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The Haunted Library Mysteries #7
Overdue or Die
Carrie Singleton has a wedding to plan, a killer to catch, and a conspiracy to uncover in this charming seventh novel of Agatha Award-nominee Allison Brook’s Haunted Library mysteries.
Carrie Singleton has more than her fair share on her plate: her job at the Clover Ridge Library, preparing for her wedding to Dylan Avery, and hoping that the local art gallery doesn’t steal away one of her part-time employees. Her fiancé Dylan accompanies her to the beautiful home of Victor Zalinka—art collector and successful businessman—to select paintings for an art show at the library. While Carrie muses that Victor's home would be the perfect wedding venue, Dylan spots a forgery among the paintings in Victor's collection.
Then Martha Mallory is found murdered in her art gallery. With the assistance of Evelyn, the library ghost; the resident cat, Smoky Joe; and the office manager of Dylan’s private investigation company, Carrie comes up with a suspect list long enough to rival the size of an encyclopedia. During her investigation, Carrie stumbles across a terrible truth: Martha’s murder was part of something far bigger and more dangerous than she could have ever imagined. And it all leads back to the art gallery.
How far will Carrie go to find the killer and uncover the truth? If the killer finds her first—will Carrie finally be taken out of circulation?
Carrie Singleton has more than her fair share on her plate: her job at the Clover Ridge Library, preparing for her wedding to Dylan Avery, and hoping that the local art gallery doesn’t steal away one of her part-time employees. Her fiancé Dylan accompanies her to the beautiful home of Victor Zalinka—art collector and successful businessman—to select paintings for an art show at the library. While Carrie muses that Victor's home would be the perfect wedding venue, Dylan spots a forgery among the paintings in Victor's collection.
Then Martha Mallory is found murdered in her art gallery. With the assistance of Evelyn, the library ghost; the resident cat, Smoky Joe; and the office manager of Dylan’s private investigation company, Carrie comes up with a suspect list long enough to rival the size of an encyclopedia. During her investigation, Carrie stumbles across a terrible truth: Martha’s murder was part of something far bigger and more dangerous than she could have ever imagined. And it all leads back to the art gallery.
How far will Carrie go to find the killer and uncover the truth? If the killer finds her first—will Carrie finally be taken out of circulation?
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2023
66 people are currently reading
647 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
September 13, 2023
Overdue or Die, the 7th book in Allison Brook's Haunted Library Mysteries, is quite the winner. I've been a fan of the author for several years, and this clever whodunit is a clear reason why. The Connecticut setting is vibrant and relaxing, but it offers a cast of characters with seedy backgrounds, prosperous hope for the future, and decades of drama yet to unfold. A witty but secretive ghost in the library leads our resident librarian, Carrie, to seek the killer in another gruesome (for a cozy) series of murders. Carrie's impending nuptials also take center stage, showcasing the wonderful changes in her character ever since settling with her aunt and uncle nearly two years ago. Brook's writing is easy and casual, yet contains great depth to the mystery and a fun sense of paranormal (just the library ghost) which makes the charm even more present. Love the series. Can't wait for more!
September 29, 2023
Carrie Singleton was at a perfect stage of her life; she and her fiance Dylan Avery were organising their wedding; her position at the Clover Ridge Library continued to make her happy; Smokey Joe, her cat and constant companion, kept her on her toes, and the new addition to the library was about to be used for the first time. But Carrie's one concern was the art gallery, and the possibility that Susan, one of her part time employees, would leave the library for the gallery. And when Carrie and Dylan visited the home of Victor Zalinka, Dylan was shocked to see a forgery among Victor's collection of art.
When a woman was murdered, then another elderly lady also murdered, the local police were baffled. As Carrie compiled a list of suspects, they realised the list was long, and there were many tangled webs through the small town, which pointed to something much bigger than any of them had imagined. Would Carrie discover the culprit before someone else died?
is the 7th in The Haunted Library Mysteries by and it was fun and entertaining. The library's resident ghost, Evelyn, played a pivotal part, as she often does, with Smokey Joe always on the sidelines. Carrie is an excellent character, and she and Dylan make a great team. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
When a woman was murdered, then another elderly lady also murdered, the local police were baffled. As Carrie compiled a list of suspects, they realised the list was long, and there were many tangled webs through the small town, which pointed to something much bigger than any of them had imagined. Would Carrie discover the culprit before someone else died?
is the 7th in The Haunted Library Mysteries by and it was fun and entertaining. The library's resident ghost, Evelyn, played a pivotal part, as she often does, with Smokey Joe always on the sidelines. Carrie is an excellent character, and she and Dylan make a great team. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2023
The seventh book in this excellent series which is based in the Clover Ridge Library and features a resident ghost called Evelyn. Carrie Singleton is the Librarian and one of very few people who is able to see and chat to the ghost.
After seven books it is great to see Carrie and her fiancé Dylan making real plans for their wedding which may well happen in the next book. This book features art fraud, murder and lots of suspects which keeps Carrie very busy indeed. It is an interesting mystery and an entertaining story.
Looking forward to the next book and hopefully a wedding. I wonder what role Smoky Joe, the library cat, will play.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
After seven books it is great to see Carrie and her fiancé Dylan making real plans for their wedding which may well happen in the next book. This book features art fraud, murder and lots of suspects which keeps Carrie very busy indeed. It is an interesting mystery and an entertaining story.
Looking forward to the next book and hopefully a wedding. I wonder what role Smoky Joe, the library cat, will play.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 15, 2023
Overdue to Die is the 7th book in the Haunted Ly series. It takes place in the town of Clover Ridge, CT. The main character is Carrie Singleton who works at the Clover Ridge Library as head of Programs and Events. There are the characters that have represented the town as well as the other ones that add to the story. Dylan Avery is her fiancé who owns a private investigation company with his partner, Randall MacDonald known as Mac. Al Tripp, Carrie's father works for them. She lives in a cottage on his family's property.
Other members of the library are Sally Prescott, director, Angela Prisco, Trish Templeton and Susan Roberts all work at the library and good friends of Carrie's. Marion Marshall is the children's librarian. Evelyn Havers is the ghost that lives at the library which only Carrie can see.
The story opens with Carrie and her great-aunt, Harriet at the hospital as her great-uncle, Bosco has had a heart attack. He is to remain in the hospital. Carrie's aunt and uncle live in town in a large Victorian house on the village green. While at the hospital Carrie and her aunt Harriet are in the hospital cafe and run into Babette an art teacher. She is sitting with Victor Zelinka, owns an import and export business and Leroy Gumm a painter.
The library has added a new addition and is going to have a grand opening. It was an old abandon house next to the library that was sold to the library by Albert and Marcella Whitehead. Marcella's family had bought the house years ago. At the reception it was interrupted by an older woman Emily Pierce Fielding who claimed that the house that was made into the addition still belonged in her family and she came to claim it. It was later proven that the property was indeed sold and that Emily was suffering from Dementia. She and her niece,
Taylor Reston, who is taking care of her were staying in town at the Inn on the Green.
Dylan had inherited a Terrance Haggerty painting which was valuable from his uncle Alex and left for a few days to close his uncles home and to collect the painting. He was meeting a Jack Winslow who was keeping the painting for his uncle. Carrie did not hear from him but later got a call that he was in the hospital. He was found unconscious and the painting was missing. Because of the painting was stolen they found out that there was a group who were stealing valuable paintings and copying them and sold them as originals.
The story picks up with the death of Emily who died falling down stairs, Martha who ran an art galley with her husband, Ron and Denny Sullivan whose father Mick is a mafia boss. A lot starts to happen which is too much to put on paper. I will let the reader enjoy the twists and turns of this story to the exciting ending.
I enjoyed the book and look forward to the next adventure of Carrie and Dylan with their upcoming wedding.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC.
Other members of the library are Sally Prescott, director, Angela Prisco, Trish Templeton and Susan Roberts all work at the library and good friends of Carrie's. Marion Marshall is the children's librarian. Evelyn Havers is the ghost that lives at the library which only Carrie can see.
The story opens with Carrie and her great-aunt, Harriet at the hospital as her great-uncle, Bosco has had a heart attack. He is to remain in the hospital. Carrie's aunt and uncle live in town in a large Victorian house on the village green. While at the hospital Carrie and her aunt Harriet are in the hospital cafe and run into Babette an art teacher. She is sitting with Victor Zelinka, owns an import and export business and Leroy Gumm a painter.
The library has added a new addition and is going to have a grand opening. It was an old abandon house next to the library that was sold to the library by Albert and Marcella Whitehead. Marcella's family had bought the house years ago. At the reception it was interrupted by an older woman Emily Pierce Fielding who claimed that the house that was made into the addition still belonged in her family and she came to claim it. It was later proven that the property was indeed sold and that Emily was suffering from Dementia. She and her niece,
Taylor Reston, who is taking care of her were staying in town at the Inn on the Green.
Dylan had inherited a Terrance Haggerty painting which was valuable from his uncle Alex and left for a few days to close his uncles home and to collect the painting. He was meeting a Jack Winslow who was keeping the painting for his uncle. Carrie did not hear from him but later got a call that he was in the hospital. He was found unconscious and the painting was missing. Because of the painting was stolen they found out that there was a group who were stealing valuable paintings and copying them and sold them as originals.
The story picks up with the death of Emily who died falling down stairs, Martha who ran an art galley with her husband, Ron and Denny Sullivan whose father Mick is a mafia boss. A lot starts to happen which is too much to put on paper. I will let the reader enjoy the twists and turns of this story to the exciting ending.
I enjoyed the book and look forward to the next adventure of Carrie and Dylan with their upcoming wedding.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC.
August 10, 2024
Dollycas’s Thoughts
The Clover Ridge Library addition is almost complete and Carrie Singleton is excited about all the new events and programs the library will now offer. Art collector Victor Zalinka has committed to display several of his paintings in the new art gallery. He has invited Carrie and her fiancé Dylan to his opulent home to select the paintings that will be part of the exhibit. She and Dylan are trying to find the perfect venue for their upcoming wedding. Victor’s home seems to check all the boxes of what they are looking for but they don’t know him well enough to ask. Dylan grows pensive when he sees a forgery prominently hanging in his home.
Martha and Ron Mallory own the local Gallery on the Green and Carrie’s assistant Susan Roberts is an amazing artist who has been showing her work at their gallery. Carrie knows she will someday lose Susan to her art but she hopes it isn’t soon. Then Martha is murdered and Carrie, the library ghost Evelyn, Dylan’s office manager, and her cat Smoky Joe find themselves in the middle of her murder investigation and it’s a doozy. And it’s dangerous!
Will Carrie catch the killer? or will the killer catch her?
Carrie and Dylan are finally starting to concentrate on their wedding while handling the trials and tribulations of their lives and now another murder is thrown into the mix. Dylan is trying to wrap up his uncle’s assets following the events in the previous book and his short trip doesn’t go as planned adding extra drama to their lives. Both characters are resilient and keep pushing forward in everything they do. They work and play well together. It is so much fun to tag along with them each step of the way. It was so cute how Dylan treated Carrie as they were looking for a wedding venue. All he wants to do is make her happy.
Readers are introduced to Emily Fielding, an older woman who claims she still owns the building now housing the library addition. Sadly, she is dealing with dementia. Her niece did her best to keep track of her aunt but Emily must have witnessed something she shouldn’t have because she becomes another victim of the killer. My heart broke for the woman and her niece.
Again, Ms. Brook has written a very complicated mystery with multiple suspects and deaths. Could there be more than one killer on the loose? Carrie keeps digging proded on by library ghost Evelyn who just gives her little snippets of information. Two others ask for her to investigate too. And investigate she does. She uncovers secrets and lies and eavesdrops to get to the truth. She also finds herself in a dicey situation but gains some information. Like Carrie, I had pared down my suspects but we were both surprised when the killer came into focus. I love it when that happens. Carrie had one of the moments, that truly lasted several minutes when I wanted to jump into the book and stop her. Okay, I may have jumped in and gone with her but one of us had to be smart. But she surprised me. I have to give Carrie props. She didn’t do what I thought she would but the showdown was still very exhilarating.
Overdue or Die was chock-full of entertaining characters, twists, turns, and surprises. Ms. Brook just continues to top herself with each new entry in this series. Booked on Murder will be released on August 6 and I can’t wait to read it!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
The Clover Ridge Library addition is almost complete and Carrie Singleton is excited about all the new events and programs the library will now offer. Art collector Victor Zalinka has committed to display several of his paintings in the new art gallery. He has invited Carrie and her fiancé Dylan to his opulent home to select the paintings that will be part of the exhibit. She and Dylan are trying to find the perfect venue for their upcoming wedding. Victor’s home seems to check all the boxes of what they are looking for but they don’t know him well enough to ask. Dylan grows pensive when he sees a forgery prominently hanging in his home.
Martha and Ron Mallory own the local Gallery on the Green and Carrie’s assistant Susan Roberts is an amazing artist who has been showing her work at their gallery. Carrie knows she will someday lose Susan to her art but she hopes it isn’t soon. Then Martha is murdered and Carrie, the library ghost Evelyn, Dylan’s office manager, and her cat Smoky Joe find themselves in the middle of her murder investigation and it’s a doozy. And it’s dangerous!
Will Carrie catch the killer? or will the killer catch her?
Carrie and Dylan are finally starting to concentrate on their wedding while handling the trials and tribulations of their lives and now another murder is thrown into the mix. Dylan is trying to wrap up his uncle’s assets following the events in the previous book and his short trip doesn’t go as planned adding extra drama to their lives. Both characters are resilient and keep pushing forward in everything they do. They work and play well together. It is so much fun to tag along with them each step of the way. It was so cute how Dylan treated Carrie as they were looking for a wedding venue. All he wants to do is make her happy.
Readers are introduced to Emily Fielding, an older woman who claims she still owns the building now housing the library addition. Sadly, she is dealing with dementia. Her niece did her best to keep track of her aunt but Emily must have witnessed something she shouldn’t have because she becomes another victim of the killer. My heart broke for the woman and her niece.
Again, Ms. Brook has written a very complicated mystery with multiple suspects and deaths. Could there be more than one killer on the loose? Carrie keeps digging proded on by library ghost Evelyn who just gives her little snippets of information. Two others ask for her to investigate too. And investigate she does. She uncovers secrets and lies and eavesdrops to get to the truth. She also finds herself in a dicey situation but gains some information. Like Carrie, I had pared down my suspects but we were both surprised when the killer came into focus. I love it when that happens. Carrie had one of the moments, that truly lasted several minutes when I wanted to jump into the book and stop her. Okay, I may have jumped in and gone with her but one of us had to be smart. But she surprised me. I have to give Carrie props. She didn’t do what I thought she would but the showdown was still very exhilarating.
Overdue or Die was chock-full of entertaining characters, twists, turns, and surprises. Ms. Brook just continues to top herself with each new entry in this series. Booked on Murder will be released on August 6 and I can’t wait to read it!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
May 18, 2023
Warning, as I've thought about this review in my head, it sounded very complainy considering I'm giving the book 4 stars. It's just a bunch of small nitpicks, I truly do enjoy this series. I picked up this series because I wanted a little light paranormal twist to a book, and this has one, but Evelyn is much more of a deceased character than any player in story....bums me out, but the rest of the cast of characters are endearing enough to keep me coming back. There's so much murder in this small town that it's not entireley plausible considering Carrie isn't in a large bustling city - I'd love to see her go out of town with Dylan for HIS work and then stumble on a death.
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
October 19, 2023
Quick, satisfying read. I like the setting of the cute Connecticut town and the various patrons at the library. The mystery with the artwork was interesting. I think Evelyn, the library ghost, has overstayed her welcome and should maybe move on. I found that while the mystery interested me, it did move a little slowly and there was so much other stuff thrown in � wedding planning, constant description of what and where they are eating, everyone ending up in the hospital � that it ended up dragging on longer than it should have. Hoping the wedding planning is wrapped up in the next one; it feels like the last few have been focused on wedding planning and while I don’t mind it occasionally, it’s gone on so long in this series.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
March 28, 2024
This is the first of the series I read, and I like that it’s in a library and that it involves a cat but to me all the relationships seem so old-fashioned. The plot was good and I would read another one. Please , no more about the awful food they ate & cooked !
October 25, 2023
"Overdue or Die" the 7th instalment in the A Haunted Library Mystery series by Allison Brook. Carrie Singleton has a wedding to plan, a killer to catch, and a conspiracy to uncover.
There are plenty of twists and turns in this story, and I kept guessing and second-guessing myself right to the very end. The story moves at a steady pace, and I had a hard time putting it down.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Crooked Lane and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
There are plenty of twists and turns in this story, and I kept guessing and second-guessing myself right to the very end. The story moves at a steady pace, and I had a hard time putting it down.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Crooked Lane and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 23, 2023
#OverdueorDie #NetGalley is another great addition to this series.
Carrie Singleton is newly engaged and excited to begin planning the wedding.
She has a lot on her plate with library and the upcoming holidays, and with Uncle Black recovering from a heat attack makes Carrie nervous.
Something fishy is happening in her little town, and when faced with 3 deaths, everyone has the urge to have Carrie investigate.
Carrie believes the deaths are related, but what do the art store owner, the mobster's son, and an elderly woman with dementia have in common?
This is a perfect weekend book, easily read in a few hours, but will keep you reading until the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Carrie Singleton is newly engaged and excited to begin planning the wedding.
She has a lot on her plate with library and the upcoming holidays, and with Uncle Black recovering from a heat attack makes Carrie nervous.
Something fishy is happening in her little town, and when faced with 3 deaths, everyone has the urge to have Carrie investigate.
Carrie believes the deaths are related, but what do the art store owner, the mobster's son, and an elderly woman with dementia have in common?
This is a perfect weekend book, easily read in a few hours, but will keep you reading until the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
October 2, 2023
Another cozy mystery series that I have stumbled upon mid-way in the series! Overdue or Die is the seventh book while it is the first one I have read. Judging by what I read, all the characters that are part of the Clover Ridge society and their backstories seem well developed by now and Carrie and Dylan are well on their way to get married soon. Overall, I liked the characters and the setting of the book and the mystery was well plotted although the first murder does not occur until chapter 15! I am curious to know how the story of these Clover Ridge residents began and also the story of Evelyn the ghost who resides in the library. I will be sure to check out the earlier titles in the series.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author Allison Brook for the e-Arc of the book. Expected publication is 10th October, 2023.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author Allison Brook for the e-Arc of the book. Expected publication is 10th October, 2023.
November 8, 2023
In this seventh installment of the Haunted Library series, Carrie Singleton certainly has a lot going on. She's working at the library, planning her upcoming wedding and, of course, attempting to solve murders. On top of all that, she's worrying about her uncle's health and the possibility of losing her assistant to a local art gallery.
There really is so much going on here that it sort of overshadows the murder mystery.
The mystery itself was interesting, but I think it would have been more enjoyable with a more streamlined plot.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
There really is so much going on here that it sort of overshadows the murder mystery.
The mystery itself was interesting, but I think it would have been more enjoyable with a more streamlined plot.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 16, 2024
Carrie is planning her wedding and overseeing the library events. She has more than her share to deal with and now she is worrying that the local art gallery is trying to steal her assistant. When one of the owners of the art museum is found murdered Carrie gets asked to help clear one of the suspects. Can Carrie solve the murder and keep her wedding planning on track?
I love this series. What could be more fun than a haunted library and a ghost librarian? The characters are likable and interesting. The mystery is well-plotted with plenty of twists and turns.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, I have not been influenced by anyone.
I love this series. What could be more fun than a haunted library and a ghost librarian? The characters are likable and interesting. The mystery is well-plotted with plenty of twists and turns.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, I have not been influenced by anyone.
November 11, 2023
This book didn't do much for me this time around.
Carrie not finding the right wedding venue and having wedding planning issues bored me TO DEATH. 💀💀💀🥀
Carrie acting like a crybaby because Dylan was going to spend 3 days away also made me cringe so hard I almost dislocated something.
I mean... It was 3 DAYS.
Not weeks. Not months. Not years. D.A.Y.S.
Her whiny behaviour when he has to work away bothers me on a very personal level because I'm really self-sufficient myself. A partner being so whiny about me being away for work (as a one-off, in this case) would piss me the Hell off. Like, omg, please, curb your clinginess, ffs! It's really off-putting, to be honest.
I did like the mystery hiding in-between Carrie's wedding problems - art forgery and murder together can seldom go all that wrong, I think.
But the wedding venue's to be or not to be got too much attention. (And it was obviously going to work out in the most obvious way ever, because of course it did.)
I feel like if book 8 isn't the last book in the series, then maybe nr 9 should be.
Because the series feels like it's running out of steam and rounding the whole thing off with Carrie's wedding would perhaps be appropriate?
Otherwise, the author will sure have to find some way to make newly wed life between Carrie and Dylan interesting, otherwise I'm out. I'm so bored by these two by now, it's sad. They are as exciting to hear about as drying paint on a wall is to watch.
FYI: Beige paint.
Also a very personal reason why Carrie rubs me the wrong way: The author points out how she used to be something of a goth and how she transformed into aboring normal, typical librarian instead - just to seem responsible and be taken seriously.
This makes me think two things: Either Carrie was a poser goth (and that's a bit tedious, considering her age) - OR the author is implying that she couldn't be taken seriously simply because she donned goth garb and hair.
As a now almost 40 year old goth I can't help but find this little tidbit almost offensive.
At the very least, it annoys and provokes me - a LOT.
Like what the heck... Take a dump on your own subculture, lady! I've fought tooth and nail my entire adult life to be taken seriously - and my clothes or style never was the issue at all. It was always people's prejudices.
(Like the ones fed by this bloody story!)
So, yeah...
I was more than a little turned off by this book, but I'll probably give Carrie another chance. I just hope we won't spend all of book 8 looking for the right menu or flowers or dress though.
If that's the case: Just 'effing shoot me, OK? Or give me bag to hurl into.
Oh, and a service dog for when I go blind from all the eye-rolling. 💀💀💀
TL;DR: Better luck next book around.
Carrie not finding the right wedding venue and having wedding planning issues bored me TO DEATH. 💀💀💀🥀
Carrie acting like a crybaby because Dylan was going to spend 3 days away also made me cringe so hard I almost dislocated something.
I mean... It was 3 DAYS.
Not weeks. Not months. Not years. D.A.Y.S.
Her whiny behaviour when he has to work away bothers me on a very personal level because I'm really self-sufficient myself. A partner being so whiny about me being away for work (as a one-off, in this case) would piss me the Hell off. Like, omg, please, curb your clinginess, ffs! It's really off-putting, to be honest.
I did like the mystery hiding in-between Carrie's wedding problems - art forgery and murder together can seldom go all that wrong, I think.
But the wedding venue's to be or not to be got too much attention. (And it was obviously going to work out in the most obvious way ever, because of course it did.)
I feel like if book 8 isn't the last book in the series, then maybe nr 9 should be.
Because the series feels like it's running out of steam and rounding the whole thing off with Carrie's wedding would perhaps be appropriate?
Otherwise, the author will sure have to find some way to make newly wed life between Carrie and Dylan interesting, otherwise I'm out. I'm so bored by these two by now, it's sad. They are as exciting to hear about as drying paint on a wall is to watch.
FYI: Beige paint.
Also a very personal reason why Carrie rubs me the wrong way: The author points out how she used to be something of a goth and how she transformed into a
This makes me think two things: Either Carrie was a poser goth (and that's a bit tedious, considering her age) - OR the author is implying that she couldn't be taken seriously simply because she donned goth garb and hair.
As a now almost 40 year old goth I can't help but find this little tidbit almost offensive.
At the very least, it annoys and provokes me - a LOT.
Like what the heck... Take a dump on your own subculture, lady! I've fought tooth and nail my entire adult life to be taken seriously - and my clothes or style never was the issue at all. It was always people's prejudices.
(Like the ones fed by this bloody story!)
So, yeah...
I was more than a little turned off by this book, but I'll probably give Carrie another chance. I just hope we won't spend all of book 8 looking for the right menu or flowers or dress though.
If that's the case: Just 'effing shoot me, OK? Or give me bag to hurl into.
Oh, and a service dog for when I go blind from all the eye-rolling. 💀💀💀
TL;DR: Better luck next book around.
October 22, 2023
As I mentioned in my review for Dewey Decimated, I’ve been reading this series since the first book came out, and I look forward to each new installment. Carrie, Dylan, Smokey Joe, Uncle Bosco, Aunt Harriet, and all the members of Carrie’s close circle in Clover Ridge feel like dear friends. And of course, so does Evelyn Havers, the librarian’s resident ghost seen only by Carrie and her adorable little cousin Tacey. Carrie and Evelyn make a formidable team of amateur sleuths, and they’re at it again in Overdue or Die.
Carrie is juggling quite a few things in this book � her job at the library (and putting the finishing touches on the new addition there), the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, wedding plans with Dylan (at last!), and Uncle Bosco’s health scare. Not to mention the murder(s) she ends up investigating, a mob boss or two, and the danger that even Dylan gets into in this book. Isn’t that just like the holiday season though? One obligation after another until you don’t know whether you’re coming or going lol. Okay, so most of us don’t solve murders along with planning family dinners, shopping for Christmas gifts, and finding a wedding venue, but for Carrie it just fits. I loved seeing how happy she is and watching her feel more comfortable in her role as a bride-to-be.
The mysteries in Overdue or Die are layered to start with, and they only get more so as the story progresses. For one thing, Carrie (and local law enforcement, of course) must figure out if there’s one person or team behind all the various recent crimes or if there are multiple culprits to track down. I must confess that I kept changing my guess on that very thing right up until Carrie solves it for me, and while I wasn’t completely surprised I did not, in fact, have it all parsed out either. I enjoyed following the various red herrings and rabbit trails that Carrie explores, with some help from Evelyn, and the author’s writing style makes me feel like I really am tagging along for the ride.
Bottom Line: Overdue or Die by Allison Brook is another delightful read in the Haunted Library Mystery series, and readers will love spending time with all the familiar faces of Clover Ridge. The murders in town keep piling up, and I’m pretty sure it would give Jessica Fletcher’s Cabot Cove a run for its money when it comes to the most dangerous Northeastern small town in which to live lol! The author has crafted a clever plot that held my attention and kept me guessing, and it was fun to watch Carrie’s sleuthing and Dylan’s job intersect once again in this book. Already looking forward to their next adventures!
Reviewer’s Note: Readers of my reviews may want to be aware that there are a few mild curse words scattered sparingly throughout this novel, as well as a couple instances of ‘God� used as an exclamation.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at
Carrie is juggling quite a few things in this book � her job at the library (and putting the finishing touches on the new addition there), the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, wedding plans with Dylan (at last!), and Uncle Bosco’s health scare. Not to mention the murder(s) she ends up investigating, a mob boss or two, and the danger that even Dylan gets into in this book. Isn’t that just like the holiday season though? One obligation after another until you don’t know whether you’re coming or going lol. Okay, so most of us don’t solve murders along with planning family dinners, shopping for Christmas gifts, and finding a wedding venue, but for Carrie it just fits. I loved seeing how happy she is and watching her feel more comfortable in her role as a bride-to-be.
The mysteries in Overdue or Die are layered to start with, and they only get more so as the story progresses. For one thing, Carrie (and local law enforcement, of course) must figure out if there’s one person or team behind all the various recent crimes or if there are multiple culprits to track down. I must confess that I kept changing my guess on that very thing right up until Carrie solves it for me, and while I wasn’t completely surprised I did not, in fact, have it all parsed out either. I enjoyed following the various red herrings and rabbit trails that Carrie explores, with some help from Evelyn, and the author’s writing style makes me feel like I really am tagging along for the ride.
Bottom Line: Overdue or Die by Allison Brook is another delightful read in the Haunted Library Mystery series, and readers will love spending time with all the familiar faces of Clover Ridge. The murders in town keep piling up, and I’m pretty sure it would give Jessica Fletcher’s Cabot Cove a run for its money when it comes to the most dangerous Northeastern small town in which to live lol! The author has crafted a clever plot that held my attention and kept me guessing, and it was fun to watch Carrie’s sleuthing and Dylan’s job intersect once again in this book. Already looking forward to their next adventures!
Reviewer’s Note: Readers of my reviews may want to be aware that there are a few mild curse words scattered sparingly throughout this novel, as well as a couple instances of ‘God� used as an exclamation.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at
October 3, 2023
Carrie is busy and getting busier. Between searching for the perfect venue for her wedding and her job as events planner at the library, featuring its newly renovated meeting space, she doesn’t have time to add more to her plate. But that’s exactly what happens when one of the town residents is found dead, and her death opens a can of worms that leads to bigger and more dangerous things than anyone could have guessed.
This is another series I’ve been enjoying for years, yet every book makes me more and more envious of the public library in Clover Ridge. At a time when many of the libraries in my area are reducing hours and even cutting some services, it’s hard to fathom a library that can take on such an extravagant renovation, while offering things like art shows and more to its patrons. They must have a stable of generous donors.
I like Carrie and Evelyn, the library ghost, but Evelyn is annoying when Carrie puts other things ahead of whatever investigation Evelyn thinks is more important. Smoky Joe, Carrie’s library cat, is a doll, but another thing that seems unrealistic to me. How do they keep the cat away from patrons who are allergic, or prevent its dander from infiltrating the space? I like the support Carrie gets from her friends and family, and appreciate her concern for the health of her aunt and uncle that is especially evident in this book. I learned a lot about art forgery while reading this book, a theme I’ve run across in several recent reads.
At first, the murder victim appears to have been a well-respected resident of the town, but as the investigation into her death continues, they learn enough about her to compile a lengthy list of potential suspects. Even as the suspect pool is reduced, I still had trouble figuring out the guilty party until just before it was revealed in the book, and the motive was equally puzzling. Despite that, I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is another series I’ve been enjoying for years, yet every book makes me more and more envious of the public library in Clover Ridge. At a time when many of the libraries in my area are reducing hours and even cutting some services, it’s hard to fathom a library that can take on such an extravagant renovation, while offering things like art shows and more to its patrons. They must have a stable of generous donors.
I like Carrie and Evelyn, the library ghost, but Evelyn is annoying when Carrie puts other things ahead of whatever investigation Evelyn thinks is more important. Smoky Joe, Carrie’s library cat, is a doll, but another thing that seems unrealistic to me. How do they keep the cat away from patrons who are allergic, or prevent its dander from infiltrating the space? I like the support Carrie gets from her friends and family, and appreciate her concern for the health of her aunt and uncle that is especially evident in this book. I learned a lot about art forgery while reading this book, a theme I’ve run across in several recent reads.
At first, the murder victim appears to have been a well-respected resident of the town, but as the investigation into her death continues, they learn enough about her to compile a lengthy list of potential suspects. Even as the suspect pool is reduced, I still had trouble figuring out the guilty party until just before it was revealed in the book, and the motive was equally puzzling. Despite that, I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 5, 2023
WOW !! Overdue or Die by Allison Brook has so much going on that you will not want to stop reading it !! Overdue or Die is the seventh book in the Haunted Library Mystery series and there is so much to love about this series !! First you have main character Carrie Singleton who lives in an adorable cottage on the property where her fiance, Dylan, owns the main house. Carrie has an adorable cat, Smoky Joe, that she is able to take with her to work. Carrie has an adorable aunt and uncle that she and Dylan are very close to. Carrie has an amazing job working at the Clover Ridge Library where she oversees and plans all the activities there and now that the newly renovated addition has been completed, they are gearing up for many more activities. Carrie has two part-time assistants to help her and her best friend also works at the library....and she is visited by Evelyn, the library ghost. Evelyn is stuck there but seems to be okay with that and she is there for Carrie to help her work through things going on in her life as well as the murder investigations she gets in the middle of.
In Overdue or Die Carrie's great-uncle Bosco is recovering from a heart attack and Carrie is very scared that she is going to lose him or her great-aunt Harriet....but Dylan is there to help her center herself so that she can focus on the things she has control over.....like planning her and Dylan's wedding !
Unfortunately Martha Mallory is murdered in her art gallery one night which shifts Carrie's attention. Martha was close friends with Evelyn and when Evelyn asks for your help, you feel you cannot say no. So Carrie begins to look into Martha's murder not knowing that she will be going down a dangerous road. Martha was in the witness protection program until recently. She helped put away a dangerous man. So it is no wonder that he and his family are the first ones on the top of the suspect list.
Unfortunately as Carrie looks into Martha's death, someone else dies and she wonders if the two are connected. And when a new friend, Victor, is taken in for questioning Carrie and Dylan are asked to prove his innocence.
There is a lot more going on in Overdue or Die but I cannot tell you everything !! I hope that I have given you enough enticing tidbits that you will go and grab your copy and dig in !! I cannot say enough good things about this series, the town, the people, and everything else.....go grab your copy ASAP !!!!
In Overdue or Die Carrie's great-uncle Bosco is recovering from a heart attack and Carrie is very scared that she is going to lose him or her great-aunt Harriet....but Dylan is there to help her center herself so that she can focus on the things she has control over.....like planning her and Dylan's wedding !
Unfortunately Martha Mallory is murdered in her art gallery one night which shifts Carrie's attention. Martha was close friends with Evelyn and when Evelyn asks for your help, you feel you cannot say no. So Carrie begins to look into Martha's murder not knowing that she will be going down a dangerous road. Martha was in the witness protection program until recently. She helped put away a dangerous man. So it is no wonder that he and his family are the first ones on the top of the suspect list.
Unfortunately as Carrie looks into Martha's death, someone else dies and she wonders if the two are connected. And when a new friend, Victor, is taken in for questioning Carrie and Dylan are asked to prove his innocence.
There is a lot more going on in Overdue or Die but I cannot tell you everything !! I hope that I have given you enough enticing tidbits that you will go and grab your copy and dig in !! I cannot say enough good things about this series, the town, the people, and everything else.....go grab your copy ASAP !!!!
August 7, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Overdue or Die by Allison Brook has Carrie starting to plan her wedding and getting caught in a serious murder investigation with lots of twists and turns.
What does an art gallery owner do to get murdered?
Carrie Singleton and Dylan Avery
Evelyn tasks Carrie Singleton to figure out who would kill Martha Mallory. Martha owns Gallery on the Green with her husband, Ron Mallory. Carrie has been walking on Cloud 9 since she got engaged to Dylan Avery. When Martha was killed, the library ghost Evelyn asked her to investigate it. Carrie has her hands full with all her tasks throughout the story. I have to say that I admire Carrie for working in the library and being able to get her work done. Well, despite other things happening around her.
Dylan Avery is Carrie's fiance, and they are a cute couple together. I love being able to read about them. Dylan has been traveling for work again, which agitates Carrie, but it's all connected to the last book. I have to say that I love how everything ends up getting connected and seeing these two work together.
The Mystery
Carrie Singleton, our sleuth, investigates why Martha Mallory was killed in her art gallery. This opens up a can of worms for Carrie. Carrie finds a web of lies within the art world, allowing her to work with Dylan on this case. However, she keeps finding dead bodies. This brings with them other possible suspects, which makes the list longer. I admit I had a feeling of who did it, and I was right, but wow, did I wish I was wrong just this one time.
Five Stars
I am giving Overdue or Die by Allison Brook five stars and recommend it. The Haunted Library Mysteries series keeps me entertained throughout while reading it. It's such a fantastic series.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Overdue or Dieby Allison Brook.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
What does an art gallery owner do to get murdered?
Carrie Singleton and Dylan Avery
Evelyn tasks Carrie Singleton to figure out who would kill Martha Mallory. Martha owns Gallery on the Green with her husband, Ron Mallory. Carrie has been walking on Cloud 9 since she got engaged to Dylan Avery. When Martha was killed, the library ghost Evelyn asked her to investigate it. Carrie has her hands full with all her tasks throughout the story. I have to say that I admire Carrie for working in the library and being able to get her work done. Well, despite other things happening around her.
Dylan Avery is Carrie's fiance, and they are a cute couple together. I love being able to read about them. Dylan has been traveling for work again, which agitates Carrie, but it's all connected to the last book. I have to say that I love how everything ends up getting connected and seeing these two work together.
The Mystery
Carrie Singleton, our sleuth, investigates why Martha Mallory was killed in her art gallery. This opens up a can of worms for Carrie. Carrie finds a web of lies within the art world, allowing her to work with Dylan on this case. However, she keeps finding dead bodies. This brings with them other possible suspects, which makes the list longer. I admit I had a feeling of who did it, and I was right, but wow, did I wish I was wrong just this one time.
Five Stars
I am giving Overdue or Die by Allison Brook five stars and recommend it. The Haunted Library Mysteries series keeps me entertained throughout while reading it. It's such a fantastic series.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Overdue or Dieby Allison Brook.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
August 7, 2023
Things are getting exciting for Carrie Singleton as the library gets ready for the opening of their new extension just before Thanksgiving and a wedding in her future. On other fronts, things aren't quite as rosy as she has to come to terms with family illness and the possibility of losing one of her work colleagues.
Of course, Carrie still has her ghostly literary friend, Evelyn, visiting daily, who sets about persuading her to investigate when one of the small town’s commercial stalwarts and a previous close friend is killed. With her new case centered in fiancé Dylan's field of expertise the two find themselves working together but the killer hasn't finished with Clover Ridge yet and as the weather gets colder more bodies are discovered and the stakes rise ever higher.
Book seven in this satisfying cosy crime series is another life-affirming trip through Carrie Singleton's small-town library and surrounding area. The main protagonists are all present but with an extra vulnerability, which adds another layer to this well written and fun instalment. The epilogue hints at things to come, which will hopefully provide another mystery before too long.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Crooked Lane Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a fun holiday read, which is part of a lovely cosy crime series.
Of course, Carrie still has her ghostly literary friend, Evelyn, visiting daily, who sets about persuading her to investigate when one of the small town’s commercial stalwarts and a previous close friend is killed. With her new case centered in fiancé Dylan's field of expertise the two find themselves working together but the killer hasn't finished with Clover Ridge yet and as the weather gets colder more bodies are discovered and the stakes rise ever higher.
Book seven in this satisfying cosy crime series is another life-affirming trip through Carrie Singleton's small-town library and surrounding area. The main protagonists are all present but with an extra vulnerability, which adds another layer to this well written and fun instalment. The epilogue hints at things to come, which will hopefully provide another mystery before too long.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Crooked Lane Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a fun holiday read, which is part of a lovely cosy crime series.
May 23, 2024
Too much going on, it was just a bit over the top. Evelyn did not play a large part in this one.
September 14, 2023
I’m still invested in the The Haunted Library mystery series and this is book #7. Like most cozy mysteries half the fun is to catch up with the regulars although not much changes with them. Carrie Singleton (told from her POV) is over events at the town library. Her friends refer to her as their own Nancy Drew because she solves many of the towns murders. This time there is more than one murder and seemingly they are tied in with art forgeries. Evelyn, the ghost of a deceased librarian, appears at the library only to Carrie. She is a good sounding board for Carrie and a resource for her knowledge of old town gossip or connections. Evelyn doesn’t do anything supernatural to help solve cases. Carrie is the kind of person who people confide in but she isn’t afraid to go out and ask questions herself. And she does manage to have the police on speed dial when she needs them. I’m not sure about the time frame between books but on the personal side Carrie is looking for a venue for her engagement party and wedding to fiancé Dylan. Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane for the ARC and I am leaving an honest review. (3.5 Stars)
July 4, 2023
I thank NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books and the author for this ARC.
All views expressed in this review are my own and based on my reading of this book. Some of the comments were made as I progressed in this book and I have not tried editing them as it expresses my contiguous thoughts as I proceeded with the story.
This is a book in a long running series, the seventh in fact. It reads fine as a standalone although seems advisable to read earlier books to get series nuances.
For me this is the first book from this author.
The premise seems simple or is it?
The blurb acts as a nice teaser and puts the story in perspective. The book more so.
The story builds up cooking slowly. Carrie our protagonist is in the process of planning her wedding with her fiancée Dylan and as a program director plans the opening of a new part of the library. The reception is rudely interrupted by a lady who says they are trespassing and claims that this is her property. The lady Emily then turns up at other places claiming she owns them and we find out that the poor dear is suffering from dementia and is being looked after by her niece.
Carrie's husband runs a private eye organization and she herself brings her amateur sleuthing abilities to everything. He recently came into an inheritance of a valuable painting which is stolen as he is attacked a short time after possession. The person who handed him the painting seems to have fled. Dylan and Carrie find out that there is a group of art thieves operating who steal originals and create forgeries which they then proceed to sell to unsuspecting buyers.
When one of the art gallery folks, (a husband wife combo with a mafia relative partner), the wife Martha Mallory gets killed raising questions of her or her husband Ron's involvement in the forgeries. The death of Emily which seems like an accident also adds to the suspicions list.
Carrie springs into action with her team of ghost, cat, etc. and comes up with a list of prospective suspects and the investigative duo with Dylan start uncovering deeper stories.
The book has some annoying side shows like the ghost and cat which does not add to the story and in many ways slows it down. I can understand that they have played significant roles in previous books and this is where not having read any of the other books made me a little hamstrung. Not having significant roles here they could have been maybe just heard and not seen and read which would have improved the readability of this book for a new reader.
For series fans this may not be the case.
But bottom-line I can't say I didn't enjoy this one although not the sweet spot for me.
I will recommend the book.
All views expressed in this review are my own and based on my reading of this book. Some of the comments were made as I progressed in this book and I have not tried editing them as it expresses my contiguous thoughts as I proceeded with the story.
This is a book in a long running series, the seventh in fact. It reads fine as a standalone although seems advisable to read earlier books to get series nuances.
For me this is the first book from this author.
The premise seems simple or is it?
The blurb acts as a nice teaser and puts the story in perspective. The book more so.
The story builds up cooking slowly. Carrie our protagonist is in the process of planning her wedding with her fiancée Dylan and as a program director plans the opening of a new part of the library. The reception is rudely interrupted by a lady who says they are trespassing and claims that this is her property. The lady Emily then turns up at other places claiming she owns them and we find out that the poor dear is suffering from dementia and is being looked after by her niece.
Carrie's husband runs a private eye organization and she herself brings her amateur sleuthing abilities to everything. He recently came into an inheritance of a valuable painting which is stolen as he is attacked a short time after possession. The person who handed him the painting seems to have fled. Dylan and Carrie find out that there is a group of art thieves operating who steal originals and create forgeries which they then proceed to sell to unsuspecting buyers.
When one of the art gallery folks, (a husband wife combo with a mafia relative partner), the wife Martha Mallory gets killed raising questions of her or her husband Ron's involvement in the forgeries. The death of Emily which seems like an accident also adds to the suspicions list.
Carrie springs into action with her team of ghost, cat, etc. and comes up with a list of prospective suspects and the investigative duo with Dylan start uncovering deeper stories.
The book has some annoying side shows like the ghost and cat which does not add to the story and in many ways slows it down. I can understand that they have played significant roles in previous books and this is where not having read any of the other books made me a little hamstrung. Not having significant roles here they could have been maybe just heard and not seen and read which would have improved the readability of this book for a new reader.
For series fans this may not be the case.
But bottom-line I can't say I didn't enjoy this one although not the sweet spot for me.
I will recommend the book.
October 11, 2023
Overdue Or Die is the seventh book in The Haunted Library Mystery series by Allison Brook.
Carrie and Dylan have been busy working on their plans for their wedding. They’ve been researching various venues but haven’t found one they can agree on. They put the search on hold as Dylan had to go to Chicago to settle his late great-uncle’s estate and pick up a valuable Terrance Haggerty painting. While Dylan is on his way to Chicago, Carrie learns that her Great-Uncle Bosco has been admitted to the hospital after suffering a heart attack.
At the library, the staff is getting ready for the opening of the recently completed renovation of the building next to the library. This addition will provide more meeting rooms, an auditorium, and a room to display artworks that will be loaned to the library. Also of concern to Carrie is that the owner of an art gallery in town, Martha Mallory, is trying to hire away Carrie’s valuable employee, Susan. The opening of a new addition doesn’t go off without a hitch, though. An elderly lady later learned to be suffering from dementia, stands at the beginning of the celebration and claims she owns the building. A quick investigation proves her to be wrong.
After Dylan returns, they visit Victor Zelinka’s beautiful estate to select artwork from his collection, which will be displayed at the library. Carrie thinks his home is gorgeous and would be perfect for their wedding. After leaving, Dylan confides with Carrie that some paintings are forgeries, particularly a Terrence Haggerty painting. When Martha is found murdered in her art gallery and some mobsters arrive in town, Dylan believes there may be an art forgery ring at work in Clover Ridge. Martha had worked at the library with the library’s resident ghost, Evelyn, who asks Carrie to look into the death of Martha.
As Carrie and Dylan begin investigating, they find an art forgery ring working in Clover Ridge, but it’s unclear who it is or how widespread it is. They will soon find no shortage of suspects.
The book is an exciting addition to this wonderful series. I found the book to be well-written and plotted. There is a wonderful cast of very believable and well-developed characters. I particularly like Evelyn, the library’s resident ghost. Evelyn’s appearance was a bit light in this book, but she still brought a smile to my face.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this great series.
Carrie and Dylan have been busy working on their plans for their wedding. They’ve been researching various venues but haven’t found one they can agree on. They put the search on hold as Dylan had to go to Chicago to settle his late great-uncle’s estate and pick up a valuable Terrance Haggerty painting. While Dylan is on his way to Chicago, Carrie learns that her Great-Uncle Bosco has been admitted to the hospital after suffering a heart attack.
At the library, the staff is getting ready for the opening of the recently completed renovation of the building next to the library. This addition will provide more meeting rooms, an auditorium, and a room to display artworks that will be loaned to the library. Also of concern to Carrie is that the owner of an art gallery in town, Martha Mallory, is trying to hire away Carrie’s valuable employee, Susan. The opening of a new addition doesn’t go off without a hitch, though. An elderly lady later learned to be suffering from dementia, stands at the beginning of the celebration and claims she owns the building. A quick investigation proves her to be wrong.
After Dylan returns, they visit Victor Zelinka’s beautiful estate to select artwork from his collection, which will be displayed at the library. Carrie thinks his home is gorgeous and would be perfect for their wedding. After leaving, Dylan confides with Carrie that some paintings are forgeries, particularly a Terrence Haggerty painting. When Martha is found murdered in her art gallery and some mobsters arrive in town, Dylan believes there may be an art forgery ring at work in Clover Ridge. Martha had worked at the library with the library’s resident ghost, Evelyn, who asks Carrie to look into the death of Martha.
As Carrie and Dylan begin investigating, they find an art forgery ring working in Clover Ridge, but it’s unclear who it is or how widespread it is. They will soon find no shortage of suspects.
The book is an exciting addition to this wonderful series. I found the book to be well-written and plotted. There is a wonderful cast of very believable and well-developed characters. I particularly like Evelyn, the library’s resident ghost. Evelyn’s appearance was a bit light in this book, but she still brought a smile to my face.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this great series.
October 10, 2023
The newest and seventh book in The Haunted Library Mysteries, Allison Brooks' fantastic cozy mystery series with a librarian-haunting ghost, Overdue or Die, is as awesome as I expected. I love this series and it just keeps getting better. For this fan, the search for a wedding venue is as fun as the intriguing mystery that has wider implications than Carrie ever imagined. There is a lot behind the mystery and our favorite librarian feels compelled to help figure it all out. Dylan may have discovered a clue when he recognizes a fake painting at the home of a new friend who may be a bit shady or may even be a killer. Or could murderer be the husband who seems to be a pretty nice guy, or is he? Nothing is quite as it seems, not even the victim. Too many questionable characters are making the search for the true villain difficult. Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane, I got to read an ARC of Overdue or Die and I loved it. The characters are as amazing as ever and the mystery is a real puzzler. My friends have already been hearing about this one. #NetGalley #CrookedLaneBooks #AllisonBrook #TheHauntedLibraryMysteries
September 14, 2023
Sometimes, I just need a break from heavy-duty, mind-bending thrillers and gory murders that make up the bulk of my reading matter - and that's when I turn to a trusted cozy mystery series like this one. In particular, I enjoy heroine Carrie Singleton, head of programs and events at the Clover Ridge library, just because she's not the typical cozy airhead who insists on nosing around where her nose (and the rest of her body) has been warned not to go by those in authority. Yes, she's a competent sleuth - aided by her almost-husband, investigator Dylan Avery - but she basically works with the cops, not behind their backs. Then too, she's got a cat; Smoky Joe not only lives with her and Dylan, but is the official library cat. What's not to love about that?
The only thing about this series I don't love is that the library is a haven for ghosts - yep, "real" ones that Carrie sees and talks to with regularity. It's sort of a cute touch, I suppose, but to me it's just a silly distraction. That said, as this begins, new programs are set to begin in the new addition to the library - an old adjacent building that's been renovated. Dylan has gone off to check out a painting that belonged to his recently deceased great-uncle; the plan is that sometime after he returns, he and Carrie will begin making plans to get married. As she and Dylan visit the home of a well-to-do local art collector to pick out some paintings for a library art show, Carrie is taken with the surroundings and wishes the wedding could be held at the opulent house and garden.
But at the library ceremony to show off the new facility, an elderly woman interrupts, claiming that she owns the building and the library has no claim on it - throwing a wrench in the deal. Not long thereafter, Carrie learns that Dylan is in the hospital; it seems that after he picked up his great-uncle's painting, he was mugged and the painting was stolen. Not long after that, the owner of a local art gallery - a woman who seems intent on poaching one of Carrie's best employees from the library - is found in her gallery, quite dead. But with few clues to go on, the suspect list is both highly speculative and almost endless. A couple more murders happen to complicate things, but of course Carrie carries on with help from Dylan and the local police. I had a suspect in mind for about the final third of the book and it turned out I was right, but I admit I'd never have guessed the motive in a million years.
All told, it's another fun adventure that stacks up well with the others I've read (this is the seventh book in the series). Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to read and review a pre-release copy.
The only thing about this series I don't love is that the library is a haven for ghosts - yep, "real" ones that Carrie sees and talks to with regularity. It's sort of a cute touch, I suppose, but to me it's just a silly distraction. That said, as this begins, new programs are set to begin in the new addition to the library - an old adjacent building that's been renovated. Dylan has gone off to check out a painting that belonged to his recently deceased great-uncle; the plan is that sometime after he returns, he and Carrie will begin making plans to get married. As she and Dylan visit the home of a well-to-do local art collector to pick out some paintings for a library art show, Carrie is taken with the surroundings and wishes the wedding could be held at the opulent house and garden.
But at the library ceremony to show off the new facility, an elderly woman interrupts, claiming that she owns the building and the library has no claim on it - throwing a wrench in the deal. Not long thereafter, Carrie learns that Dylan is in the hospital; it seems that after he picked up his great-uncle's painting, he was mugged and the painting was stolen. Not long after that, the owner of a local art gallery - a woman who seems intent on poaching one of Carrie's best employees from the library - is found in her gallery, quite dead. But with few clues to go on, the suspect list is both highly speculative and almost endless. A couple more murders happen to complicate things, but of course Carrie carries on with help from Dylan and the local police. I had a suspect in mind for about the final third of the book and it turned out I was right, but I admit I'd never have guessed the motive in a million years.
All told, it's another fun adventure that stacks up well with the others I've read (this is the seventh book in the series). Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to read and review a pre-release copy.
October 15, 2023
Carrie Singleton is working at the small town library she loves in Clover Ridge, Connecticut, planning her wedding to Dylan Avery, and helping her uncle recover from a heart attack. Then she suddenly becomes involved in two cases - counterfeit art, and a murder at the local art gallery. She works to solve them with the help of her ghostly friend, Evelyn.
I wanted to read Overdue or Die because I love the Haunted Library mystery series. I have enjoyed the other books in this series and always await the next in the series!
This was a wonderful read. Carrie is always a smart, intuitive detective, and I love the way Evelyn helps her with clues in the cases. The mystery is well paced with several plausible suspects. It was fun detecting along with Carrie.
I also enjoy Carrie's relationships with Dylan, her aunt and uncle, her friends - and her kitty Smokey Joe! I always especially enjoy cozy mysteries with lovable cats or dogs.
I recommend Overdue or Die - and the whole Haunted Library series - to fans of cozy mysteries, and especially to anyone who enjoys a library setting or small town atmosphere.
I wanted to read Overdue or Die because I love the Haunted Library mystery series. I have enjoyed the other books in this series and always await the next in the series!
This was a wonderful read. Carrie is always a smart, intuitive detective, and I love the way Evelyn helps her with clues in the cases. The mystery is well paced with several plausible suspects. It was fun detecting along with Carrie.
I also enjoy Carrie's relationships with Dylan, her aunt and uncle, her friends - and her kitty Smokey Joe! I always especially enjoy cozy mysteries with lovable cats or dogs.
I recommend Overdue or Die - and the whole Haunted Library series - to fans of cozy mysteries, and especially to anyone who enjoys a library setting or small town atmosphere.
October 10, 2023
The perfect mystery for the Thanksgiving/Christmas season! Carrie is once again put to the test of assisting the police with solving a series of murders that are uncomfortably close to her friends, but which friends might be in danger and which might be the cause of the danger are too closely tied to be able to clearly see the difference! Once again Allison Brook has crafted a wonderfully twisted plot with layers that intertwine to make a more fulfilling read! The characters, the town, the interactions all bring the story more fully to life since everything is sculpted to be realistic and believable. Now if only Carrie can solve these murders and pick a wedding venue, life might get back to normal for them, but only if she can survive another investigation! I absolutely can't wait for the next book to come out in this series! This book is not a cliffhanger by any means, but we are so close to the next big life event that I feel like I am standing on a cliff waiting for the next book!
October 10, 2023
The perfect mystery for the Thanksgiving/Christmas season! Carrie is once again put to the test of assisting the police with solving a series of murders that are uncomfortably close to her friends, but which friends might be in danger and which might be the cause of the danger are too closely tied to be able to clearly see the difference! Once again Allison Brook has crafted a wonderfully twisted plot with layers that intertwine to make a more fulfilling read! The characters, the town, the interactions all bring the story more fully to life since everything is sculpted to be realistic and believable. Now if only Carrie can solve these murders and pick a wedding venue, life might get back to normal for them, but only if she can survive another investigation! I absolutely can't wait for the next book to come out in this series! This book is not a cliffhanger by any means, but we are so close to the next big life event that I feel like I am standing on a cliff waiting for the next book!
February 17, 2025
Carrie Singleton is setting up an art show at the Clover Ridge Library. Her fiancé Dylan accompanies her to the home of Victor Zalinka, an art collector, to select paintings for the show. While Carrie muses that Victor's home would be the perfect wedding venue, Dylan spots a forgery among the paintings in Victor's collection. Then Martha Mallory is found murdered in her art gallery. Carrie comes up with a long suspect list. During her investigation, Carrie realizes that Martha’s murder was part of something far bigger and more dangerous than she could have ever imagined. How far will Carrie go to find the killer and uncover the truth?
This is a great library cozy mystery with wonderful characters, red herrings and clues that will drive you nuts when you try to figure out the truth. I can never figure out whodunnit and I'm always surprised in the end. Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my unbiased opinion.
This is a great library cozy mystery with wonderful characters, red herrings and clues that will drive you nuts when you try to figure out the truth. I can never figure out whodunnit and I'm always surprised in the end. Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my unbiased opinion.
October 20, 2023
This series features a crime-solving librarian named Carrie and her fiancee Dylan. Together they solve a series of murders surrounding an art forgery scheme. The story was sassy to follow and enjoyable, plus the murderer wasn't easily apparent. It's nice to try and figure out the crime show you read along.
In the midst of the crime-solving there is a secondary storyline about Carrie and Dylan's upcoming wedding. It was a nice distraction from the mystery aspect of the book. Plus, I loved the scenes in the library itself. I'm a big library fan.
I could feel the "cozy" in this cozy mystery from page one. Just a terrific read and a series I will definitely continue to follow.
In the midst of the crime-solving there is a secondary storyline about Carrie and Dylan's upcoming wedding. It was a nice distraction from the mystery aspect of the book. Plus, I loved the scenes in the library itself. I'm a big library fan.
I could feel the "cozy" in this cozy mystery from page one. Just a terrific read and a series I will definitely continue to follow.
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