Genre: Murder, Mystery, Suspense, Humor

When I’m laughing out loud on the first page over a scene in a department store bathroom, I think I’m starting a great book. When the book is about Finlay Donovan, that thought becomes a certainty. Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun by Elle Cosimano does not disappoint. From the chaos that is her family life on page one to a trip to a police training camp. Finlay and Vero work desperately to clear Vero’s debts and keep the Russian mob from killing them. In the meantime, the novelist needs to complete her latest novel and figure out what exactly to do about her attraction to police detective Nick. Much to do.

From book 1, I found it impossible to not enjoy Finlay, Vero, and the other characters that populate their world. They are all complex. They all make me uncomfortable now and again - with their choices and their secrets. I think maybe they are the kind of folks I want to hang out with in book land, but might make me just a little nervous in real life. (Partly why readers read, right?)The plot is complex here - as it is in books 1 and 2, and reading the series in order would be most helpful. The setting for most of the book is a sort of police boot camp - complete with dorm life. The change in setting makes for learning, laughter and interesting new adventures. What I love about Cosimano’s Finlay Donovan series is that as I’m reading I think “no way.” But then yes, yes what is happening continues and weaves itself delightfully into the overall content of the book.

Pure entertainment. I would love to climb into Elle Cosimano’s brain to just see how these ideas develop. Her work is carefully researched, filled with adventure and suspense, and laugh out loud funny. If you haven’t already, give FInlay Donovan Jumps the Gun a chance!