Scan barcode
midnightpoison13's review
5.0
This book is just as good as the first. Also Vero's secrets coming to life added great drama. This was such an easy read and I need more!
easl19's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
daniecole03's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
beckreads's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
kiminindy's review
2.0
I read the first one and liked it so thought I'd read the second one. It was definitely not as good and it was a little confusing to follow. I probably won't read anymore of these.
booksnapsandcatnaps's review against another edition
dark
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
"Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead" by Elle Cosimano was a bit of a mixed bag for me. While I enjoyed the first book's perfect blend of dark humor and quirky mystery, this one didn't quite hit the mark.
One thing that stayed consistent, though, was Cosimano's quality writing. The snappy and engaging dialogue kept me hooked despite my other gripes.
Speaking of gripes, Steven, Finlay's ex, took up way too much space in this book. I wanted more focus on Finlay herself, not her tumultuous relationship with Steven.
In the first book, Finlay reacts to a situation she stumbles into, which makes her actions more relatable. However, she actively chose to take needless risks, which didn't quite land for me.
The story also felt a bit cluttered, with too many subplots. The Julian drama, in particular, felt out of place and took away from the cozy mystery vibe I expected.
One bright spot was the development of Vero's character. We got some tantalizing hints about her past, but I was left wanting more. I hope the next book dives deeper into her story because she's a character with a lot of potential.
Overall, "Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead" didn't quite meet my expectations, but it's still a decent read if you're a fan of the series. Here's hoping the next installment brings back the magic of the first book!
One thing that stayed consistent, though, was Cosimano's quality writing. The snappy and engaging dialogue kept me hooked despite my other gripes.
Speaking of gripes, Steven, Finlay's ex, took up way too much space in this book. I wanted more focus on Finlay herself, not her tumultuous relationship with Steven.
In the first book, Finlay reacts to a situation she stumbles into, which makes her actions more relatable. However, she actively chose to take needless risks, which didn't quite land for me.
The story also felt a bit cluttered, with too many subplots. The Julian drama, in particular, felt out of place and took away from the cozy mystery vibe I expected.
One bright spot was the development of Vero's character. We got some tantalizing hints about her past, but I was left wanting more. I hope the next book dives deeper into her story because she's a character with a lot of potential.
Overall, "Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead" didn't quite meet my expectations, but it's still a decent read if you're a fan of the series. Here's hoping the next installment brings back the magic of the first book!
a_reflective_reader's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Fun second book. Love the ridiculousness of the plot 😆and the characters.
paular53's review
adventurous
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0