and her dog Rex. The mystery is fast-paced and keeps you guessing. The only thing I didn't enjoy was Julia's combative attitude with suspects. However, it wouldn't stop me from reading the next book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I didn't read the first book and found the second book easy to follow. The supporting characters were fun, but this book focuses on Rain and her friend Julia. I would have liked to see more of Marge (an older lady who works at the library) and her dog Rex. The mystery is fast-paced and keeps you guessing. The only thing I didn't enjoy was Julia's combative attitude with suspects. However, it wouldn't stop me from reading the next book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 9, 2021
Once again, Holly Danvers does it again. I literally binged the first book earlier this week and just SLAMMED this book within a day. How could I not?
I am obsessed with Rain, her neighbors, and this almost little romance thing her and Jase have going on.
Development wise, I love the way Holly has painted this quaint, snowy, lakeside town in my mind. I will continue to praise this book and pretend I am currently sitting alongside Lofty Pines and living my true life as a Laker -iykyk.
Would definitely recommend - and will be purchasing this book once it is published! It definitely needs a place on my shelves. BRAVO, Holly!
I am obsessed with Rain, her neighbors, and this almost little romance thing her and Jase have going on.
Development wise, I love the way Holly has painted this quaint, snowy, lakeside town in my mind. I will continue to praise this book and pretend I am currently sitting alongside Lofty Pines and living my true life as a Laker -iykyk.
Would definitely recommend - and will be purchasing this book once it is published! It definitely needs a place on my shelves. BRAVO, Holly!
June 4, 2022
The story takes place during the winter in Wisconsin. Rain has decided to keep the library open all year long with help from her best friend Julia. During the yearly fishing derby a man ends up dead and Julia's husband is suspect number 1 and eventually arrested.
The two best-friends, turned super sleuths find the true killer and save Julia's husband from being sentenced to murder.
Rain and Julia have some help from Julia's brother Jace, who is a police officer and Ryan Wright, the wood stove installer.
The story provided a great plot which was kept me interested, making it a quick read. While it was a mystery, Jace and Ryan both like Rain, so I can't wait to see where that story line leads.
The two best-friends, turned super sleuths find the true killer and save Julia's husband from being sentenced to murder.
Rain and Julia have some help from Julia's brother Jace, who is a police officer and Ryan Wright, the wood stove installer.
The story provided a great plot which was kept me interested, making it a quick read. While it was a mystery, Jace and Ryan both like Rain, so I can't wait to see where that story line leads.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2022
I really enjoyed the second book in this series! I had felt the previous installment was a little wordy, but this book was much improved. The characters were more dynamic and the plot was more interesting and unusual!
I thought the "star" of the book was Julia. She really came alive this time. Her emotions were all over the place, which is what they should be under the circumstances.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this mystery. I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
I thought the "star" of the book was Julia. She really came alive this time. Her emotions were all over the place, which is what they should be under the circumstances.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this mystery. I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
July 15, 2022
This is an excellent cozy mystery series! Much more depth than many others I've read. In this installment, I particularly loved the attention to how we all interact with each other... how each person is connected and has an impact in the lives of others. I'm also hooked into the potential love triangle. Can't wait for the next one! Who was at the door???
October 20, 2021
"Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library" is the second book in the Lakeside Library Mystery Series. Rain Wilmot has taken over the library during summer as we read in the first book, but decides to also keep it open during the winter, a first. When a big snow storm is slowly coming towards Lofty Pine, she knows it was a good decision, as it's very busy.
Rain meets a man called Wallace Benson, who comes into the library to find a cookbook. He tells her he will also participate in the fishing tournament. When he is found dead in his fishing shanty during this tournament, Nick, the husband of Julia who is Rain's best friend, is arrested for the murder as the whole town knows Nick was angry with him for stealing his fishing spot. Rain and Julia have to work together to find clues of the real killer, as Jace, police detective and Julia's brother, is taken of the case due to conflict of interest.
When Rain is driven of the road and a second person just survives a murder attack, they have to put all in all to catch the killer before it's too late!
I love the characters in this series, they are very relatable and like able. The story itself was fantastic. It had so many twists and turns that I had no idea who the killer was. I had my suspicions, but they were only confirmed in the end. The book is left with a huge cliffhanger regarding Rain's personal life, so I am really hoping for a third book as this series deserves it. It's really, really good!
Rain meets a man called Wallace Benson, who comes into the library to find a cookbook. He tells her he will also participate in the fishing tournament. When he is found dead in his fishing shanty during this tournament, Nick, the husband of Julia who is Rain's best friend, is arrested for the murder as the whole town knows Nick was angry with him for stealing his fishing spot. Rain and Julia have to work together to find clues of the real killer, as Jace, police detective and Julia's brother, is taken of the case due to conflict of interest.
When Rain is driven of the road and a second person just survives a murder attack, they have to put all in all to catch the killer before it's too late!
I love the characters in this series, they are very relatable and like able. The story itself was fantastic. It had so many twists and turns that I had no idea who the killer was. I had my suspicions, but they were only confirmed in the end. The book is left with a huge cliffhanger regarding Rain's personal life, so I am really hoping for a third book as this series deserves it. It's really, really good!
October 7, 2021
What an absolutely charming cozy! I enjoyed this book so much that I finished it in two days! I honestly wish that I had friends like Rain, Julia, and Marge. The world building was really well done. I could feel the cold as it was described. And the mystery? Completely original. I definitely have never read another cozy like this one.
I liked that it didn't follow the typical pattern that a lot of cozies fall into these days. It was refreshing and not just from all that snow! I love the library aspect, especially it being in a log cabin that the MC's great great grandpa built. I just love that. It gives the reader something to cling to, to feel the pride in and it enhances the experience that you have while reading this wonderful book.
This is my first book by Holly Danvers and it was a home run. I will definitely be back for more adventures for sure. You can really feel how close all of the characters are to each other. And how like a typical small town it is to, where you have all the gossips and the ones who try to stir up as much trouble as possible. However, it did a wonderful job of showing how people look after one another as well. It really showcases what there is to love about a small town.
I really like the "peek" at a possibly brewing romance as well. It certainly peaked my interest and I already cannot wait for the next book to be able to know who was there at the end! I hope it's who I am guessing, but if not then I am happy for that to. Just a charming cozy to cuddle up and read by. Heartwarming, completely endearing, and dare I say it? Crave-able. I am already missing the book as I am writing this and I only just finished it a few minutes ago. I cannot wait to see where this goes next. This is the best kind of book. The kind of book that you cuddle up with a blanket, a warm drink, turn your phone off and completely shut the world out for. It transported me to a place where my problems and worries do not exist and the only thing that matters is what happens in the story. I completely adore that. I highly highly highly highly recommend this book. Especially for the coming holidays!!
Thank you to Netgalley, publishers, and Holly Danvers for the ability to read and review this book. All thoughts and opinions are honest and mine alone.
I liked that it didn't follow the typical pattern that a lot of cozies fall into these days. It was refreshing and not just from all that snow! I love the library aspect, especially it being in a log cabin that the MC's great great grandpa built. I just love that. It gives the reader something to cling to, to feel the pride in and it enhances the experience that you have while reading this wonderful book.
This is my first book by Holly Danvers and it was a home run. I will definitely be back for more adventures for sure. You can really feel how close all of the characters are to each other. And how like a typical small town it is to, where you have all the gossips and the ones who try to stir up as much trouble as possible. However, it did a wonderful job of showing how people look after one another as well. It really showcases what there is to love about a small town.
I really like the "peek" at a possibly brewing romance as well. It certainly peaked my interest and I already cannot wait for the next book to be able to know who was there at the end! I hope it's who I am guessing, but if not then I am happy for that to. Just a charming cozy to cuddle up and read by. Heartwarming, completely endearing, and dare I say it? Crave-able. I am already missing the book as I am writing this and I only just finished it a few minutes ago. I cannot wait to see where this goes next. This is the best kind of book. The kind of book that you cuddle up with a blanket, a warm drink, turn your phone off and completely shut the world out for. It transported me to a place where my problems and worries do not exist and the only thing that matters is what happens in the story. I completely adore that. I highly highly highly highly recommend this book. Especially for the coming holidays!!
Thank you to Netgalley, publishers, and Holly Danvers for the ability to read and review this book. All thoughts and opinions are honest and mine alone.
February 10, 2022
Long Overdue At The Lakeside Library is the second book in the Lakeside Library Mystery series by Holly Danvers.
Rain Wilmont is enjoying her move back to Pine Lake and reconnecting with her neighbor Julia and her husband, Nick. In fact, she is enjoying the shift to the family’s cabin. Rain has decided to live there year-round and keep the family’s library next door to the house, feeling the year-round residents will enjoy getting books for the days they get snowed in.
Pine Lake is getting ready for their Ice Fishing Jamboree and Chili “dump.” Wallace Benson comes into the library, asking Rain if the library has chili recipes. He plans on winning the fishing contest and would like to add his chili to the “dump.” Rain shows him the cookbook section, and he selects a couple of books.
The next day Rain meets up with Julia on the lake, and Julia relates that Nick is upset that someone has taken his favorite fishing spot and moved his shanty there. Soon Nick arrives, and Julia notices his hand is cut, and he says he cut it on some hooks in his toolbox. Shortly after this, a lady comes running and yelling murderer, pointing at Nick. Folks start heading for the hut that she came from and soon find a man stabbed and dead. Rain identifies him as Wallace Benson. With Nick’s injury to his hand and the fact that police found a knife in Nick’s toolbox that would have made wounds similar to the wounds on Wallace’s body, they will arrest Nick for the murder of Wallace Benson.
Rain and Julia agree that Nick is not the murderer and will start their own investigation. Rain and Julia won’t access police information through Julia’s brother Jace, a police deputy in this investigation. He has been ordered off the case due to his relationship with Nick.
The book is well-written and plotted and reads at a good pace. There were enough red herrings that kept me guessing until the end. The characters are all well-developed and interesting.
I will be watching for the next book in this series.
Rain Wilmont is enjoying her move back to Pine Lake and reconnecting with her neighbor Julia and her husband, Nick. In fact, she is enjoying the shift to the family’s cabin. Rain has decided to live there year-round and keep the family’s library next door to the house, feeling the year-round residents will enjoy getting books for the days they get snowed in.
Pine Lake is getting ready for their Ice Fishing Jamboree and Chili “dump.” Wallace Benson comes into the library, asking Rain if the library has chili recipes. He plans on winning the fishing contest and would like to add his chili to the “dump.” Rain shows him the cookbook section, and he selects a couple of books.
The next day Rain meets up with Julia on the lake, and Julia relates that Nick is upset that someone has taken his favorite fishing spot and moved his shanty there. Soon Nick arrives, and Julia notices his hand is cut, and he says he cut it on some hooks in his toolbox. Shortly after this, a lady comes running and yelling murderer, pointing at Nick. Folks start heading for the hut that she came from and soon find a man stabbed and dead. Rain identifies him as Wallace Benson. With Nick’s injury to his hand and the fact that police found a knife in Nick’s toolbox that would have made wounds similar to the wounds on Wallace’s body, they will arrest Nick for the murder of Wallace Benson.
Rain and Julia agree that Nick is not the murderer and will start their own investigation. Rain and Julia won’t access police information through Julia’s brother Jace, a police deputy in this investigation. He has been ordered off the case due to his relationship with Nick.
The book is well-written and plotted and reads at a good pace. There were enough red herrings that kept me guessing until the end. The characters are all well-developed and interesting.
I will be watching for the next book in this series.
August 6, 2022
I really love the setting for this cozy mystery. A cottage on the lakeside with a log cabin library next door and Rain's running the library. It was started by her grandfather and open all summer long but Rain has settled in for the long Wisconsin winter and she's happy to keep the library open. Loved reading this wintery read in the middle of a heat wave. Lots of snow and ice and freezing temps...makes me almost nostalgic for a good old-fashioned snowstorm. :-)
While I really enjoyed the first book in the series, this one fell a bit flat for me. Rain's friend Julia was over the top annoying. She got on my very last nerve. She might be a reason I stop reading this series. We'll give the third book a whirl and make a decision after that. (once it comes out.) And the other thing I wasn't a fan of is the shadow of love triangle looming in the future. Gah!
While I really enjoyed the first book in the series, this one fell a bit flat for me. Rain's friend Julia was over the top annoying. She got on my very last nerve. She might be a reason I stop reading this series. We'll give the third book a whirl and make a decision after that. (once it comes out.) And the other thing I wasn't a fan of is the shadow of love triangle looming in the future. Gah!
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