Sisters Before Misters

The Finch Sisters #2

by Amelia Diane Coombs

A missing husband, a sister acting sus, and a tantalizing tangle of lies—well, there goes Remi’s plan for a chill Halloween.

Remi and her sisters, Maeve and Eliana, have a knack for stumbling into murder mysteries. And after a killer family camping trip last year, they’re back together for a Halloween they’ll never forget.

Remi is living her best life in Seattle until Eliana’s husband, Chad, who refused to sign their divorce papers, disappears on the spookiest night of the year. Eliana swears she has no idea where he is, though her obvious motive and weird behavior don’t really weigh in her favor. Nor does the severed finger they find in his house…

Torn between loyalty to her sister and mounting suspicions she can’t ignore, Remi and her boyfriend, Leo, embark on a manhunt to find Chad—or the rest of him. But the further Remi digs into Chad’s movements on Halloween, the more trouble she finds. With a ruthless detective on their tail, threatening texts, a mysterious hard drive, and dubious legal advice from a kooky aunt, the Finch sisters are in over their head. But Remi is determined to prove her sister’s innocent, even though the bloody evidence points right at her.

Genres: Mystery, Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Adult, Mystery Thriller, Audiobook, Cozy

287 pages, Paperback

First published October 7, 2025

About the author

Amelia Diane Coombs is the author of Keep My Heart in San Francisco; Between You, Me, and the Honeybees; Exactly Where You Need to Be; and All Alone With You. She’s a Northern California transplant living in Seattle, Washington, with her spouse and their Siberian cat. When she isn’t writing or reading, Amelia spends her time playing video and tabletop games, road-tripping, and hiking the Pacific Northwest.

Reviews

[Winter · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this installment of The Finch Sisters, the sisters investigate the disappearance of Eliana's soon to be ex-husband. The crime was less compelling than in the first book. The reason for not immediately calling the police made more sense in the first book, and overall it had more hijinks. There really wasn't a good enough reason for the sisters to involve and hinder the official investigation in this book.

For this type of unserious crime book, I personally need more humor. There just isn't any laugh out loud humor or funny dark humor. I'm also not connected to the sisters, and for a book like this you need compelling characters. Everyone is very surface level. This series misses the mark to make it a standout in this subgenre. That being said, it was a quick, easy read that was mildly entertaining.

Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC.

[Kari · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was pretty excited for this book to come out, especially since I had just finished the first book in the series. There was nothing glaringly wrong with this book, other than a few minor (personal) annoyances, it just lacked a lot of the oomph the first book had and it just seemed to draaaaag. I kept on checking my progress and found myself a little dismayed each time I looked and it was *only* 44% or only 55%. I'll give it this- it did pick up the last third of the book. It felt kind of repetitive (like with the bountiful descriptions of Remi's anxiety), and questioning whether or not Eliana did it or not. I might have given this book 3 stars, except that after reading the first one, it was just an utter disappointment.

[Joy · Rating 3 out of 5]

cute series

[Cindi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to the author, narrator, publisher and Net Galley for providing an ALC.

This is book 2 in a series, and I did not realize that before requesting this book. I have not read any by this author before, nor book 1. Overall, that was ok, but there were a LOT of references to 'what happened last year' and I don't know if I disliked that for the repetition or because I didn't know what happened in the previous book.

This series is set around 3 sisters, with the POV of the youngest sister, Remi. I had a very hard time keeping all the characters straight. In addition to the 3 sisters, there were spouses, children and other family members as well as the assistant of one of the sisters and pets. It was a bit much. Oldest sister, Eli's, husband goes missing, and of course the sister is the main suspect, and they decide they are better equipped to solve the crime than the cops. And then we get one - oh, heck, I'll just say it - dumb decision after another. I've read lots of cozy mysteries with characters trying to solve murders, but this one was really, really immature.

I don't' think I'll go back for book 1. IF you read book 1 & liked it, go for book 2! IF you want to suspend disbelief and read an immature sister crime solving trio, go for it. Really just didn't work for me.

2 stars.

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sisters Before Misters is the second mystery by Amelia Diane Coombs featuring the Finch sisters: Eliana, Maeve, and Remi. It is Halloween evening and the sisters are back together to celebrate Eliana's divorce from Chad, but he still hasn't signed the papers. After he goes missing, the sisters must follow the clues to find him and clear Eliana from any suspicion.

Although this book could be read as a standalone, I personally enjoyed having read Drop Dead Sisters first to gain the sisters' history and character development. This book has dark comedy, suspense, and mystery mixed with a little family drama. The sisters dynamics are laugh out loud funny and the twists kept me on my toes. Were there times I needed to suspend reality a little bit? Sure, but overall an entertaining read and a series that I will continue to follow.

Thanks NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me to have an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Afsha (caffeineandcrime) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sisters Before Misters - Amelia Diane Coombs
Pub Date - 10/7/25
Rating - 3/5
Thoughts - Thank you to Netgalley, the author, Thomas & Mercer, and Brilliance Audio | Brilliance Publishing for this gifted e-advanced copy/audiobook in exchange for my honest review. I really like this series! It resonates with me because I am one of three sisters and love the adventures they get up to. This installment of the series was also equally as fun along with humorous at times. I chose to listen to this book and loved the narrator. She played the voices perfectly and kept me engaged in the story. The storyline focuses on a Remi (the main character)'s brother in law going missing the night after halloween when she saw her sister and him fighting before heading home. Everything spirals as we find out what happened, why, and what the sisters will do next. While entertaining, the storyline was not mind blowing. Great series and can't wait for the next one!

[Meddings_Musings: Erin Meddings · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Finch sisters are back and once again find themselves tangled in a delicate—but oh-so-perilous—situation that made book two another FIVE STAR read for me! Engaging, witty, and brimming with the kind of banter I adore, this sequel also gives us a deeper peek at Remi, Maeve, and Eliana after the wild events of Drop Dead Sisters. And let me tell you—I was left wanting more, more, more!

Sisters Before Misters is book two in The Finch Sisters series. While you could read it as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with book one. The family dynamics and groundwork laid there make the character growth in this installment even more rewarding, and there are several callbacks you don’t want to miss!

This thrilling, banter-fueled ride kept me glued from start to finish. And the best part? It releases October 7, 2025—plenty of time to catch up on Drop Dead Sisters first (and if you have Kindle Unlimited, you can read or listen to it for free!).

Huge thanks to NetGalley, Amelia Diane Coombs, and Thomas & Mercer for the gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Kirra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This hilarious murder mystery had me hooked from page one! I couldn't stop reading and laughing. 😂 The sister dynamic was everything: fierce, loyal, and absolutely heartwarming. I loved how they had each other’s backs no matter what. If you love a mix of chaos, comedy, and crime-solving sisterhood, this one’s for you!

[Britney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audio version of this book and honestly I love these books. I read the first one a while ago and I always get a good laugh from these sisters
There is humor mixed with mystery in these books. this one was suspenseful at times. Sometimes there is so much you can trust your sisters with and that includes an alibi

[Destiny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just as funny as the first one, truly such silly mysteries and detectives but they’re so fun!

[Tanyajk · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did not realize this was part 2 in a series when I requested the ARC. The Virgo in me could not get over that - but the book was actually fine on its own. There were several references to a murder in book 1, but much like the crime here, everything is just easy breezy for these ladies. “Uncle So and So beat his wife? Then he was murdered? Get out of town! What’s for dinner?” “You tampered with evidence? It’s fine. Just rinse it out in the sink!” WILD.

We have a single character POV, Remi, the youngest of three sisters. Eli, the eldest, mother of two, in the process of divorcing her husband and Maeve, the middle, a social media mogul and visiting for Halloween with her assistant in tow. Eli’s husband goes missing and these three knuckleheads decide to solve the mystery on their own.

The context and the characters are so not serious - which is fine for this genre, but these people are just head down move forward. One or two characters making dumb decisions are fine, but 5, 6, 7, 8. Come on now. Overall, cute but I needed more.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amelia Diane Coombs’ Sisters Before Misters is the kind of book that sneaks up on you with its wit, warmth, and just the right amount of murder. Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for my gifted ARC—this one was an absolute blast to read.

From the very first chapter, I was reminded why I loved Drop Dead Sisters, but this sequel hits even harder. There’s more bite, more heart, and more chaos, all wrapped up in a Halloween mystery that had me fully locked in. Remi Finch has settled into life in Seattle, blissfully drama-free—or at least that’s the plan—until her sister Eliana’s soon-to-be ex-husband, Chad, vanishes. On Halloween night. Leaving behind a severed finger. It’s a premise that screams absurd, but Coombs pulls it off with her signature charm and razor-sharp dialogue. “Also, Chad has a punchable face,” says Remi at one point, and that one-liner tells you everything you need to know about the book’s tone: dark, hilarious, and entirely self-aware.

What sets this book apart from other cozy mysteries isn’t just the quirky plot. It’s the character work. The Finch sisters—Remi, Eliana, and Maeve—are still a delightful mess, but in Sisters Before Misters, we see how much they’ve grown since their last accidental brush with homicide. Their dynamic is no longer just combative or chaotic. It’s layered with history, guilt, love, and a stubborn desire to do better for each other—even if they still argue like teenagers. I especially appreciated how Coombs writes sisterhood not as a static, sentimental thing but as something constantly renegotiated through experience, time, and even trauma. That felt honest.

Remi, as the narrator, carries the story with a mix of sarcasm, vulnerability, and an overwhelming need to fix things that are clearly out of her control. Her relationship with Leo continues to be sweet without overwhelming the plot. He’s supportive, observant, and—thankfully—not reduced to just the “boyfriend” trope. Maeve’s still the scene-stealer with her drama queen antics and influencer ego, while Eliana’s unraveling adds just enough tension to keep the reader guessing whether she’s truly innocent or hiding something. The stakes feel personal because they are. This isn’t a murder mystery in some distant town—it’s a family in freefall trying to protect one of their own, and that emotional core grounds the entire book.

The pacing is sharp. Coombs doesn’t let the story drag, weaving in flashbacks and clues with perfect timing. The humor is there, yes, but so is the anxiety. Remi’s unraveling sanity is matched beat for beat with the rising pressure from a dogged detective, a suspicious flash drive, and mounting evidence that all points to Eliana. It’s not just about finding Chad—or his body—it’s about whether Remi can trust her sister. That tension gives the mystery real weight. And just when you think it’s about to veer into the predictable, it doesn’t. The twist near the end is clever—not shock-for-shock’s sake, but meaningful, satisfying, and emotionally earned.

One of my favorite parts? Aunt Lindy. She’s completely unhinged in the best way possible. Her erratic advice, wild past, and chaotic presence bring needed levity at just the right moments. Every time she showed up, I was grinning.

As with Coombs’ previous work, mental health is woven into the story without being preachy. The narrative gives space for burnout, anxiety, complicated grief, and the way family history can feel like a minefield. These threads are subtle but present, and they make Remi’s voice feel grounded in reality—even as she’s breaking into houses and dodging suspicion from the cops.

The setting—Seattle in fall—is also a great backdrop for this Halloween mystery. Rainy streets, costumes, flickering porch lights, a severed finger in a kitchen drawer—it’s all so weirdly atmospheric in the best possible way. I could practically feel the chill in the air as Remi raced against time to keep her sister out of jail.

By the time I hit the final chapters, I didn’t want it to end. The conclusion ties up the mystery in a way that’s both surprising and emotionally resonant. But more importantly, it solidifies the Finch sisters as a trio I genuinely want to follow. They’re not perfect—they’re deeply flawed—but their love for each other, messy as it is, feels real. That’s what kept me turning the pages just as much as the mystery did.

If you like your thrillers on the cozy side, your characters with real emotional baggage, and your mysteries with both bite and heart, Sisters Before Misters will hit the spot. It’s sharp, funny, heartfelt, and absolutely perfect for fall. I really hope there’s a book three because I’m not done with the Finch sisters—and something tells me murder isn’t done with them either.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 stars)

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[Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, so maybe jumping into Sisters Before Misters without reading Drop Dead Sisters first was a choice. A bold, chaotic, deeply incorrect choice. But don’t worry, I’ve since corrected my sins and gone back to read the first book because I am nothing if not a woman who learns from her crimes. Or at least tries not to repeat them while investigating someone else’s.

We’re dropped straight into Seattle with Remi, our anxious queen of sarcasm, who just wants a normal Halloween. Is that too much to ask? Apparently yes. Because her older sister Eliana’s estranged husband Chad (a man with the name and energy of a stock photo finance bro) has vanished under super suspicious circumstances. I’m talking blood on the walls, no divorce signature, and oh yeah, a literal severed finger in his bachelor pad of horrors. I can’t even find my AirPods most days, and these sisters found a body part before coffee.

Remi’s loyalty is immediately torn between protecting her sister and trying not to get arrested for accessory to something something tampering with a crime scene. Eliana, who’s already radiating “cool aunt who’s been through it,” is acting real cagey, which is not helping her case. Meanwhile Maeve, the middle sister slash content creator, has rolled into town with her assistant like they’re filming a haunted influencer collab, and honestly? I respect the vibe.

As things spiral into chaos (flash drives, shady detectives, family secrets, emotional unavailability... the usual), Remi and her very sweet boyfriend Leo become amateur sleuths with questionable judgment and zero chill. Which, to be clear, is extremely entertaining to listen to, even if I was yelling “DON’T DO THAT” into my headphones like I was watching a horror movie where someone opens the basement door. Again.

Let’s talk audiobook. Soneela Nankani nails it. She captures Remi’s overthinking spiral, the Finch family’s relentless banter, and that specific flavor of cozy mystery chaos that’s half charming, half emotionally exhausting. Her delivery rides the line between “we’re in danger” and “we might have accidentally joined a cult,” and I loved it. It made the story feel way more immersive than if I’d read it on paper, and honestly, I needed that help keeping all the side characters straight because this cast is THICC. There are like, three sisters, two exes, one aunt who gives legal advice she absolutely should not be giving, and at least one child and a pet whose name I forgot the second they entered the scene.

Now, I do have to dock a few chaos points for how often this book reminds you what happened in book one. There are a lot of “remember when” moments that felt less like necessary context and more like your aunt getting stuck in a story she’s already told twice. Also, I’m just gonna say it, these women are smart but make so many objectively terrible decisions that at some point I started rooting for the detective just so someone would have a clue. Cozy mystery rules apply, sure, but even in that realm, these gals are making Final Girl energy look like a PhD in criminology.

Still, the sister dynamics slap. Remi, Maeve, and Eliana are messy, dramatic, emotionally constipated in the way only adult siblings can be, and I kind of loved them for it. They fight dirty, love hard, and would absolutely bury a body for each other. Is that healthy? No. Is it relatable? Also no (I can barely text my brother back), but it’s fun as hell to watch.

I wanted just a smidge more actual twistiness in the mystery and maybe a few fewer lines that felt like “last time on Finch Family Drama.” But for what it is, a light, spooky-season sisterly crime romp with big Finlay Donovan meets Dead to Me energy, it works. 3.5 stars from me.

Whodunity Award: For Weaponizing a Flash Drive and Still Managing to Leave a Finger Behind

Huge thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the audio ARC of Sisters Before Misters. You absolute legends. Appreciate you fueling my seasonal descent into cozy mystery madness. I regret nothing.

[Sarah Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Sisters Before Misters by Amelia Diane Coombs

Sisters Before Misters is a sharp-witted, darkly comedic exploration of sibling dynamics, female agency, and the messy intersections of love and loyalty. Amelia Diane Coombs, known for her YA novels, transitions adeptly into adult fiction with this tale of two sisters whose bond is tested by secrets, rivalries, and a corpse that inconveniently complicates their lives. The novel blends elements of mystery, domestic drama, and biting humor, offering a fresh take on the “sisters-first” trope while interrogating societal expectations of women.

Coombs excels in character construction, crafting protagonists who are flawed yet deeply relatable. The sisters—one pragmatic and guarded, the other impulsive and chaotic—serve as perfect foils, their contrasting personalities driving both conflict and emotional depth. Secondary characters, particularly the enigmatic love interests and a nosy small-town community, add layers of tension and satire. The dialogue crackles with authenticity, balancing snark with moments of genuine vulnerability.

Thematically, the novel shines in its subversion of traditional narratives. Rather than romanticizing sisterhood, Coombs presents it as a complex, often contentious bond that requires active maintenance. The mystery element (a central corpse) serves as both plot device and metaphor for buried truths, though its resolution leans slightly toward the predictable. The pacing is brisk, with short chapters that heighten suspense, though some mid-narrative flashbacks disrupt momentum.

Stylistically, Coombs employs a conversational yet precise prose style, infusing dark humor without undermining emotional stakes. Descriptions of the Pacific Northwest setting are vivid but economical, allowing character interactions to dominate. While the novel occasionally relies on tropes of the genre (miscommunication-driven conflicts, last-minute revelations), its self-awareness and thematic ambition elevate it beyond conventional fare.

Overall Rating: 4.3/5

Analytical Scoring Breakdown:
-Character Development: 4.5/5 — Complex sibling dynamics with authentic growth arcs.
-Plot Structure: 4/5 — Engaging mystery with minor pacing inconsistencies.
-Thematic Depth: 4.5/5 — Incisive commentary on female relationships and autonomy.
-Prose & Style: 4/5 — Witty dialogue with occasional over-reliance on tropes.
-Emotional Impact: 4.2/5 — Balances humor and pathos effectively.

Thank you to NetGalley and author Amelia Diane Coombs for providing an advance copy of this darkly entertaining novel in exchange for an honest review.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Big shout out to Netgalley, Thomas & Mercer, and Brilliance Audio, Amelia Diane Coombs, and Brilliance Publishing for a gifted e-advanced copy/audiobook in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.

This is the second installment in the Finch sisters series by Amelia Diane Coombs. I had not heard of this author or book series before I picked this one up but the cover caught my eye and sounded like something I would read. It reminded me of The Ex-Girlfriend Murder club and The Finaly Donovan series. And I loved both. Sisters before Misters was a four star read for me. It didn't drag out too long and it kept my attention until the end. (which I'm not going to lie, as someone with ADHD, sometimes it is hard to keep my attention at no fault of the book.) This book was not only fun and full of energy but the narrator really did a great job bringing the story to life.

Eliana calls her two younger sisters asking for help. Maeve and Remi show up at Eliana's soon to be ex-husbands (Chad) house. They walk in the house to find a bloody crime scene and Chad nowhere to be found. The two sisters set off to figure out what happened to Chad and take the police light off of their sister. (Although they aren't 100% sure she didn't kill him).

Since I listened to this one on audio, lets get to it. I loved the narrator. She captured the personalities of the characters perfectly. I loved how the humor and sass came though so naturally. Production wise, everything was clear and understandable. The narrator made it easy to get lost in the story. I think listening to the book made it come to life more.

If you are looking for a lighthearted, binge worth series about sisterhood and the ups and downs of life, this series is a must. Especially on audiobook.

And yes this one can be listened to or read as a standalone. But I think you might enjoy this one a bit more if you read the first book.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sisters Before Misters-The Finch Sisters #2

By: Amelia Diane Coombs-I've read Drop Dead Sisters and gave it 4⭐

Publication: 10-7-25, Read: 10-4-25

Setting: Seattle

Page Count: 283 e-book

Genre/Tropes:
♡ Sisterhood/Women's Fic
♡ Murder Mystery/amateur sleuths
♡ Suspense
♡ Adult Fic

My Thoughts: It is Halloween, and the sisters celebrate at a drag show together with Remi and her boyfriend Leo, Eliana, and Maeve. Eliana is acting weird-drinking and not being her "perfect daughter" self. Eliana's (Eli) soon to be ex-husband Chad refuses to sign divorce papers. She visits Chad's house and finds blood. She calls her sisters believing foul play because Chad is missing. Remi's dog Buffy finds a severed finger, and they contact the Police Detective Trapp. Eliana is his number one suspect, so the sisters have to find Chad to clear her name.

The story is told by Remi-the youngest sister at 31. She has anxiety issues and is on medication, though she's moved in with her boyfriend Leo. He has his doubts about Eli's innocence, but Remi supports her sister. I loved when Aunt Lindy came in to help them, confessing her own crime. Also, their parents made an appearance to take Eli's kids while Chad tries to get himself out trouble. Overall, this was another solid mystery with amateur sleuth sisters, hippie parents, and a dead-sniffing dog.

⚠️️Triggers: murder, domestic violence, mental health issues
🌶️ Steam level: 0/5
⭐Rating: 4/5

Thanks for the e-ARC provided by NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer, and Amelia Diane Coombs. I voluntarily give my honest review, and all opinions are my own.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amelia Diane Coombs' Sisters Before Misters is a cozy mystery centered on the three Finch sisters, Remi, Maeve, and Eliana, who reunite for Halloween in Seattle. The holiday takes a dark turn when Eliana's soon-to-be ex-husband, Chad, vanishes, leaving behind a trashed apartment and a severed finger. With Eliana acting suspiciously and possessing a clear motive (Chad refused to sign their divorce papers), she quickly becomes the police's primary suspect. Unwilling to let her sister face a murder charge, Remi teams up with her boyfriend Leo to investigate Chad's disappearance and prove Eliana's innocence, navigating threatening messages, a detective on their trail, and absurd family antics along the way.

This is the second book in The Finch Sisters series, and it's a fun follow-up to the first book, Drop Dead Sisters. In Sisters Before Misters, we follow the sisters' often chaotic and hilarious antics as they race against the clock to solve the mystery of Chad's disappearance and to keep Eli from being the number one suspect. I enjoyed the sharp, witty banter between the sisters; their chemistry is the heart of the story. It was great seeing how supporting characters like Leo and Bess fit into their chaotic dynamics, providing a balance to the investigation. The mystery itself is well-paced, delivering a perfect balance of humor and genuine suspense.

I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a good cozy mystery, especially those who love stories with strong, humorous female leads and a fast pace. It's the perfect book for a weekend read!

Thank you to Thomas & Mercer for providing this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Ciara Hartman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio Review: Really enjoyed the narration for this audiobook!

Audio Run Time: 9 hrs, 52 mins
Narrated By: Soneela Nankani

Story Review: Three sisters who are each different from each other, who misunderstand each other and don’t say I love you nearly enough, but have each other’s backs when it counts the most. What would you do when your sister is in the middle of trying to get her husband to sign the divorce papers and suddenly he’s disappeared and could possibly be dead? Your sister is acting a bit suspicious, but it’s your sister. Would you cover for her? Would you band together and try to find the answers for yourselves instead of waiting on the police who suspect your sister? - This is a suspenseful mystery to find out if Chad is dead or alive and why it happened. And did her sister really have something to do with it? - Also, the story begins around Halloween time! (Sisters Before Misters is book 2 in The Finch Sisters Mystery Series. I haven’t read book 1 yet, but it’s on my TBR!) - I really enjoyed this one because the twists at the very end got me good!

Release Date: October 7, 2025.

Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for this ALC in return for my honest review.

[Juli · Rating 4 out of 5]

This followup to the author's Drop Dead Sisters finds Eliana, Maeve, and Remi Finch in another comedic murder mystery. The sisters are again together, this time in Seattle. It is Halloween and Chad, Eliana's soon to be ex-husband, if he would sign the divorce papers, goes missing. His condo is trashed, blood is found, and he and Eliana had argued that morning. The sisters think, maybe a kidnap. The police however, have other ideas and Eliana becomes a suspect. The sisters begin their own investigation. Chad had secrets, dealing with some dangerous people. The humor is heightened with the arrival of Aunt Lindy and the sisters' parents.

This is a fun series. Yes, you will have to suspend reality occasionally, but the plot is humorous, has some twists and affectionate sisterly banter. Sisters Before Misters can be read as a stand-alone, but I would recommend reading the first book as it provides the backstory to the sisters' relationship. If you like murder mysteries with dark humor and a few eccentric characters, this is for you. I can't wait to see what Amelia Diane Coombs has in store next for the Finch sisters.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Thomas & Mercer, for an ARC. The opinions in this review are my own.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a funny, quirky mystery. I really enjoyed listening to it, and not just because Soneela Nankani narrated.

I didn’t realize at first that this was the second book in a series. During the first chapter, there were a few references that felt like callbacks to something I’d missed, so I looked it up and confirmed. It’s still very enjoyable on its own, but the relationship between the sisters is so beautifully developed that I wish I’d gone on the journey with them from the beginning. The romantic relationship for the main sister is also very sweet, committed, and healthy. And speaking of health, I liked the anxiety and mental health representation. It’s touched on here and I’m assuming explored more deeply in the first book.

The sisters are so well and uniquely defined. There’s so much love there, but they’re also total pains in the ass to each other, which will be deeply relatable to anyone with siblings. The mystery itself is solid, full of hijinks and genuinely funny moments.

And Soneela Nankani... honestly, no one has a lovelier voice. She could narrate a murderer and I’d still be like, oh, they seem nice, give them a break.

Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the ALC.

[Makayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎧 Audiobook Review: Sisters Before Misters by Amelia Diane Coombs
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stars)
Narrated by: Soneela Nankani
Release Date: October 7, 2025

Amelia Diane Coombs is back with another Finch sisters mystery, and this sequel delivers equal parts family drama, humor, and suspense. When Eliana’s husband vanishes—leaving behind blood, divorce papers, and even a severed finger—the Finch sisters are pulled into a tangle of secrets, suspicion, and sisterhood.

What I loved most here is how the book balances laugh-out-loud family dysfunction with the tension of a missing-person mystery. The Finch sisters are messy, complicated, and endlessly entertaining, and their dynamic makes the story shine. The mystery itself kept me engaged with twists, red herrings, and plenty of “wait, what?!” moments.

As for the audiobook, Soneela Nankani does a fantastic job bringing the characters to life. Her narration captures the sharp humor, quick banter, and emotional tension perfectly, making this a binge-worthy listen.

If you’re looking for a cozy-leaning mystery full of quirky relatives, secrets, and sisterly chaos, Sisters Before Misters is the perfect October pick.

[Crystal Boyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished the audiobook of Sisters Before Misters and I had such a fun time with it!

This is the second book in the Finch Sisters series, and honestly, I think I liked it even more than Drop Dead Sisters. The dynamic between the three sisters — Remi, Maeve, and Eliana — is messy, real, and hilarious. They bicker, they meddle, they love each other fiercely, and it all felt super authentic.

The mystery itself was quirky in the best way — blood, a trashed condo, and a severed finger?? 😳 I mean, come on. It had just enough suspense to keep me hooked without being too heavy. The audiobook narrator also nailed the tone — sarcastic, anxious, and a little chaotic, just like Remi.

If you like cozy mysteries with a bit of bite, strong sisterhood themes, and a splash of dark humor, this is a great pick. It’s not super twisty or deep, but it’s very entertaining. Some characters felt a little underdeveloped (Maeve could’ve had more going on), and a few plot points stretched believability, but I didn’t really mind — I was here for the vibes and the drama.

Can’t wait to see what trouble the Finch sisters get into next.

[Kelly - Words We Love By · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Finch sisters are back and just as chaotic, loyal, and wildly entertaining as ever! When Eliana’s husband, Chad, goes missing (on Halloween, of all nights), the police are quick to point fingers at her. But Remi and Maeve aren’t about to let their sister go down without a fight. Between a severed finger, shady texts, and a detective who’s a little too eager to make an arrest, the sisters are once again knee-deep in mystery and mayhem.

Remi’s determination to help her sisters shines through, even when Eliana refuses to ask for help and Maeve’s perfectionism starts to crack under pressure. Watching them stumble, argue, and ultimately come together is what makes this series so fun and so heartwarming.

Amelia Diane Coombs blends humor, family drama, and suspense in a way that keeps you guessing while laughing out loud. If Drop Dead Sisters made you a Finch family fan, Sisters Before Misters will seal the deal. These sisters might not have it all together, but they’ll always have each other...and that’s what makes them impossible not to root for.
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for an Advance Readers Copy.

[Lisi Bee (Beth) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book #2 in The Finch Sisters series, which was pretty good. (This is definitely not a standalone, you're going to want to read the first book before this one or you'll be lost.) We met Remi and her older sisters in a previous book, along with Remi's boyfriend Leo. But this time, it's oldest sister Eliana who's in (potential) trouble with the law. And trouble sure does seem to follow these ladies! I enjoyed this one, much like the first one. The pacing was a little uneven but the story was engaging, and there were nice amounts of humor as well as some twists. Her sisters really aggravate me, although thankfully not as much as in the first book because holy moly were their interactions problematic in that one. They have a similar dynamic in this book but it's not as distant, which feels like a realistic progression. The communication skills in this group really stink, but I admire their dedication to one another. This is absolutely more of a mystery/women's lit book rather than a romance, although there are romantic elements. I'm guessing Maeve's story is next, I'm looking forward to it. This review is based on a complimentary eARC of the book, all opinions are my own.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This installment of the series was a significant improvement over the first book. The writing style felt much sharper and more playful, with a noticeable increase in witty banter. The development of the sisters’ relationships was particularly well done. Not only did their dynamic evolve since the previous book, but it continued to grow meaningfully throughout this one.

I appreciated seeing the family return, bringing with them the familiar chaos and charm. While some of the hijinks leaned toward the predictable or overly quirky at times, they still added to the book’s overall charm. Most importantly, the mystery kept me guessing. I didn’t see the ending coming.

A fun and engaging read that I would definitely recommend to fans of lighthearted mysteries filled with heart, humor, and a healthy dose of hijinks.

Spice level: None
Story: Enjoyable and light, with some predictable moments but a satisfying twist at the end.
Character Growth: Medium - Heavy
Plot Progression: Medium
Writing Style: Witty, Humorous, and Charming

[Homerun2 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This second Finch sisters cozy was even more fun than their first adventure, if not as wacky. The three sisters were not always close, but after a camping/murder outing they are trying to overcome the pre-determined family script and actually get to know each other.

The oldest sister, Eliana, puts out a call for help and asks Maeve and Remi to meet her at her almost ex-husband's condo. Since Eli never asks anybody for anything and is militantly self-sufficient, they race over only to find no sign of the ex, but a bloody mess and a partial body part. The ensuing action hinges on their desire to find out what happened, even if the other two sisters are not 100% certain that Eli didn't off her husband. Remi, the youngest and always the spare wheel, has dealt with the crippling anxiety of the last book and is in a solid relationship with Leo. Maeve also appears to have everything together, but appearances can be deceiving.

There is a lot of humor along the way in their interactions, but also some serious work among the three to be there for each other and see their sisters as they really are. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Veda Waikul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Remi, Elliana and Maeve have gotten closer since the events of last year. This time they were really excited to have a fun and relaxed Halloween but something goes wrong and now Elliana's soon to be ex-husband goes missing , the sisters have to find him so that police wont arrest Elliana as she is the main suspect.
The sisters have a messy but little bit mended bond which was refreshing to read. They are trying to be there for each other and genuinely care for each other but dont know how to show it which makes their bond realistic. The group trying to find Chad and even the supporting characters are so odd and mismatched that it creates fantastic humor. I loved Leo, he is very supportive and understanding and most importantly more present than rest of the love interests I have read so far in cozy mysteries. It also helped in making me believe that they are actually meant to be together because they have been through a lot of stuff together.
I liked the entire storyline and all the twists and turns. Now I am waiting for the next book.
Rating:3.75

[Hannah D Sharpe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sisters Before Misters by Amelia Diane Coombs is the second in a humerus mystery series. It is a very entertaining and propulsive read.

While I didn’t realize this was the second in a series until I was well into the book, it didn’t matter, because I’d gotten enough information to know what’s happening without needing the first book first, and without ruining the first book when I go back to read it. And I will be going back to read it, because this author does a great job delivering amateur sleuth sisters who are highly entertaining.

This story is told in single POV, which is one of the sisters in a trio of sisters. This POV really captures the story in a creative way while still also making the other sisters main characters without their POVs told.

I listened to the audiobook version of this story, which was performed by a single narrator who did a fantastic job. I listened at 1.5x speed (my normal audiobook listening speed is 1.5-1.75x).

Thank you NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for this advanced listeners copy.

[Eralith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Probably a 3.5 ish — fun in concept, just not fully my style.

Sisters Before Misters is a light and quirky mystery that feels like a mix between a Lifetime movie and a modern-day Nancy Drew story. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t take itself too seriously, which can be refreshing—especially if you're in the mood for a seasonal, easy-to-digest read.

That said, I don’t think I’m the target audience for this one. While I enjoy lighthearted stories and even the occasional Hallmark-style movie, this leaned more toward YA in tone and style than I expected. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that—in fact, readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with a younger voice and playful pacing will likely enjoy it more than I did.

For me personally, I was hoping for a bit more suspense or tension to pull me in deeper. But I can definitely see this working for fans of fun, low-stakes mysteries with sisterly dynamics and seasonal flair.

[Krissy Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really cute!

I didnt realize this was a series, so I may have to go backward now to catch up, but I really liked this!

Remi and her sisters plan to hang out on Halloween, but things go sour when they see Eliana's soon to be ex-husband Chad, home early with their kids. Chad refuses to sign divorce papers, and Remi heads home while the two of them are arguing. The next day, a frantic call from Eliana forces Remi and her sister to go to Chad's, and find themselves in the middle of a crime scene, and Chad's missing. All signs point to Eliana being involved, but she swears she's innocent. Will the sisters be able to prove their sisters innocence, or will they find evidence of their sisters involvement?

This was fun! The sisters have a good dynamic and bought a lot of humor to everything. I really enjoyed Remi being the narrator and seeing everything through her eyes! If you're looking for a fun mystery read, give this a go!