Book Review: FINLAY DONOVAN IS KILLING IT by Elle Cosimano

Picture of the book FINLAY-DONOVAN-IS-KILLING-IT on nature's floor

FINLAY DONOVAN IS KILLING IT

Author: Elle Cosimano
Year: 2021
Edition: 2022 Paperback
Pages: 355
Genre: Mystery
Additional info: #1 of the Finlay Donovan series

Summary

Finlay Donovan is killing it… except, she’s really not. As a stressed-out single mom of two and a struggling novelist, Finlay finds her life in chaos. 

 

When Finlay is overheard discussing the plot of her new suspense novel with her agent over lunch, she’s mistaken for a contract killer and inadvertently accepts an offer to dispose of a problem husband. Finlay soon discovers that crime in real life is a lot more difficult than its fictional counterpart as she becomes tangled in a murder investigation.

 

Fast-paced, deliciously witty, and wholeheartedly authentic in depicting the frustrations and triumphs of motherhood, Finlay Donovan is Killing It is the first in a brilliant new series from award-winning author Elle Cosimano.

 

 

Why I chose to read this book
I saw this book on a fall reading recommendation list on Instagram. As a mother, the summary certainly spoke to me and the fact that it was the first in a series excited me; I was looking forward to starting a brand new series of mystery books. 

 

 

Thoughts & Opinions

Finlay Donovan Is Killing It was such an entertaining read! I can definitely see this turned into a dark comedy movie because it truly is that hilarious. The main character, Finlay, is completely unhinged. Within the first few pages, I got a sense of who she is and how chaotic her life is. We are also introduced to her ex-husband Steve, who is so easy to hate, what a jerk! The other characters are also all compelling and unique. 

 

The plot is incredibly ridiculous, it would never be plausible in real life – at least, I hope not. You really need to let go of logic and sanity, and just embrace the wild and absurd ride. Detach yourself from reality as you embark on Finlay’s messy journey through motherhood, divorce, debt, and much more. 

 

 

“I’d learned two very important lessons having a sister for a cop. One, you can find almost anyone on the internet. And two, you’re more likely to get caught committing crimes in your own home than in plain sight. Which is why I was committing mine in my local library.”
- Elle Cosimano, Finlay Donovan Is Killing It

 

Some of the developments in the story were predictable as Finlay always makes the worst possible choices. A lot of her decisions are prefaced with “before I could change my mind”, well maybe she should have changed her mind! But then we wouldn’t have a story at all. Other developments, however, I was not expecting at all, so it definitely keeps you on your toes. 

 

Overall, it was highly amusing and I enjoyed the sprinkles of romance. Never thought I would describe a murder-mystery novel in such a way. I promptly added the next book in the series – Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead – to my Amazon Wish List.

 

 

Discussion Points

  • Have you read this book? If so, what did you think?
  • What is your favorite mystery series?
  • I’d love to discuss this book with you in the comments below, looking forward to reading you!
  • Which book should I review next?
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1 thought on “Book Review: FINLAY DONOVAN IS KILLING IT by Elle Cosimano”

  1. anonymous_comment

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