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Flirting with Murder
Not yet published
Expected 21 Apr 26The Agathas meets Thursday Murder Club in Amanda Sellet’s latest YA novel, a cozy mystery with a splash of romance.
Some people visit Florida for theme parks and beaches. High school junior Virginia Tillis is there for murder. Accidents, electrocution, tainted hand every victim meets a different end at her grandmother Lainey’s rococo pink condo. Such is life (and death) when you roll with a crew of theater retirees who roleplay murder mysteries from the comfort of their own home in a game they fondly call Killing Me Softly.
But this summer, fictional murder has given way to the very real death of the building's beloved owner and his dramatic last testament has the vultures circling, from estranged relatives to sleazy property developers, dead set on getting the most from his will.
Adding to the tension for Virginia is the appearance of Felix, the cute guy she met at the airport who turns out to be the grandson of one of the condo’s residents. With his charm and musical theater chops, he’s the person Virginia most wants to beat at Killing Me Softly. That is, until the day they discover an actual dead body while playing the game, forcing them to work together to figure out whodunit.
In this comedic mystery about finding the Watson to your Holmes, Virginia and Felix must banter their way from rivals to co-detectives in time to save their eccentric grandparents from a shocking disruption to the community they've always loved.
Some people visit Florida for theme parks and beaches. High school junior Virginia Tillis is there for murder. Accidents, electrocution, tainted hand every victim meets a different end at her grandmother Lainey’s rococo pink condo. Such is life (and death) when you roll with a crew of theater retirees who roleplay murder mysteries from the comfort of their own home in a game they fondly call Killing Me Softly.
But this summer, fictional murder has given way to the very real death of the building's beloved owner and his dramatic last testament has the vultures circling, from estranged relatives to sleazy property developers, dead set on getting the most from his will.
Adding to the tension for Virginia is the appearance of Felix, the cute guy she met at the airport who turns out to be the grandson of one of the condo’s residents. With his charm and musical theater chops, he’s the person Virginia most wants to beat at Killing Me Softly. That is, until the day they discover an actual dead body while playing the game, forcing them to work together to figure out whodunit.
In this comedic mystery about finding the Watson to your Holmes, Virginia and Felix must banter their way from rivals to co-detectives in time to save their eccentric grandparents from a shocking disruption to the community they've always loved.
320 pages, Paperback
Expected publication April 21, 2026
19 people are currently reading
18607 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Sellet
6 books448 followersAmanda Sellet is a Gen X ex-journalist who loves old movies, baked goods, and banter.
On the comedy/tragedy question, she is team comedy all the way.
On the comedy/tragedy question, she is team comedy all the way.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
huge thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. all thoughts below are my own.
unfortunately this book did not hit for me. flirting with murder? more like flirting with watching the paint dry. because the actual sleuthing and action didn't really start until much later in the book and by that time id said "only in florida" about ten times. i'm not surprised though. it's florida we are talking about.
the romance was cute though, i did enjoy that. other than the romance, i can't really reccomend the book unless you want to hehehaha at the absurdity of it.
🐊
unfortunately this book did not hit for me. flirting with murder? more like flirting with watching the paint dry. because the actual sleuthing and action didn't really start until much later in the book and by that time id said "only in florida" about ten times. i'm not surprised though. it's florida we are talking about.
the romance was cute though, i did enjoy that. other than the romance, i can't really reccomend the book unless you want to hehehaha at the absurdity of it.
🐊
November 9, 2025
Another hit from Sellet! This book is perfect for fans of Thursday Murder Club and Man on the Inside (Netflix). It had me laughing out loud and blushing with the memories of first crushes. I absolutely ADORED Virginia’s relationship with her Grandma Lainey, and the incorporation of real life struggles of teens (step-parents, aging grandparents, and fitting in). I can’t wait to talk all my students into reading it!
Content Ratings:
Violence: PG (there’s a murder, but it’s technically nonviolent)
Language: G
Substances: G
Romance: G (kissing only)
Overall: PG
4 stars
Voluntary ARC Review
Content Ratings:
Violence: PG (there’s a murder, but it’s technically nonviolent)
Language: G
Substances: G
Romance: G (kissing only)
Overall: PG
4 stars
Voluntary ARC Review
October 17, 2025
A terrific cozy YA mystery with splendid banter and characters! Loved it!
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
December 3, 2025
I won this ARC from Goodreads so I knew I has to write a review of this book.
"Flirting with Murder" is a YA cozy mystery with similarities to the TV show "Only Murders in the Building" and novelist Agatha Christie.
I don't think I have ever laughed out loud so much reading a book. The modern jokes and comments were hilarious and current. I loved both the fmc and mmc. I loved reading about the relationships the grandparents had with their grandchildren. I also loved the older characters and how sincere and real their bond was to each other.
This book was hilarious and fun but also kept you at the edge of your seat as you uncovered a mystery.
Thank you to @stmartinspress!
"Flirting with Murder" is a YA cozy mystery with similarities to the TV show "Only Murders in the Building" and novelist Agatha Christie.
I don't think I have ever laughed out loud so much reading a book. The modern jokes and comments were hilarious and current. I loved both the fmc and mmc. I loved reading about the relationships the grandparents had with their grandchildren. I also loved the older characters and how sincere and real their bond was to each other.
This book was hilarious and fun but also kept you at the edge of your seat as you uncovered a mystery.
Thank you to @stmartinspress!
November 12, 2025
This books was so fun. The mystery mixed with theatrics and banter was absolutely beautiful. You can tell every character was written with love and that the authors poured her soul into each of them. The writing was light and fun, and the pacing was perfect to me.
I love a good YA slow burn and this delivered. The chemistry between Virginia and Felix was adorable and the banter was hilarious.
The plot and setting in this book are so unique, it was refreshing to read something new!
Overall I am very happy that I got to read this ARC and can’t wait to get my hands on the physical copy when it releases.
I love a good YA slow burn and this delivered. The chemistry between Virginia and Felix was adorable and the banter was hilarious.
The plot and setting in this book are so unique, it was refreshing to read something new!
Overall I am very happy that I got to read this ARC and can’t wait to get my hands on the physical copy when it releases.
November 8, 2025
A cleverly written and spunky YA mystery rom-com. The cute back and forth between Virginia and Felix makes for a load of fun and laughs. The characters are well developed and an absolute delight. Sellet does an excellent job of building up the mystery behind the murder without over complicating things. This was a joy to read.
November 30, 2025
ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Virginia Tillis is traveling to visit her grandmother Lainey at her retirement condo in Florida, and also to attend the funeral of their friend Claude, who was responsible for the quirky nature of the building. The pink, rococo style resident was home to a number of elderly theatrical retirees, and hosted Murder Most Fowl dinner parties (where fried chicken was served) as well as regular games of Killing Me Softly. Virginia willingly plays along, donning a vintage dress for the reading of the will. At the airport, she has met Felix, who is the grandson of another resident, and the two hit it off. Virginia is not as happy to meet Bradley, the college aged step nephew of Claude's sister Berneice. He's a little too familiar and creepy, and he and Berneice are not happy to find that Claude has left Berneice only his apartment, and not the entire building. Not only that, but his sister must stay in the apartment for three months and take care of his cat. When the unpleasant Bradley is found dead under the pool table, Virginia and Felix step in to investigate, even though it is assumed that one of Bradley's many allergies killed him. Bradley has taken some of Claude's paintings to a local thrift store, hoping to get money for them; one was painted by Felix's grandfather, and the two buy it back. Bradley's father runs a redevelopment company, which seems to be interested in the building, since it sits on a prime piece of real estate and has been attractive to other developers as well, even though Claude steadfastly refused to sell. As details emerge about Bradley's past as well as about suspicious things at Castle Claude, like a neglected garden full of poison plants, Virginia and Felix become closer as they participate in some of the residents' investigative parties, and also come closer to solving the crime.
There are so many cozy murder mysteries for adult readers that it should be no surprise that young adult readers would like some as well. Even middle grade readers are thrilled by books like Souders' Secrets of the Broken House. What better setting than a condo filled with quirky, theatrical retirees who love putting on murder mystery parties? Virginia and Felix both wholeheartedly enjoy the older people around them, and have learned a lot about detection during the course of the many scenarios. The fact that Castle Claude might cease to exist adds a layer of anxiety to the proceedings as well.
Bradley is a stereotypical heel, so it's hard to take his death too seriously. Berneice works against the residents in a way that makes her unsympathetic as well. There's some unexpected community in a local taxi service run by several sisters, a lawyer who doesn't have the best intentions, and a twist that will make readers who want to see justice served happy.
Felix and Virginia have a charming new romance, and this will play well with middle school readers as well as high school ones. Recommend this to fans of young adult mysteries like Johnson's Death at Morning House, van Draanen's The Steps, or Cavalanchia's Murder Royale, or even readers who enjoy the grandfather in Ponti's Hurricane Heist and the similar residence involved in that second book of The Sherlock Society mysteries.
Virginia Tillis is traveling to visit her grandmother Lainey at her retirement condo in Florida, and also to attend the funeral of their friend Claude, who was responsible for the quirky nature of the building. The pink, rococo style resident was home to a number of elderly theatrical retirees, and hosted Murder Most Fowl dinner parties (where fried chicken was served) as well as regular games of Killing Me Softly. Virginia willingly plays along, donning a vintage dress for the reading of the will. At the airport, she has met Felix, who is the grandson of another resident, and the two hit it off. Virginia is not as happy to meet Bradley, the college aged step nephew of Claude's sister Berneice. He's a little too familiar and creepy, and he and Berneice are not happy to find that Claude has left Berneice only his apartment, and not the entire building. Not only that, but his sister must stay in the apartment for three months and take care of his cat. When the unpleasant Bradley is found dead under the pool table, Virginia and Felix step in to investigate, even though it is assumed that one of Bradley's many allergies killed him. Bradley has taken some of Claude's paintings to a local thrift store, hoping to get money for them; one was painted by Felix's grandfather, and the two buy it back. Bradley's father runs a redevelopment company, which seems to be interested in the building, since it sits on a prime piece of real estate and has been attractive to other developers as well, even though Claude steadfastly refused to sell. As details emerge about Bradley's past as well as about suspicious things at Castle Claude, like a neglected garden full of poison plants, Virginia and Felix become closer as they participate in some of the residents' investigative parties, and also come closer to solving the crime.
There are so many cozy murder mysteries for adult readers that it should be no surprise that young adult readers would like some as well. Even middle grade readers are thrilled by books like Souders' Secrets of the Broken House. What better setting than a condo filled with quirky, theatrical retirees who love putting on murder mystery parties? Virginia and Felix both wholeheartedly enjoy the older people around them, and have learned a lot about detection during the course of the many scenarios. The fact that Castle Claude might cease to exist adds a layer of anxiety to the proceedings as well.
Bradley is a stereotypical heel, so it's hard to take his death too seriously. Berneice works against the residents in a way that makes her unsympathetic as well. There's some unexpected community in a local taxi service run by several sisters, a lawyer who doesn't have the best intentions, and a twist that will make readers who want to see justice served happy.
Felix and Virginia have a charming new romance, and this will play well with middle school readers as well as high school ones. Recommend this to fans of young adult mysteries like Johnson's Death at Morning House, van Draanen's The Steps, or Cavalanchia's Murder Royale, or even readers who enjoy the grandfather in Ponti's Hurricane Heist and the similar residence involved in that second book of The Sherlock Society mysteries.
November 7, 2025
It's the Thursday Murder Club meets Only Murders In the Building in this YA romp. Virginia, somewhat shy and reserved in her every day high school life, comes out of her shell on visits to her spunky grandmother and her eclectic friends at the condo complex they call "Castle Claude." On her trips to Castle Claude, she can try out being someone new - usually, a detective or a young murderess. That's right, her favorite group of septo- and octogenarians are dedicated murder mystery players, writing and acting out games of what they call "Killing Me Softly" right there in their castle. This year, her visit has a more somber tone, as the building's titular Claude has passed, leaving plenty of drama and -- dare I say it -- some murder in his wake. Teaming up with Felix, another grandchild of the unlikely band of friends who live in the Castle, Virginia finds herself inhabiting the roll of investigator she's long played out on their mini stage. She'll have to ignore the sparks flying between her and Felix if she wants to get to the bottom of this whodunnit, and save Castle Claude in the process.
Sellet's prose is snappy, and her characters charming delights. Personally, I would love to visit Castle Claude and hang out in that cool courtyard!!
I had fun reading this, and I'd buy this for a YA fan in my life. I only wish the "murder mystery" theme had been explored more - feels like we only scratched the surface of what "Killing Me Softly" is and could be as a plot device, not to mention as a vehicle for this wonderful cast. The actual death didn't happen until about 50% of the way into the book, and then its investigation seemed to take a back seat to other plot pieces, like Bernie's motivations, and the future of Castle Claude. I would have liked it if the murder had been more central, and the clues a bit more in depth. I also bought Virginia and Felix's friendship, but didn't feel any chemistry between them -- maybe I would have felt differently if I were reading this as the target high school demographic, though! Their jokes and quick wit back and forth made me laugh more than once.
All and all, a solid fun time, but I could have used both more of the "flirting" and the "murder" promised by the title.
Thank you to the Publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
Sellet's prose is snappy, and her characters charming delights. Personally, I would love to visit Castle Claude and hang out in that cool courtyard!!
I had fun reading this, and I'd buy this for a YA fan in my life. I only wish the "murder mystery" theme had been explored more - feels like we only scratched the surface of what "Killing Me Softly" is and could be as a plot device, not to mention as a vehicle for this wonderful cast. The actual death didn't happen until about 50% of the way into the book, and then its investigation seemed to take a back seat to other plot pieces, like Bernie's motivations, and the future of Castle Claude. I would have liked it if the murder had been more central, and the clues a bit more in depth. I also bought Virginia and Felix's friendship, but didn't feel any chemistry between them -- maybe I would have felt differently if I were reading this as the target high school demographic, though! Their jokes and quick wit back and forth made me laugh more than once.
All and all, a solid fun time, but I could have used both more of the "flirting" and the "murder" promised by the title.
Thank you to the Publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
December 5, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Wednesday Books for the ARC! All opinions are my own.
Virginia’s grandmother is not like a typical grandma. Residing in a large, pink building full of her closest friends, these old folks find joy in roleplaying murder mysteries. This game they love, aptly titled “Killing Me Softly”, is as immersive as can be for these theatrical retirees. And Virginia, a would-be detective never misses the chance to join in.
This time, however, Virginia isn’t the only one spending their summer with their eccentric grandparent. Felix is Virginia’s match, a theatrical young man whose interest in murder mysteries spurns Virginia into competition, eager to best him.
However, upon the passing of the beloved building owner, his sister, clearly unimpressed by the eccentricity of the place, charges in with some big ideas—ones that would push out the residents.
Then the game gets all too real when the duo discover an actual dead body during a game, forcing these rivals to team up and not only prove the innocence of the elderly thespians, but to also save the place they call home.
I do murder mystery dinner theater as a part-time gig, so I was already hooked on the premise alone! I am obsessed with their game, and the moments we get to see it in action are by far some of my favorites.
I loved our protagonist, as well as her rival-turned-love interest. Their chemistry was clear from the get go, and their banter brought more than a few laughs out of me. I also liked that their romance was not rushed! It didn’t feel like they were forced together, and instead it felt like the author allowed their relationship to drive their changing dynamic.
And the elders! They by far stole the show, and I loved that they all felt distinct and had their own strengths to bring to their community. Collectively, they might’ve been my favorite characters.
The book is paced quite well, and I feel that the ending is unexpected but aptly fitting for this book; it’s not serious, which works so well as this book veers toward the comedic. Overall, Sellet did fantastic work on this novel, and I will definitely be looking at her works more in the future.
Virginia’s grandmother is not like a typical grandma. Residing in a large, pink building full of her closest friends, these old folks find joy in roleplaying murder mysteries. This game they love, aptly titled “Killing Me Softly”, is as immersive as can be for these theatrical retirees. And Virginia, a would-be detective never misses the chance to join in.
This time, however, Virginia isn’t the only one spending their summer with their eccentric grandparent. Felix is Virginia’s match, a theatrical young man whose interest in murder mysteries spurns Virginia into competition, eager to best him.
However, upon the passing of the beloved building owner, his sister, clearly unimpressed by the eccentricity of the place, charges in with some big ideas—ones that would push out the residents.
Then the game gets all too real when the duo discover an actual dead body during a game, forcing these rivals to team up and not only prove the innocence of the elderly thespians, but to also save the place they call home.
I do murder mystery dinner theater as a part-time gig, so I was already hooked on the premise alone! I am obsessed with their game, and the moments we get to see it in action are by far some of my favorites.
I loved our protagonist, as well as her rival-turned-love interest. Their chemistry was clear from the get go, and their banter brought more than a few laughs out of me. I also liked that their romance was not rushed! It didn’t feel like they were forced together, and instead it felt like the author allowed their relationship to drive their changing dynamic.
And the elders! They by far stole the show, and I loved that they all felt distinct and had their own strengths to bring to their community. Collectively, they might’ve been my favorite characters.
The book is paced quite well, and I feel that the ending is unexpected but aptly fitting for this book; it’s not serious, which works so well as this book veers toward the comedic. Overall, Sellet did fantastic work on this novel, and I will definitely be looking at her works more in the future.
November 29, 2025
Actual Rating 2.5
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
A group of retired theater lovers living together in a Florida condo spends their days writing and acting out murder mysteries. Felix and Virginia, two grandkids who also inherited their grandparents' love of solving mysteries, traveled to the town in the summer. It wasn’t on their agenda to witness and solve a real-life murder mystery.
All grandparents were eccentric, lively, and full of heart. They made the story feel cozier and warmer whenever they appeared. I loved their friendship and the way they were treating Felix and Virginia. The banter between Felix and Virginia brought some fun moments, but overall, they gave off more ���friends” vibes than romantic ones. Felix was much more likable, his character and bantering felt more natural compared to Virginia’s. I just wish they had more chemistry. Even though the story was told from her POV, I still felt like I got to know her the least.
My biggest issue was the pacing. It took nearly half the book to get to the actual murder and about 85% before anyone seriously started solving it. The slow pace and too many details made me lose interest really quickly. The mystery itself wasn’t terrible, but really underdeveloped, same with most of the subplots. I wanted more twists, more clues, and a stronger sense of urgency to solve the murder mystery. The underutilization of the Killing Me Softly game made me so mad and sad. The story could have focused more on “flirting” and murder. I liked the idea more than the execution. I just wish it had more depth in all aspects.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
A group of retired theater lovers living together in a Florida condo spends their days writing and acting out murder mysteries. Felix and Virginia, two grandkids who also inherited their grandparents' love of solving mysteries, traveled to the town in the summer. It wasn’t on their agenda to witness and solve a real-life murder mystery.
All grandparents were eccentric, lively, and full of heart. They made the story feel cozier and warmer whenever they appeared. I loved their friendship and the way they were treating Felix and Virginia. The banter between Felix and Virginia brought some fun moments, but overall, they gave off more ���friends” vibes than romantic ones. Felix was much more likable, his character and bantering felt more natural compared to Virginia’s. I just wish they had more chemistry. Even though the story was told from her POV, I still felt like I got to know her the least.
My biggest issue was the pacing. It took nearly half the book to get to the actual murder and about 85% before anyone seriously started solving it. The slow pace and too many details made me lose interest really quickly. The mystery itself wasn’t terrible, but really underdeveloped, same with most of the subplots. I wanted more twists, more clues, and a stronger sense of urgency to solve the murder mystery. The underutilization of the Killing Me Softly game made me so mad and sad. The story could have focused more on “flirting” and murder. I liked the idea more than the execution. I just wish it had more depth in all aspects.
November 8, 2025
Thanks you Netgalley, St. Martins Press and Amanda Sellet for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my thoughts.
First, the positives. The very best part of this book is the supporting cast of vibrant, fun, grandparents who put together murder mysteries to solve. What’s not to love about that premise? Each character was so unique and I want to be apart of their murder LARP group. Even Claude, who we quickly find out has recently passed away, felt like such a full character. And this group is really what made this story shine.
**slight implied spoilers about the solution to the mystery** I also really really enjoyed the overall murder mystery story that took place. There was a moment about 85% through where I was prepared to be completely annoyed with what it seemed like the ending was going to be. I never should have doubted because the solution did end up being a satisfying surprise. ***another spoiler warning*** the downside to the murder story mixed with this friend dynamic was that there was a not a moment where I thought one of these grandparents committed the murder. So it made the options very limited.
The major downside for me was that I could not stand Virginia and Felix. And that’s really just a YA stylistic choice that didn’t jive with me. Others will love their dynamics. I just very quickly because tired of the constant jabs at each other. It felt like every line of dialogue was trying to be clever. And honestly that would probably work well for YA readers, just not for me. And that made it hard to feel invested in them.
First, the positives. The very best part of this book is the supporting cast of vibrant, fun, grandparents who put together murder mysteries to solve. What’s not to love about that premise? Each character was so unique and I want to be apart of their murder LARP group. Even Claude, who we quickly find out has recently passed away, felt like such a full character. And this group is really what made this story shine.
**slight implied spoilers about the solution to the mystery** I also really really enjoyed the overall murder mystery story that took place. There was a moment about 85% through where I was prepared to be completely annoyed with what it seemed like the ending was going to be. I never should have doubted because the solution did end up being a satisfying surprise. ***another spoiler warning*** the downside to the murder story mixed with this friend dynamic was that there was a not a moment where I thought one of these grandparents committed the murder. So it made the options very limited.
The major downside for me was that I could not stand Virginia and Felix. And that’s really just a YA stylistic choice that didn’t jive with me. Others will love their dynamics. I just very quickly because tired of the constant jabs at each other. It felt like every line of dialogue was trying to be clever. And honestly that would probably work well for YA readers, just not for me. And that made it hard to feel invested in them.
December 27, 2025
What a cute read! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Virginia is staying at her grandmothers home this summer, which she is thrilled about. Her Grandma Lainey is one of her favourite people in the world - she’s theatrical, whimsical, and fun! All the things Virginia missing at home with her mom and new stepfather.
Grandma Lainey lives in a building, Castle Claude, with her other artistic, theatrical, and musical retired friends. From the outside, Castle Claude is pink and dramatic. From the inside, it’s even more dramatic, with its residents routinely playing a murder mystery role play game together, complete with scripts, costumes, and fully acted death scenes. Recently, Claude, the owner of the condo corp, has recently passed away from cancer. He’s left everyone in the building, as well as Virginia, something in his will!
Tensions rise at the will reading when Claude’s only living family member, his sister, does not inherit the whole condo as she assumed. Tensions get even higher when, during a round of their murder mystery game, there’s a real dead body in addition to the actor-portrayed “victim”.
Flirting with Murder is a fun read, and is great for any reader aged teen and up. It’s a cozy mystery with some romance sprinkled in. No sex, no graphic violence, some swearing and some kissing. Virginia is a lovely sarcastic, smart character and I really liked her love interest, Felix as well. They make a good pair of mystery solving sleuths!
Thank you to Net Galley and St. Martin's Press for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Virginia is staying at her grandmothers home this summer, which she is thrilled about. Her Grandma Lainey is one of her favourite people in the world - she’s theatrical, whimsical, and fun! All the things Virginia missing at home with her mom and new stepfather.
Grandma Lainey lives in a building, Castle Claude, with her other artistic, theatrical, and musical retired friends. From the outside, Castle Claude is pink and dramatic. From the inside, it’s even more dramatic, with its residents routinely playing a murder mystery role play game together, complete with scripts, costumes, and fully acted death scenes. Recently, Claude, the owner of the condo corp, has recently passed away from cancer. He’s left everyone in the building, as well as Virginia, something in his will!
Tensions rise at the will reading when Claude’s only living family member, his sister, does not inherit the whole condo as she assumed. Tensions get even higher when, during a round of their murder mystery game, there’s a real dead body in addition to the actor-portrayed “victim”.
Flirting with Murder is a fun read, and is great for any reader aged teen and up. It’s a cozy mystery with some romance sprinkled in. No sex, no graphic violence, some swearing and some kissing. Virginia is a lovely sarcastic, smart character and I really liked her love interest, Felix as well. They make a good pair of mystery solving sleuths!
Thank you to Net Galley and St. Martin's Press for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
December 18, 2025
>NetGalley Review<
Rating: 3.5-4/5 🌟
First off thank you NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a review. Well here it is:
I loved this YA Romance/Mystery book.The banter between Virginia and Felix was adorable. From the moment they met at the airport to them finally having their moment at the pool. I was kicking my feet when they finally kissed. Their chemistry was so spot on, and the part where they were hiding in the broom closet was my favorite. From the suspense of Bernie lurking in her apartment to the intimate space between Virginia and Felix, it was so suspenseful.
Aside from the main characters' romance, the plot of the mystery/murder was super slow paced. It seemed it picked up until 85% of the book. It was really slow about the unveiling of the murderer and when they did, it wasn't like an "OMG THAT PERSON DID IT! 😱" it was more like an "oh they did it." I wish they would've had a better explanation for everything. But overall, all the residents at Castle Claude were very interesting and likable. My favorite was Grandma Lainey and the chef of the building, Mr. Namura. Also Mr. Gutierrez, the painter. They never revealed if they got all his paintings back, but I'm assuming he did. Anyways I do hope him and Grandma Lainey revisit their love history they have.
Overall, it was a good and fast read. Loved the characters, and I enjoyed the game of Killing Me Softly in the book.
Rating: 3.5-4/5 🌟
First off thank you NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a review. Well here it is:
I loved this YA Romance/Mystery book.The banter between Virginia and Felix was adorable. From the moment they met at the airport to them finally having their moment at the pool. I was kicking my feet when they finally kissed. Their chemistry was so spot on, and the part where they were hiding in the broom closet was my favorite. From the suspense of Bernie lurking in her apartment to the intimate space between Virginia and Felix, it was so suspenseful.
Aside from the main characters' romance, the plot of the mystery/murder was super slow paced. It seemed it picked up until 85% of the book. It was really slow about the unveiling of the murderer and when they did, it wasn't like an "OMG THAT PERSON DID IT! 😱" it was more like an "oh they did it." I wish they would've had a better explanation for everything. But overall, all the residents at Castle Claude were very interesting and likable. My favorite was Grandma Lainey and the chef of the building, Mr. Namura. Also Mr. Gutierrez, the painter. They never revealed if they got all his paintings back, but I'm assuming he did. Anyways I do hope him and Grandma Lainey revisit their love history they have.
Overall, it was a good and fast read. Loved the characters, and I enjoyed the game of Killing Me Softly in the book.
November 23, 2025
No one does murder like Castle Claude.
This is a fact that's well known by high schooler Virginia, who loves visiting her grandmother at her condo complex known as Castle Claude. Grandma Lainey and her building mates love to play the mystery RPG of their own making called Killing Me Softly, which seems even more important now as a way to honour the recently deceased Claude. When someone actually dies though, it's up to Virginia and the annoyingly cute Felix to solve the mystery.
What needs to be said first and foremost is that the banter in this book is top notch incredible. Virginia and Felix play off each other amazingly, while they navigate the many tangled webs of their beloved grandparents and cohorts.
The whole concept of a retirement condo having a murder mystery RPG is genius in and of itself. Stepping into the world of Castle Claude was a joyfully fun adventure from start to finish. I genuinely hope that this will be a series because I need more of these characters!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press I Wednesday Books for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
This is a fact that's well known by high schooler Virginia, who loves visiting her grandmother at her condo complex known as Castle Claude. Grandma Lainey and her building mates love to play the mystery RPG of their own making called Killing Me Softly, which seems even more important now as a way to honour the recently deceased Claude. When someone actually dies though, it's up to Virginia and the annoyingly cute Felix to solve the mystery.
What needs to be said first and foremost is that the banter in this book is top notch incredible. Virginia and Felix play off each other amazingly, while they navigate the many tangled webs of their beloved grandparents and cohorts.
The whole concept of a retirement condo having a murder mystery RPG is genius in and of itself. Stepping into the world of Castle Claude was a joyfully fun adventure from start to finish. I genuinely hope that this will be a series because I need more of these characters!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press I Wednesday Books for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Flirting with Murder was a cute YA novel about murder, secrets, found family, and budding romance. Virginia and Felix are both visiting their grandparents for the summer after one of the residents of the building dies from cancer. In his will, his sister inherits his condo, but she has a different plan for the building, desiring to get rid of the current residents and redesign the building. Things go from bad to worse when a dead body is found during one of their murder mystery games. Luckily, Virginia and Felix work together to help find the killer and keep the condo building from being sold.
I am not a huge fan of YA books, but this was a fun read about two highschoolers trying to solve a murder while trying to understand their feelings for each other. All the characters living at the condo are retired theater performers and it made the book come alive. They all lived harmoniously together in the building, doing what they love. I would definitely read another book about these characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I am not a huge fan of YA books, but this was a fun read about two highschoolers trying to solve a murder while trying to understand their feelings for each other. All the characters living at the condo are retired theater performers and it made the book come alive. They all lived harmoniously together in the building, doing what they love. I would definitely read another book about these characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2025
This was such a fun and delightful read! Heads up that it's YA and the main characters are high schoolers - not an issue for me at all, but I went into this blind besides the cover and was under the impression our main characters would be older at first.
I loved the concept of this book. Our FMC Virginia is visiting her grandma for the summer - where she lives in a building with a bunch of her fellow elderly friends and in their free time, they like to enact murder mystery games. She arrives just in time for the funeral/will-reading of the building owner and their dear friend. Besides missing one key character, this summer has a couple of twists compared to Virginia's usual visits: 1) there's a second grandkid visiting for the summer and he's extremely charming and 2) there's an actual murder that takes place (and to solve). Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the NetGalley eARC.
The writing is snappy, the banter is bantering, and I loved seeing this unfold through Virginia's perspective! Would absolutely recommend this one!
I loved the concept of this book. Our FMC Virginia is visiting her grandma for the summer - where she lives in a building with a bunch of her fellow elderly friends and in their free time, they like to enact murder mystery games. She arrives just in time for the funeral/will-reading of the building owner and their dear friend. Besides missing one key character, this summer has a couple of twists compared to Virginia's usual visits: 1) there's a second grandkid visiting for the summer and he's extremely charming and 2) there's an actual murder that takes place (and to solve). Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the NetGalley eARC.
The writing is snappy, the banter is bantering, and I loved seeing this unfold through Virginia's perspective! Would absolutely recommend this one!
October 18, 2025
Flirting with Murder by Amanda Sellet is a charming and cozy YA mystery that mixes humour, suspense, and some romance.
High schooler Virginia Tillis is visiting her grandmother in Florida in the summer and is surrounded by a quirky group of theater retirees who stage elaborate murder‑mystery games right in their own condo. However, rivals Virginia and Felix are pulled into doing an actual investigation when a real death shakes the condo community.
Sellet balances lots of lighthearted banter and eccentric characters with a genuinely twisty mystery, creating a story that feels fun, witty, and suspenseful. The Florida setting and the entire cast adds plenty of charm, while Virginia’s sharp, funny voice keeps the narrative engaging.
Fans of YA mysteries, rom-coms, and whodunits will find this a delightful, clever read that is both entertaining and heartfelt.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the availability of the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
High schooler Virginia Tillis is visiting her grandmother in Florida in the summer and is surrounded by a quirky group of theater retirees who stage elaborate murder‑mystery games right in their own condo. However, rivals Virginia and Felix are pulled into doing an actual investigation when a real death shakes the condo community.
Sellet balances lots of lighthearted banter and eccentric characters with a genuinely twisty mystery, creating a story that feels fun, witty, and suspenseful. The Florida setting and the entire cast adds plenty of charm, while Virginia’s sharp, funny voice keeps the narrative engaging.
Fans of YA mysteries, rom-coms, and whodunits will find this a delightful, clever read that is both entertaining and heartfelt.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the availability of the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2025
Flirting with Murder by Amanda Sellet was an absolute delight. I loved the witty banter between Virginia and Felix, which reminded me of the dynamic between the main characters in Truly Devious. The Florida retirement home setting was both unique and endearing, adding a fun twist to the mystery.
What really stood out to me was how this book manages to appeal to both adults and sophisticated middle school readers. There is no foul language or explicit content. As the title suggests, there is plenty of flirting and a well-crafted mystery. I found myself rooting for the seniors to save their building right alongside Virginia and Felix.
The mystery was engaging with just the right balance of humor, heart, and intrigue. I truly hope there is a sequel so readers can see how Virginia and Felix’s relationship develops. This is a perfect choice for any teen or adult who enjoys a smart mystery with a touch of romance. It would appeal to readers of all genders.
What really stood out to me was how this book manages to appeal to both adults and sophisticated middle school readers. There is no foul language or explicit content. As the title suggests, there is plenty of flirting and a well-crafted mystery. I found myself rooting for the seniors to save their building right alongside Virginia and Felix.
The mystery was engaging with just the right balance of humor, heart, and intrigue. I truly hope there is a sequel so readers can see how Virginia and Felix’s relationship develops. This is a perfect choice for any teen or adult who enjoys a smart mystery with a touch of romance. It would appeal to readers of all genders.
October 30, 2025
“Flirting with Murder” was a very enjoyable story. I liked that the chapter titles referenced murders. I also liked the idea of a condo unit (Castle Claude) where the senior citizen residents host murder mysteries. The flirting aspect involves Virginia and Felix, the grandchildren of two of the residents, who are willing participants in the murder mysteries as well and are visiting for the summer but also present for the funeral of Claude, who has left them bequests. The reading of the will reveals a potential threat to Castle Claude. And soon one of the potential threats ends up dead under mysterious circumstances. Which raises a question of whether one of the residents took the murder mystery fun a little too far. As Virginia and Felix try to answer that question, reasons arise that make various residents possible suspects.
November 25, 2025
Thank you for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
I liked the premise and eventually the banter between the two leads got better. But! This book kinda dragged. Like, it's YA, which is totally fine, and it's a murder mystery but it's also just boring? It feels like it takes too long to get to the point.
The leads eventually grew on me but they really didn't offer anything unique to the table. Felix was fine, Virgina annoyed me for most of the book? I'm not even sure why.
I didn't care about the characters, the setting, the plot, not even the mystery. I found myself skimming quite a lot as I continued. And at the beginning, I had a hard time continuing.
I don't think it's a bad book. It's honestly probably a me issue. I think some people will really like this, it just wasn't for me.
2.5 stars
I liked the premise and eventually the banter between the two leads got better. But! This book kinda dragged. Like, it's YA, which is totally fine, and it's a murder mystery but it's also just boring? It feels like it takes too long to get to the point.
The leads eventually grew on me but they really didn't offer anything unique to the table. Felix was fine, Virgina annoyed me for most of the book? I'm not even sure why.
I didn't care about the characters, the setting, the plot, not even the mystery. I found myself skimming quite a lot as I continued. And at the beginning, I had a hard time continuing.
I don't think it's a bad book. It's honestly probably a me issue. I think some people will really like this, it just wasn't for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for giving me an arc!
I love a good murder mystery. But adding banter and wittiness to a murder mystery just adds a factor that really makes the story even better for me! When I first saw the synopsis for this book, I knew it was going to be a good one. And it didn't disappoint! I think Sellet did a fantastic job shaping this story and executing it---it was really well done. I loved both Virginia and Felix. Their banter was so funny, and I found myself laughing a lot at whatever they were doing, because it just felt lighthearted and sweet. The chemistry was really well written, and I love them so much. Overall, a really great novel!
I love a good murder mystery. But adding banter and wittiness to a murder mystery just adds a factor that really makes the story even better for me! When I first saw the synopsis for this book, I knew it was going to be a good one. And it didn't disappoint! I think Sellet did a fantastic job shaping this story and executing it---it was really well done. I loved both Virginia and Felix. Their banter was so funny, and I found myself laughing a lot at whatever they were doing, because it just felt lighthearted and sweet. The chemistry was really well written, and I love them so much. Overall, a really great novel!
October 27, 2025
This YA cozy murder mystery was a fun mix of characters (and some of the apartment building residents were definitely very much over the top), an emphasis on quippy banter, a whole lot of suspects, and a goofy ending. I thought the initial set up took too long, but the investigation aspects of "Flirting With Murder" were definitely the best parts of the book (tons of scenes of comedic banter). The wrap up of the 'who did it' mystery was done a little TOO quickly (the whole subplot with the lawyer felt underdeveloped), but this was still a fun reading experience.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book.
October 28, 2025
Thank you so much to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Amanda Sellet for sharing this ARC with me, in exchange for my honest review.
Flirting With Murder is an excellent whodunit. The MMC, Felix (Love this name btw), and the FMC, Virginia, are totally adorable. Also also, their back and forth banter and chemistry is the cutest. The side characters are a fun addition. It kinda reminds me of Only Murders In The Building. I didn't want this story to end.
If y'all love a YA cheesy Rom-Com with a murder mystery, then this book is absolutely for y'all.
I recommend that y'all get this book ASAP.
Flirting With Murder is an excellent whodunit. The MMC, Felix (Love this name btw), and the FMC, Virginia, are totally adorable. Also also, their back and forth banter and chemistry is the cutest. The side characters are a fun addition. It kinda reminds me of Only Murders In The Building. I didn't want this story to end.
If y'all love a YA cheesy Rom-Com with a murder mystery, then this book is absolutely for y'all.
I recommend that y'all get this book ASAP.
November 2, 2025
This YA murder mystery is fabulous! I absolutely love Virginia's grandma and her neighbors' friendship and think it would be so fun to grow up visiting "Castle Claude". I also loved the banter between Virginia and Felix, and the fact they DON'T have a insta love romance. It's more fitting, since they are teens who barely know each other and are busy trying to focus on solving the mystery to save their grandparents' and friends' building, so a budding relationship fits.
Thank you, St. Martin's Press Group, for the arc! These opinions are my own.
Thank you, St. Martin's Press Group, for the arc! These opinions are my own.
December 6, 2025
When I first requested this book, I didn’t think I would like this book as much as I did. The fun murder mystery game turned deadly was very well written. It had all the key elements to be fun but suspenseful and keep you guessing throughout the story. The characters are very diverse and unique. The romance sub plot was perfect just the right amount of romance so it didn’t overpower the plot. I would totally recommend this. If you have read the Agathas or Truly Devious books, I think that you would really enjoy this book.
October 20, 2025
3.5 stars
This was a lot of fun. I loved the snappy banter between Virginia and Felix. Grandma Lainey and the gang were also fabulous with their mystery live-action role playing ways. I want to be like them when I'm a senior citizen and I loved that they all lived as a co-op. However it was a bit too slow in pace to get to the mystery solving. After the real body is found it took forever for Virginia and Felix to start sleuthing so the story dragged a bit with too much LARPing.
Nonetheless I still enjoyed this and hope we get more from the gang. I'm also going to buy the author's back catalogue.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press/Wednesday Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
This was a lot of fun. I loved the snappy banter between Virginia and Felix. Grandma Lainey and the gang were also fabulous with their mystery live-action role playing ways. I want to be like them when I'm a senior citizen and I loved that they all lived as a co-op. However it was a bit too slow in pace to get to the mystery solving. After the real body is found it took forever for Virginia and Felix to start sleuthing so the story dragged a bit with too much LARPing.
Nonetheless I still enjoyed this and hope we get more from the gang. I'm also going to buy the author's back catalogue.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press/Wednesday Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
November 11, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC of Flirting with Murder! This was such a fun YA murder mystery and I loved the cast of characters! The banter between Virginia and Felix had me laughing out loud on more than one occasion. There were moments that the playfulness or back and forth made sections of the book difficult to follow—but I still had a good time with this story overall!
December 18, 2025
Flirting with Murder was a gem of a read!
With the banter of a Knives Out movie, the thrill of a classic Clue game, and a movie worthy meet-cute, Sellet delivers all of the vibes with this cozy YA mystery. Readers will want to be friends with all the members of Castle Claude, including the cat, dream of a love-interest who can cook, all while rooting for justice against the “gruesome twosome.”
Thank you Net Galley, Amanda Sellet, and Macmillan for the opportunity to read this book!
With the banter of a Knives Out movie, the thrill of a classic Clue game, and a movie worthy meet-cute, Sellet delivers all of the vibes with this cozy YA mystery. Readers will want to be friends with all the members of Castle Claude, including the cat, dream of a love-interest who can cook, all while rooting for justice against the “gruesome twosome.”
Thank you Net Galley, Amanda Sellet, and Macmillan for the opportunity to read this book!
October 22, 2025
Utterly charmed! This story drew me in from the first sentence and I devoured it. The characters were sweet and lovable and the perfect amount of cheesy. I would definitely put this in the cozy category. The stakes are pretty low and there is lots of fun to be had amongst the mystery. I don't always enjoy YA anymore because sometimes I feel like people write YA as without complexity or in a heavy-handed "youthful" way, but this struck a great balance with young, hopeful, silly, and sometimes confused teenagers without being overly precious about being a teenager. Also, not me looking for people to start a Castle Claude co-op condo with. 🫠
Thank you NetGalley, author, and publisher for this ARC! It was such a treat.
Thank you NetGalley, author, and publisher for this ARC! It was such a treat.
October 24, 2025
3.5 stars. Overall this was a cute, fun mystery. I was slightly underwhelmed but it was definitely enjoyable. I think I didn’t find the banter between the characters quite as charming as I was supposed to but it grew on me as the book went on.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy.
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