What a fun, twisty-turny mystery! I love Finlay and the balance between being an accidental detective and just a normal mom trying to potty train her toddler. Vero is quite possibly my favorite character ever written. Their interactions between her and Finlay are humorous and memorable. I also really enjoyed the cameos from past books. Very enjoyable!

When I started this book, I didn't realize it was part of a series and when I did eventually find out, it didn't make a difference. This book was perfectly enjoyable as a stand alone!

I really did enjoy the characters however, so I may go back and read the previous books now to see how Finlay got where she was when I found her. For the record she's a bit beat down but spunky and inquisitive and the kind of person you could see meeting and becoming fast friends with over a mystery novel or comparing notes about how annoying the nosy neighbor across the street is.

The story itself drew me in, I was pulled along through the whole book it's a somewhat traditional mystery story with modern elements (cell phones don't magically disappear) and they balance it all very well. By the end, I felt the story was sufficiently and satisfyingly wrapped up!

I listened to this book on audio and the narrator was excellent, she added pep to the story without at all detracting from it which is exactly what you want! She had the right tone all along and was easy to listen to.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan audio for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review.

How is it possible that every time I finish a book in this series I think it’s the best one ever?!? But seriously this one’s the best (for now) all our favorite characters and some new ones. Loved the kids were in this one more.

Could you read this as a standalone? Technically, yes but you would be missing so much. Do yourself a favor and start with book 1! You won’t be disappointed!!!

I LOVE this narrator! She is amazing!

Hilarious as expected. She does not disappoint. Wouldn't hate a tv show with Finlay, I think her irreverence would be incredibly popular!

Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave 👩🏻⛏️⛏️🪦🪦🪦🩷💜🩷

Thank you NetGalley for the Advanced copy!

Elle Cosimano delivers another wildly entertaining installment in the Finlay Donovan series, and Digs Her Own Grave does not disappoint! This book is a delightful mix of familiar faces, outrageous scenarios, and a mystery that keeps you hooked until the very end.

One of the best parts of returning to this series is reuniting with Finlay and her eccentric crew. From cranky old ladies to loyal (and often exasperated) friends, the cast of characters adds humor and heart to every twist and turn. The story moves at a perfect pace, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with a well-plotted, closed-door mystery that keeps the tension high.

The audiobook experience was fantastic—engaging, well-narrated, and impossible to pause. Cosimano knows how to blend comedy, suspense, and a touch of chaos into something truly special. If you’re a fan of Finlay’s previous adventures, you’ll love this one. Now, the countdown begins for the next book! Love the cliffhangers!

It was great to be back with Finlay and her chaos! While her life stresses me out, it also makes for great reads. The fast pace of the book combined with its humor, romance, and frequent dead bodies, made it the perfect read to follow lots of deep historical fiction. I appreciated that Mrs. Haggerty’s character is much further developed across this story and in by the end ends up rather likable. My biggest complaint are the inconsistencies about Loudoun County - if you’re going to set your story in a real place (where the author lives, no less!) it needs to be accurate! You don’t have to get on Rt 7 to go from South Riding to Broadlands (although it is true that traffic on 7 makes everyone late, it’s also too far north for both those locations) and Loudoun doesn’t have a police department, we have a sheriff’s department. Admittedly, finding these flaws did bring me a little bit of joy and a snicker, so we won’t hold it against her, but she should know better. Overall, exactly the read I was in the mood for! And an excellent audiobook as well, the narrator really makes the cast come to life. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!

This is one of my favorite series! I really enjoyed this chapter in the adventures of Finlay and Donovan. These characters are so enjoyable. I was happy to see a new plot line instead of continuing the Russian mob storyline. The ending has me at the edge of my seat waiting for the next installment. I hope it will include an explanation for why the hit man (previous books) thought Steven deserved to die..and also what the significance of that little black book is.

Finlay Donovan Digs her own Grave is the fifth installment of the series following Finlay, Vero, and all the trouble that finds them. Even if it’s outlandish, I think this series is so fun! I really enjoyed this new story line. I love the glimpses of family life and the romances throughout the story. As usual, this book had me laughing out loud. The narration of this book is great and keeps me entertained. I can’t wait to see what’s next!

Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave is a solid addition to Elle Cosimano's series, delivering another enjoyable and easy read for fans. In this installment, Finlay and Vero find themselves embroiled in another mystery when a body is discovered in their neighbor's yard. The story brings back familiar banter and storylines reminiscent of the first two books, which many readers will appreciate. While perhaps not as rollicking as earlier installments, the book offers a satisfying blend of humor and suspense as Finlay works to clear her ex-husband's name and keep her past from being exposed. The dynamic between Finlay and Vero remains a highlight, with their friendship and partnership at the forefront. Overall, it's a fun and engaging read for those already invested in the series.

The Finlay Donovan Series in one I've truly enjoyed. I love the consistent characters and their personalities. Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave has Finlay trying to clear Steven's name as he is accused of killing and burying a man in her neighbor's backyard. A previous love interest appears to help her out which brings in a fun twist. It is definitely worth it to listen to the audiobook. Great narration. Highly recommended!

Finlay is back and better than ever! After the last book, I worried that Finlay had nowhere else to go, but I was wrong. Finlay and Vero are back and they have added nosy neighbor, Mrs. Haggerty! Really, I think this is one of the author's great gifts; she continues to evolve Finlay and her world while also delivering an engaging storyline. I also love how she is letting Finlay and Nick develop as both individual characters and as a couple. Based on how things were unfolding, I was worried this was going to be the end of the series, but I am already looking forward to the next installment.


I listened to this book on audio and I forgot that the narrator for this series has what sounds like a pronounced Canadian/midwestern accent. Given that the books indicate that Finlay has never lived outside Northern Virginia, I find this distracting.

Thank you for the ARC, NetGalley! What a treat!

Couldn't get through this fast enough but also wanted to slow down. This is the sort of story I need right now (but honestly, all the time..)
I love the writing style and the absurdness of it all. The relationships that Finlay builds are just fun.
The narrator crushed it.


After reading this, I am going to head out and buy the full series and start rereading because I just think this is such a fun, light series.

I love this series and loved this book! I had really high expectations because FF rolls the dice was my favorite in the series so far. I will admit, it did start off slow for me. I felt like it did take a while to get to the actual mystery of the book, but i didn’t mind it because it was nice to get a refresher of everything that happened. It had been a long time since I read the last book, but everything came together nicely. I loved Mrs. H relationship with Cam and the kids, and I’m now finding it hard to choose between team nick and team Julian! I cannot wait for book 6!

Another amazing addition to the Finlay Donovan series! I absolutely love the twists and turns- I saw some things coming and others completely surprised me. Vero never ceases to get a laugh from me!

Another great installment in this series. I liked the new story with the older neighbor and Finlay’s husband. The way they get dragged into investigating more murders. I also liked the stories with her kids. Things were just funny and a little bit ridiculous. And of course there the little hint of romance she has. Which is fun. Looking forward to what comes next.

Thx Macmillan audio for the early copy.

I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the audio version. I really enjoyed this book. It was a great murder mystery and all the characters were so funny, I found myself laughing a bunch of times. The writing is very witty, fast and sharp. I would read from this author again!

Elle Cosimano's "Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave" is a delightful addition to the beloved Finlay Donovan series, seamlessly blending humor, mystery, and the complexities of suburban life. In this fifth installment, Finlay Donovan, a mystery writer and single mother, finds herself entangled in yet another perplexing situation alongside her steadfast partner-in-crime, Vero.

The story kicks off when their nosy neighbor, Mrs. Haggerty, discovers a dead body in her backyard. Cleared as a suspect but displaced from her home due to the ongoing investigation, Mrs. Haggerty seeks refuge with Finlay. Reluctantly, Finlay and Vero agree, hoping to avoid further complications. However, the situation intensifies when Finlay's ex-husband, Steven, becomes a person of interest in the case. Determined to protect their secrets and uncover the truth, Finlay and Vero delve into a web of neighborhood intrigue, unearthing hidden motives and unexpected alliances.

Cosimano masterfully crafts a narrative filled with witty dialogue, engaging characters, and a plot that keeps readers guessing. The dynamic between Finlay and Vero is as entertaining as ever, showcasing their unwavering friendship amidst chaos. Mrs. Haggerty's expanded role adds depth and humor, enriching the story further.

"Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave" is a testament to Cosimano's ability to blend suspense with comedy, delivering a story that's both thrilling and heartwarming. Fans of the series will find this installment particularly satisfying, while newcomers will be eager to explore Finlay's earlier adventures.

A heartfelt thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader's copy of this engaging novel. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.

Listening to the audiobook version of Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave by Elle Cosimano was an engaging and thoroughly entertaining experience. Narrated by the talented Angela Dawe, the audiobook brings the quirky and suspenseful world of Finlay Donovan to life with flair.

Angela Dawe’s narration is a standout feature, as she effortlessly captures the distinct personalities of each character, adding depth and humor to the story. Her dynamic voice work keeps listeners hooked, making it easy to follow the twists and turns of the plot.

The story itself is a delightful mix of mystery, humor, and drama. Finlay Donovan and her partner-in-crime, Vero, find themselves entangled in yet another murder investigation when a body is discovered in their neighbor’s backyard. The plot is filled with unexpected developments and witty dialogue, making for a highly enjoyable listen.

While the audiobook is a fantastic experience overall, there are moments where the pacing feels a bit uneven. Some sections move quickly, while others slow down, which can be slightly jarring. However, this does not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the story.

Elle Cosimano’s writing shines through in this installment, with well-crafted characters and a plot that balances suspense and humor perfectly. The audiobook format enhances the experience, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in Finlay’s chaotic and adventurous life.

Overall, Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave is a must-listen for fans of the series and anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a comedic twist. Angela Dawe’s exceptional narration and Cosimano’s engaging storytelling make this audiobook a highly recommended addition to your listening library.

Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for sending me this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

Finlay Donovan is back!! This is the first audiobook I listened to in the series and I absolutely loved it. The story is a fast paced mystery with a humorous and witty tone (I couldn't stop giggling). The twists and turns make you want to binge the book in one sitting. This is the perfect cozy mystery and I cannot wait to read the book as well, this is by far my favorite in the series. The narrator Angela Dawe is awesome, she did a great job of bringing the personalities of these characters to life.

3🌟

Thank you netgalley for the arc!

A fun continuous of the series, which has been hit or miss previously. I enjoyed the pace, and always appreciate a cozy mystery. I'm not a huge fan of the romance and some of the descriptions threw me off. I'm unsure if I will continue with the series going forwards, but it's always good as a cozy, filler book.