I adore Finlay and this installment was no different!!

Elle I really need you to stop making me wait a whole year before the next book comes out cause I need to know what happens next!

I have loved the previous books and enjoyed the Russian mob plot lines but I really enjoyed seeing Finlay in her own space with the host of characters we’ve grown to love. Mrs. Haggerty is fantastic and I would happily read her debut novel.

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to review ARC.

This is the 5th book of this series. I have to say this is my 2nd favorite one of the series (first one is always the best). I loved seeing some relationship development between Finlay and Nick!! It was also nice to have other characters come back. The mystery was a bit confusing. Overall I loved the book! Will there be book #6? I feel like we will focus on Vero and solve her problems in the next book?

The latest in Elie Cosimano's Finlay Donovan series is the best! When Finlay's ex-husband Stephen is arrested for a murder he didn't commit, she is determined to prove his innocence.

2 stars

The only person who might have died in this book was me. I need someone to explain to me like I’m five why we would ever be doing the most for that turd of a person Steven. Usually the humor in the book keeps me going, but this one felt weak. It felt like a bit of a chore to get through, I keep waiting for Finley to gain some sense. It ends with a rough cliffhanger so you’ll probably see me again here next year.

Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a copy to form opinions from.

As a girl who isn't typically a fan of cozy mysteries, I love me some Finlay Donovan! I have read this entire series so far and have to say that this might be my new favorite (other than the first book). I loved that this one added the element of a potential TV show, which felt meta, since I think these books would make for a great TV show.

I also loved that this one focused on Mrs. Haggerty, the grumpy elderly neighbor, as she has always been a favorite character of mine. This one brought just as many laughs and hijinks as her last few novels, and I think people are going to love this addition to the series!

Elle Cosimano has just released Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave. This is the fifth entry in this wonderfully fun series.

Finlay is the lead character and you can’t help but like her. She’s an author, a mom and somehow - a reluctant investigator. Finlay and her nanny/sidekick Vero aren’t interested in investigating another case. But, it’s right across the street they live on. Add in two small kids, a young computer whiz, an ex-husband and a hunky policeman to the mix. And let’s not forget the grumpy old woman across the street.

Well, while there are bodies popping up in every book, it’s funny with ridiculous situations that will have you laughing out loud. I hope that Cosimana has more plans for Finlay! The plot was a good one and there's some truth in it.

If you have enjoyed Jan
et Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series, you will love this series. Evanovich herself has provided a blurb on the front cover!

Since first meeting the intrepid, incomparable Finlay Donovan in the first book in Elle Cosimano's extraordinary series, I have loved her--the courage, the intelligence, the sheer stubborn nature of a woman loving her family and beloved companions. These are dangerous books for me to read on planes, trains, any public place because they are full-bodied contact sport with laughter, snorts, gasps, and idiot joy at the messes and solutions Finlay lives in each book. FINLAY DONOVAN DIGS HER OWN GRAVE is the latest adventure -- and it is a doozy. Loved, loved, loved every moment of it, relishing the continued presence of loyal and creative Vero, stalwart sister Georgia, love interests and the criminals she inevitably encounters and thwarts. I received a copy of this book and these thoughts are my own, unbiased opinions.

"FINLAY ROCKS! Finlay, Vero, the kids, Mrs. Haggerty, and Cam are a DREAM Team—a total RIOT! My new favorite of the series."

Elle Cosimano is back better than ever with her dynamic duo, Finlay and Vero in the Finlay Donovan series #4, FINLAY DONOVAN DIGS HER OWN GRAVE. The partners in crime are involved in another murder, but this time, it is their neighbor across the street who is in the hot seat (but they do not like the cops too close for comfort). So get ready for a wild ride. I have never laughed so hard—this book is highly entertaining, filled with humor that will keep you in stitches. THE BEST!

About...

Finlay and side-kick nanny (partner in crime), Vero are trying to lay low after their last Russian mob fiasco. However, the action heats up again when the cops are at Mrs. Haggerty's house (Finlay's neighbor). What in the world is going on?

There is a body buried in her backyard. She is arrested and then released for the moment while the investigation continues (her grandson is a politician). He appears at Finlay's door with the sassy, controlling, witty, and demanding grandmother. This unexpected turn sets the stage for hilarious and suspenseful situations.

She moves in and takes over Finlay's household. Finlay and Vero are stuck with her.

Add Finlay's ex, Steven in the mix for another layer of suspense, and Delia and Zach (Finlay's kids- hilarious), and always a fun visit from Sylvia (literary agent), and you have a wild ride.

Prepare for a delightful mix of laughter, drama, a mysterious book club, and mischief in 'Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave'. This book is a guaranteed fun ride, offering a unique blend of humor, suspense, and everyday life situations to keep you hooked from start to finish!

My thoughts...

'Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave' is a delight! Killer fantastic and simply marvelous. Whether you're reading or listening to the audiobook (more on that below), this story will have you in fits of laughter.

My favorite of the series! Finlay, Vero, Mrs. Haggerty, Delia, Zach, and Cam make a dream team! I have never laughed so hard.

Sylvia, Nick, and Javi are also back with some spice. Finlay and Vero need to keep some things private. So they do not like all the attention with a crime scene across the street and a person of interest staying with them.

Mrs. Haggerty adds to the narrative with secrets of her own, getting up in the middle of the night to something suspicious, and the mysterious book club, keeping Finaly and Vero on their toes. Shrouded in secrecy and intrigue, this book club adds an extra layer of mystery to the story. They may have met their match. Plus they have to worry about her keeping their secrets.

And best of all, how Mrs. Haggerty handles Delia's school suspension, homeschooling, and Zach's potty training is LOVED!! Priceless. More of this please.

I think everyone loves this installment, including myself, because there is no mob, or chasing bad guys. Still, everything is centered on the homefront, neighborhood, and the fun everyday things that happen. with the kids and everyday people. Mrs. Haggerty is the showstopper and takes center stage in this one. I hope we see more of her and Cam again.

I am delighted we are getting more from the Vero cliffhanger and can't wait for the next installment!

PLEASE....I would love to see a crossover with my two favorite series: Elle Cosimano and Janet Evanovich, with Stephanie Plum as the bail bondsman for Mrs. Haggerty! Would that not be wild!

Audiobook...

I enjoyed reading the book and listening to the stellar audio (as always) by the mega talented superstar, Angela Dawe! I could not wait for my day of errands and the car to listen as I would not miss an episode on audio. Angela is exceptional, and her engaging performance enhanced the listening experience. I kept rewinding as these one-liners are so awesome! I highly recommend the audio for an entertaining and immersive experience. Angela, and Ellie, you are award-winning. The audio was hilarious. Keep the snarky banter coming. I love it. And please bring back Mrs. Haggerty.

Angela is so 'Finlay and Vero' that while I am currently listening to the audiobook of The Unlucky Ones by Hannah Morrissey (excellent), Angela Dawe and Robb Moreira are narrating and I keep waiting for Finlay and Vero to pop out or looking down to see what I am listening to.

Just like I would never miss a Janet Evanovich audiobook narrated by Lorelei King, I would never miss Elle Cosimano audio by Angela Dawe. They become these characters in readers/listeners' minds, so please do not change narrators! Award-winning.

I would highly recommend reading all the books in the series in order. You do not want to miss a thing.

Recs...

This hit is for fans of the author and the Finlay Donovan series, as well as works by Janet Evanovich and the Stephanie Plum series.

Thanks to St. Martins Press, Minotaur Books, and Macmillan Audio via Netgalley for a gifted advanced reading and listening copy for my honest thoughts. #MacAudio2025 #SMPInfluencers

blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars ++
Pub Date: March 4, 2025
Mar 2025 Must-Read Books
March Newsletter

What would you do if your nosy neighbor nemesis across the street suddenly showed up on your doorstep, assuming she could stay with you while her home is being repaired? If you’re Finlay Donovan, you give into the guilt and grudgingly accept your bossy new housemate. Except this is no everyday neighbor — it’s the neighborhood watch crank who has made your life miserable. In book five of Elle Cosimano’s fabulously funny mystery rom-com series, Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave, Mrs. Haggerty is released from prison after the body of a man who has been missing for five years is discovered buried under her roses!

The last thing Finlay and her live-in accountant/nanny/partner-in-crime Vero want after their crazy trip to Atlantic City is another mystery. “Hot Cop” Nick and Finlay are working on building their relationship. Vero and Javi are also working on things since their surprise drunken nuptials. Delia gets in trouble at preschool and Zach starts potty training, both adding so much fun (and heart!) to this installment. Ex-husband Steven is in even more trouble, and Finlay is the only one who believes him. Cam provides comic relief, technical support, and unexpected sweet moments.

If you haven’t read the other books in the series, go back and start at the beginning before jumping into book five. The Finlay Donovan series is perfect for those who need something fun to read. The mysteries are not totally predictable, and the characters’ antics supply much needed laughs. This book had me laughing out loud so many times. Of course it ends with another problem to be resolved in book six. Until that one is available, I may just have to re-read this entire series.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for ARC. All opinions are my own.

I love this series! 
The characters are funny, and the plot keeps you wondering what Finlay and Vero will get into next. I love the moments with the kids, they are always saying and doing hilarious things. Mrs. Haggerty is one of the main characters in this one, and I thought that was really great! I hope to have more of her in the next one. The found family in this series is the best! I can't wait to get my hands on the next one. 5 stars!  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily read, listened to, and reviewed advanced copies of this book and audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to St. Martin’s Press (Minotaur Books) and Macmillan Audio!

When a body is found in her elderly neighbor’s backyard, Finlay finds herself with a temporary new housemate.

Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave is the fifth book in the Finlay Donovan series. I would not try to read these as stand-alones as part of the story carries over through each book. Each book does have its own main case so I highly recommended reading them in series order.

Overall, this was an outstanding addition to the series. It’s definitely my favorite one yet. Book four, Finlay Donovan Rolls the Dice, ended with such a cliffhanger that this book launches right into the new case. Finlay really couldn’t ask for a better nanny/friend (partner-in-crime) than Vero. Cam has slowly become my favorite character, particularly the way he handled his initial meeting with Mrs. Haggerty.

I highly recommend the audiobooks for this entire series. Angela Dawe is the perfect Finlay Donovan. She solo narrates the five main books in the series and does such a fantastic job. Her performance, especially in the last hour of this book, had me on the edge of my seat.

Readers need to be ready to expect the unexpected. I can’t wait to see where the author takes this series next.

Another Finlay book by Elle Cosimano. This is an excellent return to the hilarious world of Finlay. I love these characters and the adventures they get into. This book is full of humor, a fun mystery, amateur sleuths, police procedural, found family with a bit of romance. If you have not read this series yet, start at the beginning to enjoy the ever-evolving story.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy. All opinions are my own.

Finlay is back!!! Wow do I ever LOVE this series and get so excited whenever a new book comes out! From the plot, to the most loveable characters, to even just guessing what colour the new book will be, I love it all! If you haven’t read any of the books, you can read them as stand alone as Cosimano does a great job refreshing and catching you up in each book, but I highly recommend reading them in order to truly fall in love with the magic of these characters!

Finlay and Vero are back from Atlantic city and dealing with the fallout of a body being found in their nosy neighbours, Mrs. Haggertys, backyard. Finlay and Vero want to stay far away from anymore murder cases, but when Mrs. Haggertys house becomes the crime scene and she has no where else to go, she moves in. And Finlays ex-husband becomes the number one suspect in the case, it’s time for the girls to put their detective hats back on!

I have loved all these books, but there was something about this one that just felt like it was back to its roots and I couldn’t put it down! It was all wrapped up nicely and set us up for the next book!

If you like whodunits🔎 and only murders in the building🕵🏻‍♀️🏢, you definitely need to read this series!!

Thank you SO much @minotaur_books and @ellecosimano for my advanced copy!!! Truly the best book mail 💌

🥳pub date: March 4/25

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Oh, how I enjoyed this book! The story kept me excited to read and I did not want to put the book down. The characters were strong and likeable. This is a great overall read you don't want to miss!

Thank you to @netgalley and @stmartinspress for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. And thank you to @macmillan.audio for a free download of the audiobook.

Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave by Elle Cosimano: A Hilarious Return to Form

If you're new to the Finlay Donovan series, I highly recommend starting from the beginning to fully appreciate the character development and running gags. As always, "Digs Her Own Grave" picks up immediately after the previous cliffhanger, plunging Finlay back into chaos.

Fresh off submitting her latest manuscript, Finlay anticipates some much-needed downtime with her Hot Cop Boyfriend, Nick. However, tranquility is swiftly shattered when a body is discovered in her neighbor, Mrs. Haggerty's, backyard. Initially a suspect, Mrs. Haggerty is cleared but her house remains a crime scene. This forces her to move in with Finlay, despite their less-than-harmonious history.

Mrs. Haggerty proves to be a demanding guest, requesting constant errands and rides, but she does contribute with homeschooling and childcare. Her interactions with Finlay's children are genuinely laugh-out-loud moments.

Honestly, this installment brought back the magic of the first book for me. I had wavered on continuing the series, finding the middle books too reliant on slapstick and cartoonish mafia characters. But Mrs. Haggerty's return was a masterstroke – she utterly steals every scene. Her sharp wit and demanding presence are a delightful contrast to Finlay's chaotic life.

Cosimano delivers another compelling cliffhanger, ensuring the series will continue.

I experienced "Digs Her Own Grave" via audiobook, narrated by the incomparable Angela Dawe. This series truly shines in audio format, with Dawe's performance bringing the characters and humor to life. If you're looking for a hilarious and suspenseful read, especially if you were a fan of the first book, this one is a must-listen.

4.5 stars

#books #bookishlife #booklover #readingisfun #iowabookstagrammers #iowabookstagram #netgalley #stmartinspress #macmillianaudio #finlaydonovandigsherowngrave #ellecosimano

This is the fifth book in the Finlay Donovan series. These stories follow Finlay, her nanny Vero, and various friends and family as Finlay navigates being a divorced mother to two children, her career as a mystery writer and some crazy life shenanigans that always seem to involve murder. While you can just jump right into the chaos, I think you will get more out of the series if you start with the first book, Finlay Donovan is Killing It. I’ve enjoyed some books more than others in the series and I’ll tell you up front that this is the first one that I’ve given five stars. Not sure if this fun and entertaining book hit me at just the right time, or if it just resonated more with me more than the others.

In this latest installment of the series, Finlay’s gruff neighbor Mrs. Haggerty has been arrested after a dead body was discovered in her backyard. While Finlay is not the obvious choice to give assistance to the neighborhood busybody, she somehow ends up responsible for housing, feeding and driving her to book club. When someone else close to Finlay comes under suspicion for the murder, she resolves to clear their name with a little help from her friends, including current and prior love interests. What better way to prove someone innocent than to find the real culprit.

I laughed throughout this book and was more than pleasantly surprised by some of the character growth shown by Finlay and others. If you’re wavering on continuing with this series, I definitely recommended diving back into it with this one. It included some good short reminders of prior relationships and edged the extreme much better than the last.

I recommend this series for a light and fun read. This is one of the best of the bunch in my opinion and my new favorite.

Thank you to Netgalley and Minotaur Books for a copy provided for an honest review.

Elle Cosimano has done it again! Finlay, and of course, Vero are back at it finding themselves investigating a crime. When Finlay’s ex Steven gets accused of a crime, Finlay sets out a mission to clear his name.
This was probably the “calmest” Finlay book. It didn’t have the usual craziness of mishaps that her books usually do, in my opinion. I enjoyed the story and the mystery being more low stakes than usual. There is a cliffhanger definitely leading to the next book. Overall I enjoyed this latest story in the series.

Yet again Steven is in trouble and Finlay is doing her best to prove he is innocent. Kinda tired of Steven, but at least this time we get to really know a wonderfully great character...Mrs. Haggerty! Boy does she have a past and is so colorful, whether she is demanding to be driven to her book club (bringing special brownies!) or home school teaching Delia and potty training Zach. And that is all because she is living with Finlay while her home recovers from the police search and water leaks (which uncovered that mysterious body). I love Mrs. Haggerty and her interactions with everyone, including Cam with his new dog. It is great to see Cam again and see what he is up to. So, because of the great Mrs. Haggerty, this was another fun book to read in the series which I am assuming will include at least one more book after that ending! It will be good to see what happened with Vero at college and the missing money that she did not take but was blamed for anyways.

I very much enjoyed Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave. Although I enjoyed Finlay Donovan Rolls the Dice, I have to say I liked this book better. I feel like a lot of things came full circle. I know the book ends on a cliffhanger, but I also think if it were the last Finlay book, I would feel satisfied in the character arcs and storyline endings. I would love a spin off series of Vero and Javier.

Review for “ Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave by Elle Cosimano”

1. Plot Uniqueness : 4/5
2. Pacing and Coherence : 4/5
3. Emotional and intellectual Engagement : 4/5
4. Twists and turns : 3/5
5. Protagonist Character Development : 4/5
6. support character development : 4/5
7. Setting and atmosphere : 4/5
8. Chapter Organization : 4/5
9. Conclusion and tied loose ends : 4/5
10. Overall rating of book : 4/5