The Self-Made Widow

Suburban Dicks #2

by Fabian Nicieza, Emily Woo Zeller (Reader)

Listening length: 11 hours and 15 minutes

From the cocreator of Deadpool and author of Suburban Dicks comes a diabolically funny murder mystery that features two incredibly likable--and unlikely--sleuths investigating a murder that reveals the dark underbelly of suburban marriage.

After suburban mother of five and former FBI profiler Andie Stern solved a mysterious murder--and unraveled a decades old conspiracy--in her New Jersey town, both her husband and the West Windsor police hope that she will set aside crime-fighting and go back to carpools, changing diapers, and lunches with her group of mom-friends, who she secretly calls The Cellulitists. But Andie can't help but get involved after the husband of Queen Bee Cellulitist Molly Goode is found dead--and signs point to Molly's involvement. As Andie begins to dig into the case, she risks more than just the clique's wrath--and what she discovers might hit shockingly close to home.

Meanwhile, journalist Kenny Lee is enjoying his rehabilitated image after his work with Andie. But he too is drawn back into the thicket of suburban scandals in West Windsor, which in this involve secrets, affairs, and a huge sum of money. Andie and Kenny once again are thrust into a mystery that is in turns terrifying and titillating--and altogether original.

Genres: Mystery, Fiction, Mystery Thriller, Audiobook, Crime, Humor, Detective

12 pages, Audiobook

First published June 21, 2022

About the author

Fabian Nicieza is a writer and editor who is best known as the co-creator of DEADPOOL and for his work on Marvel titles such as X-Men, X-Force, New Warriors, and Robin.

His first novel, the Edgar Award-nominated SUBURBAN DICKS, a sarcastic murder mystery, is on sale now from Putnam Books.

The Dicks will return in THE SELF-MADE WIDOW, coming June 21st.

Reviews

[Michael David (on hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the sequel to Suburban Dicks, two suburban dicks (investigators) find more suburban dicks (dicky people in the suburbs) doing dickish behavior in the suburbs.

After breaking her water on camera at a press conference after the events in book #1, Andie Stern is back in relative shape...and relative sanity. She has 5 kids, 1 of whom is an infant. Even though she briefly worked as an FBI Profiler, she’s not exactly satisfied NOW playing stay at home mom. Lucky for her, she has a penchant for tracking crimes and solving them…as well as catching killers.

UNLUCKILY for her, she now suspects that her friend, Molly Goode, murdered her husband. Andie’s instincts are good, and she knows when she’s right, so she starts digging into the Goodes’ background. Little does Andie know that the secrets she uncovers might involve someone a little too close for comfort.

Journalist Kenny Lee has finally regained some respect after helping Andie with the case in book #1. He’s about to release a book called Suburban Secrets, and is also working on a Netflix series. Then, he gets an anonymous phone call from someone stating that Molly did, in fact, kill her husband.

Now, Andie and Kenny are once again working together, along with an eclectic cast of characters, to solve another crime. Can they do that without tearing their personal lives apart?

I had a blast with the first book in the series, and I’m happy to report this one was no different. It’s a fun, clever read that is just BEGGING to be adapted for the big screen (It’s written by the co-creator of Deadpool after all).

While the first book delved a bit deeper into seriously dark and racial issues, this one delves into stuff as well…while still keeping things fun and including many LOL moments. The F-bombs are endless…endlessly hilarious, that is (I F’ing love Andie). The humor might be offensive to the Karen’s of the world. The culprit won’t be a shock (unless I’m lying). But everything in this comedic mystery works.

A few of the early reviews mention that there are too many characters to keep track of. However, many of them state they never read the first book in the series. While I think some of the reviews aren’t legit, I’d suggest starting at the beginning if this sounds appealing to you.

I see a clear, concise, hilarious path for this series if it continues. I so hope it does!

Thank you to G.P. Putnam’s Sons for a widget of the ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Expected Publication Date: 6/21/22.

Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I saw this book on the shelf at the local library, I was intrigued. I didn’t realize at the time that it is the second book in the series that follows mother and former FBI profiler, Andrea (Andie) Stern, and journalist, Kenny Lee. I decided to read it anyway.

And, although I think the author does an excellent job of filling in the blanks for those of us who may not have read the first in the series, “Suburban Dicks,” it is probably always best to start a series with the first book. As an aside, I have gone ahead and ordered “Suburban Dicks” from my local library.

Which means, I think I like this author. He has well-developed characters that appear worth following. And, a plot that engages the reader. Why not want to learn more about those characters by going back to the beginning?

Now, onward to the story…

Molly Goode’s husband Derek has died of a perceived pre-existing condition. So, why would Andie and Kenny Lee think that she killed her husband? Even if Kenny Lee received an anonymous tip about it, there is something about Molly Goode that brings on their suspicion. But how do they prove it?

And, as they look for clues and the truth, what else do they discover? And, how will it affect Andie personally?

There will be more questions for readers to contemplate as they turn pages. Will readers be frustrated by the many characters and their feelings about life in general that lead them to take the actions they do? Or, will readers find themselves motivated to read to the end to see how this mystery might resolve itself?

Any way one looks at it, something happened. Figuring out what that is, along with the characters, may be what drives readers to the compelling, slightly different ending.

This story is less a “whodunnit” and more about the how and why of the crime, and who all may or may not be involved. It is also a fast-paced story that is character driven with quick-witted dialogue.

Still, the next questions might be, are we as readers looking forward to book 3 to find out what more might be in store for Andie and Kenny? Or, did we get our fill with this series? I am reminded, especially with this book, that it is best to start at the beginning, with “Suburban Dicks.” I’m at least willing to go there…first.

[ScrappyMags · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprisingly good the 2nd time around.

⏰ 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫: Andie Stern is back, this time eyeing a mystery even closer to home - the sudden death of a friend’s husband. Everyone writes it off as natural causes, but uh-uh, not Andie. But just HOW close to home will this one get? And is Andie prepared for how much she stands to lose?

💡𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬: I enjoyed Dicks the first time, but I must say that a second round of good Dicks was what the summer ordered (it doesn’t count when you’re on vacation). But mostly I love the fact I just got to say “Dicks” so many times in my review (and yes, autocorrect I am STILL sure that should not be DUCKS!!)

I literally JUST reviewed another book where I stated I wanted to see a novel where “Karens” earn their comeuppance. Enter the Self-Made Widow!! With his token brand of dry sarcasm and subtle sass (I speak this fluently), Nicieza spins a tale too crazy to predict and too riveting to put down. The first 1/2 of the novel is a bit slower - an unhurried unveiling of mystery tidbits like a mama bird feeding its babies, but after 70%? It felt like a Hungry Hungry Hippo frenzy of good ol’ ca-razy!

I loved his first novel and Nicieza is finding his stride in this follow-up by delving into Andie’s personal life (which I wanted more of in novel 1!) and answering the questions that left me hanging from the first story. Andie is the gem - a REAL protagonist with some junk in the trunk after five kids, juggling it all, trying to find her relevance and live her best life - so relatable to so many, and she’s brilliant. Nothing better than a capable, well-written, female protagonist for me! Also loved Sathwika, the trusty side-kick in this one, who is shaping up to prove pivotal in novel 3 (oh yes, I will be needing more Dicks. Not enough Dicks)!

Kenny Lee is my one “meh” as he returned this novel to mostly prove irrelevant, but I don’t think I’m supposed to like him. He’s the pest of a character that won’t go away, but in the end he plays a nice foil to Andie.

𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝗺𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗦𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆𝗠𝗮𝗴𝘀.𝗰𝗼𝗺 𝗮𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻.

📚𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Mystery with a dash of sarcasm

😍𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨: Def read if you liked the first or you’re a mystery reader wanting something different.

🙅‍♀️ 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨: If sarcasm and blunt honesty isn’t your thing.

Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam/G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for my advanced copy in exchange for my always-honest review and for making me write my favorite review so far this year.

[Derek · Rating 3 out of 5]

The follow up to last year's surprise hit Suburban Dicks falls a little short of it's predecessor.

Andie and Kenny return to dig their noses where it's not wanted: a closed-case death. Except this time, the dead body is the husband of Andie's close friend.

The humor and witty dialogue is in a similar vein of Darynda Jonees' Sunshine Vicram series, which I loved. The author co-created Deadpool, so again, if you like that humor, this will be up your alley.

I like the zaniness of these characters and mostly enjoyed the plot with some minor gripes (below). The story is complex and Nicieza weaves it all together in a believable way.

For me, there were several aspects that didn't work for me, especially compared to the first:

- The motive and motivations behind both the murder and Andie's insistence on investigating.

- Too many characters. The 1st book in the series primarily focused on Andie and Kenny, but now Kenny has been reduced to a secondary character himself. But that's actually ok because....

- Kenny was so unlikable and his arc had me looking at my dog saying wtf (leaving us both confused). Ditto for Andie.

- Andie has 5 children. I know realistically 5 children are distracting. But it felt like every page had a paragraph or two dedicated to sidebar distractions of kids that did not push the story forward.

If he continues with this series, and I hope he does, I'll be looking forward to picking up the next to see how he continues to develop these characters (::Cough:: maybe you can leave Kenny out).

[Michael Hicks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Suburban housewife and freelance investigative ace Andrea Stern and journalist and documentarian Kenny Lee return for their second soft-boiled case in The Self-Made Widow, a follow-up to the Edgar Award-nominated Suburban Dicks. This time around, the case lands even closer to home after the husband of one of Andrea's friends drops dead of heart failure. The only problem is, despite all evidence to the contrary, Andrea is convinced that Molly murdered her hubby, but all she has to go on is a hunch. At least until Kenny Lee re-enters her life, having received an anonymous phone call informing him that Molly did indeed kill Derek.

That Molly is guilty won't come as much surprise to anyone who's read past the title, or at least noted the numerous incongruities in the events that open chapter one and Molly's explanation of events (i.e. lies, lies, lies!) to the first responders. Readers will find themselves right on the same page as Andrea, with Molly suspect numero uno. The recently-widowed Goode's guilt is never in doubt, and The Self-Made Widow is less a whodunit than a howdunit and a whydunit.

Author Fabian Nicieza takes us through the investigation step-by-step, as Stern and Lee interrogate Stern's friends, the rich housewives of her suburban New Jersey community that she mockingly refers to as the Cellulitists (a mash-up of celluite and elitists), and dig into Molly and Derek's past, slowly peeling back the very many layers of conspiracy and murder. As a writer best known in comic book circles for co-creating Marvel's wiseass mutant Deadpool, Nicieza shines here with his witty banter, sarcastic dialogue, and wry observations on suburban existence.

The prose is crisp, but it's the character interactions that really keep the reader invested, at least aside from the intriguing murder investigation. If Andrea is a suburban housewife take on Sherlock Holmes, then Molly Goode is, without a doubt, her Moriarty. A detail-oriented perfectionist, Molly is smart and tack-sharp, having meticulously accounted for every facet of an investigation against her, including Andrea's involvement. Nicieza writes a really fun cat-and-mouse hunt, making the stakes incredibly personal as the investigation draws Andrea's own family deeper into Stern's quest for justice.

Although I generally prefer my mysteries more hard-boiled and violent, the soft-boiled Suburban Dicks became a fast favorite for me thanks to its wit and charm. The Self-Made Widow solidifies Nicieza as an author to watch for, and welcomingly fills the gap left by Veronica Mars' absence (God, I miss Veronica...). It's clear he intends on returning to Andrea Stern and Kenny Lee for at least one more case (hopefully more!), as he sets-up some changes in Andrea's dynamic to her community, friends, and family, which lay an interesting foundation for Nicieza to build upon in Book Three. Mark me down for more slain suburbanites, true believers!

[Marty Fried · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, but in some ways, it was a lot of work following all the different characters with their unusual names, especially as an audiobook. It got fairly complicated, and there was a murderer among the group that we think we know, but it seems so unlikely. Well, that's the story, figuring out the why, and then the who.

This was not really the sort of story that kept me going all night, except I wanted to finish it quickly because I have a few others waiting that I really want to read. So, I more rushed through it than read because I couldn't put it down. Still, it was a fun read.

One fun little bit was about the book Kenny the reporter was working on, Suburban Secrets. He originally wanted to call it Suburban Dicks, but the publisher didn't like it. Another character said "Suburban Dicks is really a gross title."

[Joe Kucharski · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fabian Nicieza returns to that bastion of crime and corruption, West Windsor, NJ, in The Self-Made Widow, the riotous follow-up to the chart-topping, guilty pleasure, Suburban Dicks . Coupling Jersey-style sarcasm with floor-to-ceiling expletives, Widow is the fun return of housemom/profiler Andie Stern who finds herself drawn into yet another murder-mystery, this one definitely closer-to-home than she would have liked. Yet for all its quick wit and razor-sharp dialogue, The Self-Made Widow feels like a story that should have come later if this were to be a series. The inter-relational dynamics were too deep; the mystery too aloof.

The Self-Made Widow finds Andie Stern called in to help her friend, Molly Goode, after Molly’s husband is found dead. A weak ticker is the culprit. Yet both Andie and intrepid, if miserable, reporter Kenny Lee feel their spider-sense go off. Something is not kosher with Molly. Is she a suffering widow? Or is she public enemy number one?

Nicieza has always been a master of dialogue even since his time with Marvel (go read his run on The New Warriors! Do it!). The style he established with Suburban Dicks seamlessly follows through here. What Widow lacks, however, is that strong mystery that not only ensnares the characters but lures in the reader. A good third of the book is all set up, catch-up, and development. Although this is certainly good for the new reader, the pace becomes lethargic for what should be a rock ‘em-sock ‘em murder-mystery.

When the pace finally does pick up, Nicieza unleashes both barrels of back-stabbing fun and hardcore neo-noir. He presents conflict with Andie who is fed up with the Jersey-girl image, a low-mileage minivan, and sacrificed career. He clues non-Jerseyites on how I-295 really flows, our annoyance-with-yet-addiction-to Wegmans, and why self-pump gas stations are not necessarily the best. And he has zero problems with altering the status quo on any and all characters.

The Self-Made Widow perfectly fits the Jersey crime subgenre that Nicieza is incredibly adept at portraying. The characters are real, and familiar, and annoying. As a sequel, the set-up is longer than the Free Fall queue at Great Adventure but the payout is as genuine as getting a third encore from Bruce.


Thanks to G.P. Putnam's Sons for the invite. Looking forward to what Fabe has lined up next.


This review and many more are all online over @ Joe's

[Paula · Rating 2 out of 5]

I disliked both main VP characters, but the mystery drew me on. I won't read any more in this series, though, because I really did despise those people.

[Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you for inviting me to review this book. I received an advance review copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion on this book.
First, I have reviewed the first book in the series, and really enjoyed it. This book starts as a continuation of the first book. To me, it feels like the author assumes us to have some knowledge of these main characters and their relationships. It assumes some level of knowledge about what Andie and Kenny have been through in book 1 and took off from there. As I have read the first book, I cannot really tell how much this will impact a reader who has not read the first book but just jumped in on this one. My gut feeling is not knowing the background story will somewhat hinder the reader's understanding of these characters, but my past experience of starting a book/movie from volume 2 or 3 has taught me that it may not have that much impact. This IS a new story. A new case. A new focus. So take that however you will.
Secondly, I feel that the tone of this book is quite different from the first one. There's a lacking of humor that was omnipresent in book one. The book focuses more on the personal growth of the two main characters--Andie and Kenny. While I really enjoyed seeing these two develop more as characters, I do wish there were more lightness to the book and fewer "growth pains". And coming back to my previous point, I do wonder how much a reader who doesn't know these characters coming into the story will experience their growth. It's hard for me to gauge.
Lastly, just as in the first book, it took me a little bit of time to get into the storytelling. For some reason, these books always seem to have a slow start for me. I didn't get really invested in the story and wanted to know what happens next until about 1/3 way in. Although, this may have more to do with how I read stories than the book itself.

In summary, I feel like this is a really solid book for someone who has read the first one and is interested in these characters. I really like it when authors try to develop their characters and make them more complex and alive, and I think the author has done a decent job here. However, do expect this book to feel different from the first one. The crime element is still complex and touches so many aspects of our lives and society at large. But the tone does feel different.
For a new reader who didn't read book one, I feel like the book should still be quite enjoyable. Knowing the backstory in book 1 definitely adds value to the story, but not knowing the backstory shouldn't be a huge hindrance to enjoying the story.
I feel like this book lies somewhere between 3-4 out of 5.

[Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of The Self-Made Widow.

I was pretty excited to read this series since I enjoyed the first book.

The author 's writing style and tone is not for everyone; he provides plenty of exposition for major and secondary characters, giving us insight into their background, motivation, and what created the person you see before you.

But I enjoy his writing, as well as his humorous tone without being sarcastic and snide.

** Minor spoilers ahead **

The second book in the series welcomes back Andie Stern, mother of five and wife of disgraced financier, Jeff, and Kenny Lee, former disgraced reporter, who is flying high on the success from the conclusion of the first case.

When the husband of a friend of hers dies, Andie suspects her friend of murder.

Andie is a complex character, which I appreciate the author taking time to create.

She's street smart, crafty, and has always regretted not taking her true path, a fulfilling career to fighting crime, now forever doomed to a suburban life, her brains and talents wasted at home.

There's a lot going on, just like in the first book; lots of characters and moving pieces, who did what and who did this, children are involved in this case, specifically Andie's oldest daughter as well as the deceased man's sons.

There's no mystery here; we know whodunit.

The Self-Made Widow is about the people; how Andie continues to struggle with parenthood and motherhood and her desire to bring criminals to justice; Kenny balancing work and love; Andie and Jeff's disintegrating marriage; how we do stupid things when we're bored, entitled, angry and frustrated with our lives and ourselves.

What the author does well is write real characters; yes, Andie and Kenny are smart and savvy and good at what they do, but they're also human.

They make mistakes; they're flawed, they're relentless, they're angry and they hurt people in their pursuit of justice. And that kind of don't care.

I look forward to the next book in the series.

Great cover!

[Susan Tunis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Discovering Fabian Nicieza's Suburban Dicks was one of the highlights of my reading year. I read 728 books, and it made my top 10 list, that's how much I loved it. And I've been looking forward to the follow up for a year. Those are mighty high expectations!

I'm glad to say that I was not disappointed. I'll be honest and say that the murder at the heart of the mystery wasn't quite as compelling as the previous one, but it was a fine mystery. But for me, the pleasure of these books lies with the characters. Who they are, what the relationships are between them, etc. First and foremost, Andi Stern is a fascinating woman, so gifted but not without significant flaws. As I read Andi, I would wonder if the author is married, because there are so many things about her that ring true to me, particularly her many contradictions. Who has this guy been observing? He's clearly been paying attention.

Andi's relationship with several (All?) of the characters comes under strain, and these interactions are interesting. Conflict drives fiction. A lot of her relationships evolve and change from the first book, and within this one. And all of this sounds intense--and sometimes it is--but these books are also funny. What I love is that the humor is consistently grounded in character and reality. I love a good laugh, but get annoyed when characters act unbelievably for a joke. In Mr. Nicieza's hands, the humor is organic because there's plenty to laugh at in life. Especially when you're a mom with five kids in tow.

Suburban Dicks ended memorably at a moment of high drama. So too does The Self-Made Widow. It leaves me feeling very optimistic that there will be a book three. Fabian Nicieza has officially become a highlight of summer. Let the long wait commence!

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came into this mystery series completely blind and SOOO enjoyed it!! Who wouldn't love to root for a former FBI profiler turned stay at home suburban mother of FIVE who smells something fishy when the husband of one of her neighbors turns up dead, supposedly due to his pre-existing heart condition. Not willing to leave things alone, Andy teams up with her fellow crime-solving partner from the first book, Kenny Lee (much to her husband's chagrin). This was a great look at the challenges and struggles of suburban life, marriage and motherhood with a compelling mystery thrown in. Add in smart characters, snappy dialogue and great narration by Emily Woo Zeller and I was completely sold! Excuse me while I go binge the first book in the series. Recommended for fans of Cherie Priest or the show Dead to me.

[Luanne Ollivier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Fabian Nicieza's Edgar Award nominated debut novel, Suburban Dicks. I was thrilled to see that he had penned a follow up - The Self-Made Widow. Would it measure up to the five star first book? It did indeed!

At the center of the cast of characters is Andrea Stern. She was an up and coming profiler with the FBI many years ago. And then she got pregnant, married and now has five children. But does that stop her from investigating? Nope! (Her mothering skills had me laughing out loud more than once.) Andrea has the respect of a number of law enforcement agencies after the last case. The other main character is Kenny Lee. He's a journalist and is flying high on the success that the last case brought to him. The relationship between he and Andrea is, well, complicated. There is a wealth of supporting characters including the Cellulitists - a group of neighborhood mothers.

This latest case involves them directly as one of their husbands has died. But Andrea can't let go of the idea that it was murder, not a natural death. And she's like a dog with a bone...

Okay, fabulous characters that are really well drawn. Check. We met them in the first book and Nicieza has continued fleshing them out, touching on a number of real concerns, thoughts, events and more.

Next? A fantastic plot! This is not a cozy series. The plot premise is so well written and it was difficult to suss out the final whodunit. The reader is along for the ride, presented with the same clues as our characters.

Wonderfully creative writing. Fun, fresh, different, engaging and just a whole lot of fun to read. Nicieza is the co-creator of Marvel's Deadpool. Uh, huh that same wry humor, an unusual, intriguing mystery and two decidedly different leads make this another 'can't put it down read.'

Highly recommended and an easy five stars.

[Taylor Feighner · Rating 5 out of 5]

My husband was concerned this was instructional nonfiction, but I assured him otherwise. 😏

This follow-up to Suburban Dicks features my two favorite amateur sleuths who investigate a murder that might or might not involve the Cellulitists and that ultimately reveals the dark underbelly of suburban marriage — and it has enough irreverent humor to make Deadpool laugh.

Again, I loved the book’s construction, surprises and humor, but I especially enjoyed the deeper character development of former FBI profiler Andrea Stern and disgraced reporter Kenny Lee — who is slowly rebuilding his career, one Netflix investigative special at a time. Along with solving a murder most believe never happened, they’re each trying to navigate the fallouts from their respective childhoods and the complexities of their personal lives.

This was really, really good.

[Esonja · Rating 4 out of 5]

I understand that Angie is supposed to be an ambiguous mother character- but every time she describes maybe or maybe not liking her kids or leaving them with sitters, I clearly read that as the kids being seen and protected with care. I believe the best parents have the right to be totally irritated with their kids, because the parents know them and care for them so much/well, that it is annoying. It’s a privilege to have family be as giant a pain in the ass as they are.

Also, this book definitely furthers the story- I like this so much.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one comes out tomorrow and as I am reading the first few chapters this one grabs you right at the beginning. Also I mean the title makes you curious right lol.

This is set after the Suburban Dicks with the same cast of characters except now there is another murder which appears to be natural causes cause they had a heart condition but they are only 40, cue terror for me in my early 40's, but it doesn't seem quite right.

I just love, as a mom, how Andrea, the former FBI profiler now very close to PI, takes her kids with her to investigate matters. Life doesn't stop when you become a mom and they are very helpful in buttering people up or making them uncomfortable, lol.

I love a good mystery and how some people are so good at covering their tracks. But all it takes is one weak link or a loose thread and everything unravels right when they thought they were about to get away with it.

Btw I love all the people that were blaming Andrea for ruining their lives cause she uncovered the truth. Um sorry you have to actually accept the consequences of your actions. She did not make you do any of those things. Listening to how belligerent people are irl I can totally see people doing this.

Tip of the day from Andrea Stern:  Remember to cut out those toxic people out of your life albeit by handcuffs or a heart to heart. 

Thank you putnambooks and netgalley for the e-ARC for my honest and voluntary review.

[Kathleen Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andie firmly believes that Molly killed her husband Derek. But how and why? Her friend Kenny, a journalist now working with Netflix on the adaptation of the book he wrote about their first investigation, agrees. Together they, along with Andie's friend Sawitha and Kenny's co-workers, set out to get answers. And what an answer it is. This careens around New Jersey, financial schemes, and the underbelly of suburbia. Andie's fifth kid, Jojo is along for the ride and even though she isn't talking yet, she's a welcome injection of humor into the complicated story. Molly is both smart and devious but Andie's smarter and more devious. She's also smarter than her husband Jeff, who has been in trouble before and well.....I was a huge fan of Suburban Dicks, which was, I think better in some ways because it was such a surprise. This also feels sadder. There are a couple of diversions into tragic episodes in Kenny and Andie's lives. There's also Molly's kids. And the argument between Jeff and Andie. That said, it's tricky, complex and engaging with flashes of humor (and a couple of inside-isms such as the choice of gin). Thanks to Edelweiss for the ARC. Nicieza has left a clear opening for the next one given that some things are left unanswered (no spoilers) and that there's new beginnings ahead. I'm looking forward to it.

[Tanya R · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a huge fan of Suburban Dicks! Love the two main characters, Andie and her side kick Kenny. Their banter was hilarious, and the way Andie solved the murder with all her little children constantly hanging off her made me laugh. An easy 5 star read!

Unfortunately, the 2nd installment of this story, The Self-Made Widow, didn't have the same feel as the first book.

Andie wasn't nearly the strong-willed smart-ass she was in book 1. There were times where her character did shine through, but I think it got lost in the mystery and because there were so many other characters that this story focused on. She was what 'made it' for me the first time around so her character in book 2 was a real let down for me, personally.

Kenny also was very different, and he spent so much time internalizing his budding relationship. It really took focus off the story, and I didn't prefer it.

The actual storyline was just ok. By the end of the book, I found that I didn't like many of the characters, including the ones I was supposed to like. A bit disheartening actually.

I 100% recommend Book 1 to all readers who like murder mysteries and snarky characters. Book 2 was just ok for me. If there is a book 3, I will definitely read it to see if Andie kicks back into high gear.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review comes with the caveat that this book is set in and around the town I grew up in. The characters go to the same school I did, they play soccer at the same parks I played rec. soccer in, they eat food from the same restaurants I did, they shop at the same stores I shopped in, and I had my first cello recital in the very church that Derek Goode's memorial service is held.

All of that wouldn't matter of course if this wasn't an entertaining read. It is. If you enjoyed the first novel you will be ready to jump right in here. Andie and Kenny are wonderfully complex characters conjuring up pathos, frustration, and glee in equal parts. We get more snippets of each character's past. Given that I want to know more about the Browning case, Andie's brother, Kenny's past, and more on what the future holds for Andie and her brood I hope Mr. Nicieza gets to continue this series.

[Rosann · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Self-Made Widow is the second in a series called Suburban Dicks by Fabian Nicieza. It is every bit as good as the intro. and a bit better. Nicieza puts together a well written, swiftly moving mystery/thriller/comedy. One main protagonist, as in "Suburban Dicks" is a frustrated and ambitious reporter, looking for redemption and fame. Heading up their partnership in crime detection is a former FBI hopeful and smartest woman in the room who is juggling housewifery, multiple children, a marriage, friendship, and her urge to solve the unsolvable.

A great antagonist and complex relationships are part of what makes this follow-up book a worthy read. But even more important for the reader is how these characters continue to grow and change, and become more self-aware. I am looking forward to where the author takes them next.

[Diane Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrea is a suburban mom of five. She has a group of female friends including perfectionist Molly, talkative Crystal, and triplet wrangler Brianne. In The Self-Made Widow, Andrea has a problem. She thinks widowed Molly killed her husband but has no proof or motive. Enter Andrea’s new female friend, the brilliant Sathwika, and old investigative helper, former reporter Kenny. They and a ragtag bunch of others work to uncover the real Molly under her slick facade.

I enjoyed everything about this book. From the characters to the plot to the writing style, there is nothing I would change about The Self-Made Widow. And that mobius twist in the middle was amazing! But I can’t describe it because I don’t want to spoil the surprise. I also loved the diversity of the characters and the snarky comments by Andrea.

I read this book without reading the first book in the series. It is fine as a stand-alone but now I need to read the first one, Suburban Dicks, too.

Overall, The Self-Made Widow rates 5 stars and is a favorite!

Thanks to G.P. Putnam’s Sons and NetGalley for a digital review copy of the book.

[Carrie Shields · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't realize this was book two in a series until I started reading it, but I quickly found out that any missing background information was provided through enough context that I didn't feel lost.

This was a fast-moving, plot driven comedic mystery/thriller centering around mother of five Andie Stern. Molly Goode's husband unexpectedly dies in the opening scenes, and his death is written off as natural causes, but Andie isn't so sure, especially after a journalist friend of hers gets an alarming phone call.

This book had plenty of twists and turns, but all the details easily fell into place to create an enjoyable read. I liked it enough to seek out book one!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this early read. THE SELF-MADE WIDOW will publish June 21, 2022.

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Andrea Stern's dysfunctional childhood made her decide to seek truth above all things. So when the husband of one of her friends dies of a chronic heart disease, she's suspicious of his perfectionist wife. And she convinces her one-time colleague, journalist Kenny Lee, to add the investigative know-how of his documentary team. Too bad the truth that Andrea is seeking will make a mess of many lives, including her own.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm loving this series, once again following a suburban mom of 5 and a journalist (now podcaster/documentarian) who suspect another wealthy suburban mom of murder. 4.5 stars.

Read it Because:
I read and enjoyed Suburban Dicks, the first book in this series.

[Doreen · Rating 4 out of 5]

6/14/2022 Idk why I'm surprised by the depth of this. Full review tk at CriminalElement.com.

[Kara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t think the writing was as sparkling and witty as in the author’s first book, and initially I was disappointed because overall it seemed fairly pedestrian in comparison. But, the second half of the book proved excellent with the plot coming together in an exciting way. I would love to see a book all about Ruth and her budding investigative skills.

[Libbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

better than the first

I found Andrea to be fairly whiny in the first book. She seemed completely unaware that she is responsible for her own destiny and unhappiness. I’m glad this novel explorers this a bit more. Fabien Niceza seems to understand perfectly the warring guilt and love that accompanies child rearing. Am I a good parent if I work outside the home? If I resent my kids and don’t find them endlessly fascinating, am I a monster? Get out of my head Fabian!

[Meredith H · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 STARS! I LOVED THIS BOOK.

So ... Suburban Dicks was a delight to read - a snarky, relevant, local, scooby-doo mystery with flawed but fascinating characters and a damn good plot. The sequel, The Self-made Widow, is even more over the top than its predecessor - a fantastically twisted plot that doesn't go where you think it will, more depth and background on all the main characters, making them so much more multidimensional, and it doubles down on the myth of suburban, well-to-do idyllic bliss. It even brings more to the table with the development of the kids in the story.

Andie returns with her 5th child, JoJo, constantly in tow. After outing herself in Suburban Dicks as a wannabe FBI agent who really could have been one, she and her "friends" are somewhat estranged, having dredged up a lot of dirt on, well, the whole town. She treads carefully until Molly's husband Derek drops dead, seemingly of a congenital heart problem. Ever suspicious, Andie and her friend Sathwika begin digging into Derek's death and Molly's life, only to discover a) several surprising secrets and b) that Andie will stop at very little (including sacrificing her family) in order to get to the truth. With her half-assed parenting and Queens attitude, Andie and Sathwika make a smart and sassy team of mom-investigators.

Kenny, meanwhile, has joined forces with some of his Netflix staff to ALSO dig in to Derek's death. This crew is hilarious and clever, and oh so enjoyable for so many reasons - especially Shelby and Jimmy. Sleuthing from their office in Manhattan, Kenny learns more about himself than about Derek, but ultimately unearths a lot of dirt. And he decides that people NEED to get dirty in prusuit of the story, much to the chagrin of everyone in his hometown.

Entertaining and irreverent, this story is impressively complex, and I suggest investing in Suburban Dicks before embarking with this novel. The characters will be easier to understand and keep track of, as they expand their story arcs and discover more about themselves than planned.

LOVE that this takes place in NJ and NYC, and that it just feels like such an on-the-nose commentary about life in the affluent 'burbs. It was a sheer joy to read. I hope there is more to come from Andie and Kenny - they deserve more antics and shenanigans!

[Cathy Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Fabian Nicieza's Suburban Dicks in which Andie Stern made her first appearance, and I'm thrilled to say that Andie's second appearance here in The Self-Made Widow is even better-- one of my Best Reads of 2022 better.

The Self-Made Widow is a many-layered how of a mystery. We all know Andie Stern is right-- Molly Goode did indeed kill her husband. The question is, how she did it, and the sheer joy is sitting back, turning the pages, and watching Andie strut her stuff (usually with a baby on her hip). I loved the humor-laced-with-sarcasm of the first book, but here-- although there's still plenty of humor-- it's a bit gentler and has been toned back. Since sarcasm isn't to everyone's taste, readers may find The Self-Made Widow more palatable. That's for them to discover for themselves, and I certainly hope they do.

If some of the focus is off the humor, what does the spotlight shine on here? It shines on the wonderfully plotted mystery, and it delves more deeply into the personalities and motivations of Andie and Kenny. Andie gets high marks for her parenting-while-sleuthing skills, and Nicieza never puts her or any of her children in danger, in case you're wondering. And speaking of those five children, each one of them has his or her own personality, something which would be difficult for many writers to pull off. In particular, I really enjoyed how Andie's oldest daughter, Ruth, is brought into the story, and how her perception of her mother has changed.

Other cast members shine as well. Andie's new BFF Sathwika Duvvuri. The new chief of police Preet Anand. And Kenny's crew and his girlfriend who are working on the Netflix series based on his book about the case he and Andie solved the previous year. Who knows? If Andie and Kenny finally figure out how Molly killed her husband, Kenny may have another book and another series in the works, and he does love that fame and fortune.

This is a banquet of a book. Wit and humor. Developing characters. A splendid howdunit. I don't know what Fabian Nicieza has up his sleeve next, but I can't wait to find out!

(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley)

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel so much more than the first one, and I did like the first one. But it was nagging me how contradictory Andrea was in the first book (and yes, I get it, we're all humans with contradictions).

But in this sequel, I felt like I really could appreciate Andrea more as a character, as she started to lean towards more self-confidence and integrity to her values. I also enjoy her relationship with Kenny Lee, even though they're so different, but they have a really good synergy when it comes to working together. I'm still curious about how this partnership/relationship moves forward.

I think also this story worked better for me because it focused on one mystery, which really allowed for me to feel connected and more invested in the characters.

I was super engaged from the very start, and I am now looking more forward to be a fan of this series.