Review: Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave by Elle Cosimano
From the moment I cracked the spine of Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave, the fifth installment in Elle Cosimano’s beloved series, I was pulled back into Finlay’s chaotic world—a place that deftly blends suspense, humor, and relatability. If you’ve ever felt like life was spiraling out of control, then Finlay’s tumultuous journey will resonate with you on a deeply personal level.
In this installment, we find Finlay juggling the usual chaos of motherhood and mounting legal troubles, thanks to her ex-husband Stephen being arrested for a body exhumed from a questionable backyard. Will the father of her children, a philanderer though he may be, really turn out to be a murderer? Cosimano artfully navigates the gray areas of morality and loyalty that arise when our family ties become tangled in a web of crime and mystery. I particularly appreciated how she portrays Finlay’s struggle to balance her instincts as a mother with her own moral compass—capturing a sentiment many women can relate to when it comes to defending our loved ones, even when the stakes feel impossibly high.
Cosimano’s writing flows effortlessly, making it feel like you’re having an intimate chat with a friend over coffee—albeit one who has a war story to tell involving ex-husbands and crime scenes. The pacing is brisk without feeling rushed; each twist and turn reveals more about the supporting characters, particularly Finlay’s insightful nanny and confidante, Vero. I loved how Vero provides both comic relief and sage advice, demonstrating the intricate dance of friendship wrapped in the thick fog of danger. Their dynamic is a beautiful reminder of the family we choose, transcending conventional labels.
One character who truly stole the show this time around was the nosy neighbor, Mrs. Haggerty, who transitions from a seemingly mundane figure to a source of intrigue and depth. I won’t spoil any surprises, but let’s just say her role adds layers that make the story even more engaging. Finlay’s interactions with her highlight the author’s talent for crafting characters who are vividly real, each with their own quirks and secrets.
While the horse is dead and I’ve beaten it enough, I must admit that the heightened focus on the romantic lives of both Finlay and Vero felt a tad overdone. We get it—they’re not a couple, but the constant reminders tend to distract from the central mystery at hand. It’s an aspect that, while relatable, felt unnecessary against the rich backdrop of crime and motherhood. I long for the humor and depth that’s rooted in their friendship to take center stage once again—less discussion of love interests, and more of the bonds that ground them.
Despite those minor qualms, Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave remains a captivating read that I wholeheartedly recommend. It stitches together a vibrant tapestry of crime, friendship, and the complexities of being a woman in today’s world. If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries laced with humor and heart, this book will surely delight you.
As I closed the book, a sense of anticipation welled within me for whatever delightful chaos Elle Cosimano has in store for us in the next installment. So, if you’re looking for a blend of thrills and heartfelt moments, you won’t want to miss this one!
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