Posts

Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries Book 3) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and ChallengesNotebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Changes and Challenges is Book 3 in the Notebook Mysteries Series in which young Emma Evans is the heroine of the story. Set in 1885 this book centers around Emma who runs a business of her own with employees who help her solve crimes. Armed with her keen observation skills and with her trusty notebook in hand she sets out to solve the mysteries that seem to pop up everywhere she goes.

In Book 3, Emma and Jeremy’s romance is blossoming and she is faced with the challenge of how to handle this relationship without the restraints of marriage and having children. This is a rather difficult and complex situation because in 1885 it is a sin to live together without being married. Determined to make it work, Emma and Jeremy devise a plan to maintain their relationship on their own terms.

There is a lot going on in Emma’s life and she faces each new situation with strength and determination. Emma’s life changes dramatically when she is asked to the reading of a will of one of her former clients. To her surprise Emma is given a substantial inheritance and she must figure out the best way to manage this gift. Emma decides to set up a charity with the inheritance so that she may help make the world a better place.

Emma’s life is far from boring and at every turn she finds mystery and intrigue. When Emma is asked by a local charity hospital to investigate missing drugs it is not long before she uncovers a large underground child kidnapping ring. A trip overseas to help Tony solve the case of his missing friend leads Emma to a plot involving murder and takes her deep into the world of counterfeit art in France.

I loved the strong character development of the main character Emma, who is lovable and easily relatable. She is smart, feisty, strong-willed, stubborn, tough as nails and not easily bossed around. Emma has keen observation skills and is quick to notice the little things that many others overlook which helps her solve crimes. This book was full of action, adventure, suspense, mystery, danger, intrigue and even a bit of romance. Although this book can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the first two books in the series because they introduce the characters and lead up to Book Three. I highly recommend this book!

View all my reviews@TaraJohnsonBarnes