by Kristen Perrin

A Mystery/Thriller, 2024 by Dutton, 358 Pages 

What I Didn’t Like:

• The jumps between POV characters were a bit jarring. I think this was because I liked one character more than the other, which is not a huge issue but it is an issue. 
• Mildly predictable in the character and development line. While the mystery itself was well done, what happens to the characters was pretty obvious. They sort of fell into cliche roles and that was a bummer.
• Obvious setting up for a sequel ending. Even before I confirmed that this was the first in a series I saw it coming. If you like this one and like the idea, that probably won’t be a negative. 

What I Did Like:

• Compelling concept. Can one person become so obsessed with the idea that they will be murdered that they annoy someone into murdering them? I loved the idea and I loved even more the idea that things were not what they seemed (my favorite vibe). 
• Satisfying solution to the mystery. You get your answers, which I was worried about because this is the first in a series, and you get a nice bow on the storyline. 
• Annie is a good character. She’s got a strong sense of right and wrong, she’s smart and determined, and she isn’t always the smartest person in the room (important for a mystery like this). She can likely carry this series.

Who Should Read This One:

• Cozy mystery fans. This isn’t too gruesome, it’s well written, has a fun vibe, and brings in a good cast of characters.

My Rating: 3 Stars

• If you find yourself strongly on the mystery side of the mystery-thriller spectrum, this is a good one.