A review by tori2629
Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano

lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

A very fast lighthearted read in the realm of murder mysteries. Not bad, if you're not looking for anything too serious.

This book is a much lighter mystery/crime novel than I am used to reading. It's not exactly a romance novel, but it reads like one, and I'll admit, romance is not my favorite genre. There's no dark and gritty detective vibes, even around the serious events (ie. murder, blackmail, etc.) It's described as "funny" by many reviews. I personally didn't find it "laugh out loud" funny, but guess I can get why some would.

I think that overall, it is more character focused than plot. The actual driving mystery is not super strong. The investigations and subsequent resolution is played much more loosey-goosey than I am used to and there are a lot of "convenient solutions". I raised an eyebrow at more than a few lines, thinking "Wow. This would definitely not fly on Forensic Files, or even CSI...maybe not even Brooklyn 99...  " But, at the same time, Finlay's struggles with her kids, her ex, and her career were almost too realistic early on. Vero's superhuman ability to come in and save the day
to move in, take care of Finlay's kids, clean Finlay's house, organize her entire life, AND meet with would-be "clients" in just a few days!?
- was not as much. But hey, it's not that kind of book. I did like that as a duo, their relationship was pretty fun. The romance aspects I could take or leave.  I'll probably end up reading the other two books in the series, just to see what happens, but overall it was just alright for me. 
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