Looking for a fun winter read? I MIGHT BE IN TROUBLE has quite the premise: David wakes up after a fun night out, feeling lucky and reminding himself that it was not a dream... Except then he realizes there's a dead body beside him.

With such a madcap premise, this book could have quickly gone off the rails, but I felt author Daniel Aleman had the writing chops to deliver a good story. Main character David Alvarez is a writer himself, which added to the fun for me.

This book explores questions of identity and finding one's way, especially in the wake of a painful breakup and not having grown up with a strong support system. Blurbed by Jesse Q. Sutanto, Jeff Zentner, Helene Tursten, Grant Ginder, and Mia P. Manansala, I feel like this one's worth a shot if you've enjoyed any of those authors' work.

I Might Be In Trouble is a dark comedic suspense about a struggling writer who wakes up to find his date from the night before dead. He must then decide how far he’s willing to go to spin the misadventure into his next big book.

My favorite part of the book was the relationship between David and Stacey. Stacey is the ride or die literary agent/best friend because the fact that she actually helped David move a dead body around New York was straight shenanigans! But hey, anything to get a story right?

Overall, I really enjoyed the writing and I was thoroughly entertained with the plot. I look forward to reading more from this author.

3.75/5

Why should gay men be kept out of the mystery/thriller genre? Why shouldn't we have a good chat and mouse mystery in which the main character is in the LGBTQ community, who has a great community and comedy of errors? Daniel Aleman's book is a fun, normal-person-finds-themselves-in-a-crazy-situation dark comedy. David Alvarez is knd of desperate, he misses "the one that got away," he can't get an idea to write about that will be as good as his previous work, and the world is closing in on him. He only finds solace from his loneliness in matching with other gay men in NYC on Grindr, with mixed results. And then things get a lot worse. He meets a seemingly great silver fox and has an amazing night, only to wake up and find him dead next to him in bed.

But does he alert the authorities? No, he tells his agent Stacey, and they decide to haul the corpse all around Manhattan in a "Weekend at Bernie's" type fantasy that has twists and turns and they figure out who this body used to be.

It is a crazy premise and this is kind of the definition of "dark comedy." The dead body is just unlikable enough for us to not care that much that he is dead. We are more worried about David and Stacey and will they be able to get out of this unscathed. We shake our heads at them but we want them to solve the mystery (is it a mystery, really? or more of an identity crisis?)

This is probably unlike anything else you have read this year. Kooky and fun. Thanks to Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Book is available now where books are sold.

I love Daniel Aleman and his books, like I will always be the lifelong supporter and honestly, when I read the sneak peek from the magazine that published an excerpt, I was like YESSS

I love how you can't help but root for David despite his flaws, questionable choices and the way he does all this thinking of finding his place to belong and the imposter's syndrome, it was like a balm for my heart and pretty funny with the sort of humor that I like, adding a bit of morbid humor along with his literary agent as his partner in crime to hide the murder of David's date RIP LOL

Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the eARC! (And sorry for the late review. Finals week is a busy time for college students!)

This was a four-star read for me! It was a lot of fun, especially since I didn't anticipate the book going where it would in the second half. I love books that are a little bit goofy and show writers being writers, publishing being publishing, and accidental murder. While there were certain scenes I wasn't a big fan of (c'mon, did we need Shane as a character? I dreaded him), this still had it's thrilling and surprisingly deep moments. Aleman really hits the nail on the head with what it feels like to be a writer and to be lonely—two things I theorize go hand in hand.

A delightful comic thriller with one of the most lo lovable protagonists you’ll ever meet.

The concept behind this was excellent, drawing on thriller and mystery tropes but very much its own unique story.

I absolutely loved the first half of this book, which is riotously funny and essentially a spin on Weekend at Bernie’s. The second half has some plot issues and some character actions that feel a bit tough to swallow, but it remains a good story, and our protagonist and his hilarious and loyal editor are just utterly lovable that it hardly matters when weighed against the opportunity to spend time with them.

I loved the themes here too, and the idea that the slow creep of loneliness is both devastating and difficult to reverse once life takes a few wrong terms. So too the idea of writing as a sort of companion, to the point where it almost becomes a sentient being, and how that can trap us alone with our own thoughts.

An absolute masterpiece! This book effortlessly blends humor, heart, and suspense into an unforgettable reading experience. David and Stacey are so brilliantly written that they felt like old friends by the end.

If you’re looking for a book that will entertain, surprise, and move you, “I Might Be in Trouble” is a must-read. I can’t recommend it enough! This is storytelling at its finest.

"I Might Be in Trouble" by Daniel Aleman is a truly fun and engaging read, with a heartfelt narrative that pulls you in from the start. The protagonist, with his relatable struggles and witty voice, brings a refreshing energy to the book. Aleman does a great job balancing humor with more serious themes, like family dynamics and personal growth, which made the main character feel well-rounded and authentic. However, I would have also liked to learn more about his literary agent, Stacey, and her mysterious past with multiple husbands.

While the book is enjoyable overall, the second half lacked any major twists or surprises, which made the ending feel a little flat for me. The story builds up nicely, but the resolution felt a bit predictable and didn't carry the same punch I was hoping for. Despite that, it's still a very enjoyable journey, and I’d definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a fun, entertaining read.

Absolutely hilarious and nerve-wracking queer thriller. I had a blast with this one and read it in one sitting.
While this was so silly at times it also would sink you into some deeper meaningful themes of loss and breakups.
With this being fast-paced I was never bored and all the characters were so well fleshed out that I couldn't hate a single one! The relationship between David and his literary agent, Stacey, was so wholesome and it's been a while since I've read a great friendship like the one they have. I mean who would you call if you woke up next to a dead body one morning?
I adored the hopeful ending and how David took that chance to speak for himself and not for what others want of him. I thought this was a marvelous story and one that I will pick up the physical copy of because I loved it that much!

Author David had a runaway hit debut book, but since then his life has taken several downward turns.
His sophomore book was much less well received, and option for a third was rejected by his publisher
The funds from his first books have run out
Moving past his ex isn’t going well, and his current dating life is in the dumps.

Just when he thinks he’s at rock bottom, things look up when he has the date of his life
…and wakes up to the guy completely UNalive in his bed
New rock bottom achieved

Now he’s weekend at Bernie’s-ing him back to his hotel with his agent, and finding out he is not who he seemed

This story gets more unhinged by the chapter. Several times it felt like watching a wreck, whispering ‘noooo’ at the MC as he gets deeper and deeper in the mess.
There’s dark comedy, second hand sadness, and tension as all potential consequences of David’s decisions start to pile up
The pace slowed down towards the middle, but I needed to know see how things played out so I stuck with it. I’m glad I did, because I really liked how it left off!

Thanks to NetGalley and grand central for the arc

I had a strong feeling this book was going to be a hit—and boy, was I right! Daniel does an incredible job of capturing that simmering dread, the gnawing fear of doing something you know you shouldn’t, and constantly wondering if the consequences are just waiting to happen. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and can't wait to dive into more of the author’s work!

I've honestly never read anything like this. The moment I read the description, I knew I needed to get my hands on this absolutely insane book—and I was not disappointed. The twists and turns left me speechless as David and Stacey's antics pushed them deeper into the train wreck of a situation they've found themselves in. I adored their friendship, a 28 year old gay man and a 60 year old woman navigating their chaotic and lonely lives together while also attempting to not become wanted criminals... beautiful.

David was such a sad and pathetic little man, and I loved every second of it. I couldn't believe the way things just kept getting worse and worse for him, my heart felt like it was going to burst out of my chest. He was simply not having a good time. Somehow, despite it all, he managed to find himself and grow, breaking out of his shell more than he initially realized. This was such a bizarre and fantastic read. Alemán's writing is truly something to behold—humorous, dark, relatable. I simply couldn't put it down.

The ending was open yet hopeful, which felt right. As I finished his story, past midnight in the quiet darkness of my room, those last lines really hit me. Everything is going to be okay—and I believe it.

Thank you to NetGalley, Grand Central Publishing, and Daniel Alemán for the ARC!

I first read Aleman's work last year when I enjoyed Brighter Than The Sun and I became an instant fan! I was so excited to hear about his next book and even more excited to join a book tour for it!

I Might Be In Trouble is a dark comedy about author David Alvarez. The book begins with a bang when Alvarez awakens to find his date from the night before has died...in bed beside him! I was immediately drawn in and couldn't put it down! Aleman is very talented in writing such dark humor wrapped within an insightful and vulnerable story. This book will leave you with many emotions and an appreciation for the journey of trying to "figure out" this thing called life while tackling loneliness, imposter syndrome, anxiety, and more.

Daniel Aleman is a wonderful writer. In I Might Be in Trouble, he has created interesting characters that are fully fleshed out, and a plot with great pacing and a huge problem to overcome. The writing is easy to read. I never once wondered what he meant. I never had to back track for clarification.

So how do I explain the one issue I had with the book without giving away the plot? Let’s try this: I found the one decision that is the basis of the entire plot unbelievable. Would anyone really make such an illogical decision? I could not suspend disbelief. However, I do realize I’m in the minority in this regard, because the Storygraph rating is 4.2.

I Might Be In Trouble by Daniel Aleman out today on Grand Central Publishing. A dark humor buddy comedy where David wakes up to find his Grindr date dead in his bed. Thinking he might be implicated in a crime, with the help of his literary agent he decides to move the body to a hotel room and hijinks ensue. If only he could stop thinking about his last boyfriend! I loved it and laughed so much. Very meta and gay relatable. ARC provided by Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. #danielaleman #imightbeintrouble #grandcentralpublishing #queer #gay #mystery #thriller #meta

Daniel Aleman’s I Might Be in Trouble is a delightful blend of humor, suspense, and self-inflicted chaos, delivering a story that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. With its mix of laugh-out-loud moments and nail-biting tension, the novel strikes a unique balance that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The story centers on David, an ordinary guy who finds himself in extraordinary—and increasingly absurd—circumstances. From the very start, readers are drawn into his world of missteps and questionable decisions. Aleman’s choice to structure the narrative in distinct parts enhances the storytelling, allowing each section to build on the last while providing natural breaks that heighten anticipation for what’s next.

One of the novel’s standout qualities is its protagonist. David is a deeply relatable character, flawed yet likable, whose internal struggle adds depth to the narrative. Readers will find themselves simultaneously rooting for him and shaking their heads at his choices. His reluctance to involve the authorities, while frustrating, is what drives much of the story’s humor and tension. Without his stubborn attempts to handle things on his own, the wild, unpredictable ride that ensues wouldn’t be nearly as compelling.

Aleman’s writing is sharp and engaging, with snappy dialogue and vivid descriptions that bring the story’s comedic and suspenseful elements to life. The pacing is spot-on, keeping the momentum going while giving readers time to absorb the emotional undertones and character growth.

While the story is filled with humor, it also delves into themes of accountability, trust, and the unintended consequences of our actions. Aleman deftly weaves these deeper elements into the narrative without sacrificing the book’s light-hearted tone.

Verdict:

I Might Be in Trouble is a fresh, funny, and thrilling read that keeps you hooked until the very end. Daniel Aleman crafts a story that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining, making this a must-read for fans of comedic thrillers and character-driven narratives. It’s a chaotic, laughter-filled adventure that leaves a lasting impression.

12 -3 Posted expanded review on TikTok for release day.

Young gay author David Alvarez, faced with career setbacks and pining for his ex, seeks solace with hookups and lots of alcohol. Many things go wrong. Especially after he notices the dead guy.

It's a great premise. Unfortunately, this wasn't as dark or funny as I hoped it would be. His relationship with his feisty sixty-something agent is one of the best parts of the novel. She helped carry the early chapters. I enjoyed the suspenseful scenes, yet the overall pace dragged due to David’s passivity. The prolonged inner monologues damaged the tension and lost my interest.

At it's best, the novel shines with emotional honestly. Aleman has talent and a valuable perspective. No doubt the novel will delight many readers. Fans of gay and #ownvoices fiction, and readers interested in an author's introspective journey to find himself are likely to appreciate I Might Be In Trouble.

Thank you, Grand Central Publishing for the e-ARC via NetGalley for consideration. These opinions are solely my own.

I MIGHT BE IN TROUBLE is Daniel Aleman's adult debut, and he makes a successful transition to a more mature writing style. The main character is relatable in his sense of failing, both professional and personal, and I appreciate the honesty in his depiction of a very common lifestyle among young gay men in big cities, Tonally, the story is scattered and never quite figures out what it wants to be, and I think the marketing does the book a disservice for selling it as the screwball dark comedy that it is not.

I Might Be in Trouble by Daniel Aleman ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

This was a genre mash-up if I’ve ever read one. I was expecting more suspense and murder mystery, but I got more character journey with self-depreciating thoughts and a sprinkle of humor.

I enjoyed the depth of this story. It explored loneliness, self-growth, complicated family relationships, and success among other things. I also loved the relationship between David and Stacey. Their relationship, while over the top, really worked and brought a freshness to the novel. The mystery/suspense aspect was predictable but not boring.

Fans of character growth, a great balance of funny and serious, and reads with characters who are authors will enjoy this one.

This was a pretty interesting, not like the books I normally read. David and Stacey had an interesting relationship, and to be honest, it was a perfect fit for them. I felt sorry for David many times. NGL, I would definitely read the book David is working on. I really enjoyed the book