To Find a Killer by Leah Brewer

To Find a Killer by Leah Brewer offers a twist on the traditional detective thriller, serving up a quirky, small-town mystery with a strong focus on relationships rather than fast-paced crime-solving. When Detective Tammy Sharp returns to her hometown of Pocahontas, Arkansas, after a near-fatal injury, she plans to grieve her uncle and recover. Instead, she finds herself entangled in an unexpected reunion with her ex, Jace Eubanks, and a decades-old murder mystery that leads to more questions than answers.

While the book sets the stage for what one might expect to be a gripping detective thriller, it takes a different route. The narrative focuses heavily on Tammy's reconnection with Jace and the quirky, charming people in her hometown. Tammy's relationship with her mother, her ex, and the town's residents takes center stage, with the mystery of the murders simmering in the background.

For readers looking for an intricate, crime-driven plot, this book may feel a bit slower in its pacing. The murder investigation doesn't truly heat up until near the end, and even then, it wraps up somewhat quickly. In fact, the novel leans more into the personal aspects of Tammy's life than her skills as a detective, which even characters in the story note are somewhat lacking.

That being said, To Find a Killer shines as a clean, light-hearted read with humor and heart. The town is filled with eccentric, endearing characters, and Tammy's journey of healing and reconnecting is engaging in its own right. Brewer weaves in small-town charm with a hint of mystery, making this novel an enjoyable, feel-good read. For those in search of a fun story with lovable characters and a hint of romance rather than a dark, gritty thriller, To Find a Killer delivers.

If you're looking for a cozy mystery with a quirky detective and colorful cast, this one is right up your alley.

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