There is only so often that a book will make you laugh til you cry. And this, was one. I absolutely loved reading the first in this series, and it has become a fast favorite. The concept of the story itself was a winner, the typical Mom being mistaken for a contract killer, and then becoming mixed up with the mob, genius. I absolutely enjoyed the humor and mystery/crime aspect that were involved in the story. The humor was spot on. The characters and cliffhangers were fantastic. I cannot wait to see what shenanigans Finlay ends up involved in for the future books!

This was a case of just not for me. I really wanted to get into this beloved cozy mystery series. I've had it on my tbr for so long. But as much as I want to love it, the vibes of this subgenre just don't work for me, sadly. I can absolutely see why this series is so popular, and I'll definitely recommend it to readers who I know would love this type of story.

So funny! Someone overhears a conversation about a book plot, thinks it is real and offers big money to have Finlay kill her husband. Most of us would laugh it off and say no. Not Finlay! She needs money. Bills are piling up and the van needs work. How does she figure out what to do? And how can this woman have that kind of cash laying around? Finlay is a hoot. Loved the story.

Finlay Donovan was all I heard it was and more. It was funny and charming. I love a plot based on a series of comedic errors. I breezed right through it. It set up the next book perfectly. i can't wait to read the rest of the series.

Don’t you hate it when someone overhears you and your editor discussing that suspense novel that’s overdue and, believing you to be an assassin-for-hire instead of the broke, single mom you are, offers you $50,000 to kill her abusive husband?

On the other hand, don’t you love the shenanigans that follow?

In a nutshell, Finlay Donovan Is Killing It is outlandish and delightful, a true caper novel tailor-made for readers practiced in the art of suspending disbelief. So basically, any reader who occasionally enjoys binge-watching Psych.

A ridiculous plot in the best way possible. Loved the characters and can't wait to continue the series! Just a really great time!

This was SUCH a good read, I can’t even contain myself! Loved it wholeheartedly and can’t wait till the second one comes out. Please, if you haven’t read it, run to your nearest bookstore, library, or app and get it ASAP!

Finlay Donovan is a divorced mother of two who is struggling to make ends meet. On top of the bills she’s months behind on, her ex is trying to take the kids and she doesn’t have the capital to take him on. Oh, and he’s engaged to the woman he was cheating on her with. So to say Finlay is down in her luck is an understatement.

But, when her discussion with her agent is overheard and misinterpreted, Finlay is offered a way to make a lot of cash, and quick: become a contract killer. And what happens after that spirals and twists in a gloriously entertaining way.

I only put it down once because, with an 11 month old, sleep is precious. But I laughed and smiled through this whole book. If you like thrillers, enjoy shows like Brooklyn 99, or are a mom at her wits end, you’ll find a heroine in Finlay Donovan!

This was so fun, I can see why people love the Finley Donovan series! I was so curious how it was going to unfold and why were multiple love interests introduced?? I really enjoyed the ride and look forward to the rest.

A fun little read! Great characters and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing and reading! Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martins Press for the gifted copy.

I am excited to have started the Finlay Donovan series. What a riot!

Finlay is never not “ on-the-go.” No waiting for the plot to pick up or reading through paragraphs of minutiae here! Every chapter leaves you racing to find out what happens next.

The plot was original ( to be mistaken for a hitman) and Vero as her partner in crime makes a perfect duo. Add in two lively kids that are naively dragged along and it makes for a good comedy, murder mystery!

I hope to read them all before the newest one is published in March 2025!

Thanks to Minotaur Books for the free ebook!

In Finlay Donovan is Killing It, author Elle Cosimano masterfully blends humor and suspense, delivering a delightful debut that captures the chaotic life of a single mom trying to navigate her responsibilities while pursuing her dreams.

Cosimano’s writing is fast-paced and filled with sharp wit, making it hard to put the book down. Each twist and turn keeps readers on their toes, while the authentic portrayal of Finlay's life resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by the demands of parenting and professional aspirations.

This book is a refreshing addition to the cozy mystery genre, blending elements of crime with the heartfelt struggles of motherhood. Finlay Donovan is a character you can’t help but root for as she navigates her way through chaos and comedy. For anyone seeking a lighthearted yet poignant read, Finlay Donovan is Killing It is a must-pick-up.

Finlay Donovan is a single mom doing the best she can. Her ex husband isn’t helping matters and she is late getting her book written for her editor. While at lunch with her editor, Finlays conversation regarding her book is over heard and misunderstood.
Did Finlay really just accept a “job” to get rid of a problem husband?!?! Read to find out what happens to a busy mom, struggling to write her novel and who accidentally agrees to take care of another woman’s problem!

The first book in the series was fun and entertaining. Finlay has no idea what she is doing but things just seem to fall into place as she uses her experiences to help outline her next novel.

I was thrilled that NetGalley offered the entire series in anticipation of book 5 being released March 2025. This was a fun, mystery read that kept me entertained and wanting to know how it ended.

Thankfully there are more adventures to come!

Cute and fun. I’m so glad I started this series. It’s a bit ridiculous but such a great ride, and I’m glad it doesn’t take itself so seriously. I still loved the characters and can see the potential for growth. I could see and am curious to know if the series turns formulaic or if the characters turn into caricatures that would get tiresome. Will definitely continue with the series and looking forward to finding out.

Thank You NetGalley for an advance copy. This is the first book in a strong series about single mom Finlay Donovan, who fumbles her way through mishaps and crime scenes, while always remaining relatable and funny. She is definitely related to Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum, and it was wonderful to find another series about strong, independent, but slightly incompetent women. The series is stronger because of Finlay’s close relationship with her nanny and best friend, Vero. I recommend this book if you are looking for something funny, entertaining and light.

I am so grateful to the publisher, author and NetGalley for providing me with copies of each book in the Finlay Donovan series. I just finished book 1 and cannot wait to start the next. This book had hilarious banter, an adorably mouthy 5 year old, oddly relatable hot-mess feelings, mystery, suspense, and even some romance. It was the complete package and I’m excited for more.

I was not familiar with Elle Cosimano's work so I was not sure what to expect but this book came highly recommended to me.

Finlay Donovan is a recently divorced single mother of two young kids who is just trying to survive. She is an murder mystery author that is behind on her promised manuscript, her ex-husband is threatening to fight for custody of the kids, the bills are piling up, and her van isn't working.

In a freak situation, Finlay is at Panera meeting her publicist, when a lady sitting close, overhears Finlay discussing murder methods and does not realize that Finlay is an author and not a hired killer.

While I did find the story very unbelievable, it was entertaining.

I will say that Finlay was one of the most likable main characters that committed murder. I found that I was rooting for her time and time again. But the likability also had a downside because I became so anxious for her and her situation. It as almost like Finlay became a friend and I was scared out of my mind that she was going to get herself in more trouble. Yes, I know Finlay isn't real but Cosimano did a great job making her seem like a real person. So this book did result in a high level of anxiety and an almost love-hate relationship with the story.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Finlay Donovan Is Killing It is the first book in Elle Cosimano's Finlay Donovan series, and it's an absolute blast! I loved all the characters, especially Vero! Finlay, Vero, and Julian make such a fun and engaging trio. The writing is top-notch, and the story moves at a quick pace, making it a perfect cozy mystery that's impossible to put down.

Publication Date- Feb 2, 2021

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

I had originally rated this story 5 stars, however I circled back and reread it and updated my rating to 5 stars

I LOVE this series and I find it unique and refreshing, we get to watch as Finlay's character develops from a lonely, timid , rejected woman with low self-esteem to someone a woman with self confidence in her own talent and new friends she can trust and depend on. But my favorite part about this series is that the author brings a great sense of humor to this genre while defying being pigeon-holed into a certain type (these aren't "cozies" rather they create their own mystery sub-genre, let's just call them "Finlays"! Many thanks to the publisher,Netgalley, and the author - I am not sure I would have discovered these books on my own, but you can bet I am an avid Finlay follower now!

My detailed review follows..

"Finlay Donovan Is Killing It" by Elle Cosimano is a breath of fresh air in the crime fiction genre, blending suspense, humor, and the chaos of everyday life in a way that is refreshing and delightfully absurd.

This story follows Finlay Donovan, a struggling novelist and single mom, whose life takes a wild turn when she is mistakenly hired as a contract killer. Finlay is an incredibly relatable character—juggling parenting, deadlines, and a failing marriage—while finding herself embroiled in a world of crime she never intended to join. Her inadvertent foray into the criminal underworld is as hilarious as it is nerve-wracking, providing readers with a unique blend of laugh-out-loud moments and edge-of-your-seat suspense.

Cosimano's writing is sharp and witty, with a fast-paced narrative that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The author expertly balances humor and tension, creating a story that is engaging and fun. The supporting characters, from Finlay’s meddling sister to her oblivious ex-husband, add depth and complexity to the plot, making the world of the novel feel vibrant and alive.

This novel also cleverly explores themes of identity, motherhood, and survival. Finlay's journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to navigate her new, dangerous reality while also rediscovering her own strength and resourcefulness. This blend of personal growth with comedic crime caper sets "Finlay Donovan Is Killing It" apart from typical thrillers.

"Finlay Donovan Is Killing It" is a must-read for fans of crime fiction who appreciate a humorous twist. Elle Cosimano has created a memorable protagonist and an exhilarating plot that entertains from start to finish.

If you're looking for a book that combines heart, humor, and a good dose of suspense, this novel is a perfect choice.

Finlay Donovan Is Killing It grabs you from the get go when Finlay gets mistaken as a hired gun during a meeting with her editor. I couldn't put this book down and didn't want to! The mystery and storyline is fun. Can't wait to continue the series.

I'm so glad I finally read Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano. It was full of humor and heart and still scratched the mystery itch. Finlay is a divorced mom of two kids and is barely scraping by. She's an author of books no one wants to read. When one day a meeting with her book editor turns her world around. Dark humor ensues in a very satisfying way. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and it has encouraged me to read more of Finlay.