Borrowed Crime

AudioBook Review Overall: Stars: 4 Narration 4 Story 4 While the story is presented as a murder mystery, the best part about this series is the library-focus and the furry friend Eddie. While I adore Minnie and her determination to make books available to many with her bookmobile, she’s reached a point where the fight for the bookmobile’s future is a dire one indeed. The funding has dried up – and she’s got to convince her boss, NOT a fan of the programme from the start, and unaware of Eddie, is going to require a ton of persuasion and new reasons to see just why the programme is good for the library and the community. But, whilst Minnie has gained patrons, processed tons of new library cards, and is handy with a recommendation and some good cheer - the real bonus has been the changes, with volunteers that accompany Minnie to help out and spread books and reading where they go. That is, until one of the regular’s husbands is found dead when filling in – a ‘victim’ of a hunting accident. Of course, this couldn’t come at a worse time, with her boss breathing down her neck, and the victim’s wife and daughter blaming the library for his death – something that doesn’t feel like an accident at all. Quickly the plot moves forward, with Minnie holding her own with everyone BUT Eddie – for he surely has her wrapped around his paw. Clues, discoveries and plenty of interactions are the highlight here: along with a surprise suspect / perpetrator that isn’t easy to guess or ferret out before all is said and done. Want a perfect “beach listen”? These stories are engaging, clever and utterly sweet with characters that you won’t want to leave. Narration is provided again by Erin Bennett, she’s been the voice of this series from the start, and the continuity in voices, making each easy to recognize if you’ve heard earlier is a highlight for a listener. Each voice is distinct and appropriate for the personality it presents, and her ability to bring fresh emotional nuance to Eddie’s moments in the story feel natural to those who’ve ever spoken to their pet. Bennett has added to the likability and engagement with this series, she’s presenting a story, not simply reciting words, and this allows listeners to slip into the story, feeling a part of the rural Michigan countryside. I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.