Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve entirely enjoyed the Notebook Mysteries series and it just made me happy to pick up a book and go sleuthing with Emma and her gang! Book 4 is definitely my favorite out of the series! The maturity of Emma’s character and her sleuthing skills comes full circle in my view! Previously she always had to have a hand in what was going on, but as she grows older she learns to take a step back! (I feel this is very realistic and relatable!)Her hard work is definitely paying off with that she is getting noticed and making headway for women that aren’t domestic! GO EMMA! The relationships within this book, both platonic and romantic are the type we should strive for: supportive, communicative, and trusting. This took the character’s time, but I loved their journey here! I truly enjoyed the plot twists and turns she places throughout her novel but sometimes I find myself asking why did this go here? (This is most likely a reader/distracted with a toddler issue) The writing is amazing throughout, and the world just envelopes you from beginning to end! The author exposes the YA Reader to the history of the late 19th century with a twist of modernism and creates a story that is intriguing and enjoyable in some of the roughest times of the period.

The start of the novel is the best beginning to date for me! You are hurled into action, and intrigue, and just like Emma trying to take stock of what on Earth is going on!! The late 1880s are seeing Emma just grow into her skill set and the reader just can’t put this book down when she is on the case! I had to reread the last couple of pages of the previous book, but it had no connection. The way the author writes you definitely feel Emma’s emotions during this novel (as well as in previous) from frustrating to surprising situations her cases turn to the new figure that has brought drama into their lives! From trains to knife fights against the odds to kidnapping to thievery cases we see how the gang maneuvers to ensure the success of the case. I found absolute delight in the back story of Ellis and Cole, with Ellis being involved in possible intrigue! I don’t know why but it was one of my favorite bits of the novel! The whole group dynamic is tested in this novel, and you can just feel the intensity of staking claims and testing boundaries through all the characters!

Highspeed Trains, Knife fights, cases that bring drama for everyone, family drama what can make for a better novel?! NOTHING! Please read this series and enjoy!

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