Official Review: Murders by the Book by Robert W. Harris

Shadowed_Gates · Post by **Shadowed_Gates** » 22 Sep 2013, 14:23

[Following is the official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Murders by the Book" by Robert W. Harris.]

Murders by the Book, written Robert W. Harris is a fictional thriller. This book has a feel very reminiscent of a Nancy Drew book but darker. Also I should add that this book held my attention strongly enough that the plot even found its way into my dreams. I love the cover work as well. It gives a great visual for the story.

The story takes places at Felton University but Erwin Library sees the most action. Our female protagonist goes by the name of Jane Hall. She is a reference specialist at the library and also and aspiring writer. It would seem that runs in the family as Jane’s father, Carlton Hall is also a would-be writer and a former Professor.

During her “shelf improvement” shift, Jane finds an interesting note between the pages of a book. Thinking it is just a drop off point for loves letter between a couple, she puts everything back in its place. It is only later on after a murder on campus grounds that Jane realizes the letter may have been more than what she thought. Now it is up to Jane to remember the other details of the note and stop another murder from taking place.

Jane confides in her co-workers, (which I found a little dumb to do at first); and then she brings in the police and her father. Her story sounds like a plot worked up for her book but after evidence from the crime scene comes to light, the police look into it with new eyes. The murder brings back memories of “The Mathematician”, the lead suspect behind a series of unsolved murders from years ago. Could this be their latest work or maybe it’s a copycat? Or could this killer be even closer than Jane thought? Could it be one of her colleagues?

Murders by the Book, is a very enjoyable read that keeps you locked in for all the surprises. I can honestly say that I was surprised at the end. There are hints sprinkled throughout the book that I didn’t catch till revealed, so do read carefully. I give it 3 out of 4 stars. Only problem being that there was some repetitiveness and grammar issues.

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