Let's get one thing out of the way first: the author of this novel just happens to be my cousin. I do have a bias, and I think it's important to acknowledge that I do.
That said, I can confirm that the author can definitely tell a story. She does a great job in building suspense, interweaving the tale with humor here and there, and introducing characters that are believable. What more could a reader want? I can hardly wait for the sequel.
If I could do 3.5, I would. I really enjoyed the book... But the ending killed it for me. I'm dying to know what happens next!! And what the heck is it???