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Stay in Your Lane!
The tasks are simple. Everett Mulligan is there to collect the body. Kyle Bowman is there to clean up the scene. Easy peasy. Get in, get out, get gone.
But Everett, for all he can be on another planet with fourteen tabs open in his brain, isn’t stupid like the cops think he is. Something about this death scene isn’t sitting right, and he’s going to figure it out. Bonus? He gets to team up with the adorkable crime-scene cleanup guy to solve the mystery.
Kyle, ever the thorough and detail-oriented cleaner, can’t ignore the scene’s irregularities either. He also can’t ignore the seriously attractive himbo from the mortuary who insists they should work together to solve what the cops insist isn’t a crime. Especially when that himbo is also enamored with Kyle’s cats and fiercely determined to make friends with his cranky piranha, Steve.
There’s a reason this death isn’t being treated as a homicide, though, and there are people who are very motivated to keep it that way.
And they’ll do whatever it takes to keep the pair of amateur sleuths from uncovering the truth.
But Everett, for all he can be on another planet with fourteen tabs open in his brain, isn’t stupid like the cops think he is. Something about this death scene isn’t sitting right, and he’s going to figure it out. Bonus? He gets to team up with the adorkable crime-scene cleanup guy to solve the mystery.
Kyle, ever the thorough and detail-oriented cleaner, can’t ignore the scene’s irregularities either. He also can’t ignore the seriously attractive himbo from the mortuary who insists they should work together to solve what the cops insist isn’t a crime. Especially when that himbo is also enamored with Kyle’s cats and fiercely determined to make friends with his cranky piranha, Steve.
There’s a reason this death isn’t being treated as a homicide, though, and there are people who are very motivated to keep it that way.
And they’ll do whatever it takes to keep the pair of amateur sleuths from uncovering the truth.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2025
67 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
About the author
Cari Z.
136 books539 followersCari Z. is a Colorado girl who loves snow and sunshine. She has a wonderful relationship with her husband, a complex relationship with the characters in her head and a sadomasochistic relationship with her exercise routine. She feels like Halloween should happen every month, which is why you get this picture of her, and hopes that you enjoy reading what she's put out there as much as she enjoyed writing it in the first place.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
December 28, 2025
This book was such a mixed bag. The storyline felt completely implausible, but I have a vivid imagination and can overlook those details when I want to. Unfortunately I didn't feel the romance either. It was so PG that it is hard to call this a romance at all. Not going to mention the cover - just let me say it's not a favourite. 2 ⭐⭐
April 27, 2025
B / 4 stars
This was a fun read - a cute romance between an undertaker and a crime scene clearner combined with a well-done mystery/suspense plot, two adorable cats and an arsehole of a piranha fish called Steve.
Everett - who maybe has ADHD? - is the undertaker called to remove a dead body from a crime scene and is immediately suspicious when he notices some anomalies the police seem to have missed or ignored. He decides to return to the scene later that night to see if he can find anything else - and when he arrives, meets Kyle, who has been called in to do the clean-up.
Everett tells Kyle about his suspicions, and Kyle can't help agreeing with him that something is hinky about the whole thing; they decide to investigate on their own, and eventually land in very hot water when the extent of the police cover-up becomes clear.
Everett and Kyle are likeable and appealing. Everett is fascinated by Kyle's pets, loves the cats and is determined to win Steve over, and Kyle is completely charmed by him; the guys he dates usually glaze over when he starts talking about caring for his animals and their foibles. Everett's family regards him as a bit of a liability and he's not so far found someone to truly appreciate him and celebrate his differences - but Kyle isn't put off when Everett nerds out over piranhas, or by his atrocious parking, so maybe he might like like him, too?
These two are adorable together and are given depth by their backstories and well-developed family lives, and the plot is well-thought out. I enjoyed the book and would recommend it if you're looking for a lighter kind of romantic suspense.
This was a fun read - a cute romance between an undertaker and a crime scene clearner combined with a well-done mystery/suspense plot, two adorable cats and an arsehole of a piranha fish called Steve.
Everett - who maybe has ADHD? - is the undertaker called to remove a dead body from a crime scene and is immediately suspicious when he notices some anomalies the police seem to have missed or ignored. He decides to return to the scene later that night to see if he can find anything else - and when he arrives, meets Kyle, who has been called in to do the clean-up.
Everett tells Kyle about his suspicions, and Kyle can't help agreeing with him that something is hinky about the whole thing; they decide to investigate on their own, and eventually land in very hot water when the extent of the police cover-up becomes clear.
Everett and Kyle are likeable and appealing. Everett is fascinated by Kyle's pets, loves the cats and is determined to win Steve over, and Kyle is completely charmed by him; the guys he dates usually glaze over when he starts talking about caring for his animals and their foibles. Everett's family regards him as a bit of a liability and he's not so far found someone to truly appreciate him and celebrate his differences - but Kyle isn't put off when Everett nerds out over piranhas, or by his atrocious parking, so maybe he might like like him, too?
These two are adorable together and are given depth by their backstories and well-developed family lives, and the plot is well-thought out. I enjoyed the book and would recommend it if you're looking for a lighter kind of romantic suspense.
October 1, 2025
This book has a case of “Unfortunate Cover Syndrome", when a cover is so bad that you can’t help but judge it as you pass by.
This book came up in a reading challenge of mine, and I’m so glad it did. Otherwise I would have let my judgement of the cover keep me from reading it. I would have missed out on this goofy and intriguing ride of mystery. That would have sucked for me.
So don’t be like me. Give this book a chance. I will be worth it.
This book came up in a reading challenge of mine, and I’m so glad it did. Otherwise I would have let my judgement of the cover keep me from reading it. I would have missed out on this goofy and intriguing ride of mystery. That would have sucked for me.
So don’t be like me. Give this book a chance. I will be worth it.
March 29, 2025
Man, I LOVE IT when Cari Z and L.A. Witt partner-up and produce a book! 😄 This one is another winner for me.
First of all, the "unique" job - Everett works in mortuary, Kyle is a crime scene cleaner. This is not the first time I read romance featuring those jobs of course, but it is rather rare. Then, there is Kyle's pet PIRANHA! Now, that is the FIRST!
I adored how these two being determined to find out the truth about the suicides. Of course, it brought danger to their doorstep, but I thought they were pretty solid working together.
Everett was adorable! I loved how his mind works a thousand ways and how he really wanted to be friends with Kyle's pet. Kyle wasn't as brightly shining as Everett, for me at least. But I really did like him, for teaming up with Everett...
And their family members were cool too! Well, maybe not Daddy Mulligan, but the rest were awesome.
I thought the involved were dumb for making it pretty obvious for Everett and Kyle to find out what had been going in. But I guess it wasn't about the mystery anyway? It was more of Everett and Kyle tryng to survive the threats while finding out things (and connecting over clues, waffles, and pets)
First of all, the "unique" job - Everett works in mortuary, Kyle is a crime scene cleaner. This is not the first time I read romance featuring those jobs of course, but it is rather rare. Then, there is Kyle's pet PIRANHA! Now, that is the FIRST!
I adored how these two being determined to find out the truth about the suicides. Of course, it brought danger to their doorstep, but I thought they were pretty solid working together.
Everett was adorable! I loved how his mind works a thousand ways and how he really wanted to be friends with Kyle's pet. Kyle wasn't as brightly shining as Everett, for me at least. But I really did like him, for teaming up with Everett...
And their family members were cool too! Well, maybe not Daddy Mulligan, but the rest were awesome.
I thought the involved were dumb for making it pretty obvious for Everett and Kyle to find out what had been going in. But I guess it wasn't about the mystery anyway? It was more of Everett and Kyle tryng to survive the threats while finding out things (and connecting over clues, waffles, and pets)
September 23, 2025
September 2025
Kindle edition
Read for a group challenge. Struggling to remember this one. It's only been three days. It was an enjoyable read. The characters were slightly tricky to tell apart, they had that joined at the hip vibe. The bad guys were obvious so more the case of whether they survive or not. Fun cast, shitty bad guys and bodies dropping. Probably wouldn't have ended up on the TBR with the cover. Good read.
Kindle edition
Read for a group challenge. Struggling to remember this one. It's only been three days. It was an enjoyable read. The characters were slightly tricky to tell apart, they had that joined at the hip vibe. The bad guys were obvious so more the case of whether they survive or not. Fun cast, shitty bad guys and bodies dropping. Probably wouldn't have ended up on the TBR with the cover. Good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2025
35 pages in and it’s a smattering of cuteness and the rest is just bland.
April 10, 2025
3.5*. This was cute even if a bit over the top and I wanted a bit more of intimacy (not sex!) between them but that's probably a me thing.
Also, it felt a bit rushed at the end. And even if everything was explained, it felt all that happened did not have a real reason. Maybe again, this is just me.
I actually feel like there is still a lot to see of these two, so I hope it's a series - if it is already planned as a series and I missed that info, sorry!
I can actually see these two trying to solve cases that they deem 'weird' and where some clues point to a different conclusion than the one given by the officers investigating. It can go so many ways with their jobs, so I will totally read anything else with them in it.
And I want to see more of Steve (and the others) and the kitties. Note for any authors reading this: write me some kitties and I will always rate your book high ;) Yes, I am easy like that. No shame here!
Also, it felt a bit rushed at the end. And even if everything was explained, it felt all that happened did not have a real reason. Maybe again, this is just me.
I actually feel like there is still a lot to see of these two, so I hope it's a series - if it is already planned as a series and I missed that info, sorry!
I can actually see these two trying to solve cases that they deem 'weird' and where some clues point to a different conclusion than the one given by the officers investigating. It can go so many ways with their jobs, so I will totally read anything else with them in it.
And I want to see more of Steve (and the others) and the kitties. Note for any authors reading this: write me some kitties and I will always rate your book high ;) Yes, I am easy like that. No shame here!
January 9, 2026
5 stars for the narration (duh!), 4 for the story.
This was cute - I liked it when I read it last year (my review is HERE) and of course, had to listen to it when I was Greg Tremblay was narrating! If you're looking for a lighter kind of romantic suspense, this one is fun with high-ish stakes, a sweet romance, and an excellent performance. Recommended.
This was cute - I liked it when I read it last year (my review is HERE) and of course, had to listen to it when I was Greg Tremblay was narrating! If you're looking for a lighter kind of romantic suspense, this one is fun with high-ish stakes, a sweet romance, and an excellent performance. Recommended.
April 20, 2025
Potentially great plot.
Well, the book starts off well. Around 60% in, the book started to lose me. The story became boring, and the ending drama was drawn out too far. I guess I was expecting more romance and there was hardly any at all, other than some internal dialogue about each other. The spice scene, and I do mean singular, was extremely disappointing, -1 on a 1-10 scale for spice.
Well, the book starts off well. Around 60% in, the book started to lose me. The story became boring, and the ending drama was drawn out too far. I guess I was expecting more romance and there was hardly any at all, other than some internal dialogue about each other. The spice scene, and I do mean singular, was extremely disappointing, -1 on a 1-10 scale for spice.
March 26, 2025
HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!
L.A. Witt and Cari Z. did it again with another banger of an MM romance with dark themes. Though, for a murder mystery from the POVs of someone in funeral services and in crime scene cleanup, respectively, and all the expected details associated with those professions, this is a surprisingly CUTE and humorous story with an almost PG, low spice, sweet romance.
I've read a couple of books by this author duo before, and those books have always been well-written adventures with a somewhat lighthearted air despite the looming danger. Stay in Your Lane carries on with that theme, though "looming danger" puts it mildly. Kyle and Everett become threatened the more they investigate, and while I felt that the action slowed down a bit at the beginning of the second half, those threats ramped up dramatically into full blown danger by the finale. The scaling investigation with the, again, surprisingly SWEET and protective romance that quickly blossoms along the way makes this a fast-paced book that's easy to read and very enjoyable.
One of things I like about L.A. Witt and Cari Z.'s books is that they actually develop the characters and give them histories and families, and those FAMILIES have personalities and relationships. The main characters have actual lives before and after meeting each other, and it brings a level of realism to the story that's sometimes lacking in other books. STRONG characters is probably what I look for first and most in books, so I'm excited this is another book that I can say does it well.
Kyle and Everett, as well as the side cast, really shine. They're easy to root for, charming, and likable, and by the end of it, I wanted only good things to happen to them from then on.
Everett's earnestness, dopey golden-retriever personality, his undiagnosed ADHD, love of animals, and acumen, in particular really made me fall for him quickly. I hated how his family were mild bullies towards him, and while I wish we would have had a chance to see those same family members learn to respect him and his abilities a little more, I could tell at the end of the day they all deeply loved each other, which is somewhat rare and gratifying to see in fiction, especially queer fiction. I also feel like the story suggested that were this not a standalone, his family would see how well Everett manages his ADHD and balances both his new relationship and his increased work load and responsibilities in a sequel. However, there were enough hints of such that, really, I can imagine it happening regardless of sequel. His character and branching relationships were just written so well!
Kyle and his pets added so much to Stay in Your Lane too, though. Kyle was steadfast and brave, and his loyalty to his pets, even Steve, the jerk of a piranha, was admirable and lovable. And those pets!! Two cats and an assortment of piranha all REALLY lended to the rom-com feel of this book. The cats' antics are so cute and REALISTIC. My gosh, I felt like those cats were just as lifelike as their owner. And the piranha, Steve in particular, had way more personality than I've ever seen given to FISH before! Steve was like a cartoon villain. He was HILARIOUS, and I loved every time he was mentioned. He made me laugh out loud more than once and was, honestly, the FUNNIEST character in the book!
Really, Stay in Your Lane is a great, quick murder mystery romp. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys a bit of darkness, doesn't mind some viscera, and loves the idea of some adorably charming main characters and pets with personality. It's also perfect for anyone who prefers low spice in their reads! Read this for a thrilling mystery and cute romance between its investigators and have fun and laughs along the way.
L.A. Witt and Cari Z. did it again with another banger of an MM romance with dark themes. Though, for a murder mystery from the POVs of someone in funeral services and in crime scene cleanup, respectively, and all the expected details associated with those professions, this is a surprisingly CUTE and humorous story with an almost PG, low spice, sweet romance.
I've read a couple of books by this author duo before, and those books have always been well-written adventures with a somewhat lighthearted air despite the looming danger. Stay in Your Lane carries on with that theme, though "looming danger" puts it mildly. Kyle and Everett become threatened the more they investigate, and while I felt that the action slowed down a bit at the beginning of the second half, those threats ramped up dramatically into full blown danger by the finale. The scaling investigation with the, again, surprisingly SWEET and protective romance that quickly blossoms along the way makes this a fast-paced book that's easy to read and very enjoyable.
One of things I like about L.A. Witt and Cari Z.'s books is that they actually develop the characters and give them histories and families, and those FAMILIES have personalities and relationships. The main characters have actual lives before and after meeting each other, and it brings a level of realism to the story that's sometimes lacking in other books. STRONG characters is probably what I look for first and most in books, so I'm excited this is another book that I can say does it well.
Kyle and Everett, as well as the side cast, really shine. They're easy to root for, charming, and likable, and by the end of it, I wanted only good things to happen to them from then on.
Everett's earnestness, dopey golden-retriever personality, his undiagnosed ADHD, love of animals, and acumen, in particular really made me fall for him quickly. I hated how his family were mild bullies towards him, and while I wish we would have had a chance to see those same family members learn to respect him and his abilities a little more, I could tell at the end of the day they all deeply loved each other, which is somewhat rare and gratifying to see in fiction, especially queer fiction. I also feel like the story suggested that were this not a standalone, his family would see how well Everett manages his ADHD and balances both his new relationship and his increased work load and responsibilities in a sequel. However, there were enough hints of such that, really, I can imagine it happening regardless of sequel. His character and branching relationships were just written so well!
Kyle and his pets added so much to Stay in Your Lane too, though. Kyle was steadfast and brave, and his loyalty to his pets, even Steve, the jerk of a piranha, was admirable and lovable. And those pets!! Two cats and an assortment of piranha all REALLY lended to the rom-com feel of this book. The cats' antics are so cute and REALISTIC. My gosh, I felt like those cats were just as lifelike as their owner. And the piranha, Steve in particular, had way more personality than I've ever seen given to FISH before! Steve was like a cartoon villain. He was HILARIOUS, and I loved every time he was mentioned. He made me laugh out loud more than once and was, honestly, the FUNNIEST character in the book!
Really, Stay in Your Lane is a great, quick murder mystery romp. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys a bit of darkness, doesn't mind some viscera, and loves the idea of some adorably charming main characters and pets with personality. It's also perfect for anyone who prefers low spice in their reads! Read this for a thrilling mystery and cute romance between its investigators and have fun and laughs along the way.
March 26, 2025
Stay in your lane
By: Cari Z and L.A. Witt
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
So fun DIVING in!
Oh boy I had so much fun reading Everett and Kyle’s story. This quick witted and at times intense love story had me all in page after page. I truly enjoyed the animal antics so so fun. Conspiracy theories and mutual interest in each other.
The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors blurb: The tasks are simple. Everett Mulligan is there to collect the body. Kyle Bowman is there to clean up the scene. Easy peasy. Get in, get out, get gone.
But Everett, for all he can be on another planet with fourteen tabs open in his brain, isn’t stupid like the cops think he is. Something about this death scene isn’t sitting right, and he’s going to figure it out. Bonus? He gets to team up with the adorkable crime-scene cleanup guy to solve the mystery.
Kyle, ever the thorough and detail-oriented cleaner, can’t ignore the scene’s irregularities either. He also can’t ignore the seriously attractive himbo from the mortuary who insists they should work together to solve what the cops insist isn’t a crime. Especially when that himbo is also enamored with Kyle’s cats and fiercely determined to make friends with his cranky piranha, Steve.
There’s a reason this death isn’t being treated as a homicide, though, and there are people who are very motivated to keep it that way.
And they’ll do whatever it takes to keep the pair of amateur sleuths from uncovering the truth.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in single POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
By: Cari Z and L.A. Witt
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
So fun DIVING in!
Oh boy I had so much fun reading Everett and Kyle’s story. This quick witted and at times intense love story had me all in page after page. I truly enjoyed the animal antics so so fun. Conspiracy theories and mutual interest in each other.
The authors writing is flawless and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors blurb: The tasks are simple. Everett Mulligan is there to collect the body. Kyle Bowman is there to clean up the scene. Easy peasy. Get in, get out, get gone.
But Everett, for all he can be on another planet with fourteen tabs open in his brain, isn’t stupid like the cops think he is. Something about this death scene isn’t sitting right, and he’s going to figure it out. Bonus? He gets to team up with the adorkable crime-scene cleanup guy to solve the mystery.
Kyle, ever the thorough and detail-oriented cleaner, can’t ignore the scene’s irregularities either. He also can’t ignore the seriously attractive himbo from the mortuary who insists they should work together to solve what the cops insist isn’t a crime. Especially when that himbo is also enamored with Kyle’s cats and fiercely determined to make friends with his cranky piranha, Steve.
There’s a reason this death isn’t being treated as a homicide, though, and there are people who are very motivated to keep it that way.
And they’ll do whatever it takes to keep the pair of amateur sleuths from uncovering the truth.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in single POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
April 25, 2025
A terrific story and a definite recommendation.
Rating: 4.25🌈
Stay in Your Lane! By Cari Z and L.A. Witt is a terrific suspense action packed thrill ride of a contemporary romance. Full of incredible characters, great animals sidekicks like Steve the Piranha, and hilariously crafted but vividly executed locations like the Waffles, this is a highly entertaining novel.
The characters are just amazing. Each with their own issue-based families and unique personalities. Everett Mulligan works with his family in the Mulligan Funeral Home. They are a troubled family and Everett, the youngest bears the brunt of the worst of the family’s dysfunctional relationship.
Kyle’s comes from a law enforcement family, a tradition he veered away from into a company and job as a crime scene cleaner. It’s not just the fact he’s stepping away from the family career but them as well.
They are so well defined and beautifully crafted as characters, each with distinctive qualities that endear to us and each other.
The case that brings them together is one that looks simple but becomes realistically complicated and horrifying in the implications for a larger scenario as they investigate.
It’s a very complex and well plotted case. Both emotionally and psychologically.
The families are drawn into the process too. And here is where it’s both well written and then, at the end, dropped.
While one family is brought together, the other side, the one with the most family members in upheaval, is left without resolution. Especially Everett’s dysfunctional relationship with his father.
With such a strong narrative in every other aspect of the story, I’m surprised that this element was left unexplored.
A terrific story and a definite recommendation.
Rating: 4.25🌈
Stay in Your Lane! By Cari Z and L.A. Witt is a terrific suspense action packed thrill ride of a contemporary romance. Full of incredible characters, great animals sidekicks like Steve the Piranha, and hilariously crafted but vividly executed locations like the Waffles, this is a highly entertaining novel.
The characters are just amazing. Each with their own issue-based families and unique personalities. Everett Mulligan works with his family in the Mulligan Funeral Home. They are a troubled family and Everett, the youngest bears the brunt of the worst of the family’s dysfunctional relationship.
Kyle’s comes from a law enforcement family, a tradition he veered away from into a company and job as a crime scene cleaner. It’s not just the fact he’s stepping away from the family career but them as well.
They are so well defined and beautifully crafted as characters, each with distinctive qualities that endear to us and each other.
The case that brings them together is one that looks simple but becomes realistically complicated and horrifying in the implications for a larger scenario as they investigate.
It’s a very complex and well plotted case. Both emotionally and psychologically.
The families are drawn into the process too. And here is where it’s both well written and then, at the end, dropped.
While one family is brought together, the other side, the one with the most family members in upheaval, is left without resolution. Especially Everett’s dysfunctional relationship with his father.
With such a strong narrative in every other aspect of the story, I’m surprised that this element was left unexplored.
A terrific story and a definite recommendation.
March 18, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this low spice, not-quite-a-rom-com book. Kyle and Everett meet in kind of an unusual way due to the jobs they do: Everett takes dead people back to his family’s mortuary and Kyle does crime scene cleanup. When a death is ruled a suicide both of them see things that just don’t add up to that finding so they begin to investigate.
I loved the sometimes LOL moments in this story. Kyle’s pet fish – piranhas! – provided a lot of humorous moments as did his two cats. If you follow L.A. Witt at all you probably already know she has a couple of cats so I’m sure she had lots of real-life inspiration for the antics of Jeff and Patches.
While I LOLd more than once while reading this book there was a very serious situation that captured Kyle and Everett’s attention. When the cops wouldn’t investigate what they felt was a suspicious death, not a suicide, they decide to take action. This led to many harrowing situations as the people (cops) who didn’t want them playing amateur sleuth, did a lot of bad things to try and discourage them.
I thought this was a really great story!
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
I loved the sometimes LOL moments in this story. Kyle’s pet fish – piranhas! – provided a lot of humorous moments as did his two cats. If you follow L.A. Witt at all you probably already know she has a couple of cats so I’m sure she had lots of real-life inspiration for the antics of Jeff and Patches.
While I LOLd more than once while reading this book there was a very serious situation that captured Kyle and Everett’s attention. When the cops wouldn’t investigate what they felt was a suspicious death, not a suicide, they decide to take action. This led to many harrowing situations as the people (cops) who didn’t want them playing amateur sleuth, did a lot of bad things to try and discourage them.
I thought this was a really great story!
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
March 28, 2025
"Stay in Your Lane" is a thrilling mix of romance, suspense, and humour written by the talented duo of Cari Z and L.A. Witt. The story follows Everett Mulligan, a funeral director, and Kyle Bowman, a crime scene cleaner, who find themselves in an unexpected situation while investigating a suspicious death.
The plot is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping us hooked. Everett and Kyle will unravel a complex conspiracy, facing danger along the way. The authors' ability to mix elements of suspense with moments of humour and romance is impressive.
The main characters are well-developed and charismatic. Everett, with his sweet and authentic personality, and Kyle, with his attention to detail, make a charming duo. The inclusion of pets, such as Kyle's cats and the piranha fish Steve, adds a touch of lightness and fun to the narrative. Their romance is sweet and emotionally involving, even if the physical intimacy is more subtle.
Cari Z and L.A. Witt's writing is impeccable, capturing the emotional intensity of the characters and the complexity of the plot with skill. The narrative flows well, making the book a quick and enjoyable read.
L.A. Witt is an autobuy author for me :-)
The plot is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping us hooked. Everett and Kyle will unravel a complex conspiracy, facing danger along the way. The authors' ability to mix elements of suspense with moments of humour and romance is impressive.
The main characters are well-developed and charismatic. Everett, with his sweet and authentic personality, and Kyle, with his attention to detail, make a charming duo. The inclusion of pets, such as Kyle's cats and the piranha fish Steve, adds a touch of lightness and fun to the narrative. Their romance is sweet and emotionally involving, even if the physical intimacy is more subtle.
Cari Z and L.A. Witt's writing is impeccable, capturing the emotional intensity of the characters and the complexity of the plot with skill. The narrative flows well, making the book a quick and enjoyable read.
L.A. Witt is an autobuy author for me :-)
April 16, 2025
This was an impressive romance, which featured the best of action adventure, romantic comedy, and creepy thriller. Everett and Kyle were each quirky in the best ways, and their unusual professions were only the first hint of that. I appreciated how Everett always had lots of tabs open in his mind, and I completely understood how a given subject would lead him on mental tangents. I loved that Kyle was the first to realize that Everett's thought process didn't mean he was less than very intelligent. I liked Kyle's devotion to his pets, cats and piranha alike. (Steve was a swimming menace with a huge personality!) And I had to smile at Everett's determination to make friends with all of Kyle's animals - so sweet!
I was amazed at the lovely romance that grew between Kyle and Everett, even as they tried to solve a murder the police deemed a suicide, tried not to become victims themselves, continued doing their jobs, and dealt with difficult families. these men were wonderful multitaskers, and I adored them.
This book was a great collaboration between two talented authors, and I really enjoyed it. What a fun, thrilling, engrossing story!
I was amazed at the lovely romance that grew between Kyle and Everett, even as they tried to solve a murder the police deemed a suicide, tried not to become victims themselves, continued doing their jobs, and dealt with difficult families. these men were wonderful multitaskers, and I adored them.
This book was a great collaboration between two talented authors, and I really enjoyed it. What a fun, thrilling, engrossing story!
March 3, 2025
Everett & Kyle meet when at a crime scene where Everett is supposed to collect a body, and Kyle is there to clean up afterwards. However, something seems off about the death scene, and they pair up to try to get to the root of the mystery.
Everett tends to be distracted, & this was described in a very manner of fact way, so much so that I became distracted right along with him (for example, echidnas- why *is* their business shaped that way?). I loved the way Everett started a conspiracy theory about tipping in the resto, that was so funny!
As they try to get to the cause of the mysterious death, they end up in quite a few sticky situations that involve the police, their fav weird resto Waffles?, and some Goth kids that end up helping save their cats.
Anything that could go wrong goes wrong, until the end, where even Steve the menacing piranha gets in line. Lots of excitement, lots of action, with a cute couple that are simply perfect for one another...
I received this free ARC, and this is my honest review.
Everett tends to be distracted, & this was described in a very manner of fact way, so much so that I became distracted right along with him (for example, echidnas- why *is* their business shaped that way?). I loved the way Everett started a conspiracy theory about tipping in the resto, that was so funny!
As they try to get to the cause of the mysterious death, they end up in quite a few sticky situations that involve the police, their fav weird resto Waffles?, and some Goth kids that end up helping save their cats.
Anything that could go wrong goes wrong, until the end, where even Steve the menacing piranha gets in line. Lots of excitement, lots of action, with a cute couple that are simply perfect for one another...
I received this free ARC, and this is my honest review.
March 9, 2025
Hmmm. While I can’t fault the writing in this—witty and compelling like one would expect from these authors…it just didn’t capture me. Everett just…annoyed me. So much. Kyle was a little better, but i never really *got* the connection between them. And since it was a low- almost no-spice story, I didn’t even get to see the connection grow through intimacy like in other books. The mystery part of the story was interesting, definitely, and like i said it was well written and plotted out, but yeah. Overall it just…wasn’t for me, and I might not have finished if i hadn’t gotten an advance copy. Others who appreciate lower spice more action focused stories or who identify with Everett’s weirdness might love it! Just not my cup of tea.
March 30, 2025
This was a fun read with a great crime set up. Oh and with two cats and seven Piranhas! Anyway, Everett and Kyle meet at a crime scene, not so unusual seeing that Kyle is a crime scene cleaner and Everett takes the bodies back to his families mortuary. Everett notices first and then gets confirmation that there are things off at this scene, from there ensues a very interesting adventure within this small town. I loved the slow burn and the reasons for it. I loved the getting to know you unfolding and the secrets in the town. I loved the found family on both sides which included servers, cooks, Goth kids and an old school diner with surprisingly good food.
May 23, 2025
This was so much fun - laugh out loud funny. Everett (a mortician) and Kyle (a crime scene cleaner) meet when they are sent to the same alleged suicide. Somehow, these two convince themselves that they can solve the case and silliness ensues. Everett and Kyle are both goofy in their own way and they mesh together perfectly. Steve and the various family members were perfect additions to this silly story and who wouldn’t want to hang out at Waffles? There are some bad guys running around, but they get what they deserve and Everett and Kyle get a wonderful happily ever after. I wouldn’t mind if these characters got a series of books.
October 1, 2025
A crime scene cleaner and a mortician, now I think about it makes a really good partnership. From the moment I was introduced to Everett, he stole my heart. Whilst he was described as a himbo, he was much more, he was the type of guy you needed to put a smile on your face, who wouldn't smile over those random facts and he had such a big heart. Kyle whilst the more serious of the two also had such an adhering nature to him, I mean who wouldn't call a piranha Steve.
The mystery kept my focus and although some of the aftermath was a tad over the top, this was such a fun read that I would love to read more involving Everett and Kyle
The mystery kept my focus and although some of the aftermath was a tad over the top, this was such a fun read that I would love to read more involving Everett and Kyle
March 8, 2025
I loved everything about this book (well, except the bad guys!). Everett and Kyle are very sweet together. I loved the short bursts of internal dialogue, and I found the guys' thought processes quite amusing. They were just right for each other, with some really endearing quirks which would drive most people crazy, but work really well in the story. The tension builds steadily, and most of the time I couldn't figure out who could be trusted and who couldn't, or what the coverup was about. It's all laid out clearly in the end though. Great story, sweet romance (not much on page physical intimacy but lots of emotional intimacy), very humorous.
December 29, 2025
3.5/4*
I enjoyed this one, though it took a while to get going.
The cover is interesting as it depicts the jobs but it doesn’t connect with The characters.
They are a bit TSTL at times, especially Everett who can’t take advice to save his own life.
Kyle is a bit more circumspect but both stick their noses in where normally you wouldn’t - especially for someone you don’t know.
Both seem to have love/hate relationships with their families, though Kyle’s came through in the end, not sure about Everett’s dad.
The light relief is Kyle’s pets, especially Steve!
I enjoyed this one, though it took a while to get going.
The cover is interesting as it depicts the jobs but it doesn’t connect with The characters.
They are a bit TSTL at times, especially Everett who can’t take advice to save his own life.
Kyle is a bit more circumspect but both stick their noses in where normally you wouldn’t - especially for someone you don’t know.
Both seem to have love/hate relationships with their families, though Kyle’s came through in the end, not sure about Everett’s dad.
The light relief is Kyle’s pets, especially Steve!
March 28, 2025
An interesting story with a crime scene cleaner and a mortuary assistant who decide that a scene they are attending is not a suicide but murder and set about trying to prove that.
They get warned off by the real criminals.
Liked the guys together and especially te pets, especially Steve.
However just in case the author is reading this. The cover is awful. Alot of my fellow MM readers do judge a book by its cover and so will likely pass this one on by.
They get warned off by the real criminals.
Liked the guys together and especially te pets, especially Steve.
However just in case the author is reading this. The cover is awful. Alot of my fellow MM readers do judge a book by its cover and so will likely pass this one on by.
April 4, 2025
I am thinking that I saw way too much of myself in Everett, but... who cares! 🤣
Yeah, the cover didn't really work for me, but I didn't hate it either. The story was unique and boy did my stomach clinch a time or three... kudos to the authors for that! I do have to throw this out there though: the proofreading was horrendous... just sayin'! 😭🤬
I like it when family surprises me in a good way during a story, so we are calling this a win-win for me!
Yeah, the cover didn't really work for me, but I didn't hate it either. The story was unique and boy did my stomach clinch a time or three... kudos to the authors for that! I do have to throw this out there though: the proofreading was horrendous... just sayin'! 😭🤬
I like it when family surprises me in a good way during a story, so we are calling this a win-win for me!
September 5, 2025
A crime scene cleaner and a mortician assistant around out to prove the ‘suicide’ was actually a murder. In doing so, they have unleashed a hornet’s nest! At first the characters are “awkward”, but once I got in sync with their personalities, I was sold on this duo. The story starts out slow, then slowly gains pace. Then before you realize it’s a whorl wind of non-stop suspense and action! Overall, loved it.
March 29, 2025
cute story
This was just a great cute story. Loved Everett and Kyle, they had a real nice get together, not stupid break ups, they communicated. There was cool pets. Great but not perfect family.
The only person I thought they could of removed was Everetts dad, he just wasn’t nice.
It made me smile.
This was just a great cute story. Loved Everett and Kyle, they had a real nice get together, not stupid break ups, they communicated. There was cool pets. Great but not perfect family.
The only person I thought they could of removed was Everetts dad, he just wasn’t nice.
It made me smile.
April 7, 2025
Such a fun story!
Meeting Everette and Kyle, their families, and Kyle's piranhas and his adorable cats made this an excellent read. And going along with them as they worked to solve the question of Ricky Leighton's death... was it really suicide, as the officials declared, or was it murder?
You'll have to read this to discover the answer. I won't tell. 😉
Meeting Everette and Kyle, their families, and Kyle's piranhas and his adorable cats made this an excellent read. And going along with them as they worked to solve the question of Ricky Leighton's death... was it really suicide, as the officials declared, or was it murder?
You'll have to read this to discover the answer. I won't tell. 😉
April 13, 2025
fun story
Everett picks up dead bodies for the morgue and his family owns the mortuary. Everett cleans up after a death scene. Both men notice it’s not a suicide. They collect clues and find themselves in danger. In the meantime Kyle finds Everett’s adhd and himself adorable. Everett wants to be friends with piranha Steve. Great banter.
Everett picks up dead bodies for the morgue and his family owns the mortuary. Everett cleans up after a death scene. Both men notice it’s not a suicide. They collect clues and find themselves in danger. In the meantime Kyle finds Everett’s adhd and himself adorable. Everett wants to be friends with piranha Steve. Great banter.
April 14, 2025
4.5 stars ~ I loved this. From its quirky characters to the plot, from its relationships and family dynamics, all the way to a great mystery, thriller and suspense. Not to mention Steve and Jeff, true standouts, although on behalf of orange cats and the owner of one, I disagree on them being stupid. My guy is ridiculously cunning. I’d love to see more in this world.
June 22, 2025
This was so much fun! The characterization of these two was fantastic, the plot was a wild ride, and the lack of on-page sex (other than ) was absolutely fine with me because the story was so fuuuuuuuun! 🤣🐟💑I absolutely adored everything about this book and will definitely be looking for more collaborations with these two authors!
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