WITHOUT A CLUE by MELISSA FERGUSON is a romcom which moves from laugh out loud to chilling moments, with a murderer at large, a member of The Magnificent Seven writers’ club, which Penelope Mae Dupont, commonly known as Pip, and cowboy story writer heartthrob Nash Eyre, take it upon themselves to solve, when two murders occur in the middle of the Atlantic on the club’s Inaugural Book Cruise. We see Pip, who has been Hugh’s assistant for years, using her knowledge of his murder mysteries, for which she has been very involved in research, to uncover this mystery.
The story is exciting and will keep you on your toes as you try and work out whivh of the decidedly unusual authors is responsible for the murders. The characters are very interesting, to say the least!
I highly recommend this most enjoyable and fun fun read.
I was given free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

Romance and comedy and mystery all in one book. Penelope is the assistant of of famous mystery author Hugh. She organizes a book cruise with 7 beselling authors... Until Hugh is found dead with no help... She gets help[ from Nash, Western author, to solve the murder..

Love this book. Nash is swoony and Penelope is a terrific character. Enjoy the banter and the chemistry a lot. Lots of LOL scenes too.

Thanks to the publisher for the arc.

I think that this will be my favorite story ever!! By Ferguson of course!
This book was so fun to read and it kept me turning the pages too.
I love book settings on ships! Ive been fascinated with ships since I was 14. I enjoyed this cruise to the fullest!! Lol it was a wonderful adventure!
I couldn't help laughing at times as the characters tried to solve this mystery!
Ferguson has done a fantastic job in keeping us guessing all the way through.
Only thing is I didn't really care for the writing style. I don't like the here and now. But it really lifted my spirits. I had a good laugh.
The cover of this book is so cute that I knew I had to grab it. I felt like I was on board helping to solve the mystery and had fun doing it.
Im still giving this book 5 stars though.
For drawing me in and helping the characters along the way.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
I'll be thinking about this book for a while.

An entertaining combination of slow burn romance and locked room mystery. Full of humor, romance and suspense. I loved the characters. So relatable and fun. The mystery is well crafted with some twists and red herrings.

This mystery, full of vividly drawn characters, is a fun, screwball, workplace comedy with a dash of romance. Our heroine is the assistant to an extremely successful mystery writer who has a group of colleagues called "The Magnificent Seven.' Each of these writers is in a different genre, but they have banded together to support one another's' work and function as a found family. When her boss is murdered on a writers' cruise in a very accommodating ship, the seven are the prime suspect. With the additional murder of the head security officer, she endeavors to solve the murders herself with the help of the smokin' hot western writer of the group that she has been crushing on for years. The pacing is terrific, the setting makes me want to get on a boat now, but the real charm of the book is the way the characters interact. And when all is revealed and everything comes together for a very satisfying ending, it is well earned. The romance is a little too easy - girl out of an extremely bad breakup finds confidence with a damn near perfect cowboy - it is charming and, you know, we're all rooting for those crazy kids to make it work. This book was a delight.

I love all of Melissa’s books and pick them up and this was different from any of her books that she usually write but in a good way . This is a mystery ( clue , who did it murder mystery )
I like to change genre’s between book romance and mystery and thrillers so this was a good change I really liked it and I highly recommend it and when this comes out really think people should pick up a cope as well.
Thank you NetGalley and publishers for the arc

This is my favorite Melissa Ferguson book so far and that is saying a lot as I have loved her other books. I love that it is a mystery but also a clean romance mixed in with it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was hilarious, romantic and so, so fun! I absolutely adored the balance of murder mystery with romance. Melissa Ferguson always writes swoony romances in more novel settings and this one was fantastic. The twists, the turns! I loved that we had every type of character, some genuine and heartwarming character development from just about everyone, and I would eat up a whole series about every single one of the Seven!

Ferguson wove the mystery so effortlessly through the romance that you would never have guessed what was what. This should be a new genre - I'd read every last book.

Penelope "Pip" Dupont has a job as the personal assistant to Hugh, a famous mystery author. Hugh has joined forces with six other writers, all who write in different genres, and together they are known as the Magnificent Seven. They cleverly support and market for each other, as they are not in direct competition with their individual genres. As the book opens, Pip has organized an author cruise for book fans. On the first day of the cruise, Hugh is found dead, murdered. Pip must use all she has learned as the PA for a mystery writer to find and reveal the murderer. There is a romance woven in to this story, and lots of lighthearted humor, making this a really fun mystery to read.

Penelope, the plucky and long-suffering assistant to famous mystery author Hugh Griffin is hoping to have a fun work trip.

She’s organized the inaugural book cruise for the Magnificent Seven, a motley group of authors ranging the genres from historical fiction to thrillers. But soon after boarding, her boss is found murdered. Now in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, with a killer on the loose, they each battle paranoia while racing to find the culprit.

When the cruise police don’t seem up to snuff, Penelope decides to lead an investigation of her own. Assisting her in her amateur sleuth role is her favorite of the Magnificent Seven- Nash- a writer of Western books who she’s always felt a deep connection to. Having recently broken up with her toxic ex, she is finally able to explore her feelings for Nash, but now she doesn’t know if she can trust him because everyone is a suspect until they solve the mystery.

This fun romance novel has something for every one - a large and vibrant cast of characters, a bookish storyline, a cozy locked door mystery, a slow burn love story, comedy and a dash of thrills.

I had such a great time reading this book! It pulled me in right from the start and kept me turning the pages. The writing flowed so well, and I found myself completely invested in the story and characters. It’s one of those reads you just don’t want to put down.
huge thanks to the publisher for sending me an early copy!! I’m so glad I got to read it ahead of the release day and can't wait for the world to get to enjoy it too!!

Penelope sometimes wants to kill her beloved boss, famed mystery author Hugh. But when he's discovered murdered in his cabin with the most likely suspects the equally famous and fawned over fellow writers in his writing group ("The Magnificent Seven") she decides to become sleuth not suspect. Dreamy cowboy and Western writer Nash steps in to help and keep her safe, but even with her attraction to him, it's hard not to view everyone as a threat.

This book has everything but the kitchen sink--and I think I liked it. Celebrity authors? Check. Locked room mystery on a cruise ship? Check. Handsome cowboy love interest? Check. Plucky amateur detective heroine? Check. It has pretty much everything I like in a book. The ending--and let's be real, most of the plot--is extremely far-fetched, and requires some suspension of disbelief. I also didn't love the solution to everything, but I can't say too much more without spoiling things, and I didn't hate it, either. But gosh darn, I did enjoy the journey. It was just a fun romp of a book.

Thanks to Thomas Nelson for my eARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.

5 stars - 8/10

I really enjoyed reading this book! The characters were top notch and very relatable, and the plot was interesting and kept my attention. I would absolutely recommend this to others!

This was my first novel by Melissa Ferguson and I throughly enjoyed this book. The main character Penelope (Pip) is the assistant of a world famous mystery author, who also helps the other authors in an exclusive group called The Magnificent Seven. The story takes place on a book cruise ship experience for fans to interact with the authors of The Magnificent Seven, but things take a grave turn when Pip discovers a member of The Magnificent Seven has been killed in their sleep.
With several days until the ship will see land again, and a rather incompetent security team, Pip decides to take the investigating into her own hands, with the help of Nash Eyre, member of The Magnificent Seven.

The characters in this book and they way their interactions are written is wonderful, particularly that of Pip and Nash. The characters are vibrant and written with depth and relatability. The growing romance between Pip and Nash is so well written, the way it grows alongside their investigation is really interesting and fun. There’s a great mixture of mystery and laugh out loud moments, I thought I had figured out who the murderer was but I could not have seen that ending coming, the sign of a brilliant mystery novel. Although the ending was unexpected, it was also satisfying for a mystery novel.

I’m looking forward to reading more of Melissa Ferguson’s books, and highly recommend Without a Clue for lovers of cosy mystery, sweet romance, and laugh out loud moments in their novels.

Melissa Ferguson delivers a delightful, laugh-out-loud clean mystery with a splash of romance in Without a Clue. Set aboard a luxury cruise ship, the story introduces a vibrant cast of characters and an irresistible whodunit that keeps readers guessing.
Penelope Mae Dupont—better known as “Pip”—has organized an exclusive book-themed cruise featuring seven bestselling authors, each slated to lead a workshop. But the voyage takes a dark turn on day two when Hugh, one of the authors and Pip’s boss, is found dead.
With the ship’s security team proving utterly useless, Pip takes matters into her own hands. She teams up with Nash, a charming western novelist, and together they dive into amateur sleuthing. Their investigation uncovers suspicious clues—including knives in the possession of several authors—and plenty of dead ends. The fact that they’re at sea only adds to the tension and chaos.
Ferguson masterfully blends humor, mystery, and romance in a fast-paced plot that’s as clever as it is entertaining. If you’re looking for a cozy mystery with quirky characters and high-seas hijinks, this one’s a gem. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and comments are mine.

What a fun bookish murder mystery!

Pip is a literary assistant to one of the Magnificent 7, a group of authors from each genre who support each other and dominate the bestseller charts. While on a literary cruise, her boss Hugh is found murdered. They have many more days at sea, and the security team is doing a lack-luster job of investigating, so Pip takes matters into her own hands to see who on board would have the motivation and means to murder Hugh.

Pip is such a dynamic character, really showcasing many different emotions and facets throughout, and while the investigation is the core of the story, her perspective and development was my favorite part.

Her friendship and changing dynamic with Nash, the western author of the Magnificent 7, adds just enough romance into the story without overtaking the mystery vibes of it all.

This was a fantastic read that has the perfect modern murder mystery vibes.

Thank you for the ARC, all opinions are my own.

I'm a huge fan of Melissa Ferguson books, so when I stumbled upon her unpublicised new book on netgallery, 'excited' was one way to put it. I was completely not expecting a murder mystery from her, and while I still think it's an odd jump from her usual genre I'm not only so glad that she did, but she's managed to do it in a style that's so 'Melissa' that it seems perfectly her. It's got her style of writing, fun, bookish, quirky characters (the quirkiest yet), but it's so vastly different from any of her other work.

Things you will love -

🔍 The romance is full of sweet chemistry and adorable (guys he's waited for her, he's pinnnnning 🥹), but also healthy and doesn't overtake the whole book. After reading enough romances, you can usually tell immediately when we've met the FMC's love interest. I like that in this book you can't, especially if, like me, it's been a while since you read the blurb. I'm a romance lover but I do like in Melissa's books that the romance is a secondary element to the main storyline, which is a nice breakaway from the typical romance or romcom.

🔍 While not Christian fiction, Melissa is a Christian and there are lots of little phrases from Scripture thoughout that those who know the Bible will smile at.

🔍 In Pips healing/realisation revlations towards the middle of the book, Melissa so beautifully (without the heart wrench) describes what it's like being with *that guy* who will always make you out to be the worst and feel the worst, and it was oddly (and sadly) touching to read about a character whose gone through it so exactly relatably.

🔍 Lots of funny conversations, characters, internal monologue and quips

🔍 The mystery, finding clues and trying to put it together. Pip's spent years reading her boss' murder mystery books and doing all kinds of obscure research for him, and draws in those experiences to help her piece it together.

🔍 The absolutely nuts plot twist

🔍 Genuine cowboy gentlemen, need I say more?

The perfect blend of a romcom (the he falls first when she's not available pining + humour) and a who dun it murder mystery. Without a Clue is a 5⭐

I absolutely love Fergusons writing. This fun mystery was just what i need to get out of my summer slump and into my holiday fall feels. With a fun cast, terrific atmosphere, and a cozy mystery this book is the read of the fall for sure.

I really enjoyed this book! The story was engaging and easy to follow, and the characters felt real and relatable. Definitely worth the read.

Melissa Ferguson just makes me so happy!

This was a different sort of story from her others, but no less wonderful! I feel like a "fun" murder mystery is a weird thing to say, but that's exactly what this was! It has the light vibes of her other romcoms, but she does a wonderful job of making me feel like I can't trust anyone! There are parts that were a bit predictable, but there were also a lot of moments that I didn't expect. If you love her style, you'll love this book.

If you were a fan of Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter, then I think you're going to adore this book!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for my honest thoughts!

"It's that bad isn't it?"
"Perhaps a double shot of espresso. We don't typically allow triple shots given the number of pacemakers on board, but just this once, I could slip you a third upon request."

Growing up, one of my favorite books was "Cherry Ames, Cruise Nurse". Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson reminded me of that one. They're both mysteries that take place on a cruise ship. I've read a number of Melissa Ferguson's books now, and this one is my favorite. It tells the story of Pip, the assistant to an eclectic group of well-known authors. After organizing a cruise for them and all their fans, she finds the body of her boss, Hugh. The most likely suspects are the other authors, people she thought she knew and trusted. Overall, this book was the perfect blend of mystery, romance, and comedy! I definitely recommend it.

A few of my favorite things…
-the fancy cruise ship setting
-author MC's
-a protective and manly male MC
-a mystery that kept me guessing the whole time

I didn’t care for…
-I can't think of anything!

Know that…
-a man sleeps in a woman's room to protect her from the lurking murderer, nothing sexual
-the romance doesn't go further than a few kisses (nothing over-the-top)

Perfect for…
any women looking for a lighthearted mystery that will keep them guessing!

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson was brilliantly funny!! From the start, I had on my proverbial detective hat and my notepad at the ready for clues to catch the villain in this murder mystery. Never, and I mean never, did I imagine the ending. It was a stunner. This book had me laughing and gasping all through it. If you love mysteries and romcoms, this book is absolutely for you!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.

Ok I'm a big Melissa Ferguson fan and I had so much fun with this murder mystery book! It was different from her usual work but I loved it.

This was such a good book. I loved the story and the writing so much. The characters were great and the story flowed smoothly. Will definitely read more books by this author in the future

This book was so fun. It might even be my favorite of Melissa Ferguson’s books. Did I figure it out super early on? Yes, easily. Did that take away from my reading enjoyment? Absolutely not. Fans of Ally Carter will have fun with this one.

If there’s any type of book I love to read, it’s a good mystery. Bonus if the mystery has some humor and a touch of a romance story. This book did exactly that!
This is my first Melissa Ferguson book, and it didn’t disappoint. I always liked the idea of a lot of different characters who each have their own flair within a book. When they come together, it all blends into an excellent story. The plot was really engaging, and I felt like I was hooked the entire time I was reading this novel. It was just overall a good whodunnit and I loved the way the story progressed.

I always love Melissa’s books. It’s so fun that they frequently feature writers. The concept of this book was so fun, a real life murder mystery.

Although the book wasn’t a “serious” mystery I still didn’t predict the ending until Pip figured it out.

Such a fun read!

Another fun romantic comedy ny Melissa Ferguson! Romance witj a side of murder on a cruise! A quirky plot line with an idyllic setting. Not to be missed.

OH, My!
This was such a fun, entertaining, and very delightful book to read!
I love Melissa Ferguson’s books because they are all full of humor and crazy events. This one is no different!
It is packed full of crazy mystery and intrigue.
It's a story that will keep you guessing about what’s actually happening on this cruise ship and who the real murderer is; however, it all unfolds with the flair and fun that only Melissa Ferguson can bring!
Whenever I read a Melissa Ferguson book, I know I’ll enjoy it. I’ll be entertained with humor, quirkiness, drama, and sweet romance. Many have interesting plots and crazy moments.
Her books always feature characters who are unusual and somewhat eccentric. Yet, they are characters you will come to love and enjoy.
I highly recommend picking up this book for a fun read!
I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley, which did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

🚢🕵🏻‍♀ A high-seas murder mystery rom-com, with a group of eccentric authors on a book cruise! I loved the mix of characters, and the setting. The environment of suspicion, of knowing anyone could be the killer, and being stuck for days on the cruise was great.

🚢 The story follows the mysterious murder of one of our writers - causing his personal assistant Penelope to take lead in investigating the case. Her superpower of staying calm and having great composure is tested at every turn, mixed in with recent personal events in her life. It was hilarious the way her breakdown and reactions were portrayed - but it also felt sincere. I enjoyed the emotional beats of the story that marked her internal journey.

🚢 I loved the writing style and humour in this book. It was dramatic in all the ways that I find fun, and it had a great first chapter that pulled me in with its engaging tone. It was punchy, clever and painted an interesting visual scene.

🚢 The romance between her, and the charming cowboy author Nash, was really sweet. It was based on their working friendship over the years, and I liked their chemistry. (this is a clean no-spice romance rec if you’re looking for it)

My personal enjoyment honestly outpaces any objective critiques I might have had. I was in for the whole ride, and this was the perfect entertaining mood read I needed!

Thanks to Netgalley, and the publisher for the complementary e-arc of this novel. All opinions expressed are my own.

Without a Clue is a well written book. I throughly enjoyed the plot, setting and character dynamics. I definitely recommend this book.

This book was so good. I loved how much world building was done. I think that is so important in any book and it was done very well in this one!

Melissa Ferguson has done it again and yes, I’ve read ALL her books, and I’ll keep reading every single one she writes! She one of MY FAVORITE authors!!!
Without a Clue might just be my new favorite. It’s everything I adore about Melissa’s writing. It's witty, clever, heartfelt, and laugh-out-loud funny but with a fresh murder mystery twist that totally works. Think Knives Out meets Only Murders in the Building, but with that signature Ferguson warmth and charm.
Pip is such a relatable heroine. She's competent, kind, and just chaotic enough to make you root for her so you instantly like her! And Nash? The cowboy author with a heart of gold? Yes, please. Their chemistry was off the charts from the beginning to the end.
The mystery kept me guessing, the side characters were deliciously dramatic, and the humor was chef’s kiss. I loved every absurd, hilarious, heartwarming minute on that cruise ship.
Melissa Ferguson’s books are my automatic one-click reads because they always make me laugh, swoon, and feel good. Without a Clue proves once again why she’s an auto-buy author for me. If you want a smart rom-com with a side of murder and a whole lot of heart, then get this book immediately. 🚢💀❤️

I absolutely loved this book! It’s the perfect mix of humor, mystery, and romance. The cruise setting and quirky cast made it such a fun read, and the chemistry between the main characters was great. I couldn’t put it down and can’t wait to read more from Melissa Ferguson.

This was charming, clever, and full of heart. Melissa Ferguson has a way of mixing humor and warmth that makes her books impossible to put down. If you love a cozy mystery with just the right touch of romance and chaos, this one’s a must-read.

I loveddddd this! Honestly, it’s every trope ever in the best way possible. It made for such an enjoyable read. I want to be friends with Penelope!! She’s such a fun main character!! Loved it!

Without a Clue is such a fun, lighthearted mystery with the perfect blend of charm, humor, and just enough suspense to keep you turning the pages. Melissa Ferguson has a gift for writing stories that feel upbeat and clever without losing emotional depth, and this book is a great example of that balance.

The characters are lovable and quirky in all the right ways, and the mystery stays engaging without ever feeling too dark or heavy. The tone is playful, the pacing is quick, and the dialogue has that breezy, witty rhythm that makes the whole story feel effortless to read. It’s the kind of book that simply puts you in a good mood.

If you enjoy cozy mysteries with personality, heart, and a touch of rom-com energy, Without a Clue is an absolute delight. It’s charming, entertaining, and exactly the kind of feel-good read you can happily get lost in.

Melissa Ferguson has such a unique and delightful voice! Her blend of fun, quirky characters is a joy to read.

Penelope Dupont is the personal assistant to Hugh Griffin—a legendary mystery writer—and the unofficial babysitter to six other respected authors. She loves her job and, most of the time, her magnificent seven, as she affectionately calls them. After months of preparation, she’s about to embark on an adventure with the group—a cruise where the writers will mingle with readers and discuss their craft. But the perfectly planned event goes up in smoke when she wakes to find Hugh dead on their very first day at sea.

Now stuck in the middle of the Atlantic with six authors to manage, one dead boss, nearly 300 readers expecting a spectacular event, and a murder to keep under wraps—or risk a full-on stampede of panicked fans—Penelope has no choice but to press on. With help from Nash—a Western writer, one of her fabulous seven, and her loyal friend—she does her best to keep things afloat.

Known as Pip to her authors, Penelope works tirelessly to keep both the writers and readers happy. But when cruise security proves incompetent, she takes matters into her own hands. Using her unique skill set—thanks to Hugh’s obsession with accurate crime research—she steps into the role of investigator. Nash refuses to leave her side, joining her quest to uncover what really happened to Hugh before they reach port.

Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson is a delightful read—full of heart, humor, and twists that keep the pages turning. It plays out like an adventure straight from the game Clue. Penelope is such a charming character; her affection for her eccentric band of authors shines through. Her inner dialogue had me laughing more than once, and I loved how Nash looked out for her while she tried to take care of everyone else.

This book has heart, mystery, and a rewarding finish. My only complaint? I didn’t want it to end. I’ll definitely reread this one—and gift it to others to enjoy. What a fun ride!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Melissa Ferguson and Thomas Nelson Fiction. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson is a fun and unique rom-com with a touch of mystery.

Penelope (Pip) Dupont is the assistant to the Magnificent Seven. Seven best selling somewhat eccentric authors. When Hugh Grant is murdered the first day out on the Book Cruise, Pip finds herself digging for clues. Is it one of the seven?

Nash, the good looking cowboy, is the only one that Pip trusts. But is he as innocent as he seems.

Melissa Ferguson is such a talented writer. Every book I have read of hers is always satisfying and full of good characters and great dialogue. This whodunit, the twists and turns trying to figure out who the murderer is, was a mystery in itself. Great story and plot. Clean and cozy.

I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Anything that Melissa Ferguson writes is an auto read for me and this book did not disappoint. Without a Clue is an amazing Rom-Com perfect for spring reading. It is a spectacular Who-Dun-It without the blood and gore and with a particular twist. I loved it!! I highly recommend this book and give it 5 stars!!! I received a review copy of this book and am writing this review voluntarily.

“There are things the heart knows even when the mind won’t acknowledge them.”

Melissa Ferguson brings home another delightful romcom, but this time with a side of murder and mystery. I was at first surprised by the turn of events that played out like Love Boat meets Clue since this is a deviation from the author’s norm. But I quickly became invested in the murder investigation and in the lives of the Magnificent Seven. I really loved the idea of authors banding together to support each other professionally and personally, as seen with the Magnificent Seven. Though bordering on ridiculous, the authors were lovable, unique, and quite charming. Penelope’s first person voice was fun and relatable; I loved her analytical no-nonsense mind when it came to gathering clues to solve the mystery and corralling the authors. And Nash…there are no words. His brilliant, kind, tender, humble ways totally won me over (as it did Penelope). Penelope had some deep-seated fears, self-image and self-worth issues to deal with, which made her even more real.

The murder mystery was not terribly difficult to figure out, but I really enjoyed the romcom journey to the conclusion. Any fans of romcom would totally enjoy this book.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Thomas Nelson via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

One book cruise, seven quirky authors from different genres, and hundreds of their fans… what could possibly go wrong?

If you're a fan of Clue, cozy murder mysteries, and romcoms, you’ll want to check out Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson (coming 2.17.2026). I hadn’t read a mystery romcom before, but Melissa pulled it off beautifully. It’s a true whodunnit page-turner, and I flew through it! I would love to read more books like this from her.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for the advanced copy.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Without a Clue had me laughing, guessing, and swooning all at the same time. Pip is smart, funny, and totally relatable—her attempts to survive a luxury cruise full of diva authors had me cracking up from the very first page. And then there’s the murder…which turns this rom-com into a suspenseful whodunit that kept me hooked.
Nash is the perfect combination of rugged charm and supportive love interest, and the chemistry between him and Pip is slow-burning but so satisfying. I loved the mix of humor, mystery, and romance, Ferguson balances it all effortlessly. By the end, I was cheering for the couple and wishing I could jump aboard the cruise myself.
If you love laugh-out-loud romance with a twist of mystery, this book is an absolute must-read!

Thank you NetGalley for an ARC of Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson

Murder mystery. Who done it? Not very common themes so I immensely enjoyed the unravelling suspense throughout this book. I was hooked- (little play on words given the setting is a ship) -me in immediately. Awesome story which was well written. Kept me glued to my (kindle) screen until the end.

I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher through Netgalley. Opinions expressed herein are completely my own.

Fun story! I really enjoyed the rom-com vibes with the element of a mystery. Melissa Ferguson never fails to crack me up and keep me smiling with her writing style. Looking forward to reading more from her.

FLIPPING loved this one. Can't wait to get a physical copy when it's out in Feb!! Fun, mysterious and romantic as heck its like a knives out and a romance book had a baby!

When Penelope boards a cruise with 7 of the most famous authors in the world, whom she manages, a tragedy occurs to one of them. And she has to be the one to uncover the truth of who did it. And no one is to be trusted.

Not even Nash, who she’s had eyes for for a long time.

This book was so refreshing and honestly one of the most fun reads I’ve read this year so far. I LOVED all of the characters, and I love that the characters didn’t feel two dimensional.

This book ate and left no crumbs.

I loved the subtle-but-not-so-subtle foreshadowing at the beginning with all the mentions of death or being pushed off a ledge and things like that.

I loved Nash (and I loved that this was a clean romance).

This was such a well written fast paced murder mystery and I fear I’m hooked now. My review on Instagram is soon to come!

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson publishers! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Sometimes reality is in fact stranger than fiction.

Penelope is the personal assistant to the world's most acclaimed mystery writer, along with his cadre of prolific writers that are known as the Magnificent Seven. Onboard a luxury literary cruise with the whole group, Penelope is thrown for a real loop when her boss Hugh is found murdered in his cabin, and suddenly everyone seems to be hiding something, including her work bestie Nash.

Without a Clue is fun, joy-filled romp from start to finish. Penelope (Pip) is extremely relatable, especially with her fear of going under sea level on the boat (I had a visceral gag-reflex to even the thought). The writers who make up the Magnificent Seven are laugh-out-loud amazing, from mothering Neena to lurking-in-the-shadows Ricky.

The mystery resonated with my Clue-loving heart and the romance was so realistically sweet. I couldn't get enough of this book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was honestly just really fun. Think the movie Clue, a cruise, and a group of quirky authors and you get this book! This was cheesy in a good way, mysterious, and fun!
I loved Pip, our FMC, and her journey in building her self esteem and confidence while she solves this crime!
This kept me guessing even if it was lower stakes!

Obsessed. A murder mystery romance where there’s no actual murder? That twist was amazing. The supporting character were just as amazing as the main and didn’t pull focus just added to the story. From the very beginning I was rooting for Nash to confess his feelings and when he finally did? I paused when Pip did. I loved every second of this, I was giggling the whole time

I loved this SOOOO MUCH!!! Melissa’s writing was soooo good!!!! I will be reading this book again and again!!!!

This was witty, engaging, entertaining, enthralling, cosy, heartwarming and just so wonderfully executed!

Thank you NetGalley, Nelson Thomas Publishing and Melissa Ferguson for the ARC.

This book is fabulous! I wasn’t sure what to expect and have never read this author, but I adored it. It was fresh, clever, relatable, distracting, and kept me rapt from page 1. The writing was fresh, inventive and clean. The characters were lovesble and so fun. I had so much fun with this book!

I’ll be honest: I initially requested an eARC of Without a Clue purely because of the cover. But now that I’ve finished it, I am officially obsessed. This has easily become one of my favorite reads of the year.

As someone who is typically not a romance fan—I usually can’t stand the forced bickering and predictable plots—this book was a breath of fresh air for me. Melissa Ferguson has crafted the ultimate "cozy" murder mystery. It perfectly blends a locked-room setting (a luxury cruise ship) with amateur sleuthing and a romance that actually feels earned and charming.

The plot follows Pip, a high-strung personal assistant, who finds herself in the middle of a literal "whodunnit" when her boss is found dead on a book cruise. Watching Pip and Nash (the ruggedly handsome Western author) navigate a ship full of dramatic authors and red herrings was pure joy.

The writing is sharp, funny, and incredibly smart. The Characters were perfect! Everyone was so likable, funny, and genuinely adorable. I found myself rooting for Pip from the very first page. And I absolutely loved the characterization of the seven authors. The overall vibe is cozy and funny while still being engaging.

I couldn't stop talking about this book while reading it, and I’m already recommending it to everyone I know. If you want a mystery that is high on charm and low on forced drama, this is it!

*** I received an eARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to the author and publisher. ***

Without a Clue is a novel about seven famous authors, each of a different genre, and the assistant to one of them. Pip is a mess, but she’s smart, determined, and likable. When a murder on the author cruise ship details their plans, Pip has to undertake some amateur sleuthing.

The writing is great. I already love the author, so I figured that would be the case. I’ve never related so much to a character from a book before. I laughed a lot and enjoyed the cruise.

I also figured out the entire plot at the beginning of the book. Does that bother me? No. Because it was all still so much fun.

I received this ARC from NetGalley for my honest review.

Without a Clue completely charmed me. It’s fresh, clever, funny, and heartfelt all at once—a closed-door mystery that feels cozy and comforting while still managing to surprise you in the very best way. From the very first pages, I was hooked by the warm tone, the witty writing, and that irresistible feeling that you’re in very good hands as a reader.


Pip is the kind of protagonist you instantly root for. She truly believes she’s nothing special, always standing a little in the background, but seeing her through the eyes of her friends—and especially through Nash’s—is such a joy. They see what she can’t: her kindness, her intuition, her quiet strength. Her character arc is tender and deeply satisfying, built on self-discovery and the realization that being “ordinary” doesn’t mean being invisible or unimportant.


The mystery itself was such a fun ride. I loved the freshness of this closed-door setup and genuinely did not see the final twist coming. This is the perfect book for readers who love mystery but also want a strong romantic thread woven into the story. What truly made it shine for me, though, was the importance Melissa Ferguson gives to friendship. Even when everything is filtered through an aura of mystery and doubt, the relationships ultimately prove to be authentic, supportive, and full of warmth. The story beautifully shows how it’s through the love of friends and of people who believe in you, that you can truly reach your potential and find happiness.

I also listened to the audiobook, and it deserves a huge shout-out. It was created magistrally: the narrator did an incredible job bringing a large cast of characters to life, giving each one a distinct voice and perfectly capturing Pip’s emotions. With so many characters, that’s no small feat, and it made the story even more immersive and engaging.

The cover is cute and lovely to look at, but in my opinion it doesn’t fully capture the layer of intrigue and suspense that lies at the heart of the story. As for content warnings, readers can expect mild suspense, mystery elements, emotional self-doubt, and gentle romantic tension, all handled with care and warmth.

And finally… can we talk about Nash? Because I would very much like him in real life. His character is simply too tender, charming, and quietly swoon-worthy to be confined to the page.

All in all, Without a Clue made me smile, laugh, and gasp at the twist, leaving me with that happy, full feeling that only the best cozy mysteries can give you. A truly delightful read with heart.

Huge thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and Melissa Ferguson for allowing me to read the eARC of this wonderful book.

I loved how this author restored the way I felt when reading Agatha Christie’s book - only with a much greater romance content than the others. She did not disappoint me at any time. I think she made a good construction of all parts of the plot (the suspense itself and the novel). Certainly, I will keep an eye for more books of this author.
Thank you NetGalley and editor for e-ARC.

This book had me hooked the whole way through! Pip is such a well rounded character and I loved the relationships that she had built with “The Magnificent 7.” I genuinely had no idea where the book was going to go with the murder of Hugh, Pip’s boss. I love a man who will stand by your side and help you face whatever may lay ahead, enter Nash the rugged cowboy and one of the murder suspects to help Pip find the killer! Melissa Ferguson is an auto-read author for me! I have never been disappointed by one of her books! The plot, characters, and storytelling are all what I have come to expect! I would definitely recommend to any romance readers who enjoy a mystery!

Thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson, and Melissa Ferguson for this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book was so much fun. I loved the group and i wish we could have seen more of how the group came about
I absolutely loved Pip and Nash
Melissa Ferguson always writes such charming characters who melt my heart
This book is the perfect blend of mystery and romance. I thought i almost had the mystery part down but i was a little off. Absolutely loved the book

This was a clever, funny five star read that hooked me from the first chapter. The mix of romance and mystery was light, playful, and easy to enjoy. I loved the cruise setting and the quirky cast of characters. It kept me guessing while still delivering plenty of laughs. I’d definitely recommend this to anyone who wants a rom com with a twist.

Oh. My. Goodness. I KNEW IT! I didn’t figure out all the pieces before the end, but I figured out the murder before Pip. :) Regardless of that, this story is an absolute blast, and I’m sitting here smiling as I type this up because of the crazy fun this book is.

Pip is so relatable, and her genuine care for all the members of the Magnificent Seven is incredible. Her lack of awareness of how special she is, all while serving and uplifting everyone around her, is inspiring and convicting.

Coupled with the crazy crew of the Magnificent Seven - especially Nash, with his devotion to her and care for her - this story is a delightful read filled with laugh-out-loud moments, heartwarming scenes, and girded by the truth of the gospel, though it isn’t at all overt.

I would absolutely read more stories about this cooky, wonderful group, and will be checking out more of Melissa Ferguson’s works. Who knew romcom murder mysteries were such an enjoyable thing?

This was absolutely adorable!

Melissa Ferguson does it again. She never lets me down.

Seven unique authors ban together as the magnificent seven. They help each other promote books and are an exclusive group. There’s one assistant. They all take a cruise to engage with readers but on the first day a murder occurs of one of their own.

They are shook to the core and must find the culprit. It’s a cozy mystery with a dash of romance and just cute as pie!

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this as an ARC.

Oh my goodness gracious! I loved this book! It took me right through the paces and races! I really enjoyed the characters and the amazing way I followed all the people! That is one amazing story for me when I can follow all that is going on! I loved the main romance between the MMC and the MFC! Swoon! I give it all 5 stars!!

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for this amazing read, all thoughts and opinions are my own!

Thoroughly enjoyed this romcom murder mystery! A mashup of a couple of my favorite genres from one of my fav authors. The narrators voice was great, and the premise really kept me guessing! Will they? Won’t they? Who murdered her boss?

The conclusion could have been really unsatisfying but I like the way the author wrapped it up, and it actually was the best possible ending, in my opinion.

Loved every word!

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this eARC!

I have read all of Melissa Ferguson's romantic comedies, and they are always a delight. Without a Clue was no exception!

I loved the unique premise of a young woman coordinating a bookish cruise on behalf of an eccentric group of famous authors known as the Magnificent Seven, and I enjoyed the initial twist that turned it from a straight comedy into a murder mystery without sacrificing the humor. A cruise ship makes for a great locked-room setting, and really set the scene for the mystery, comedy, and romantic elements of the story. The push and pull between Pip and Nash was so fun. He's such a swoony hero! Without giving away any spoilers, I did find one element of the ending to be a bit unbelievable, but the whole book was just so much fun that I didn't have trouble overlooking that part.

Overall, I gave this book five stars and would recomment it to anyone looking for a sweet, clean romantic comedy that will charm and entertain.

I am jealous of anyone who is about to dive into *Without a Clue* by Melissa Ferguson. This book has everything I want in a cozy mystery rom com: a suspenseful and clever mystery that stays lighthearted rather than scary, a cast of quirky and unforgettable characters, and a romance that made me smile at every turn.

Pip is the personal assistant to a famous mystery author, Hugh Griffin, and by extension, is swept into the world of a group of authors dubbed The Fabulous Seven. When the crew embarks on a fan cruise, Hugh is found dead on day two and it's up to Pip to solve the mystery of Hugh's killer. Luckily her boss has put her through the ringer in the name of research for his own books, so she's well equipped to solve his own death. Pip teams up with Nash, a rugged western author in the Fabulous Seven and together they follow clues and interviews suspects while balancing their own feelings for each other.

I am admittedly never great at guessing the ending to mysteries. I think that is part of the fun. *Without a Clue* kept me guessing and surprised me with an ending that I did not see coming. I loved the twist at the end. I loved the arc of Pip’s story and how she came into her own as both sleuth and romantic lead. And I was rooting for her every step of the way. The friendship and chemistry between Pip and Nash felt real and earned.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Five stars for me!

So fun! Imagine Clue and Knives Out on a cruise ship with a book club! This book made me laugh and kept me guessing!

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ebook ARC! All thoughts are my own.

Without a Clue
Melissa Ferguson
5/5 stars
Publication date: February 17, 2026

This book was not what I was expecting and I totally loved it! It’s a cozy, funny murder mystery plus a rom com! Pip is an assistant to Hugh, a famous mystery author who is also a member of “The Fabulous Seven,” a group of best selling authors. The group of authors go on a book cruise only to discover that one of them has been murdered. Pip has to solve the mystery with a western author aka a cowboy, Nash.

This was such a creative premise! It reminded me of the Finlay Donovan series which I love! The chapters ended in such a way that make you want to continue reading. I love how the book had a light, humorous feel despite it being a murder mystery. I highly recommend this book!

Thank you Melissa Ferguson, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.

The description of "Only Murders in the Building and Book Lovers" is so accurate to this novel. I am obsessed with these characters. Pip and Nash made this novel worth reading. The combination of murder mystery with rom-com is different but refreshing in this age. I loved the Magnificent Seven and all of their quirks as a group. The pace of this novel was perfect and kept you reading the whole time. I wish we could get a sequel seeing these characters continue to develop after how the epilogue scene goes. I ended up doing a dual read of this arc between audio and digital and it made the characters come alive off the page. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Without A Clue is an utterly delightful whodunit cozy mystery and romantic comedy rolled into one—a true standout and instant favorite. I already know this will be a top read of 2026. I’m a sucker for stories about authors and books, and this one absolutely delivers. I fell hard for Pip, Nash, and the entire eclectic cast from the very beginning.

I absolutely adored Pip and couldn’t get enough of her. She’s witty, smart, and genuinely hilarious—a joy to follow in every scene. Her inner dialogue is perfection, and I don’t think I’ve ever enjoyed an FMC more.

Nash is a charming cowboy author with an easygoing demeanor and a fiercely protective streak when it comes to Pip. While their romance takes a backseat to the mystery, it’s still incredibly sweet and quietly swoony. The things Nash says to Pip completely won me over, and I loved the tender way he takes care of her.

When Pip’s inner thoughts didn’t have me in stitches, the Magnificent 7’s quirky personalities and over-the-top antics kept me grinning the entire time. They add so much humor, warmth, and heart to the story that it’s impossible to imagine this book without them.

The audiobook is narrated by Karissa Vacker, and let me tell you—she understood the assignment. I was completely blown away by her performance. She does a phenomenal job bringing each character to life, to the point that I had to double-check this wasn’t duet narration. It’s honestly a little freaky how convincing her “sexy man” voice for Nash is, and that southern drawl? Absolute perfection. Melissa’s story lends itself to a wide range of tones and personalities, and Karissa nails every single one. The story is fantastic in its own right, but the audiobook is something truly special. This is a performance I’ll be talking about for a long time.

If you love cozy mysteries wrapped in humor and romance, bookish characters, a seriously sweet slow burn, and found-family vibes, don’t miss this one.

✨Includes:✨
Cowboy Author
Assistant To The Magnificent 7
Friends To More
Bookish
Eclectic Cast of Characters
Murder on a Cruise Ship
Protective Hero
Found Family
Whodunnit Cozy Mystery
Phenomenal Narrator
He Takes Care Of Her
Single POV

Loved it! I gave it 5 stars. A few things-
She got sick for 72 hours? Just a brief mention, that was confusing.

And she found Nash’s knife BEFORE eating the mint. She stated it the other way around when she was saying how she figured it all out.

Well done! Excited to read more of Ferguson in the future!

Set on a transatlantic cruise from Miami to Barcelona, personal assistant Penelope (Pip) and western author Nash team up to investigate after her boss is found dead. Penelope has worked for mystery writer Hugh for several years and led the effort to organize the cruise. Hugh is a founding member of the Fabulous Seven, seven celebrated genre authors who have supported each other over many years. As they cross the ocean, hundreds of readers are on the cruise to interact with these authors. But the first morning at sea, she finds Hugh's body, the morning after he warned her this could happen. Full of an eccentric cast of characters, Pip takes over the investigation when incompetent cruise security can't make heads or tails. With help from cowboy and writer Nash, she finds herself questioning the other six members of the Seven to find out what happened.

This romance mystery combo worked great for me! I appreciated the first chapter's chaos more and more throughout the book, especially after I got to know the seven authors. I would consider this on the cozy side of mystery as well as a no spice romance.

Penelope has gotten out of a long term toxic relationship, causing a big shift in her life over the past six weeks. Seeing only her POV was great as she slowly started to see what was right in front of her.

This book features:
🛳️ Murder investigation on a cruise ship
🛳️ Forced proximity
🛳️ Eccentric writers
🛳️ A love of genre fiction
🛳️ Steady love

Closed Door / Kissing Only

5 / 5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for this eARC!

I. AM. SHOCKED.
One of the best books I read this year so far.

The writing, the story line, the characters? Perfection
The mystery/crime plot was written so well I couldn’t stop reading and made me on so on edge not knowing what’s gonna happen next or who’s the killer!! And the plot twist was so good!!
AND THE ROMANCE??? Absolute perfection, no comments, Couldn’t stop smiling the whole time reading about em.
I loved their interactions and the dynamic between them is so good, I absolutely loved it and loved this book.
I think what I want to say is, easy 5 stars.

Locked-room mystery. Rom-com charm. A cruise ship full of dramatic authors.
And yes… a murder.

This book is an absolute delight. It is a laugh-out-loud, locked-door whodunit wrapped in the coziest summer rom-com vibes.

I am such a sucker for a mystery threaded into literally any genre, and this one does it beautifully. Every character feels distinct, memorable, and fun. The third-act conflict (which I usually hate in rom-coms) was handled in such a refreshing, emotionally intelligent way. It actually made sense. And the ending? Completely satisfying! This is the kind of book that deserves a reread, where you’ll catch all the clever little breadcrumbs you didn’t notice the first time.

Audiobook Review:

Karissa Vacker’s narration is phenomenal.
There are a lot of characters, but she makes each voice so clear and unique that it never gets confusing. Her delivery adds an extra layer of charm, humor, and warmth to the entire story. I’m officially hunting down everything else she’s narrated.

Content Warnings
• On-page murder (non-graphic)
• Closed-circle “everyone’s a suspect” tension
• Mild peril
• Grief

No explicit language
Clean/No spice romance


If you finish this and immediately want more Melissa Ferguson, Meet Me in the Margins was one of my favorites of 2025 and is a must-read.

This was so silly and fun. I definitely giggled out loud a few times and loved the antics of Pip as she ran around the ship, frantic and harried in order to solve a murder. I loved how it didn't take itself too seriously. There was also a sub-plot romance which was very sweet. I wish it had been a bit more in the forefront because I loved Pip and Nash's dynamic and banter.

It was the mystery of Knives Out with the coziness and cast of characters from Only Murders in the Building.

This was a very unique read. I don’t completely know how I feel about a rom-com mixed with a mystery, but honestly in this case it worked. Plus it was hilarious. I laughed out loud multiple times. I really liked the narrator of the audiobook too.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

Perfection.

I don't think I've read a mystery since my Nancy Drew days; not really my jam. But I love Melissa Ferguson's romances, and I didn't want to let a book of hers go unread. So I was delighted when I was provided both audio and ebook by NetGalley.

I guess I'm a newly-minted cozy mystery fan.

I thoroughly enjoyed the romance and mystery mixed together. And I'll be honest: I didn't figure it out. Maybe I'm a mystery newbie, but it wasn't predictable for me. And I found the ending entirely satisfying.

Pip is a brilliant and super-efficient personal assistant to Hugh and The Magnificent Seven, a group of authors, all from different genres, who are all very successful. On a convention for their readers on a cruise ship, Hugh turns up dead on day two. The ship's security is terrible at best, so Pip decides to conduct her own investigation. Nash, one of the only younger authors, is there to protect her and to sleuth with her. It's not just a mystery. There's definitely a love story here, too. I do wish we'd gotten to see more of their history together as well as as dig deeper into who they are to one another. Maybe a sequel?

In this story, Pip is newly split from a bad relationship and very much a doubter of herself. She grows more confident, but she also leans into a budding talent that was there all along.

It was a joy to gain insight to writing process and all the things that support writers. Ferguson's prose is expertly crafted. So many romance books are "lit lite," and the language is a little lazy. Not hers. She treats these stories as if they are worthy of only the highest quality turns of phrase.

The group of writers was a mix of over-the-top personalities. And there was wisdom in the group that came with age. That's kind of a fresh approach in the rom-com genre, too. The roles of people who were old enough to be grandparents weren't feeble dearheart roles. They had something to offer.

The bookish bunch on a bookish cruise--just so fun!

Also, while I mostly read this in print, the audio was really well done. Highly recommend.

More Mystery Than Romance, Still Technically Works As Both. This is one of those types of mysteries where the author tries to tap in to Agatha Christie or perhaps even the board game Clue... and hits that kind of tone relatively well, while still also playing into her cruise setting particularly well at the same time. For me, I think the absolute funniest scene was actually the introduction, but there was a decent amount of comedy throughout the book, and it very well could be one of those where another reader would find more humor in a different scene.

The romance here satisfies all known RWA/ RNA rules and is about as spicy as a warm glass of milk or so, but also feels a fair amount more told than shown - we're *told* these characters really like each other and are falling for each other much more than we *see* it happening. It also absolutely felt, to this reader at least, like the romance element was here mostly because that is what Ferguson has made her name writing, but what she *really* wanted to write here was a cozy mystery set on a cruise ship, so she made it work reasonably well enough for both sides so that maybe she could appease existing fans and perhaps reach a few more new ones. And again, it absolutely works so far as it goes... it just isn't one of those epic romances you're going to remember decades from now either. (And to be fair, *few* tales are ever of that level, and for the most part romcoms are never *meant* to be that level.)

Still, as a fun, breezy, cozy mystery/ romance mashup kind of tale, this book really does work remarkably well. You're going to be entertained for a few hours and you're going to be able to invest so much of your attention here that you'll be able to ignore the so-called "real" world for a while, and that, ultimately, is a sign of a solid book doing its job well.

Very much recommended.

I received both the e- arc and audio arc through NetGalley.

How far would you go to help your employee find their true self?

Pip Is the assistant to Hugh ,a man apart of the magnificent seven who are the magnificent seven , you ask. A group of seven book writers who rule the literary world.


The book is set on a cruise focusing on all things books written by the magnificent seven. Everything is going according to plan until Hugh is murdered and Pip goes into sleuth mode to find out who is the murderer.



While I’m not a fan of slow burn romance it wasn’t the main focus of the plot. Without a clue relies more on cozy mystery with a hint of romance.


Thank you NetGalley and ThomasNelson for the e-arc and thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan audio for the audio arc in exchange for my honest review.

This book is perfect for anyone who loves no spice rom-coms with a bit of mystery thrown in. If you love authors like Courtney Walsh, or Cindy Steel, this will be a home run choice.

I LOVED this book. Melissa Ferguson is a captivating author who spins tales with enough humor to keep the story light, but she writes characters with such depth you would think it’s classic novel!

The story was intriguing and a page turner for sure. I loved the growth of the main character and the conclusion was so very satisfying. Hands down the best quote of the book: “I choose you.” Literal tears.

Thank you Melissa Ferguson and your team for allowing me to enjoy this ARC copy.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

🛳️ read if you love:

— pistachio pudding
— playing clue
— swoony cowboys
— murder mysteries
— forced proximity
— going on a cruise

I ended 2025 on a high note after finishing The Perfect Rom-Com by Melissa Ferguson and was absolutely thrilled when I got accepted for an ARC of her upcoming novel, Without a Clue, to start off 2026!

I'm a lover of all things true crime, playing Clue, solving Murdles, and watching Only Murders in the Building... but Melissa got me with this one. I was genuinely guessing on the Who? Where? and With what? until the very end which delighted me!! I've read too many mysteries that I figured out before even reaching the halfway point of the book.

I felt like I was right there with Pip trying to piece together each clue, trying to push through the sadness of losing a dear friend and boss, trying to find love after years of heartache, and trying to find her own self.

If you're looking for that perfect winter read where you can curl up on the couch with a blanket, a dog, and a book... look no further than Without a Clue!

==

Thank you Thomas Nelson Fiction, NetGalley, and Melissa Ferguson for the ARC. All opinions are my own and honest.

📆 Pub Date: February 17, 2026

Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson is a charming, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy that effortlessly blends humor, heart, and a touch of mystery. From the very beginning, the story pulls you in with its engaging writing, lovable characters, and witty banter that made me smile more than once. The romance is sweet and well-paced, building naturally while still keeping things fun and lighthearted.
I really enjoyed the twists sprinkled throughout the story, which kept me turning the pages, but the plot twist at the very end was absolutely amazing. It was completely unexpected and added such a satisfying “wow” moment that made the entire journey feel even more worthwhile. That final reveal was the perfect way to wrap up the story and left a lasting impression.
With its humor, heartfelt moments, strong characters, and an ending that genuinely surprised me, Without a Clue is a wonderful read and an easy five-star book. Melissa Ferguson delivers a smart, feel-good romance that I would happily recommend to anyone looking for an entertaining and uplifting story.

This book was just a quirky, fun, chaotically delightful cozy mystery with romcom vibes. A cast of characters who are all quirky authors in their own ways, a mystery that had me guessing, a sweet little love story, and Penelope discovering her worth and being built up by her friends had me thoroughly enjoying the whole ride!

CW: Dead bodies discovered (not descriptive)

// thank you for netgalley and the publishers for letting me read the arc of this book!

a cowboy romance AND a murder mystery AND a book about people who loves books

now THAT’S my kinda book

i will say, i didn’t love the way the conflict was resolved towards the end of the book, but that was just personal preference. the cast of characters was fantastic and i was HOOKED from start to finished. i was gasping out loud as i was doing my laundry–that’s how good this book was.

Thank you to UpLit Tours and Thomas Nelson for the ALC and ARC of Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson. All opinions are my own.

This is my first book from this author, but I definitely want to read more from her after enjoying this book so much.

Without a Clue is a combination of romance and cozy mystery. I loved the lighthearted and humorous tone of this story even though it also dealt with some heavier topics. The story was entertaining and sweet.

Pip was such a fun protagonist. I loved her determination to solve the mystery while also dealing with recent heartbreak and the consideration of a new romance. Her friendships with Hugh and Nash were so sweet. I loved how much she cared about people.

The romance between Pip and Nash was so cute. I loved how Nash wasn’t afraid to show his feelings to Pip, and I liked how they stuck together to solve the mystery. He was also so protective of her, and it made me smile every time he tried to help her.

The mystery was interesting, and I wasn’t able to figure it out, so that made it all the more fun to keep reading.

I ended up listening to the audiobook, and I loved Karissa Vacker as a narrator. She is always such a good narrator, and I thought she fit well with this story.

Overall, I would recommend this book if you like fun mysteries with some romance thrown in.

⭐️: 5

🛳️ cozy mystery
🛳️ cast of characters
🛳️ found family
🛳️ forced proximity
🛳️ books about books

This book was an absolute delight from start to finish. The quirky cast of characters made this who-dun-it so much fun, and the hint of romance was just enough to not distract from the plot. This charming, witty, and engaging mystery easily earned five stars from me!

♥︎ Many thanks to Netgalley, Melissa Ferguson and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the eARC of Without a Clue.

The way I kicked my feet and giggled and gasped my way through this book is almost embarrassing, but I just loved it so much!! Several times I had to stop reading and explain the plot to my husband so I could try and rationalize my thoughts - the poor man just sat there and took it 😅. Excellent storytelling, top tier banter, 10/10 no notes.

Rom-com mystery lovers, this one is a treat.

I fell in love with Melissa Ferguson’s writing a couple of years ago, so I always jump at the chance to read her newest release—and Without a Clue did not disappoint. I listened to the audiobook, and it was an absolute delight from start to finish.

Pip is such a fun main character, and I loved following her thought process as she worked to untangle the mystery. The story perfectly balances clever mystery elements with laugh-out-loud rom-com charm, making it incredibly engaging. The narrator was fantastic and truly brought Pip’s voice and personality to life.

And that ending? I did not see the twist coming at all—and I loved it. It was the perfect, unexpected way to wrap up such a fun story. This was one of those audiobooks I looked forward to every chance I got.

I absolutely loved it. I read it in one day. I couldn't put it down. I honestly think that this would also make such a good television or movie adaptation. I think it is very good for people who like to mix genres.

i had so much fun with this book! Pip gets drawn into a mystery when on board a cruise ship. this event or convention should we say put together for a group of authors for their readers. but one of them turns up dead. Pip sees the ships security doing a lacklustre job of finding out what happens so she decides to take it upon herself to find out what happened here. one of the authors Nash is there to help her. and there might just be more than mystery solving brewing between these two.
i loved getting to know the character of Pip so much. she was so refreshing and we get to meet her exactly where she is at this time which is fresh out of a painful situation herself. i love how this story, what she gets up to and feels, feels like a story within a story. you couldn't write the situation they found themselves in on board this ship.
shes used to big egos, but murder???
i loved reading the interaction with Pip and Nash. he was a lovely and loyal companion and also something clearly so much more too. Nash was protective of her in the best of ways and these two were adorable together.
i loved how when we get this gathering of authors we also get great descriptions of a bunch of fascinating personalities.
this was one of those cosy murder mystery's that shows us how its done when done well. its had all the right feels for me from the start.
this was such a fun and heartwarming book. it had all the emotional depth you want from a book like this that also holds lightness and mystery solving clues within it too. and the romance of course was a win for me and weaved through and round the whole plots really well.

Want an adorable rom com? Then this book is perfect for you. I laughed in a few parts, it was such a cute story. I loved the FMC Viv, she was absolutely brilliant, the storyline was a mystery and romance in one. I will look for other books from this author, this book was sweet and also funny. Thank you NetGalley for this ARC

This was a great rom-com/cozy mystery! The characters were great, and I laughed out loud listening to this a few times. When Pip's boss, famous author Hugh Griffin, dies on the cruise ship filled with his fans, she must figure out who the killer is, before she is accused herself. She teams up with one of the authors for the Fabulous Seven (authors from different genres who have formed a group), to figure out what happened. This has a little bit of everything, romance, mystery and humor, and I loved the ending.

Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson

Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to Thomas Nelson, Netgalley, and the author for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Without a Clue perfectly combines romance, comedy, and mystery to create a story that’s both captivating and entertaining! With a slow burn, friends to lovers romance and an intriguing locked room mystery, Without a Clue is romantic, suspenseful, and humorous!

Penelope Mae Dupont always keeps her cool, which is key since she is the personal assistant to renowned mystery author Hugh Griffin. However, when Pip organizes a luxury book cruise featuring seven famous authors, her composure starts to fade. On the second day of the cruise, Hugh is found dead. Since the cruise’s security team isn’t able to solve the mystery, Pip and Nash, a Western author, try to solve the mystery. With plenty of secrets, twists, and red herrings, Pip has to decide whether she will stay behind the scenes or step into the spotlight and potentially even find love along the way.

Melissa Ferguson’s stories are always so great and this one is absolutely wonderful as well! Right from the very first page, Without a Clue proves to be so fun! With a sweet romance, an interesting mystery element, as well as a great setting, this is a fantastic read from start to finish! Additionally, the character development is so good and the story is heartwarming as well!

Overall, Without a Clue is a fun and entertaining story that excellently blends romance and mystery to form an unputdownable read!

Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!!!! CLUE but it’s your best friends and boss and possibly the love of your life and everyone is a weird writer and also possibly a murderer

I started this book with high expectations, and I was not disappointed at all. The story follows a young woman named Penelope (Pip), who works for an author named Hugh. He is part of a group of seven writers called The Magnificent Seven. Together, they go on a cruise ship where each author hosts workshops. On the second day, Hugh is found dead. Since the ship’s security fails to do their job properly, Pip decides to take matters into her own hands and investigate the mysterious murder herself. Along the way, she discovers that the people she thought she knew are hiding secrets. With the help of a sweet cowboy author, she gets pulled deeper into the mystery aboard the ship.

Pip is full of energy and witty remarks. Coming out of a toxic relationship, she struggles with self-doubt, but throughout the book she slowly starts believing in herself and growing more confident. Nash, on the other hand, is an absolute gem—kind, protective, emotionally mature, and always on her side, encouraging her when she needs it most. Their relationship is genuinely sweet, and I loved how supportive and respectful they were toward each other. I only wish we had seen a bit more of their romance, as it sometimes felt pushed into the background.

The group dynamic was one of my favorite parts. The characters were diverse, funny, and each brought something unique to the story. At times they were chaotic and a little unhinged—in the best possible way—and that only made the book more enjoyable.

Overall, I had a great time reading this book. At a certain point, I couldn’t put it down. Alongside the suspense, there were many genuinely funny moments that made me laugh out loud. All in all, I was very satisfied with this read and would definitely recommend it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader’s Copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book was exactly what I was looking for in a cozy mystery with a side of romance, and as a mood reader, that's a real treat. This book has everything: a group of authors on a cruise, murders, self discovery and a swoony cowboy too!

If you like Knives Out, Thursday Murder Club or any other cozy mysteries, this book is for you. I highly recommend a couch, blanket, some tea or hot chocolate and an animal to cuddle when you read this one.

I can't wait to read more of Ferguson's books!

I can always count on Melissa Ferguson’s novels to make me laugh and Without a Clue was no exception!

Penelope Mae Dupont, aka Pip, is known for keeping her cool and arranging anything and everything to perfection. Her skills are tested when she organizes a book cruise for The Magnificent Seven - a group of bestselling authors - and their readers. On the second day of the cruise, mystery author Hugh Griffin is murdered, and the clues hint that one of the seven is the culprit. With the help of Western writer Nash, she must keep the show on the road, solve the case, and maybe even fall in love.

A murder mystery is not often wrapped in a rom-com, but Ferguson pulled it off brilliantly. The Magnificent Seven were all so different from each other, which provided some wonderful entertainment. I think Neena was my favorite author, aside from Nash. The case was so twisty, I had no idea what was going on until the very end. Nash and Pip were an adorable couple and the best sleuthing pair.

Anyone who loves lighthearted mysteries, quirky characters, and friends-to-lovers tropes will enjoy this book. Thank you, Thomas Nelson, for providing this book for review through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

This book was PHENOMENAL! It was classic rom-com meets knives out mystery. If Agatha Christie had tried to write a romance this would be it. It was so fun to read. The characters were so unique and lovable. I quite literally could not put it down and read it all in one sitting. The main character “Pip” is so hilarious and lovable you can’t help but be right there with her as the story goes on. One million stars for the sheer joy of this read.

Without a Clue is the perfect rom-com whodunit blend… equal parts mystery, romance, and laugh-out-loud moments. I flew through this one, fully invested from start to finish. The characters are fun, relatable, and easy to root for, and the story never takes itself too seriously. If you love a cozy murder mystery with charm, humor, and a little swoon, this one’s absolutely worth adding to your TBR
Releasing on Feb 16, 2026
@ourfriendlyfarmhouse @thomasnelson #netgalley #withoutaclue

This book was so fun and charming! I loved the mix of romance, humor, and mystery. The characters were lovable and the writing was warm and clever. It felt cozy and uplifting.
Highly recommend

Without a Clue: A Rom-Com, Cozy Mystery Book about Books by Melissa Ferguson is a delightful book. Penelope Mae DuPont is the personal assistant to a mystery writer. She organizes a luxury cruise for seven writers. Everything goes well until Hugh Griffin ends up dead, the cruise ship security is incompetent, and she is beginning to suspect everyone in her party. Nash, the dreamy Western author, offers to help her as they try to untangle the mystery and solve the crime.

Without a Clue filled me with joy and may be my favorite Melissa Ferguson book to date. I laughed out loud and finished this one quickly. I loved Penelope and watching her grow and change during our story. Penelope and Nash had great chemistry, banter, and it was fun to watch their relationship. The mystery added some intrigue to the story. I also loved how the author kindly roasted the different genres of authors and readers. The book cover will clue you in.

Without a Clue: A Rom-Com, Cozy Mystery Book about Books by Melissa Ferguson is fantastic. It has mystery, romance, humor and will make you smile as a reader. I highly recommend Without A Clue!

I was gifted a copy and not required to write a review.

I can't believe how much happened in this book and everything tied together so well! The main character was so well written. She had the right amount of experience and talent and courage to be everything I want to be...if I was in her situation. She was an absolute mastermind. All of the side characters, the magnificent seven and even the butler (he wasn't really a butler but I pictured him like that) had perfect complementary personalities to keep the story wildly interesting and entertaining. It's the murder mystery I didn't know I needed. And can I just take a moment to gush over Nash? "You're going to make the sunrise jealous." Ooh what a line. I will recommend this book so hard.

This was my first Melissa Ferguson novel, and I really enjoyed it! Without a Clue is a fun, lighthearted mystery with a little bit of romance and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.

Pip is quirky, witty, and completely relatable, and I loved following her as she grew more confident throughout the story. The ensemble of eccentric authors and chaotic group dynamics were so fun and entertaining. It was definitely one of the highlights for me and made the story even more memorable.

Overall, this was an entertaining and satisfying read full of heart and now I think I may have to start reading more mysteries. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this and I can't wait to read more of Melissa Ferguson's books!

Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson was such a fun, chaotic murder mystery set on a book cruise, and I absolutely loved every minute of it!

Pip was such a delightful main character, and I adored getting to know the “Magnificent 7.” The way this group of authors represented different genres and built a supportive bond over 40 years was heartwarming and added a unique layer to the story. It made the stakes feel more personal when things started going sideways.

The hijinks Pip gets dragged into thanks to Hugh, all in the name of crafting a great mystery, had me laughing throughout the book. Watching her take everything she learned and use it to help unravel Hugh’s untimely and suspicious death was incredibly satisfying and kept me hooked.

Her partnership with Nash, the handsome western writer, was another highlight. Their banter was sharp, funny, and full of chemistry, and the situations they stumbled into while trying to solve the case made the mystery even more entertaining.

Overall, this was a clever, lighthearted mystery packed with humor, heart, and twists. I’d definitely recommend it to fans of Finlay Donovan or anyone looking for a fun whodunit with personality.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me a copy of this book to review.

This was a fantastic read, and I enjoyed it a lot. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.

Delightful in every way!

When famed mystery author Hugh Griffin is murdered aboard a fan-filled book cruise, his assistant Pip Dupont is forced to investigate when security proves useless.

Trapped at sea with seven larger than life authors and hundreds of suspects, Pip teams up with Nash, a rugged Western writer, to navigate clues, red herrings, and growing attraction....

What you'll love:
romcom mystery
single pov
cruise setting
friends to lovers
cowboy hero
plucky heroine
slow burn
amateur detective
light suspense
plot twists
THAT ENDING!!!

This entire book was wonderfully chaotic and utterly delightful! From the hilarious cast of characters to the clever whodunit mystery to the adorably sweet romance, I loved every moment. The twists kept me guessing until the very last page, and I genuinely did not see that ending coming!!

Pip is the kind of heroine you want as your best friend, and Nash? Total cowboy hero perfection. Their slow-burn romance was worth every.single.page. And the cast of quirky, enigmatic authors had me laughing out loud - they truly brought the cruise to life!

I am fairly new to this authors' books but this one completely won me over! This book is a perfectly chaotic, heartwarming, and page-turning ride and I can’t recommend it enough!

I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.

What a delightful, entertaining, fun read. Without a Clue follows Penelope, a personal assistant to Hugh Griffin, an author and part of "The Magnificent Seven" comprising of 7 authors from various genres. However, Hugh is found dead on the cruise arranged for readers and the "Magnificent Seven." This mystery will keep you guessing as Penelope, with help and protection from Nash, another author, starts sleuthing to find the killer.
I enjoyed the cast of characters and the developing relationship between Penelope and Nash. Without a Clue has hilarious moments that will leave you laughing.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This is such a fun and entertaining story to read! I loved the mystery aspect, and I also loved the quirky characters and the writing style.

The mystery reminded me of an Agatha Christie novel while I was reading it, and I was so here for that! I enjoy a good mystery, and this was a well-written one!

I also enjoyed the cast of characters. They were unique and quirky, and it was fun to read about them! The setting of a cruise and the fact that a lot of the characters were authors added to my enjoyment of the story. This is one I will want to reread in the future!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A ‘Clue’ meets ‘Nancy Drew’ romance novel.
🔍🛳️🫆❤️📖🔑🧭💻🕯️📚🥰

I devoured yet also soaked up every ounce of this book that I could. Melissa Ferguson excels at blending mystery and romance while evoking profound wisdom in your heart.

♡ Friends to lovers
♡ Found family
♡ No spice
♡ Protective cowboy
♡ Forced proximity
♡ Solving a mystery
♡ Books about books
♡ Panic attack representation

The best way to sum up the book is a quote from the book itself:

“…And the best part of all is that with great literature, we needn’t leave the comfort of our own chairs to give our brains a jumpstart on great adventure.”

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction publishing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. This book was a beautiful gem.

This was absolutely delightful! I loved the combination of a clean romance and cozy mystery. Nash was sooo swoony, and Pip was the perfect mesh of Type A and "the girl next door.." I loved everything about this story. While I was reading, I told my husband I needed him to grab his cowboy hat and do all the romantic cowboy things. Love it, love it, love it!

eARC review for NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction | Thomas Nelson

Penelope and Nash are the cutest! This was so cute and cheesy that I devoured it. The mystery that Pip and Nash are trying to find out who killed Hugh. Nash is so smitten for Pip. Loved it.

Without a Clue
A Rom-Com, Cozy Mystery Book about Books
by Melissa Ferguson

Pub Date Feb 17 2026 | Thomas Nelson Fiction | Thomas Nelson
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction | Thomas Nelson for the chance to read and review this book.

This book is such a fun ride! I thought i had everything figured out then doubted myself haha perfect!

Read this if you enjoy...
- found family
- forced proximity
- cowboy cinnamon roll

This book was so much fun. The way I was laughing out loud at how ridiculous everyone from The Seven are. I could hear their voices so distantly on the page. Defiantly knives out vibes if it was a romcom !! one of my favorite reads of the year. Plus, who doesn't:t love a man in wrangler jeans.

5⭐️


I normally struggle with cozy mysteries because they're just too cheesy for me. But Without a Clue broke the cheesiness curse for me without being super serious. I loved each of the Magnificent Seven and the way their personalities all fit the genre of book they wrote. The mystery was well done and each character played their part well. The side characters, especially the investigators, really fed into Pip's need to solve the case of what happened to her boss. The setting being on a cruise ship in the middle of the sea was a great take and considering I'm just as anxious as Pip, her freak out about being below deck was very relatable.

I loved how everyone was suspicious. That's a given when you have an isolated location but given they were on a book cruise and there were hundreds of readers on board as well I liked how everything was focused on the Magnificent Seven. I can't go into too much detail without spoiling everything but I loved the way Pip was able to use her personal relationship with the group to start to solve the case. The fact that everyone was so supportive of her and wanted to push her out of her comfort zone was so sweet and really worked with the mystery. Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for providing this ARC to me!

I usually always love Melissa Ferguson's books, but THIS one was extra fun and special. Each character of the "Magnificent Seven" was superb! I loved that they personified the book genre they wrote. Kind of like "if fantasy was a person..."

The opening scene of this book definitely told me that this was going to be a wild ride! The vivid imagery was fantastic. I 100% could imagine the whole thing and had my book movie going in my head the whole time.

This was a lovely deviation from a classic rom-com with the addition of the murder mystery. Pip's character was soo good! I loved when it listed all the things she'd done on behalf of helping Hugh. Oy. LOL.

This is a book that definitely celebrates friendship and mentors. And a lot of tongue in cheek about authors. No, it's not a Christian fiction, but it's a clean book with focus on good morals and values.

Sign me up for the next Cruise with your Favorite author trip!

5 stars.

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book. All opinions are 100% my own.

I adored every second of this book by Melissa Ferguson! A bookish/author/readership cruise with a cozy murder mystery vibe + characters I fell in love with??! Yes, please! Melissa writes books that are squeaky clean, tame enough I’d definitely recommend to my teenage friends, AND she makes me laugh out loud. The dialogue was so good! It read with similar vibes to some of her other books, but was totally stand out to me in other ways (the mystery + suspense edge was SO fun!), and this book was really her best work so far (in my opinion). I love that she highlights/writes about her industry, too, because I think it’s so interesting. And of course I love the love story portions, too. 



This book was a joy to read and I didn’t want it to end! Definitely one I’ll be recommending, gifting, and thinking about.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ OBSESSED. No notes.

I absolutely loved Without a Clue and could not put it down. The eccentric personalities of the characters were everything to me—each one felt distinct, memorable, and so fun to read about. The banter, humor, wit, and suspense made this mystery feel fresh and addictive.

I especially loved that the author did something different with this being her first mystery. I was constantly guessing who the murderer was and never felt bored for a second. The romance/friendship dynamics added so much heart to the story and balanced the mystery perfectly.

This is easily my favorite book she’s ever written. I’ve read all of her books, and this is top three for sure, alongside Meet Me in the Margins and How to Plot a Payback. It was such an easy binge read, and I flew through it way too fast.

Also side note- but I love the cover!

I need more mystery books like this ASAP!!! Truly obsessed.

P.S I love Melissa Ferguson and that her books are always closed door/no spice.

One week until the release of Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson ! This is one of the best books I’ve read in the last few months and I had so much FUN reading it. Penelope Dupont is an assistant to the Magnificant Seven, 7 author friends of different genres who have commited to cross-promote each other’s novels. When a reader retreat at sea turns into a floating murder mystery, Penelope and her longtime crush (Westerns writer Nash) join forces in a race against time to figure out who wanted their leader dead-and why. I truly cannot say enough good things about this book-I loved all of the idiosyncrasies of each author and how their characters reflected their genre. I’m so glad Melissa Ferguson decided to a rom-com mystery caper because she did it so WELL. It’s funny, there are twists and turns, there’s romance, and by the end I was truly at the edge of my seat. I love her books so much and am excited she even has some movie adaptations coming this year too. I’d love to see Without a Clue onscreen someday-grab this book if you love funny stories with Agatha Christie energy!!

*I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley. I was not required to give a review and all opinions expressed above are my own.

This book was an utter delight! I had so much fun reading this cozy mystery/rom-com. Honestly, I am kicking myself for not reading Melissa Ferguson's books sooner. I loved the locked-room (boat?) setting, the intriguing murder mystery, the slow-burn romance, and the lively cast of characters. With every chapter, I found myself laughing out loud and rooting for Pip, the main character. This cozy whodunit was full of hilarious hijinks and surprising reveals. I will definitely be reading more from Ferguson!

Melissa Ferguson has done it again. Her writing is masterful - delightfully quirky characters so vividly described they leap off the page. She has a knack for taking absurd situations and grounding them in reality.
A writer poking fun at writers and their writing is deliciously fun. Their banter and camaraderie reminded me of John Grisham's Camino series. And I love when romance is an element of the story, sneaking in and slowly developing as life happens. Angsty romances that are all about the "Will they? Won't they?" get tedious. This romance is perfectly paced and weighted against all the other relationships.
One of my favorite lines - "...my guardian angel, the server in the peacock bow tie, brings over a silver platter laden with seasickness options arranged in a neat little circle." Hilarious.
I called the whodunit it immediately, but there were great twists and turns along the way that added so much fun to the story. Melissa Ferguson does a great job of making every character distinct and integral to the story. Well done.

What a creative cast of characters and fun premise! I stayed up way too late several nights in a row, anxious to figure out whodunnit. There were shades of Agatha Christie that made it feel very classic, despite the modern setting.

As soon as I finished it, I immediately recommended it to my husband and daughter.

I was not a regular reader of cozy mystery-romcoms when I started this book but now I’m a fan. The setting sounded fabulous—a luxury cruise with a Booklovers theme featuring your favorite best-selling authors who have been dubbed the Magnificent Seven. Right at the beginning of the book one of the seven is murdered and due to incompetent investigators, Pip, the assistant to the group, takes it upon herself to do her own investigation and Nash, one of the writers, comes to her aid. It appears that the murderer might be one of the author group and there are some funny as well as suspenseful moments as Pip tries to uncover the truth while trying to keep the program going and the cruisers out of the loop and enjoying the activities. And to make things even better, Pip and Nash moved from friends to more with a very sweet romance. It took me a moment to get into the story but by the end of chapter one I was fully engaged and couldn’t put the book down. Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

This was just the cutest rom-com mystery mash-up! Penelope "Pip" Dupont is the personal assistant to a famous mystery author, Hugh Griffin, who is part of "The Fabulous Seven" a group of eccentric, bestselling authors. Pip has organized a luxury book cruise for the authors and their fans only for her boss to be murdered on the second day. The ‘locked-ship’ setting provided the perfect isolated backdrop for the investigation, with Pip and her love interest, Nash, work to solve the case.

I LOVED the fabulous seven! Audiobook narrator, Karissa Vacker, brilliant performs each of these unique cinematic personalities helping me keep the large case straight during their group scenes on the ship. Vacker also keeps the tone lighthearted, balancing the humor of the rom-com elements with the tension of the mystery without making it feel too high stakes or dark. Pip has a great dry wit and hilarious internal monologue, which Vacker handles with ease making her seem relatable and easy to root for! Pip and Nash’s lacked a bit of backstory, but I still felt their yearning and chemistry was palpable!

If you’re searching for the perfect beach or spring break read with a cozy mystery, no-spice romance, with a plot about authors and the publishing world, you’ll adore this one!

What a rare and beautiful occurrence for a romantic mystery to both completely surprise me and simultaneously not because everything was so well set up and plotted. Mystery plus romance as a sub genre is an undoubted favorite of mine but in the case of Without a Clue I think fans of either genre (or none even) can appreciate the motley crew of characters, the unique setting and the whodunnit itself. Melissa Ferguson far exceeded my expectations and while I enjoyed my only other title of hers so far, The Perfect Rom-Com, this story was on another level. Give it a shot, you won’t regret it!

Audio only feedback: good solid pacing and tone, Karissa Vacker is a great example of a single party narrator who can very effectively modulate her voice to reflect other characters with no obstacle of gender or accent.

Thank you Thomas Nelson Fiction for providing this ebook and audiobook for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Review cross posted on Goodreads and StoryGraph

Truly, a laugh out loud, whodunit with lots of heart. Pip is the type of character whose charisma just draws you in from the start. The opening scene was just brilliant for setting the stage and introducing some key players while setting the tone for what’s to come. The fact that it takes place on a cruise where the characters are literally locked in together was brilliant. Seeing all the suspicions come about while Pip tries to solve to case was creative and flawless. I love the budding romance with Nash and even the doubt that sneaks in there as the case unfolds. There are plenty of red herrings and curve balls to keep you guessing and turning the pages to get to the truth. On the one hand, I was not surprised and thought it just highlighted the brilliant nature of the story. On the other hand, I could not believe what actually happened!! I highly recommend for those who enjoy modern, mystery rom-coms. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley, and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

Oh my goodness! This book was hilarious! And the whodunit made it impossible to put down.

💖 The romance - 100% sweet

👵🏻 The side characters - quirky and hilarious

🔍 The mystery- I can’t even. Wow. Blew me away.

🎧 The Narration- super well done with the emotion, different voices, comedic timing.

✍️ The writing 10/10

🤣 The humor: delightfully hilarious, even the understated parts made me giggle. 🤭

Content:

💋 Kisses only

🤬 No profanity

⚔️ PG violence. Brief mention of blood and deceased person (it is a murder mystery) but nothing gory or grotesque. It was tastefully done.

I’d give this book a 10/10 all around. It was very wholesome and I would totally let a teen read it.

Thank you NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for a copy of this book for me to read and review.

I love this book so much that I even went out and bought a physical copy.

I loved the mystery and the romance. It truly felt like a movie in my head. I enjoyed the twists and turns and was not expecting the plot twist.

I binge read Without A Clue in one sitting because I HAD to know what was happening. From the very first scene, I was constantly trying to figure out what was going on!
This book has a huge cast of characters from quirky to all the way unhinged and it can get a bit confusing. The romance is very light but is a sweet secondary storyline. If you like movies like Murder Mystery, Knives Out, and Clue I think you will enjoy this story!

I read the ebook and will probably add the paperback to my collection!

"𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚" 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒗𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒚.

A romcom-mystery, it was a first for me and boy was it fun! I think it was more a comedy mistery, with a pinch of romance, though I am NOT complaining!

In this story, we follow the "Magnificent Seven", 7 authors, 7 different genres and all very specific characters & Pip, the assisent of Hugh, the "leader" of the group. As an assistent to Hugh, the mystery writer, she has seen it all, at least until she discovers his body on a 10-day book cruise featuring all 7 authors. With a lack of proper investigation from the authorities, Pip takes it on herself to find who is responsible, whilst being smitten with her Nash, the cowboy author of the group.

It was my first, but for sure not last, book by Ferguson. The book was both funny and thrilling. Even though I suspected what the outcome would be, I did doubt myself quite a few times. The read went quick, accompanied by some true giggles. It's a great book for romcom loves who want to switch things up a little.

5 Stars – Clever, Cozy, and Absolutely Delightful

Without a Clue is such a fun blend of rom com charm and cozy mystery that I couldn’t stop smiling while reading it.
I loved the bookish setting and the locked boat murder mystery concept. It felt fresh, playful, and full of personality.
Pip is an easy character to root for, especially as she’s forced out of her comfort zone and into the role of amateur sleuth.
The humor landed perfectly, and the cast of eccentric authors added just the right amount of chaos and entertainment.

What I enjoyed most was the slow burn romance mixed with the suspense of the whodunit.
Pip and Nash had sweet, natural chemistry, and their teamwork gave the story warmth alongside the twists and red herrings.
It’s lighthearted but still engaging, cozy without being dull, and packed with enough intrigue to keep the pages turning. A perfect comfort read for anyone who loves books about books, a little mystery, and a lot of heart.

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

Without a Clue was a quick fun read. I was hooked from the start and would have finished it in one sitting if work hadn’t gotten in the way. The writing was wonderful and kept me guessing. Pip was hilarious and I love how she investigated everyone while using what she knew about Hugh and his writing. I look forward to reading more from this author

I absolutely loved this book! Melissa delivered a story with a sweet romance AND a murder mystery. The characters were so much fun, and I adored our FMC, Penelope! Aside from the mystery plot, and the humorous tone of the story, this book revealed inspiring themes about self-discovery, self-worth, and confidence. I highly recommend this book for lovers of clean romance, and a dash of light mystery!
Thank you Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for my early copy! All opinions are my own!

This book instantly brought to mind "Knives Out" but like, in the fact that this really was like that movie. Recently, it has felt like every "whodunit" book gets compared to that movie. This to make this comparison for this book makes sense to me because you've got your female M/C whose mentor/person she works for dies and she has to figure who did it in this large cast of characters that are basically a family.
The romance side of the plot brought to mind "The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year" by Ally Carter, what with all of the authors and the falling in love while solving a mystery.

This is what I love about Melissa's books, I don't have to brace myself for harsh language, or for the Lord's name to be taken in vain. Every time "oh my gosh" was used and instead of the other, it was like a breath of fresh air for my brain. I also love how her love interests actually grow to love each other, not just lust after each other. Like, the book was still romantic don't get me wrong. It also made me giggle and swoon at their flirting. I just appreciate that that element of their relationship was not swallowed up by a physical relationship right off the bat. They worked together throughout the book and took care of each other.

The found family aspect of this book was so very well done. I want to know these characters so much more! I want to read their books. Especially since I know that Penelope would be the one to test whether or not things in the books could actually be done. I loved the ending so very much, how the whole gang banded together in order to get her to write something.

This was a great quick read for those who want some romance to their mystery.

Without a Clue was such a fun, easy read exactly what I wanted. The whole luxury book cruise turning into a murder investigation was such a good setup. One boat, a bunch of dramatic bestselling authors, and then a murder. It was chaotic in the best way.

One of my favourite things was Pip being the assistant to a famous murder mystery author and then actually using all the tips and tricks she’s picked up from him to investigate his death. That was such a clever angle. She’s been in the background for so long, organising everything and keeping him on track, and then suddenly she’s the one piecing things together. It felt really satisfying watching her step into that role.

And Nash… I mean, the Western author who basically gives cowboy energy and actually wears the hat? I loved him. The relationship between him and Pip builds. They work together, they figure things out.

The mystery itself was fun, with enough twists and red herrings to keep it interesting, but it never got too heavy. It’s definitely more of a light and entertaining with a murder plot rather and I liked that about it.

Overall, it was just a really enjoyable, high-seas whodunit with a bit of romance. Easy five stars from me.

One part Only Murders in the Building, one part Book Lovers, count me in! This is absolutely making my 2026 favorites list.

I’ve been reading Melissa Ferguson’s books for years, so when I heard she was writing a romantic comedy mystery, I was absolutely thrilled. I’m a mystery girl at heart, and I couldn’t believe one of my favorite authors was diving into the genre. Without a Clue did not disappoint, it was an absolute blast and kept me on my toes from start to finish.

We hit the ground running with Pip, assistant to the wildly famous author Hugh along with his tight-knit group of author friends, the self-dubbed “Magnificent Seven” on a book cruise meant to promote their novels. But things take a shocking turn when Hugh winds up dead in the middle of the ocean, and somehow it’s up to Pip and charming Western author Nash to solve the case.

This book was pure fun from beginning to end. For some it may feel a little zany at times, but I loved every minute of it. Pip is such a great FMC. After getting out of an eight-year toxic relationship, we see her slowly rediscover herself. I especially loved watching her thought process unfold as she worked through both the mystery and her own personal growth. Nash is swoony, thoughtful, and steady, the kind of hero who cares deeply but respects boundaries. We love a patient man who gives his girl space!

The mystery itself was twisty and engaging, filled with clever red herrings that kept me guessing. But as always with Melissa Ferguson’s books, my favorite part was the ensemble cast and found family. She has such a gift for bringing together a group of characters who feel like family by the end. The Magnificent Seven and the way they care for Pip, completely stole my heart.

If you’re looking for a romcom mystery that will make you laugh out loud, keep you guessing, and maybe even swoon a little, this is the one.

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the ARC of the book! A favorite read of the year!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This book was adorable. It had just the right mix of humor, romance, and heart. I always enjoy anything Melissa Ferguson writes!

Single POV


Just wow. I have read all of Melissa Ferguson’s books and can honestly say this one takes a hard left turn in the best way.

I feel like the best way to review this book is to tell every reader to dive right in.

For anyone who loves their romance, eclectic groups, and handsome cowboys sprinkled with a little murder on top ✨

If you’re looking for a rom-com that packs both swoon-worthy banter and sinister secrets, Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson is ready to hand you a boarding pass… and possibly a suspect list.

Welcome aboard the Inaugural Book Cruise of The Magnificent Seven writers’ club — a glittering gathering of eccentric authors sailing the Atlantic with egos as big as the ocean views. Among them? Penelope Mae Dupont (Pip), longtime assistant to famed mystery writer Hugh, and the ruggedly charming cowboy novelist Nash Eyre. Pip has spent years researching fictional murders for Hugh’s books. But when real bodies start dropping mid-voyage, suddenly those research notes aren’t just trivia — they’re survival skills.

One minute you’re grinning at sharp dialogue and slow-burn chemistry, the next you’re narrowing your eyes at a suspicious author clutching a fountain pen a little too tightly. Ferguson masterfully keeps readers guessing: Which of these delightfully odd writers has turned from crafting fiction to committing murder?

Pip is an absolute gem — clever, underestimated, and far more prepared for sleuthing than anyone realizes. Watching her step from the shadows of assistant life into the spotlight of amateur detective is deeply satisfying. And Nash? Let’s just say every good mystery needs a strong, steady partner — preferably one with cowboy boots and a protective streak.

The cast of characters is colorful, quirky, and suspicious in equal measure. Every chapter feels like a clue slipped under your cabin door. Every conversation might hide a motive. And just when you think you’ve solved it? Ferguson pulls the rug out from under you like a true mystery maestro.

Here is your clue themed twist:
Motive: Jealousy, ambition, secrets at sea.
Means: A ship full of mystery writers with very creative minds.
Opportunity: The middle of the Atlantic… with nowhere to run.
Verdict: Guilty… of being wildly entertaining.

This is a fast-paced, charming, cleverly constructed read that will keep you turning pages long past bedtime. I highly recommend this thoroughly enjoyable and fun read — perfect for anyone who likes their romance served with a side of red herrings.

I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley and Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are entirely my own — though I suspect you’ll agree once you step aboard.

All of my favorites wrapped into one book! Murder and romance??! Yes, please. I had such a good time reading this! Figuring out who-don it while immersed in a kick your feet funny rom-com. You are guaranteed to have a good time with this one.

Thank you NetGalley so much for sending me this ARC!

This was such a fun book concept and I loved reading it. I am a huge fan of clue and loved that this combined with an author cruise. The story was entertaining and I enjoyed the characters. I definitely recommend you give this book a read if you like a good who done it?

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the advance copy!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK.

Rarely do I finish a book in a couple of days. And I definitely haven’t finished a book in two days in a hot minute. This isn’t a “short” book by any means. I liked it that much.

I went into this having never read a mystery romance combo. But a cruise ship? A closed-door author? A mystery? Sign me up!

Pip is the assistant to Hugh, one of the Seven. The Seven is a group of - you guessed it - seven authors in different genres who promote each other’s books and support one another unconditionally. When Hugh warns Pip that someone in the Seven is going to kill him on the inaugural book cruise - then turns up dead the next morning - Pip decides to take what she knows from her research with Hugh and try to solve the crime. In nine days. On a cruise ship.

Ferguson did a great job of developing each personality of the Seven (and Pip) throughout the book. Each character was as unique as the genre they wrote about. It was fun getting to explore their dynamics as a group and how Pip fit into the group as the only non-writer.

The romance between Nash and Pip was just enough to be enjoyable. It never took away from the mystery. In fact, I’d dub this a mystery with a *hint* of romance. This is definitely a first of its kind for me.

Of course, I loved the setting. It was funny how often Nash specifically would mention how Pip managed to book the most boujee cruise possible. Ferguson described the cruise ship so well, I genuinely believed I was there at some points.

While I did guess a PART of the solution to the mystery about 1/3 of the way through, I still thoroughly enjoyed the ending.

Btw this was my very first Melissa Ferguson read - it won’t be my last!

Penelope, affectionately nicknamed Pip, has a book lover's dream job: assistant to a world renowned author and his group of eccentric fellow authors, known as the "Magnificent Seven," from different genres.

Pip prides herself at remaining composed throughout whatever shenanigans are thrown her way, but organizing and running this celebrity cruise threatens to be her undoing. After her best friend and boss, Hugh, dies on board, she takes it upon herself to solve this murder alongside Nash, another member of the Magnificent Seven (who is also very handsome).

I found myself laughing out loud several times, swooning alongside Pip, and overall just having a blast! The cast of characters are wildly entertaining, the mystery engaging, and the romance sweet as pie. This would be a PERFECT beach read.

Murder mystery rom coms are always a hit for me and this was no exception! The setting being on a cruise is what initially sold me to pick this up. It’s a quick and sweet read that brings that bit of mystery to keep you up reading late.

This was so much fun! I loved the pacing of the murder mystery and how we got a deep dive into each of the seven authors. And I loved the slow-burn of Nash and Pip. The final reveal completely suprised me! I read most of this in one day because I didn't want to put it down.

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. It did not go in the direction that I thought it would and I am so glad that I read it! The entire story and then the ending made me enjoy this book so much! It is a definite read!

It's a bookish cruise with a locked-room mystery and my favorite Melissa Ferguson to date.

The fact that my Terrific Darling Book Club friends joined me added to the fun. Thank you to the Terrific Tina, Barbara, and Molly for making this our February club read.

Here are some things that made this book great:

🎧Karissa Vacker narrates. A big thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for making an early audio copy available on NetGalley. Vacker shines in all the parts and makes this such an entertaining read.

🚢Most of the action takes place on a cruise that has been planned for readers to interact with some of their favorite authors. What a great idea! It's a relatively small ship (about 300 passengers), but still has all the amenities you would expect to find on a luxury cruise.

📚The Magnificent Seven represent many genres making them a diverse group: Neena(Romance), Jackie(Historical Fiction), Gordon(Fantasy), Crystal(YA) and the baby of the group, Ricky(Thrillers), Nash(Westerns), and Hugh(Mysteries). Our narrator is Penelope (Pip) and the administrator for the group aka the glue.

🤣While there were some moments of genuine peril, I found so many more times I was literally laughing out loud. A pleasure to read!

📖When I decided to read this title, Thomas Nelson and NetGalley were also offering the digital format as "Read Now." It worked out perfectly to listen to most of the book while then reviewing in the digital format and marking highlights for book discussion. Thank you to the publisher and NG!

This book is due for publication on Tuesday, February 17. I heartily recommend it to help chase away those Winter blues. Also be sure to check reviews from my Terrific Darling friends: Tina, Barbara, and Molly. I think they enjoyed it almost as much as I did.