You never want to be the asshole that leaves a message promising to kill someone for being late, only to find out they’ve already been murdered. ― Elle Cosimano, Finlay Donovan Is Killing It

It all starts with a lunch meeting gone wrong. Finlay Donovan, a single mom and suspense writer, is overheard talking about her book plot. But someone thinks she’s a real contract killer and offers her money to “take care” of a problem.

This mistake sends Finlay into a world she never planned to enter. Bills are piling up, her ex is causing trouble, and her next book is overdue. Now, she’s tangled up in a real-life crime while trying to raise two kids and keep it all together.

Finlay Donovan Is Killing It is a fast-paced story full of laughs, awkward moments, and surprises. It blends humor with mystery in a way that feels real and fun. The characters are easy to root for, and the story pulls you in right away.

It’s messy, funny, and full of unexpected turns—just like Finlay’s life.

Plot Summary

It’s a widely known fact that most moms are ready to kill someone by eight thirty A.M. on any given morning.”― Elle Cosimano, Finlay Donovan Is Killing It

Finlay Donovan is barely keeping it together. Recently divorced, broke, and behind on her latest book deadline, she’s trying to raise her two kids while managing life’s daily challenges.

During a lunch with her agent, she casually discusses her book plot—only for a stranger nearby to mistake her conversation for a real offer to commit murder. They slip her money and a name for a “job.”

Initially, Finlay wants nothing to do with it, but her curiosity and financial struggles pull her deeper.

What starts as a simple mix-up quickly becomes a real-life mess filled with crime, danger, and unexpected decisions. As things spiral out of control, Finlay finds herself in way over her head.

Characters and Character Arc

• Finlay Donovan: A tired, stressed-out mom who writes suspense novels. At the beginning, she feels lost and unsure, but as the story progresses, she grows braver and learns to trust her instincts, facing every challenge head-on.

• Vero: Finlay’s loyal and bold nanny, who becomes her sidekick and partner in crime. Vero isn’t afraid to jump into the chaos and keeps Finlay grounded.

• Steven: Finlay’s ex-husband, whose carelessness adds even more stress to her already complicated life.

• Julian: A law student who helps Finlay along the way. Calm and supportive, he adds a touch of romance to the wild ride.

The most significant transformation is in Finlay, who starts off scattered but ends up stronger, more confident, and ready to take on whatever comes next.

Themes and Plotline

This book is more than just a mystery. It’s about dealing with life’s messiness and finding strength in tough times. Themes like single parenting, friendship, personal growth, and taking risks are woven throughout the story.

The plot is full of unexpected twists, funny moments, and chaotic situations that keep things exciting. Some parts will make you laugh, others will make you worry—but through it all, Finlay keeps pushing forward, determined to make things right.

What Genre Does It Focus On?

Finlay Donovan Is Killing It is a cozy mystery. It includes crime and danger, but it’s not too dark or scary. The focus is on regular people caught in unexpected situations, trying to figure things out.

There are no tough detectives here—just real people who make mistakes, argue, and help each other. The humor keeps things light, even when the stakes are high.

Expect fast, funny dialogue, twists, secrets, and moments when things don’t go as planned. One minute, Finlay is dealing with everyday problems; the next, she’s tangled in a crime.

There’s a bit of romance, but it’s just a layer, not the main focus. If you like stories that balance laughs and suspense, this one will keep you entertained.

Ratings and Reviews

You can’t spend your whole life shut up in that house, making up stories. ― Elle Cosimano, Finlay Donovan Is Killing It

This book has been well-received by readers on both Goodreads and Amazon. Many enjoy its fast pace, funny tone, and relatable lead character. Below are the highlights from reader feedback and what makes the story stand out.

Goodreads Rating

Finlay Donovan Is Killing It has a solid rating of 4.02 out of 5 stars on Goodreads, based on over 150,000 reviews. Many readers enjoy the book’s unique mix of mystery and comedy, with a relatable lead character who feels real and grounded.

The reviews highlight how refreshing it is to follow a mom caught in a crime rather than a trained detective. Fans also mention the quick pace and witty writing, with many saying the book made them laugh out loud and kept them hooked until the end.

Amazon Rating

On Amazon, the book has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from thousands of reviews. Readers love the humor and fast pace, and many mention how easy it is to connect with Finlay.

The mix of everyday life with crime and chaos keeps things exciting, and readers appreciate how the book doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s been called a fun, entertaining ride with plenty of surprises.

How the Book Sets Itself Apart

What makes this book stand out is how real it feels. Finlay isn’t a detective—she’s a mom with too much on her plate. Juggling parenting, money issues, and a stalled book, she unexpectedly gets caught in a crime.

The story mixes everyday struggles with unexpected danger, keeping it fun and light. Even when things get messy, humor balances the tension.

The writing feels natural, like someone telling an exciting, wild story that makes perfect sense—exactly what makes it so enjoyable.

Who Should Read Finlay Donovan Is Killing?

If you’re a fan of light-hearted mysteries with strong characters, humor, and a bit of chaos, Finlay Donovan Is Killing It is for you. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys crime mixed with comedy and everyday problems.

Age and Content Warning

This book is best for readers age 16 and up. There’s some mild bad language, a few adult themes, and crime-related situations. Nothing too graphic or violent, but still not for young readers.

The crime parts are told in a fun way, not in a scary one. The book focuses more on reactions, plans gone wrong, and funny mix-ups than on anything dark.

People Who Liked These Books

If you liked any of the books below, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy this one too:

• The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman: for the fun group solving crimes in everyday life

• The Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich: for the humor, trouble, and wild side plots

• My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite: for a strange but fun take on crime

• Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto: for a fast-paced, funny mystery with family chaos

This book fits right in with stories that don’t take themselves too seriously but still keep you guessing.

Book Recommendations if You Liked Finlay Donovan Is Killing It

If you enjoyed Finlay Donovan Is Killing It, here are five other books with mystery, strong female leads, and unexpected twists:

• Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto: A woman accidentally kills her date and turns to her chaotic family for help. Funny and fast-paced with a touch of crime.

• The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman: A group of retired friends solves cold cases for fun. Packed with humor, wit, and clever twists.

• The Maid by Nita Prose: A hotel maid gets caught in a murder case. The unique narrator and slow-building mystery keep things intriguing.

• Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourn: A team of older female assassins must face their past. Sharp, bold, and full of energy, with strong women at the center.

• Verity by Colleen Hoover: A writer uncovers dark secrets while finishing another author’s book. Suspenseful with a darker tone than Finlay’s story.

These books mix suspense, strong characters, and twists—just like Finlay Donovan Is Killing It.

Conclusion

Finlay Donovan Is Killing It stands out with its mix of humor, mystery, and real-life struggles. It tells the story of a woman just trying to survive who ends up in the middle of something much bigger.

The book doesn’t rely on perfect characters or neat endings. Instead, it shows how messy life can be and still keeps the reader smiling. Finlay’s quick thinking and unplanned actions turn into one twist after another.

This story works well for readers who enjoy fast-moving plots, light suspense, and a strong lead character who feels real. If you enjoy books that mix crime with laughs and don’t take themselves too seriously, this one will keep you turning the pages.

It’s the start of a fun series that’s both smart and entertaining. Finlay Donovan Is Killing It doesn’t try to be something it’s not—it just tells a good story and tells it well.

More from This Author

Elle Cosimano is the author behind the Finlay Donovan series. Her books are known for their fast pace, strong characters, and a mix of humor and suspense.

She writes stories that pull you in quickly and keep you turning the pages. Her writing often shows people dealing with everyday problems—plus a few unexpected ones.

Other Books by This Author

If you liked Finlay Donovan Is Killing It, there’s more to enjoy:

• Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead: Finlay is back, and things only get messier.

• Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun: More twists, more laughs, and bigger problems.

• Finlay Donovan Rolls the Dice: The newest book in the series, filled with fresh surprises.

• Nearly Gone: A young adult thriller with mystery and danger.

• Holding Smoke: A YA story with paranormal twists and a prison setting.

Elle Cosimano writes for both adults and teens, but her voice stays clear and full of energy in every book.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Finlay Donovan Is Killing It a Standalone?

No, it’s the first book in an ongoing series. There are several more books following Finlay’s story, each filled with more humor, crime, and unexpected twists. Fans can look forward to more!

Is the Book Funny or Dark?

It’s both! The story mixes crime and danger with humor and a lighthearted tone. The mix of suspense and comedy makes even tense moments feel entertaining, so it keeps the story engaging and fun.

Do I Need to Be a Mom to Enjoy This Book?

Not at all. The story is enjoyable for any reader. While moms might connect more with Finlay’s challenges, anyone can enjoy the humor, crime, and wild situations she finds herself in.

Will There Be More Books in the Series?

Yes! The Finlay Donovan series continues beyond this first book. The fourth installment, Finlay Donovan Rolls the Dice, is already out, and there may be more books to follow as the story unfolds.