ARC Review
Book: "Lucky Break" by Jaclyn Westlake
Release Date: July 15, 2025
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Review: If you love cozy mysteries with a touch of romance, this book is for you! It's the perfect balance of intrigue and heart without the heavy suspense of typical thrillers. Plus, the slow-burning romance adds a lovely layer to the story.

Eliza has always been the planner, meticulously mapping out every step of her life. But when things go off course, she finds herself feeling lost. Hoping to reconnect with her true self, she moves to a new state, where everything seems perfect-until she discovers that her new friends might not be as transparent as they appear. "Lucky Break" weaves together mystery, romance, and small-town charm in a way that feels both heartwarming and captivating. The author's descriptions made me feel like I was right there on the lake, or enjoying a bear claw with Eliza at the local bakery.

What I liked best: As a fan of thrillers, it was refreshing to dive into a cozy mystery like this one. The mystery itself was intriguing, with plenty of twists, but the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. The romance was subtle yet sweet, developing naturally alongside the plot.

Thank you to @jaclyn_writing and @netgalley for

This was such a strong mystery novel, it had that element that I was looking for and enjoyed going from page to page. The characters had that element that I was looking for and enjoyed how they worked in this universe. Jaclyn Westlake has a strong writing style and was glad I got to read this.

Thank you to Net Galley for providing me with this ARC.

I love the premise of Lucky Break, but did not like it as much as I’d hoped that I would have. It does do well in creating representation and inclusion within the book which was great to read.

The setting follows Eliza as she relocates to Juneberry Lake after breaking up with her fiancé. This is the perfect hallmark town that she’d always imagined. As she gets to know the people, she quickly realizes there are secrets everyone is holding onto including herself.

As far as feedback goes, there were too many plot lines at once. The varying plot lines the book a little hard to follow and remember as things kept happening back to back. I think this had the potential to be a serious following the side characters we meet and their development. After reading, I was still left with some questions especially regarding Erica. The plot felt resolved but also not. I really did enjoy the idea of Eliza relocating to find herself within this “hallmark” town. But again, there was a lot going on and I almost wish it stuck to two plot lines so that it could have been better flushed out.

What to love….
- cozy small town
- low stakes mystery
- romantic subplot
- found family
- animal companions
- LGBTQIA+ rep
- fertility struggle representation/grief

What I didn’t love…
- the stakes were very very low for this mystery, which may work for some but I felt a bit let down at the big reveal
- I wanted the romance to be more front and center and was a bit let down but this could be a plus for those who like less romance

Overall there was nothing particularly wrong with this book but personally I was a bit bored. I like my mystery stakes a little higher and my plot to move a little faster.

Thank you NetGalley and Avon for sending this book (eARC) for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Jaclyn Westlake’s debut novel, DEAR DOTTY, was a 5⭐️ read for me last year. Her talent for crafting interesting, captivating, authentic characters was impressive. DEAR DOTTY was simultaneously insightful, relatable, heartwarming, and hilarious and made me an instant fan. I eagerly awaited her next book and literally squealed with glee at the opportunity to read an advance copy. I’m not surprised that she has, once again, delivered a book that spoke directly to my heart.

LUCKY BREAK works on many levels. On the surface, it’s the story of Eliza Colletti who makes the unexpected decision to uproot her established San Francisco life and relocate to a tiny lake community in Minnesota. There are great storylines related to romance, friendship, and found family. There’s a bit of mystery, a cozy small town vibe, lovable characters, and very special furry creatures. It is funny, genuine, and entertaining. The references to Midwestern life and loud (READ: loving) Italian families are an added bonus.

It is also much, much deeper. It is a story of recovering from profound grief, dealing with the soul crushing loss of a long held dream, learning to love and accept oneself, and having the courage to take a chance. Ms. Westlake gets so many things right - feelings, emotions, fears, challenges, and joys - and she does it in a way that is uplifting and hopeful. LUCKY BREAK speaks to the resilience and strength we find within ourselves and the support we get from family, both the ones we are born into and the ones we choose.

Put this book on your radar. Mark your calendar for July 15, 2025 and grab it as soon as it’s released. You will find much to love in this brilliant, contemporary novel. BRAVA!!!

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for my unbiased review.