What a lovely stressful funny sad story! Finlay is so down on her luck you don’t know how she’ll get out of the mess she finds herself in. Elle Cosimano has you guessing until the end on how Ginlay will fair. I’m so excited to read the next four in this series and find out what shenanigans Finlay gets into to break writers block.

The first in a popular series, FINLAY DONOVAN IS KILLING IT, introduces readers to a writer/murder-for-hire/desperate divorcé that uses her strange experiences to solve her writer’s block. Author Elle Cosimano writes a breezy, funny, bizarre tale of how to make money when nothing else appeals. Love interests and unexpected details drive the plot as Finlay establishes herself as best she can post-divorce. I read this book as an introduction to the series. But it’s not quite my cup of tea. I received my copy from the publisher through Netgalley.

The first book in the Finlay Donovan Series and it did not disappoint. A stressed-out mother and novelists gets tangled up in a real-life murder investigation and realizes that she would rather stick to the fictional crime.

Giving this 5 stars because I just really enjoyed the funny plot twists and the main character getting tangled up in a murder mystery (I mean, accidentally getting in the mess of mafia business would be terrifying)but I really enjoyed the woven storyline and the untangling of information along the way. Comic relief, budding romance post-divorce, loving family characters and a devoted sidekick, plus dogs and Panera throughout. Just fun!

eARC gifted by NetGalley. This was such an enjoyable little romp. So easy to binge in one sitting. If anyone tries to come at this book calling it unrealistic
1) it’s fiction
2) the entire point of the cozy mystery sub genre is that it’s supposed to be an unlikely hero with no experience solving the crime.
This silly heroine just happens to also be the murderer lol

"Finlay Donovan Is Killing It" has officially made me a die-hard fan of this series—I can’t wait to dive into book 2! This was pure, unfiltered fun from start to finish. Somehow, it manages to be laugh-out-loud hilarious while also nailing the suspense. How does Elle Cosimano do it? I have no idea, but I’m hooked.

Here’s the deal: Finlay Donovan is a single mom, a struggling writer, and a pro at barely keeping it together. She’s got writer’s block, bills piling up, and a custody battle with her jerk of an ex-husband. Things go completely off the rails when she has a lunch meeting at Panera with her agent, Sylvia, to brainstorm her next thriller. In a totally bonkers twist, someone overhears their conversation and mistakes Finlay for a hitwoman. Yes, you read that right. A HITWOMAN. What follows is chaos, comedy, and a whole lot of trouble as Finlay, desperate to make ends meet, decides to at least look into the “job” offer. (Because why not, right?)

Enter Vero, her ex-nanny and new partner-in-crime. These two are hilarious together. Vero is the ride-or-die bestie Finlay didn’t know she needed, and their dynamic is full of sass, snark, and surprisingly sweet moments. Together, they navigate one wild situation after another—think botched plans, near-misses, and a whole lot of WTF moments. It’s ridiculous in the best way possible.

There’s also a sprinkle of romance to keep things extra interesting, and the ending drops a major bombshell that has me itching to start the next book ASAP. If you’re into fast-paced plots, over-the-top fun, and twists you won’t see coming, this is your next read. Seriously, go grab it. Finlay Donovan is a vibe, and I am 100% here for it.

Thank you St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books and Elle Cosimano for the gifted ebook arc. All opinions expressed are my own.

Ever wonder what would happen if an suspense author becomes an accidental hitwoman? Well if you have then Finlay Donovan is Killing it is the book for you. Because it tackles that very question with humor.

This is a fun story about a woman who is so financially desperate that she explores a murder-for-hire scheme and gets caught up in a crazy set of events surrounding the subject! The story kept me reading even though I didn't like Finlay are first because of her poor decision making and several moments that are way too improbable. In the end, I think I will try the sequel and see how it goes!

Finlay Donovan is an icon. The humor in this book is unmatched and the plot is so different from the type of books that I normally read. I cannot wait to continue reading this series!

In retrospect, this has the same "feel" as Janet Evanovich's "One for the Money." Our heroine is a loveable somewhat incompetent goofball. She should be dead/in prison/disabled for life/running for her life/all of the above in the first fifteen minutes but instead she is insanely lucky and things work out for the best in the end. If you like the loveable goofball trope, you will love this book. If, however, you get tired of someone who doesn't learn from her mistakes, this may become tiring to read.

I have been wanting to read this series and I’m so glad I did! Each Finlay Donovan book is full of shenanigans and humor with a mystery that keeps you guessing along the way. Miscommunication cause a heap of trouble for single mom Finlay.
I hope they never stop making this series! Many thanks to the author, St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

3.5 stars. The first Finlay Donovan book was funny, witty, and wonderfully chaotic! It had a Good Girls vibe with its blend of humor and crime, making for an entertaining and engaging read. Perfect if you enjoy a mix of laugh-out-loud moments and suspense!

A friend recommended this series to me, having read it as it came out. When I was offered the opportunity to review the series before the latest is released, I jumped at the chance. Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano is wild and frenetic in its storytelling, throwing so much into every page it left me in a whirlwind. But, it adds to the charm for this first book in the series, letting me relate to the chaos our protagonist lives with daily.

The initial setup for the mystery seemed simple. Desperate for money and a misunderstood conversation prompting a possible murder for hire. Things quickly go off the rails. This was full of humor and hijinks, with a wild sidekick (whom I understand the necessity of, but STRONGLY dislike.) Most of the other characters are great. I loved the bartender/law student Julian, but I don’t see how it can work longterm. Not only does he feel too young, but he and Finlay met under nefarious circumstances. Hell, he didn’t know her real name until much later. Now, Detective Nick? Delicious. I love him. I want to see more of him. Though, I don’t know how that will work considering Finlay’s escapades.

The crimes were interesting but I honestly didn’t buy the explanation for one of them. How did he just know where to go and what to do and the specifics? It didn’t make sense. It also seemed just too wildly coincidental, but this is a comedic mystery. Things never get too deep and despite the murder, things feel light.

Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano is a chaotic debut to a new series. Having already delved into the second book, I will say if you’re put off by how crazy things are in this first book, stick with it! It gets SO much better! If you like contemporary literature and cozy mysteries but want something lighter, funnier, with a strong focus on trying to find a work life balance as a newly single mother of two, this is absolutely the book for you!

I very much enjoyed this book. It had me laughing right from the start, which is never bad. Finlay is a relatable mess which made me like her from the start. Is the situation in the book realistic? Nah... its fiction. However, it is fast moving, humorous, and as unlikely as this is to happen to someone in real life, you can still imagine it happening as one accidentally rolls their way through life, one oops at a time. I hope the rest of the series is as enjoyable. I needed a good laugh recently and this sure provided it. If you're looking for a laugh and a break and like murder mysteries... I'd recommend it.

What a unique way to setup a mystery novel! I enjoyed the journey and the humor added into the story.

This cozy mystery was a fun read. Parts of it were over the top but I eagerly went along for the ride and enjoyed it from start to finish.

Finlay was someone I could relate to at times and root for, and shake my head at during other crazy moments. Things really took off once Vero joined in. Julian’s entrance into the story made me immediately want to see more of him, and the chemistry with Nick was fire. I liked the complexity of the romances and watching Finlay rediscover herself.

The only thing I didn’t like was how Finlay and her ex used the kids at times for their battles. And yes, I see the irony of enjoying a contract killing story and yet objecting to the parenting missteps.

I look forward to the next book in series. The epilogue provided a great hook!

Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the gifted backlog ARC to allow me to catch up in series before the newest release, Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave.

This is my first Elle Cosimano book and I regret not getting into it the first time it published because now I am hooked! I love how funny and determined Finlay is as a character. Love the suspense and the plot twists for this book. Can't wait to read the rest of the series!

Overall fun book that was a light enjoyable read . If you need a palette cleanser between other books
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for letting me review the book

Elle Cosimano’s Finlay Donovan Is Killing It is a delightful whirlwind of humor, suspense, and unexpected twists. The novel brilliantly merges the charm of a domestic mystery with the chaos of an accidental crime caper, making it a standout in the mystery genre.

The story follows Finlay Donovan, a struggling single mom and mystery writer whose life is spiraling out of control. Between juggling childcare, battling writer’s block, and dealing with an ex-husband who is as infuriating as he is unhelpful, Finlay’s plate is already full. When a casual lunch conversation about her latest novel is overheard and misconstrued, Finlay finds herself mistakenly hired as a hitwoman—a job she’s certainly not qualified for but can’t easily escape.

Cosimano’s writing shines with wit and razor-sharp humor, delivering laugh-out-loud moments while keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Finlay is an endearing and relatable protagonist, and her misadventures as she navigates motherhood, murder-for-hire, and a budding romantic subplot make for an irresistible combination. The supporting characters, including Finlay’s no-nonsense nanny, Vero, add depth and comedic relief to the narrative.

The novel masterfully balances its comedic elements with genuine suspense. Cosimano keeps the stakes high with a cleverly plotted mystery, ensuring that each twist feels fresh and unexpected. The pacing is brisk, making it difficult to put the book down once you’ve started.

Finlay Donovan Is Killing It is a wildly entertaining read that blends sharp humor with an engaging mystery. It’s perfect for fans of Janet Evanovich or readers looking for a lighthearted yet thrilling escape. Cosimano’s ability to infuse relatability into an outlandish premise makes this book an absolute gem.

Rating: 5/5

This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a quirky, fast-paced mystery with a heart. Finlay Donovan’s chaotic, lovable charm ensures you’ll be eagerly reaching for the next installment.

It is so much fun to read the first book in an established series and realize that there are so many more books already published with these characters! I really enjoyed this romp and was rooting for Finlay. What would you do if someone thought you were a murderer for hire and offers to hire you and pay you enough money to make most of your problems disappear? I loved the characters in this story and it was a great quick read! I can't wait to read the rest of the series!