This is a cosy, cutesy book. It was slow to get going but it was an okay read, although not much actually happens. There are some great supporting characters that add to the story. Ellie’s parents suck and I struggled with how Ellie let them treat her. She came across as a pushover and it was frustrating. I also couldn’t work out why some of the rules were in place as Ellie was obviously very popular and good at her job. The romance is slow burn and closed door which made it feel like there was a lack of chemistry. I loved Cam’s character though. If you’re looking for something cute and light then this might be one to check out.

I received a copy of the ebook via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

This is the 4th book (the 2nd one I’ve read) in a series based in Pike. Each book has a different set of main characters so they can all be read as a stand alone. I loved both Lia and Kaden’s characters and their romance although extremely fast was adorable. As for the crime element, it’s packed full of twists and turns to keep you guessing. I had no idea who the bad guy was and the reveal was so good. You can’t beat a corrupt small town crime. They always make me suspicious of absolutely everyone and I was still wrong.

I received a copy of the ebook via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

This is the 4th book in the series but all of the books can be read as stand alones as they all feature a different set of main characters set in the same town. The balance of romance and crime is perfect and is such a nice easy read. There are some great recurring characters and both Leyla and Sean are so lovable. Their romance is adorable. There’s not so much mystery behind the crime but you get the tension from the risk to Leyla and how/if they will be able to catch the bad guys.

I received a copy of the ebook via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

This was my first book from this author and I definitely won’t be reading more. Laurie was such a judgemental character and I kinda hated her. I wish the book had been dual POV instead of just hers because Jamie was more likable. We spent so much time hearing about the ex and how terrible Laurie’s life is that we don’t actually get much interaction between her and the actual love interest. This meant there was zero chemistry between the two. I also found the rants about her ex so long winded and dull that I ended up skimming them. The actual romance only happens in the last 2 chapters but the end of the book is just chaotic. The scene with the dad’s friends and then the email fiasco, felt like the author knew the start was boring and needed to add some drama but went a bit over the top. It was also weird reading a black woman written badly by a white woman. The hair cut chapter needed to go.

I adore this series. It's definitely in my top 3 crime series. Alyssa and her team are so lovable and her family is just adorable. The balance between Alyssa's work and family is done so well. It makes my heart happy seeing a woman who is good at her job as well as being an incredible mum and has a supportive husband. There are so many loner women detective stories it makes a nice change. There are so many amazing recurring characters and I love getting to know them all with each book addition. We can't forget Hal who is obviously my favourite with his disabled badass representation.

Now Charly Cox loves a gruesome murder so if those aren't for you then definitely skip this but man does she draw you in. It's fast paced and I could not put it down. I had no idea who the killer was and I was hooked until the very end. I hope we get more from this series and I highly recommend checking them out in order.

I received a copy of the ebook via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review