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Squeaky Clean Mysteries #1
Hazardous Duty: Squeaky Clean Mysteries, Book 1: An Amateur Sleuth Mystery and Suspense Series, Christian Fiction
Buying a gun to kill your $3,000
Hiring Trauma Care to clean $1,500
Having that same cleaner uncover evidence that frames Priceless
On her way to completing a degree in forensic science, Gabby St. Claire drops out of school and starts her own crime scene cleaning business. When a routine cleaning job uncovers a murder weapon the police overlooked, she realizes that the wrong person is in jail. But the owner of the weapon is a powerful foe...and willing to do anything to keep Gabby quiet.
With the help of her new neighbor, Riley Thomas, a man whose life and faith fascinate her, Gabby plays the detective to make sure the right person is put behind bars. Can Riley help her before another murder occurs?
Listen to the popular book that's been at the top of these Amazon best-seller
Number one in Christian Mystery and Suspense Number one in Religious and Inspirational Mystery Number one in Christian Books Mystery and Suspense “Christy Barritt’s novel, Hazardous Duty, is a delightful read from beginning to end. The story’s fresh, engaging heroine with an unusual occupation hooked me, and I couldn’t put it down. I highly recommend Hazardous Duty.” (Colleen Coble, best-selling author)
"Captivating, entertaining, and downright funny, this book will keep you reading until the satisfying ending. Unique characters capture your heart and have you rooting for them from the beginning. Gabby St. Claire is truly a breath of fresh air." (Susan Sleeman, The Christian Suspense Zone)
"The next time you're tempted to watch CSI reruns, read this book instead! Spunky, sassy Gabby St. Claire sparkles in this new series. She'll keep you turning the pages." (Siri Mitchell, best-selling author)
"In this witty novel, chick lit meets mystery in the show-tune singing Gabby, creating a fun whodunit where you just don't know who killed the woman or which guy you like for the heroine. There's the changeable Detective Parker or the sweet guy-next-door-with-a-secret Riley for Gabby, and who but the would-be Senator husband would want the murder victim dead? Hazardous Duty will take you on a ride through twists, turns, quirks, acorn brownies, and spiritual questions that keep Gabby guessing. She's a character you're guaranteed to love, and the plot is entertaining and fast paced." (Roseanna White, Christian Review of Books)
Fiction/Christian/Mystery
Squeaky Clean
Hazardous Duty Suspicious Minds (2.5 It Came Upon a Midnight Crime, a novella) Organized Grime Dirty Deeds The Scum of All Fears To Love, Honor, and Perish Mucky Streak Foul Play Broom and Gloom Dust and Obey Thrill Squeaker (11.5 Swept Away, a Honeymoon Novella) Cunning Attractions Cold Clean Getaway Cold Clean Sweep Cold Clean Break Cleans to an End (coming soon) Companion While You Were Sweeping, a Riley Thomas novella
Hiring Trauma Care to clean $1,500
Having that same cleaner uncover evidence that frames Priceless
On her way to completing a degree in forensic science, Gabby St. Claire drops out of school and starts her own crime scene cleaning business. When a routine cleaning job uncovers a murder weapon the police overlooked, she realizes that the wrong person is in jail. But the owner of the weapon is a powerful foe...and willing to do anything to keep Gabby quiet.
With the help of her new neighbor, Riley Thomas, a man whose life and faith fascinate her, Gabby plays the detective to make sure the right person is put behind bars. Can Riley help her before another murder occurs?
Listen to the popular book that's been at the top of these Amazon best-seller
Number one in Christian Mystery and Suspense Number one in Religious and Inspirational Mystery Number one in Christian Books Mystery and Suspense “Christy Barritt’s novel, Hazardous Duty, is a delightful read from beginning to end. The story’s fresh, engaging heroine with an unusual occupation hooked me, and I couldn’t put it down. I highly recommend Hazardous Duty.” (Colleen Coble, best-selling author)
"Captivating, entertaining, and downright funny, this book will keep you reading until the satisfying ending. Unique characters capture your heart and have you rooting for them from the beginning. Gabby St. Claire is truly a breath of fresh air." (Susan Sleeman, The Christian Suspense Zone)
"The next time you're tempted to watch CSI reruns, read this book instead! Spunky, sassy Gabby St. Claire sparkles in this new series. She'll keep you turning the pages." (Siri Mitchell, best-selling author)
"In this witty novel, chick lit meets mystery in the show-tune singing Gabby, creating a fun whodunit where you just don't know who killed the woman or which guy you like for the heroine. There's the changeable Detective Parker or the sweet guy-next-door-with-a-secret Riley for Gabby, and who but the would-be Senator husband would want the murder victim dead? Hazardous Duty will take you on a ride through twists, turns, quirks, acorn brownies, and spiritual questions that keep Gabby guessing. She's a character you're guaranteed to love, and the plot is entertaining and fast paced." (Roseanna White, Christian Review of Books)
Fiction/Christian/Mystery
Squeaky Clean
Hazardous Duty Suspicious Minds (2.5 It Came Upon a Midnight Crime, a novella) Organized Grime Dirty Deeds The Scum of All Fears To Love, Honor, and Perish Mucky Streak Foul Play Broom and Gloom Dust and Obey Thrill Squeaker (11.5 Swept Away, a Honeymoon Novella) Cunning Attractions Cold Clean Getaway Cold Clean Sweep Cold Clean Break Cleans to an End (coming soon) Companion While You Were Sweeping, a Riley Thomas novella
Audible Audio
First published October 10, 2006
2638 people are currently reading
3909 people want to read
About the author
Christy Barritt
332 books1,660 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 751 reviews
March 29, 2016
You know a book will be pretty good when the first sentence is: "Whistling a tune from Fiddler on the Roof, I used my tweezers to work a piece of Gloria Cunningham's skull out of the sky blue wall." Gabby is hilarious! She has an insatiable curiosity for mysteries and finding out what really happened. She's never afraid to venture into scary territory in order to find her answers either. And let me tell you, she ventures all kinds of places and meets all kinds of people. When the building she's cleaning is set on fire right after she finds some evidence the police missed and she barely makes it out in time, she's sure that something is amiss. Of course the police don't want to listen to someone who 'fancies herself Nancy Drew', so Gabby begins investigating on her own (always telling the police what she finds out of course...well, sometimes). From her only employee getting arrested to a pipe bomb left at her front door, Gabby has a lot on her plate in just a few days time. And certainly the crime scene cleaning must go on, a girls gotta eat, right? With a cast of characters for neighbors, such as Sierra the vegan animal rights' activist, Mrs. Morgan the mystery writer who hardly ever leaves her apartment, Bill newly divorced and mad at women when he's drunk, and new guy Riley who says he's between jobs, Gabby also has plenty of mystery and mayhem at home also. One thing that helps make crime and being accused of it easier, is having good friends around who will believe in you no matter what.
I don't normally read mysteries, but this one caught my eye and I decided to try it. Gabby is so likeable and so funny that it made the tension of the mystery easier to bear. And it never ceased to amuse me that Gabby kept finding pieces of evidence that the police somehow overlooked. No wonder they were frustrated with her, she made me them look bad! A good mystery, great characters, and a bad-guys-lose ending, with just a smidgen of unanswered questions to make you want to read the next book. Because yes, this is a trilogy. But no huge cliff-hangers! So yay for that. :) Read it!
I don't normally read mysteries, but this one caught my eye and I decided to try it. Gabby is so likeable and so funny that it made the tension of the mystery easier to bear. And it never ceased to amuse me that Gabby kept finding pieces of evidence that the police somehow overlooked. No wonder they were frustrated with her, she made me them look bad! A good mystery, great characters, and a bad-guys-lose ending, with just a smidgen of unanswered questions to make you want to read the next book. Because yes, this is a trilogy. But no huge cliff-hangers! So yay for that. :) Read it!
July 1, 2022
4.5 stars!
Characters: Gabby was a great, well-developed character. I loved her sense of humor and how she wouldn't give up on trying to solve the mystery (even though she didn't always go about it in the best of ways).
Language: Clean.
Moral/theme: Gabby wasn't a believer, but she had several people in her life who talked to her about God.
Plot: Plenty of suspense, humor, and high stakes kept me flipping electronic pages.
Romance: Clean.
Writing: Christy Barritt's fast-paced writing style worked great for this book. I loved the first-person character voice she gave Gabby.
Overall: Hazardous Duty was an entertaining read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction, suspense, and mysteries.
Characters: Gabby was a great, well-developed character. I loved her sense of humor and how she wouldn't give up on trying to solve the mystery (even though she didn't always go about it in the best of ways).
Language: Clean.
Moral/theme: Gabby wasn't a believer, but she had several people in her life who talked to her about God.
Plot: Plenty of suspense, humor, and high stakes kept me flipping electronic pages.
Romance: Clean.
Writing: Christy Barritt's fast-paced writing style worked great for this book. I loved the first-person character voice she gave Gabby.
Overall: Hazardous Duty was an entertaining read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction, suspense, and mysteries.
May 28, 2012
This was a free book from Amazon... It was a hard mystery to read for a couple of reasons, the main character, Gabby, was really hard to like. She thought she knew "who did it" from the very beginning and wouldn't let anyone convince her otherwise. Her comments and thoughts were cheesy and annoying. Another reason I didn't like it was because it was a Christian mystery where beliefs in God were mentioned through out. I dislike reading things that seem to push beliefs upon you. I doubt I will read anymore in this series... maybe if I'm desperate, but I have A LOT of books on my 'to-read' list. :-)
July 15, 2013
I loved this book!! Unexpectedly funny!! I thought based on Gabby's profession it would be gruesome and I'm sensitive to blood but it wasn't bad at all. The only thing that kind if got on my nerves was how quickly and stubbornly certain characters would either leap to conclusions or disregard an obvious thing. I'm talking main characters. And Gabby is oh so dense in love lol. But likable characters (Sierra grew on me finally a little) and I can't wait for book 2!
September 29, 2018
Great Read
This book is about Gabby St Claire, a twenty-seven year old crime scene cleaner and amateur crime scene investigator. A particular job leads her to almost be burned alive and uncovers evidence thaf this break and enter/homicide may be less break and enter and more closer then anyone expects. She tries to get help from Detective Chip Parker, but with no luck must investigate with her best friend, Sierra, and new neighbor, Riley Thomas. This is my kind of cozy mystery series. It's unique with the aspect that the main character is a crime scene cleaner, but it still keeps it a clean mystery, with no gore, sex, or swearing,.t's a great read and I really enjoyed it
This book is about Gabby St Claire, a twenty-seven year old crime scene cleaner and amateur crime scene investigator. A particular job leads her to almost be burned alive and uncovers evidence thaf this break and enter/homicide may be less break and enter and more closer then anyone expects. She tries to get help from Detective Chip Parker, but with no luck must investigate with her best friend, Sierra, and new neighbor, Riley Thomas. This is my kind of cozy mystery series. It's unique with the aspect that the main character is a crime scene cleaner, but it still keeps it a clean mystery, with no gore, sex, or swearing,.t's a great read and I really enjoyed it
March 15, 2025
The story of Gabby, who cleans crime scenes for a living while wishing she was a forensics detective. This is fast-paced with a believable mystery. Lovable characters, light romance, and lots of faith content. Gabby starts out jaded by religion and meets several people who help her find her way to God. Very relatable.
December 29, 2020
A light, fun mystery.
Honestly, there are some spots that feel too coincidental and some weaknesses in the writing style. I can see that Barritt has polished her writing trade a great deal in her more current books. That said, it was a really enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more of the series!
Honestly, there are some spots that feel too coincidental and some weaknesses in the writing style. I can see that Barritt has polished her writing trade a great deal in her more current books. That said, it was a really enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more of the series!
November 17, 2016
If I had known this was going to be a book where Faith in God was going to suddenly be a Thing, I wouldn't have even bothered. Everyone has the right to his/her own beliefs, but I didn't appreciate having those beliefs shoved at me from out of (seemingly) nowhere. Aside from Gabby's having been sent from God in the eyes of her employee and his wife, faith really had no reason to be involved in this story.
Aside from that, I didn't like Gabby. She was pretty annoying, really. She jumped to conclusions based on whatever fit what she wanted to believe (until the end when suddenly she knew who had really "done it"). How she had two men so interested in her I did not understand. She seemed to drive them both nuts (and not in a good way).
The two men didn't seem all that great themselves. ....ok so I didn't really like any of the characters apparently. Maybe Bill, the drunk neighbor; he seemed funny.
The only way I got through this was by skimming from about 27% until the end and only because I wanted to know if I was right as to who the "bad guy" was. That took entirely too long. (And I *was* right.)
Aside from that, I didn't like Gabby. She was pretty annoying, really. She jumped to conclusions based on whatever fit what she wanted to believe (until the end when suddenly she knew who had really "done it"). How she had two men so interested in her I did not understand. She seemed to drive them both nuts (and not in a good way).
The two men didn't seem all that great themselves. ....ok so I didn't really like any of the characters apparently. Maybe Bill, the drunk neighbor; he seemed funny.
The only way I got through this was by skimming from about 27% until the end and only because I wanted to know if I was right as to who the "bad guy" was. That took entirely too long. (And I *was* right.)
January 13, 2023
Gabby St. Claire cleans crime scenes though she really wants to become a crime scene technician. At the home of a politician whose wife was murdered, Gabby finds evidence which sets her on a quest beyond her authority or training.
While second-guessing handsome Detective Parker and sighing over her new neighbor Riley Thomas, she manages her way into deeper and more dangerous trouble.
Fans of Janet Evanovich would enjoy this series. Just for the record, I am team Parker for Gabby’s romantic interest.
While second-guessing handsome Detective Parker and sighing over her new neighbor Riley Thomas, she manages her way into deeper and more dangerous trouble.
Fans of Janet Evanovich would enjoy this series. Just for the record, I am team Parker for Gabby’s romantic interest.
December 18, 2019
“Look, Nancy Drew. This isn’t your case.”
Great concept: agnostic crime scene investigator wantabee who dropped out of school because of family necessity starts crime scene cleanup firm. Unfortunately, both the writing and the plot fail to deliver. Needed another editing, especially of her philosophic musings. Good sense of place and time. Nice, relevant cover art.
“I didn’t want to be a know-it-all. I really didn’t. My best friend in college had been one, which drove me crazy, especially considering I knew more than she did.”
Gabby is an unsympathetic protagonist, perhaps not intentionally. She is stubborn and stupid. By rights she should have been dead several times.
“So far you’re the only sane one I’ve met.” “And I’m covered in ash, smell like smoke, and clean up after murders.” “My standards of sane are really low.”
The supporting cast is good, if they tend toward clichés. The action is questionable. For example, the story opens with Gabby pulling skull fragments from a wall. What CSI team would have left that behind? Not to mention oddly-placed droplets of blood.
“Who needed details when you had an imagination like mine?"
Quibbles: “Bottle-cap glasses”? Her heart throb of the moment flees to his fiancé’s home state? Gabby jumps to so many conclusions she should have been in the Olympics.
“Don’t leave the state or do anything stupid.” “Understood.” “Which part? The leaving or the stupid, because I don’t think you have a lot of control over the latter.”
The inevitable come-to-Jesus climax feels contrived. Whose plea for divine intervention as she’s being murdered meanders into theology and qualification? Not “Please Lord, help me. If you really are up there, like my friends say you are, I want to know you.”
Great concept: agnostic crime scene investigator wantabee who dropped out of school because of family necessity starts crime scene cleanup firm. Unfortunately, both the writing and the plot fail to deliver. Needed another editing, especially of her philosophic musings. Good sense of place and time. Nice, relevant cover art.
“I didn’t want to be a know-it-all. I really didn’t. My best friend in college had been one, which drove me crazy, especially considering I knew more than she did.”
Gabby is an unsympathetic protagonist, perhaps not intentionally. She is stubborn and stupid. By rights she should have been dead several times.
“So far you’re the only sane one I’ve met.” “And I’m covered in ash, smell like smoke, and clean up after murders.” “My standards of sane are really low.”
The supporting cast is good, if they tend toward clichés. The action is questionable. For example, the story opens with Gabby pulling skull fragments from a wall. What CSI team would have left that behind? Not to mention oddly-placed droplets of blood.
“Who needed details when you had an imagination like mine?"
Quibbles: “Bottle-cap glasses”? Her heart throb of the moment flees to his fiancé’s home state? Gabby jumps to so many conclusions she should have been in the Olympics.
“Don’t leave the state or do anything stupid.” “Understood.” “Which part? The leaving or the stupid, because I don’t think you have a lot of control over the latter.”
The inevitable come-to-Jesus climax feels contrived. Whose plea for divine intervention as she’s being murdered meanders into theology and qualification? Not “Please Lord, help me. If you really are up there, like my friends say you are, I want to know you.”
January 2, 2020
This is a review of the entire Squeaky Clean series (currently 15 novels and a few novellas) which I binge read during my free trial of Kindle Unlimited last month.
Obviously, they're good enough to binge read. It is a Christian cozy mystery series and I think meets the expectations inherent to that label.
What I Liked
1. The unique perspective of having the main character be a crime scene cleaner
2. Gabby's sarcasm
3. The cast of quirky supporting characters
Two Big Flaws
1. Barritt needs a continuity editor. There are a lot of small factual errors within the books and across the series. Minor characters' personalities change Sometimes it seems like she has forgotten that she already gave the reader certain information and repeats it in strange ways. The emotional tone also lacks consistency, particularly in the middle books. Gabby has a lot of drama going on in her personal life in the middle books and where is she at the end of one book is not where she is at the beginning of the next book. It's confusing. (Along with that, major things happen off-stage in between books which can also cause confusion.)
2. There is a lot of unnecessary and frustrating drama in the middle books. Most (but not all) of it stems from the fact that Barritt introduces a love triangle in book 7. I'm not a fan of love triangles, but I especially hate them after I've spent time buying into a relationship. A couple of times the main characters were all acting like idiots and I almost quit.
Despite those two issues, overall I did enjoy the books.
Obviously, they're good enough to binge read. It is a Christian cozy mystery series and I think meets the expectations inherent to that label.
What I Liked
1. The unique perspective of having the main character be a crime scene cleaner
2. Gabby's sarcasm
3. The cast of quirky supporting characters
Two Big Flaws
1. Barritt needs a continuity editor. There are a lot of small factual errors within the books and across the series. Minor characters' personalities change Sometimes it seems like she has forgotten that she already gave the reader certain information and repeats it in strange ways. The emotional tone also lacks consistency, particularly in the middle books. Gabby has a lot of drama going on in her personal life in the middle books and where is she at the end of one book is not where she is at the beginning of the next book. It's confusing. (Along with that, major things happen off-stage in between books which can also cause confusion.)
2. There is a lot of unnecessary and frustrating drama in the middle books. Most (but not all) of it stems from the fact that Barritt introduces a love triangle in book 7. I'm not a fan of love triangles, but I especially hate them after I've spent time buying into a relationship. A couple of times the main characters were all acting like idiots and I almost quit.
Despite those two issues, overall I did enjoy the books.
September 21, 2016
Quick cute read that had me smiling throughout the book. The main character Gabby was relatable, and I really admired her. The only problem I had was the love triangle that manifested itself at the very end. Throughout the book I was secretly hoping it wouldn't happen, but it seems like that prayer wasn't answered. Quite honestly, I'd be more willing to continue the series if I didn't have to read about the drama that love triangles bring. And in my honest opinion
Disappointing romance aside, the mystery element of the book was great and I was guessing the entire time. When I discovered who the killer was, I was definitely shocked. I also liked how the faith elements were intertwined within the story, and it was cool seeing Gabby become more open to God, although she didn't change her life or anything (hence the series where the transformation will probably happen). In conclusion it was a great fun read, and also free! Definitely worth your time.
Disappointing romance aside, the mystery element of the book was great and I was guessing the entire time. When I discovered who the killer was, I was definitely shocked. I also liked how the faith elements were intertwined within the story, and it was cool seeing Gabby become more open to God, although she didn't change her life or anything (hence the series where the transformation will probably happen). In conclusion it was a great fun read, and also free! Definitely worth your time.
October 28, 2017
This is one of those books, like The Art Forger, where I might not normally be interested in the situation, but the back text was so good at describing the setup it drew me in. Memo to those who are writing flirty, sassy, romancy novels: don't dish about the love interest, or obsess about the love triangle, or ask questions about How Will The Protagonist Ever Be Able To Resolve Her Problem And Work Things Out With The Love Interest? Serious eyeroll.
Maybe the back text is better because this isn't a romance novel. There's enough romance to satisfy someone who likes that kind of thing, and to make the main character believable, but not so much that it makes her ridiculous. And I have a soft spot for when things don't work out with the love interest the way you think they might.
The central mystery is pretty solid, the twists and reveal make sense (not too slow or sparing, and the twists arise naturally from the setup and characters), and it was as fun to read as I hoped when I got it :) What more could you ask for?
Maybe the back text is better because this isn't a romance novel. There's enough romance to satisfy someone who likes that kind of thing, and to make the main character believable, but not so much that it makes her ridiculous. And I have a soft spot for when things don't work out with the love interest the way you think they might.
The central mystery is pretty solid, the twists and reveal make sense (not too slow or sparing, and the twists arise naturally from the setup and characters), and it was as fun to read as I hoped when I got it :) What more could you ask for?
June 29, 2021
It’s funny. It’s a mystery. It fit the bill for what I was looking for. It even had a stronger Christian thread than some of Christy Barritt’s other books I’ve read, and I look forward to seeing what comes of it in the series.
There is some gorey descriptions, a mystery revolving around affairs, and some other details that ultra conservative teens might not appreciate.
There is some gorey descriptions, a mystery revolving around affairs, and some other details that ultra conservative teens might not appreciate.
April 20, 2022
What a great mystery! I was on the fence about Gabby. Sometimes I flat out didn't like her, but then the author had me laughing out loud. I think I will like Gabby more as I continue to read this series!
May 22, 2019
Due to her father's inability to support himself, Gabby St. Claire drops out of college shortly before finishing her degree in forensic science and starts her own business as a crime scene cleaner. It's a dirty job, but it pays well and someone has to do it. Her latest location is the blood soaked home of a man whose wife was killed, apparently by someone who did not want her to testify against him in court. But while Gabby is cleaning, she comes across a gun that the police apparently missed. She prepares to take it to the police, but as she's leaving the house, someone sets it on fire, trapping her inside.
Was the fire set to conceal the evidence, or was it meant to harm Gabby? The police don't seem to want to investigate the murder victim's husband, who may be the person truly responsible for the crime. With the help of her quirky friend and neighbor Sierra, as well as their new, mysterious (but attractive) neighbor Riley, Gabby tries to figure out who committed the crime before the person silences her for good.
This is the first book in the Squeaky Clean Mysteries series. Gabby is an interesting character with an intriguing job - it puts her in the midst of crimes without being directly involved with them, an unusual twist. Gabby's determination to find the true culprit at times borders on hysteria. I am not sure how realistic her involvement with the case is; although entertaining, much of the plot is far-fetched. I find it difficult to believe that the police would give her confidential information about the investigation, and her actions would probably land her in jail in real life.
Other than this, the mystery is interesting and keeps the reader engaged with the story. The characters are fascinating, and it will be fun to see where the author takes their individual and group stories as the series continues. There is just the right amount of humor to offset tension, which makes the plot flow quickly. The faith vs. science element is not explored very often, and questions about trusting in God or trusting in science add depth to the tale. Overall, Hazardous Duty is an exciting debut from a promising author.
Was the fire set to conceal the evidence, or was it meant to harm Gabby? The police don't seem to want to investigate the murder victim's husband, who may be the person truly responsible for the crime. With the help of her quirky friend and neighbor Sierra, as well as their new, mysterious (but attractive) neighbor Riley, Gabby tries to figure out who committed the crime before the person silences her for good.
This is the first book in the Squeaky Clean Mysteries series. Gabby is an interesting character with an intriguing job - it puts her in the midst of crimes without being directly involved with them, an unusual twist. Gabby's determination to find the true culprit at times borders on hysteria. I am not sure how realistic her involvement with the case is; although entertaining, much of the plot is far-fetched. I find it difficult to believe that the police would give her confidential information about the investigation, and her actions would probably land her in jail in real life.
Other than this, the mystery is interesting and keeps the reader engaged with the story. The characters are fascinating, and it will be fun to see where the author takes their individual and group stories as the series continues. There is just the right amount of humor to offset tension, which makes the plot flow quickly. The faith vs. science element is not explored very often, and questions about trusting in God or trusting in science add depth to the tale. Overall, Hazardous Duty is an exciting debut from a promising author.
April 20, 2016
Age Appropriate For: 18 and up for violence, romance, and some intense scenes
Best for Ages: 18 and up
This has been on my kindle for a while, and I picked it up when I needed a diversion. Suspense/mystery is my go-to genre when I need a distraction. This book ended up being very different than I thought it would be, but I ended up loving it!
I loved Gabby from the first page. I mean seriously, what is not to love about a crime scene cleaner who is singing possible advertisements to the tune of Broadway hits? Yes, Gabby pulled me into the story and, even when she was being crazy, stupid, irritating and stubborn, I loved her.
The mystery itself was interesting but probably would not have captured my attention as much if Gabby hadn’t been in the leading role. The mystery is very much secondary to the characters. I didn’t figure it out until Gabby did, simply because I don’t think very much information was given.
Riley and his strong faith made the perfect addition to this book. While Gabby is an unbeliever, Riley is a good witness to her without being in her face. He didn’t shy away from the tough questions or give easy answers. Without him, the story would have been devoid of true hope.
As for the romance, there is a little of an interest/love triangle, but not even one kiss that I remember. There is some talk of old girlfriends/boyfriends and mentions of affairs or possible affairs, but nothing detailed at all.
I highly recommend this book to those who love suspense, a hint of romance, and solid Christian messages.
Best for Ages: 18 and up
This has been on my kindle for a while, and I picked it up when I needed a diversion. Suspense/mystery is my go-to genre when I need a distraction. This book ended up being very different than I thought it would be, but I ended up loving it!
I loved Gabby from the first page. I mean seriously, what is not to love about a crime scene cleaner who is singing possible advertisements to the tune of Broadway hits? Yes, Gabby pulled me into the story and, even when she was being crazy, stupid, irritating and stubborn, I loved her.
The mystery itself was interesting but probably would not have captured my attention as much if Gabby hadn’t been in the leading role. The mystery is very much secondary to the characters. I didn’t figure it out until Gabby did, simply because I don’t think very much information was given.
Riley and his strong faith made the perfect addition to this book. While Gabby is an unbeliever, Riley is a good witness to her without being in her face. He didn’t shy away from the tough questions or give easy answers. Without him, the story would have been devoid of true hope.
As for the romance, there is a little of an interest/love triangle, but not even one kiss that I remember. There is some talk of old girlfriends/boyfriends and mentions of affairs or possible affairs, but nothing detailed at all.
I highly recommend this book to those who love suspense, a hint of romance, and solid Christian messages.
December 8, 2013
Another freebie with my trial Amazon Prime membership. 2.5 stars overall. The idea is fascinating, a crime scene cleaner, the person who comes after CSI, who is a CSI-wannabe, solves crimes. The plot was decent, I honestly couldn't figure out who the murderer was until the final clue, but the ending was pretty formulaic and the reason for the murder was pretty lame. The love triangle was a bit strained, and I just couldn't believe a Christian man would be in a 4 year relationship with a model-like woman in LA without marrying her, and then be interested in a complete anti-Christian woman. Anyway, not the best I've read, but certainly not the worst. I enjoyed the character's background and her honest resistance to Christianity. Overall it was a bit of Kinsey Millhone mixed with Stephanie Plum, in a CSI setting.
March 7, 2017
This was SO awesome!! I'm a sucker for spy/mystery's, so seeing a Christian mystery was a chance to good to pass up. I wasn't sure what to think of Gabby right at first. I mean, she has a rather morbid job of cleaning up crime scenes. But I was quickly swept up in Gabby's amazing humor. This book made me laugh out loud several times, which rarely happens.
Though Gabby is not a Christian, this book really is incredibly clean. There was only one slightly crude joke in the book, and it was not bad at all. I think the author handled Gabby's not being a Christian very well. She made it believable.
The author made the characters so vivid you feel like you would know them if you ran into them on the street.
I look forward to the future books, and to see what happens between the characters.
Though Gabby is not a Christian, this book really is incredibly clean. There was only one slightly crude joke in the book, and it was not bad at all. I think the author handled Gabby's not being a Christian very well. She made it believable.
The author made the characters so vivid you feel like you would know them if you ran into them on the street.
I look forward to the future books, and to see what happens between the characters.
June 11, 2015
Christian fiction/mystery. My 1st time reading Christy Barritt and I was not disappointed. Her characters are likable and quirky. I found the details about Gabby's work as a crime scene cleaner interesting although there were a number of times you are shaking your head at her decisions. The ending was not a surprise but resolved in a satisfactory way. Recommend to those who enjoy a light read and don't mind a little gore. I will definitely continue the series, but I am not rushing out to grab it right this second.
December 15, 2024
How many times can one person almost die? How many times would you realize there are multiple attempts on your life before you refuse to step foot out of your apartment, or before you pack up and leave town?
I liked this book, but was frustrated by the main character's choices which put her life in danger.... again and again.
Cute, but I don't think I'll read another one in her series.
2024
Eight years later and that was not self-fulfilling prophecy. I must have picked up another book in this series and loved it!! Broom and Gloom. Now that's a good book.
I liked this book, but was frustrated by the main character's choices which put her life in danger.... again and again.
Cute, but I don't think I'll read another one in her series.
2024
Eight years later and that was not self-fulfilling prophecy. I must have picked up another book in this series and loved it!! Broom and Gloom. Now that's a good book.
June 5, 2015
Wonderful characters, intriguing mystery, and lots of laughs - what a great afternoon read. I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series. The characters are so adorable and unique.
April 8, 2019
Gabby is all set to be a forensic specialist but life gets in the way. Her mother dies and she has to assume some responsibilities. So Gabby turns to being a crime scene cleaner. At one crime scene, she finds evidence that the police have missed. No one believes what the evidence means and she finds she is now in the killer's site as well.
I did enjoy this book as well as Gabby's evolving relationships with the men in her life and her struggle between religion and science. At times it might have gotten a bit preachy but it was well written.
I did enjoy this book as well as Gabby's evolving relationships with the men in her life and her struggle between religion and science. At times it might have gotten a bit preachy but it was well written.
May 13, 2022
A person who cleans crime scenes is likely to experience gory situations, as Gabby St. Claire, the narrator of this story, does. But Gabby, who once dreamed of being a forensic scientist, desires to use her crime scene cleaning as both a way to stay close to her dream job aspirations and to earn money to achieve that dream.
After uncovering evidence during a crime scene clean up that she feels isn’t being used to clear a wrongly accused suspect, she begins het own investigation.
There are characters that attempt to keep Gabby grounded, and some that are oddballs that make Gabby appear to be perfectly reasonable. It filled its purpose for me, as a cozy mystery that was a light, fun read that I needed after a couple of heavier stories.
After uncovering evidence during a crime scene clean up that she feels isn’t being used to clear a wrongly accused suspect, she begins het own investigation.
There are characters that attempt to keep Gabby grounded, and some that are oddballs that make Gabby appear to be perfectly reasonable. It filled its purpose for me, as a cozy mystery that was a light, fun read that I needed after a couple of heavier stories.
February 23, 2023
Love Christy Barritt’s books and this main character! Can’t wait to read more of the series!
May 18, 2024
4 1/2 stars. Unique. A humorous cozy mystery that features a crime scene cleaner. Who has a twisty sarcastic thought process that I like. I also liked the Christian touch.
August 7, 2019
I got this book because it was in the Christain section.
I was pleasantly surprised that there actually was a good mystery in the book and it wasn't all religious. Of course, those who are atheist or agnostic will find this a little too much in your face...
A little bit of religion, a little romance, a big mystery makes a fine story.
I was pleasantly surprised that there actually was a good mystery in the book and it wasn't all religious. Of course, those who are atheist or agnostic will find this a little too much in your face...
A little bit of religion, a little romance, a big mystery makes a fine story.
September 26, 2025
It was a good book…I really like it so far…
It was a good storyline and the characters and, of course the drama lol…
Definitely will read the second series soon…
It was a good storyline and the characters and, of course the drama lol…
Definitely will read the second series soon…
September 14, 2019
This has been on my TBR pile for some time. I am so glad I got around to reading it. I would say it lies in the slightly grittier end of cozy mystery. The protagonist, Gabby, is a good character - tenacious to the point of obsessive - but in a good way. The plot rattled along and kept me reading. The romantic elements were well handled. Although this is a Christian book, the Christianity is natural and does not overwhelm. A great book which I can highly recommend.
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