The best mystery series ever!
Thank you to the publisher for the opportunity to read this advanced copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

4.5 ⭐️

This sequel was the perfect follow-up to the first book and just as much fun. I’m obsessed with Finlay and Vero and their chaotic adventures, and these books are just so entertaining even if they are a bit unrealistic. They’re light and enjoyable and the perfect escape from real life - highly recommend!

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for making these ARCs available again!

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martins Press for an ARC of this book!

Synopsis: 'Finlay Donovan is―once again―struggling to finish her next novel and keep her head above water as a single mother of two. On the bright side, she has her live-in nanny and confidant Vero to rely on, and the only dead body she's dealt with lately is that of her daughter's pet goldfish.

On the not-so-bright side, someone out there wants her ex-husband, Steven, out of the picture. Permanently. Whatever else Steven may be, he's a good father, but saving him will send her down a rabbit hole of hit-women disguised as soccer moms, and a little bit more involvement with the Russian mob than she'd like.

Meanwhile, Vero's keeping secrets, and Detective Nick Anthony seems determined to get back into her life. He may be a hot cop, but Finlay's first priority is preventing her family from sleeping with the fishes... and if that means bending a few laws then so be it.

With her next book's deadline looming and an ex-husband to keep alive, Finlay is quickly coming to the end of her rope. She can only hope there isn't a noose at the end of it...'

Rating: 5/5 Stars

Review: I just absolutely adore this series. Finlay is such a great character and her bond with Vero always just makes me smile! A lot of complaints about how the story is "unbelievable" or "not realistic" but that's exactly why I love it! If you haven't read this series yet, what are you waiting for?!

A bit more far fetched than book one but still really enjoyable. Vero and Finlay are a dynamic duo! Thank you to NetGalley for this arc!

I absolutely adored this book. As a recently single mom myself when I picked up the first book in the series (Finlay Donovan is Killing It), Finlay was immediately relatable. Her story is fun and amusing and makes me thankful that I've never been accidently confused for a contract killer! This has become one of my favorite series!

Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead by Elle Cosimano
Rating (5/5) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Finlay Donovan books are amazing! Memorable characters, fast-moving plots, and so many twists and turns that you guessing to the very end. Finlay and Vero are hilarious!! Love this series!!

I’m off to read the next one , Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun , and see what happens next!

I loved this second installment in the series. Finlay and Veronica are a hysterical duo, and I can’t wait to see what shenanigans they get into next.

This series is so much fun. I love the romance level (not too much, definitely focuses more on the mystery) and the characters are so loveable.

I'm obsessed with the Finlay Donovan series. They're an insta-buy for me.

Fans of Janet Evanovich will love the laugh-out-loud moments, the action/adventure, the romance, and of course, the zany mysteries!

Just as good as the first one! I was happy to be on another adventure with this meddling twosome and looked forward to the rest of the series.

It’s been confirmed. Finlay Donovan is a murderer. Christopher is dead. Even though Finlay responsible for her daughter’s now dead goldfish, she has bigger fish to fry - literally. The contract killing that actually wasn’t is now opening the way for yet another murder - one that Finlay has to commit. But, for a moment, consider Finlay’s current situation.

Having spent her advance for her next book has got her agent worried. She needs Finlay to turn in a manuscript. And soon. Meanwhile, Finlay is juggling that very writing career with two children under five, shared custody with her ex, and a surprising partner in crime, Vero. But, wait, Finlay is not a criminal. She is a mother… An author … And, a hired killer?

This time around things are centered on Finlay’s ex-husband, Steven. He was a cheating SOB, but, as their children’s father, Finlay will go to any lengths to protect him. And, to get really personal as far as Finlay is concerned, does she choose the sexy young lawyer to be or the detective that is irresistibly handsome? Due to her previous “contract”, the Russian mob is is hot on Finlay’s tail, and she will do everything she can to protect her own.

This thrilling second book in the Finlay Donovan series continues to captivate readers with its intricate plot and Finlay’s complex character. While murder is never a joke, Finlay’s journey through this dangerous world showcases her strength, determination, and unwavering love for her family.

Many thanks to Minotaur and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead is a witty and fast-paced sequel that blends humor and mystery perfectly. Finlay, a struggling writer and single mom, finds herself wrapped up in another wild crime caper, trying to solve a hit put on her ex-husband. The twists, turns, and hilarious situations keep you hooked, while the lovable, chaotic characters make the story even more enjoyable. It's the perfect mix of suspense and laugh-out-loud moments—great for anyone who loves a fun, lighthearted mystery! I have throughly enjoyed reading this series.

YUP, Consider me obsessed. I loved this book so much, this series is truly one of a kind.

Sign me up for whatever Cosimano writes next!

This is so crazy of a read and Finlay just keeps me on the edge of my seat. This main character reminds of my neighbor in a way, and the sad thing is that Finlay is more together than the neighbor down the road. I am hooked on this series so far and can't wait to see what adventures Finlay gets mixed up in next.

The second in the delightfully zany Finlay Donovan series picks up a month after the conclusion of the wild events of the first book. While the first book set the stage for Finlay's foray into amateur sleuthing, the second book centers around the next case she stumbles upon while perusing a woman's forum. At first glance a post could be taken to be just what it appears to be; one woman complaining about her boyfriend and another offering her condolences. However to Finlay's well trained eye, it is clearly a request to have the subject, Finlay's ex-husband, killed and an offer to ensure the request is fulfilled. Finlay has a lengthy list of examples that prove her ex-husband is a horrible excuse for a human being however he is the father of her children and she would like for them to grow up with a father figure in their lives. Finlay is struggling once again to meet her deadline to her publisher however it looks like life will once again provide the inspiration she most desperately needs for her next novel.

Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead is just as entertaining and humorous as the first in the series. To fully enjoy the story and the characters, I find it is best to read the first one before diving into this new adventure. There is much to love in this follow up with a bit of mystery, a bit of romance, and a whole lot of high jinx. Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead is full of twists and turns and wild escapades. Finlay and her sidekick/nanny/best friend Vero are a delightful duo and their witty banter exchanges keep the story rolling along at a fast clip. Finlay attracts trouble and Vero is along for the ride and I for one cannot wait to see what is in story next for the pair.

I love Finlay Donovan and was not disappointed in this installment. it was engaging and fun to read. I love Elle Cosimano's writing style and it makes the story that much better!

The Finlay Donovan series is perfect for reluctant readers. It would be tough to follow up the success of Finlay Donovan is Killing It, but Elle Cosimano does a great job of bringing back the madcap situations that Finlay finds herself in, while adding more to the story of her friend and partner-in-crime Vero. The tension between the two new men in Finlay's life builds throughout the book, keeping readers hanging on to see what could possibly happen next!

Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead is a thrilling rollercoaster of suspense, humor, and heart that kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. This second installment in the Finlay Donovan series is a four-star knockout!

Once again, we find Finlay Donovan navigating the treacherous waters of single motherhood, struggling to balance her roles as a writer, mom, and reluctant amateur sleuth. With her trusty sidekick, Vero, by her side, she faces the challenges of everyday life, from looming deadlines to dead goldfish (and possibly ex-husbands).

The plot is as twisted and entertaining as ever, with Finlay stumbling into a dangerous game involving hit-women, the Russian mob, and a hot cop from her past. The stakes are high as Finlay races against time to protect her family and keep her ex-husband alive, even if it means bending a few rules along the way.

I particularly enjoyed the witty dialogue and the complex, relatable characters. Finlay is a protagonist you can't help but root for, with her sharp wit and fierce determination. And Vero adds an extra layer of depth with her own secrets and struggles.

Overall, Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead is a gripping and satisfying read that will leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment.

I absolutely loved this read! It was funny, captivating and the perfect balance of mystery and goofy. Elle Cosimano is always an auto buy author for me now.

I am obsessed with the Finlay Donovan books and I'm excited to read the rest in the series. The first 3 books i've read with the Read Rover book club and we all have enjoyed the journey they have taken us on.