What do you think?
Rate this book
Wicked Fun
Jane Hawkins bakes cookies for the church fundraiser, compliments your new curtains, and knows exactly how long it takes to dissolve a body in lye.
She’s your friendly neighborhood widow — charming, chatty, and terrifyingly efficient when it comes to murder. Twenty years ago, Jane was the East Coast’s most prolific serial killer. These days, she’s still living on Cape Cod, trading corpses for cozy mysteries and bloodstains for book tours. Retirement has been… fine. A little dull. Very beige.
But when a cocky true crime podcaster starts connecting the dots on her past, and a mysterious copycat starts reenacting her signature kills, Jane realizes she has a problem. Several, actually.
Now she’s stuck playing mentor to a man she should probably murder, tracking a killer who’s clearly a fan but lacks finesse, and trying very hard not to fall back into old habits.
She’s not trying that hard.
The bodies are piling up. The questions are getting uncomfortable. And Jane’s golden years are looking increasingly… red.
Wicked Fun by Dave Pasquantonio is a razor-sharp thriller for fans of dry martinis, dark secrets, and delightful sociopaths. If Jessica Fletcher had a body count and zero patience, her name would be Jane Hawkins.
She’s your friendly neighborhood widow — charming, chatty, and terrifyingly efficient when it comes to murder. Twenty years ago, Jane was the East Coast’s most prolific serial killer. These days, she’s still living on Cape Cod, trading corpses for cozy mysteries and bloodstains for book tours. Retirement has been… fine. A little dull. Very beige.
But when a cocky true crime podcaster starts connecting the dots on her past, and a mysterious copycat starts reenacting her signature kills, Jane realizes she has a problem. Several, actually.
Now she’s stuck playing mentor to a man she should probably murder, tracking a killer who’s clearly a fan but lacks finesse, and trying very hard not to fall back into old habits.
She’s not trying that hard.
The bodies are piling up. The questions are getting uncomfortable. And Jane’s golden years are looking increasingly… red.
Wicked Fun by Dave Pasquantonio is a razor-sharp thriller for fans of dry martinis, dark secrets, and delightful sociopaths. If Jessica Fletcher had a body count and zero patience, her name would be Jane Hawkins.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2025
76 people are currently reading
192 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Read
May 19, 2025An entertaining story of a 60yo woman who is basically 'what if Jessica Fletcher was indeed the serial killer we all suspected?' (She even lives in Fletcher Cove, lol.) Jane writes cosy mysteries, lives an incredibly sparse life of lonely pretence and secret drinking, and has totally not killed anyone in years after the initial ten-man spree (which was mostly about killing her abusive husband but extended into killing lots of abusive men). Then a snotty true crime podcaster turns up and Jane is just forced to return to her old ways.
It's entertaining if you're waiting for your next Deanna Raybourn fix (Killers of a Certain Age) though not as good. Jane's bleak personality is well done but she doesn't feel like a 60yo woman physically--like, I don't care if you're a natural born killer, if you're a 60yo woman who doesn't do any exercise, you're not going to win a fight with a man half your age. Still, it's always entertaining to watch angry older women murder shitty men, and the ongoing plot is fun.
It's entertaining if you're waiting for your next Deanna Raybourn fix (Killers of a Certain Age) though not as good. Jane's bleak personality is well done but she doesn't feel like a 60yo woman physically--like, I don't care if you're a natural born killer, if you're a 60yo woman who doesn't do any exercise, you're not going to win a fight with a man half your age. Still, it's always entertaining to watch angry older women murder shitty men, and the ongoing plot is fun.
May 7, 2025
I was interested in the premise of a older woman with a killer past coming back to wreak havoc on her very mundane life, and really liked the execution.
The plot is really compelling, the writing is good and the main character is well fleshed out and easy to sympathise with.
The ending is satisfying and sets up nicely for a future story.
It was a fast and satisfying read.
The plot is really compelling, the writing is good and the main character is well fleshed out and easy to sympathise with.
The ending is satisfying and sets up nicely for a future story.
It was a fast and satisfying read.
June 4, 2025
I was immediately drawn to the premise of Wicked Fun—an older woman (60 now the new 40) with a ' killer' past attempting to lead a quiet, unremarkable life, only to be pulled back into chaos due to a relentless podcaster. I'm pleased to say the novel delivers on that promise and more. Fast-paced, action-packed, humorous and thoroughly engaging, this is one you will read in one sitting.
Jane, the protagonist, may appear to lead a mundane, beige existence, but beneath the surface, she is sharp, fearless, organized and deeply compelling—even when viewed through the lens of her unsettling past. Told from the unique perspective of Jane, a former serial killer, the narrative manages to evoke genuine empathy for a character who claims to despise people, yet remains undeniably magnetic to those around her, including the reader.
The writing is crisp, the pacing relentless, and the plot consistently gripping. Jane is a remarkably well-crafted character—complex, likable, and layered in a way that makes her easy to root for. Did I mention she is so organized?
The ending is both satisfying and open-ended, laying the groundwork for an exciting sequel. If you enjoy darkly humorous thrillers with strong character development and unrelenting momentum, Wicked Fun is a must-read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sterling & Stone, and Dave Pasquantonio for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Jane, the protagonist, may appear to lead a mundane, beige existence, but beneath the surface, she is sharp, fearless, organized and deeply compelling—even when viewed through the lens of her unsettling past. Told from the unique perspective of Jane, a former serial killer, the narrative manages to evoke genuine empathy for a character who claims to despise people, yet remains undeniably magnetic to those around her, including the reader.
The writing is crisp, the pacing relentless, and the plot consistently gripping. Jane is a remarkably well-crafted character—complex, likable, and layered in a way that makes her easy to root for. Did I mention she is so organized?
The ending is both satisfying and open-ended, laying the groundwork for an exciting sequel. If you enjoy darkly humorous thrillers with strong character development and unrelenting momentum, Wicked Fun is a must-read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sterling & Stone, and Dave Pasquantonio for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
June 17, 2025
A good mystery with a twist: we follow a serial killer who someone suspects. The MC is 60 and has stopped killing 20 years prior but this suspicious person surfacing changes everything. I won't say more on the plot. I really liked the premise and the MC who is unapologetic about her past and not passive, she does stuff. However, her life is kinda boring, she doesn't really have friends and we only follow her which made it a bit difficult to get into. The ending teases a book 2 which I hope happens and I intend to read!
August 27, 2025
Unconventional and fresh characters and storyline - feels like a guilty pleasure!
I just wish it hadn't ended with such an obvious hook for the next book in the series.
I just wish it hadn't ended with such an obvious hook for the next book in the series.
May 11, 2025
This book was fantastic. It had Dexter vibes as it was from the POV of a serial killer, yet you empathized with them and hoped they would win out in the end. There were twists and turns, some of which felt very predictable while reading through and then at the last second I realized I had been wrong!! I hope there's another book in this series as I would love to explore more of the MC's relationships with her daughter.
October 21, 2025
This is a clever and entertaining read with plenty of humor and imagination. The writing is sharp and fast-paced, keeping things engaging from start to finish. While a few moments could’ve used a bit more depth, it’s overall a fun and witty story that lives up to its title.
November 11, 2025
LOL - a female Dexter almost!!!
May 15, 2025
Book Review: Wicked Fun (Jane Hawkins, Unretired Serial Killer Book 1) by Dave Pasquantonio
Wicked Fun is a darkly comedic thriller that gleefully dances on the line between horror and absurdity. Dave Pasquantonio delivers a razor-sharp debut featuring Jane Hawkins, a retired serial killer dragged back into her old “hobbies” by a mix of boredom and bloody opportunity. The novel’s blend of morbid humor, biting social commentary, and unapologetic violence makes it a standout in the antiheroine subgenre—think Dexter meets Fleabag with a dash of American Psycho’s satire.
Premise & Themes
Jane Hawkins, a 60-something widow with a meticulously hidden past, finds her quiet suburban life upended when a nosy neighbor threatens to expose her. What follows is a spiral of rediscovered “passion projects”—namely, creative homicide—as Jane navigates midlife crises, neighborhood gossip, and the logistical nightmares of body disposal. Pasquantonio skewers suburban hypocrisy while exploring themes of reinvention, aging, and the unsettling allure of chaos. The tonal balance between farce and genuine tension is masterful, though some readers might crave deeper emotional stakes beneath the carnage.
Execution & Pacing
The novel’s strength lies in its breakneck pacing and snappy dialogue. Jane’s deadpan narration elevates even the grisliest scenes into laugh-out-loud set pieces (e.g., a kill involving a malfunctioning juicer). Flashbacks to Jane’s earlier “career” are sparing but effective, adding layers to her morally unmoored charm. While the plot occasionally veers into predictable territory (corrupt HOA presidents, bumbling cops), the sheer audacity of Jane’s schemes keeps the pages turning.
Character Depth
Jane Hawkins is an instant icon—a cocktail of Martha Stewart’s poise and Hannibal Lecter’s appetite. Her wit and self-awareness make her oddly endearing despite her atrocities. Supporting characters, like her suspicious book club nemesis or her oblivious yoga instructor, serve as delightful foils, though they rarely escape caricature. This feels intentional, as the story revels in its own exaggerated satire.
Originality & Voice
Pasquantonio’s voice is fresh and fearless, unafraid to lean into the grotesque while winking at the reader. The premise—a senior citizen serial killer—feels uniquely subversive in a genre often obsessed with youthful villains.
Score Breakdown (Out of 5)
-Concept: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – A hilariously twisted take on the serial killer trope.
-Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Relentlessly fun, though some twists feel telegraphed.
-Humor/Dark Tone: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Pitch-perfect balance of gore and giggles.
-Characterization: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Jane is stellar; side players are broad but fun.
-Emotional Resonance: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5) – More clever than cathartic, but that’s the point.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Wicked Fun is a riotous, blood-soaked romp that’s perfect for readers who like their humor with a side of homicide. Dave Pasquantonio announces himself as a bold new voice in dark comedy.
Who Should Read It?
-Fans of My Sister, the Serial Killer or Horrorstör seeking lighter, funnier fare.
-Readers who enjoy unreliable narrators and social satire.
-Those unbothered by graphic violence served with a smirk.
Who Might Not Love It?
-Readers preferring profound character arcs or moral clarity.
-Anyone sensitive to gore or dark humor.
Acknowledgments:
Thank you to NetGalley and Dave Pasquantonio for providing an advance review copy of Wicked Fun in exchange for an honest review.
Wicked Fun is a darkly comedic thriller that gleefully dances on the line between horror and absurdity. Dave Pasquantonio delivers a razor-sharp debut featuring Jane Hawkins, a retired serial killer dragged back into her old “hobbies” by a mix of boredom and bloody opportunity. The novel’s blend of morbid humor, biting social commentary, and unapologetic violence makes it a standout in the antiheroine subgenre—think Dexter meets Fleabag with a dash of American Psycho’s satire.
Premise & Themes
Jane Hawkins, a 60-something widow with a meticulously hidden past, finds her quiet suburban life upended when a nosy neighbor threatens to expose her. What follows is a spiral of rediscovered “passion projects”—namely, creative homicide—as Jane navigates midlife crises, neighborhood gossip, and the logistical nightmares of body disposal. Pasquantonio skewers suburban hypocrisy while exploring themes of reinvention, aging, and the unsettling allure of chaos. The tonal balance between farce and genuine tension is masterful, though some readers might crave deeper emotional stakes beneath the carnage.
Execution & Pacing
The novel’s strength lies in its breakneck pacing and snappy dialogue. Jane’s deadpan narration elevates even the grisliest scenes into laugh-out-loud set pieces (e.g., a kill involving a malfunctioning juicer). Flashbacks to Jane’s earlier “career” are sparing but effective, adding layers to her morally unmoored charm. While the plot occasionally veers into predictable territory (corrupt HOA presidents, bumbling cops), the sheer audacity of Jane’s schemes keeps the pages turning.
Character Depth
Jane Hawkins is an instant icon—a cocktail of Martha Stewart’s poise and Hannibal Lecter’s appetite. Her wit and self-awareness make her oddly endearing despite her atrocities. Supporting characters, like her suspicious book club nemesis or her oblivious yoga instructor, serve as delightful foils, though they rarely escape caricature. This feels intentional, as the story revels in its own exaggerated satire.
Originality & Voice
Pasquantonio’s voice is fresh and fearless, unafraid to lean into the grotesque while winking at the reader. The premise—a senior citizen serial killer—feels uniquely subversive in a genre often obsessed with youthful villains.
Score Breakdown (Out of 5)
-Concept: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – A hilariously twisted take on the serial killer trope.
-Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Relentlessly fun, though some twists feel telegraphed.
-Humor/Dark Tone: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Pitch-perfect balance of gore and giggles.
-Characterization: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Jane is stellar; side players are broad but fun.
-Emotional Resonance: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5) – More clever than cathartic, but that’s the point.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Wicked Fun is a riotous, blood-soaked romp that’s perfect for readers who like their humor with a side of homicide. Dave Pasquantonio announces himself as a bold new voice in dark comedy.
Who Should Read It?
-Fans of My Sister, the Serial Killer or Horrorstör seeking lighter, funnier fare.
-Readers who enjoy unreliable narrators and social satire.
-Those unbothered by graphic violence served with a smirk.
Who Might Not Love It?
-Readers preferring profound character arcs or moral clarity.
-Anyone sensitive to gore or dark humor.
Acknowledgments:
Thank you to NetGalley and Dave Pasquantonio for providing an advance review copy of Wicked Fun in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2025
TL/DR: Have you read the synopsis? Great? Now, stahp, and get the book! This is a twisted, wickedly clever book that is even better than Dunks. I said what I said!
Now, if you are not from New England, specifically Massachusetts, that probably read as very strange. Spoiler, I lived there once upon a time. Dunks, is Dunkin Donuts and if you choose any other you will lose your “Massachusetts card”. Ok, not really, but we take it very seriously.
Oh, poor Jane…what has our FMC gotten herself involved in now. Better yet, what door to her past has been opened that makes her feel alive? You see, Jane lives on the Cape (Cape Cod) and has spent many years writing cozy mysteries and growing a following of readers who love her. Despite this, she mainly keeps to herself, especially since becoming widowed some 20 years earlier. Then one night an attempted car jacking goes wrong and she kills her assailant. Most people would find this traumatic, Jane feels alive.
The MMC is a sleazy podcaster who is trying to solve ten murders from twenty years ago that he believes are linked. Not only that, but now there are new murders, “copy cat murders”, similar but not exact.
Then there is the person sending her photos, slightly incriminating, signed “Oh, Jane…”. I mean this is a woman who volunteers at the senior center and no kill animal shelter.
I really enjoyed it. As the first book in a series, it is well written, introduces the reader to this world and characters but doesn’t feel overwhelming. Yes, a female serial killer coming out of retirement is a strange subject to base a series on, but I think there are a lot more surprises coming our way and I can’t wait for book two.
I would like to thank the author, Dave Pasquantino, the publisher, Sterling and Stone and NetGalley for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and my review is voluntarily given. As always, I wish you happy reading!
Now, if you are not from New England, specifically Massachusetts, that probably read as very strange. Spoiler, I lived there once upon a time. Dunks, is Dunkin Donuts and if you choose any other you will lose your “Massachusetts card”. Ok, not really, but we take it very seriously.
Oh, poor Jane…what has our FMC gotten herself involved in now. Better yet, what door to her past has been opened that makes her feel alive? You see, Jane lives on the Cape (Cape Cod) and has spent many years writing cozy mysteries and growing a following of readers who love her. Despite this, she mainly keeps to herself, especially since becoming widowed some 20 years earlier. Then one night an attempted car jacking goes wrong and she kills her assailant. Most people would find this traumatic, Jane feels alive.
The MMC is a sleazy podcaster who is trying to solve ten murders from twenty years ago that he believes are linked. Not only that, but now there are new murders, “copy cat murders”, similar but not exact.
Then there is the person sending her photos, slightly incriminating, signed “Oh, Jane…”. I mean this is a woman who volunteers at the senior center and no kill animal shelter.
I really enjoyed it. As the first book in a series, it is well written, introduces the reader to this world and characters but doesn’t feel overwhelming. Yes, a female serial killer coming out of retirement is a strange subject to base a series on, but I think there are a lot more surprises coming our way and I can’t wait for book two.
I would like to thank the author, Dave Pasquantino, the publisher, Sterling and Stone and NetGalley for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and my review is voluntarily given. As always, I wish you happy reading!
January 1, 2026
My last book for 2025. It was a welcome change to some of the genres and styles I’ve read this year.
Jane is a 60 year old woman who lives alone writing cozy murder mystery novels from her quiet Cape Town. She’s sort of famous, but has almost no friends, almost no family and she’s rather critical of those folks she shares her life with.
The story follows Jane as her comfortable, predictable life gets turned upside down by someone digging into her hidden past. Murders committed over 20 years prior!
I liked aspects of Jane’s character, but other parts felt prickly for no reason other than to be prickly. Jane is smart, but then she also does some very silly things.
I enjoyed that she is multi-faceted, volunteering, helping out the local animal shelter and old folks home gave her likability when her otherwise prickly self would have probably been unlikable.
The murders and mystery aspects of this book were mostly entertaining, however some of it was a bit of a stretch in terms of plausibility.
My favourite character was Dexter by far; despite how little he's in the book.
If you enjoy serial killer books with grit, this is probably not the book for you. I’d file this one under cozy, like the books Jane herself writes.
One thing I noticed:
66% - There was only (one) thing she was good…
*Note: I was provided an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley.*
Jane is a 60 year old woman who lives alone writing cozy murder mystery novels from her quiet Cape Town. She’s sort of famous, but has almost no friends, almost no family and she’s rather critical of those folks she shares her life with.
The story follows Jane as her comfortable, predictable life gets turned upside down by someone digging into her hidden past. Murders committed over 20 years prior!
I liked aspects of Jane’s character, but other parts felt prickly for no reason other than to be prickly. Jane is smart, but then she also does some very silly things.
I enjoyed that she is multi-faceted, volunteering, helping out the local animal shelter and old folks home gave her likability when her otherwise prickly self would have probably been unlikable.
The murders and mystery aspects of this book were mostly entertaining, however some of it was a bit of a stretch in terms of plausibility.
My favourite character was Dexter by far; despite how little he's in the book.
If you enjoy serial killer books with grit, this is probably not the book for you. I’d file this one under cozy, like the books Jane herself writes.
One thing I noticed:
66% - There was only (one) thing she was good…
*Note: I was provided an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley.*
October 5, 2025
Most of what I read these days is mystery, leaning toward cozy. So for me to choose a book about a serial killer is unexpected. I was offered an ARC of this, and the description was intriguing so I decided to give it a shot.
To say I was pleasantly surprised is an understatement. The writing was excellent, the main character is interesting and — dare I say it? — wicked fun! (For those of you who don’t speak Massachusetts vernacular, “wicked” is an overused adjective to describe a superlative. So, it’s not “a lot of fun” or “very fun,” but “wicked fun.”)
Jane was widowed 20 years ago when her abusive husband, Donald, was murdered. She still lives, alone, in the same house, in a small town on Cape Cod. During this time, she’s become a writer, with a series of cozy mysteries.
However, her peaceful life is turned upside down when a smarmy podcaster approaches her at the signing event for her newest book and demands to talk to her about her husband’s murder for his podcast.
This is a lively, and in many ways, heartwarming, story about coming to terms with your past. That is, if you can get past the serial killer thing, which I was easily able to do.
To say I was pleasantly surprised is an understatement. The writing was excellent, the main character is interesting and — dare I say it? — wicked fun! (For those of you who don’t speak Massachusetts vernacular, “wicked” is an overused adjective to describe a superlative. So, it’s not “a lot of fun” or “very fun,” but “wicked fun.”)
Jane was widowed 20 years ago when her abusive husband, Donald, was murdered. She still lives, alone, in the same house, in a small town on Cape Cod. During this time, she’s become a writer, with a series of cozy mysteries.
However, her peaceful life is turned upside down when a smarmy podcaster approaches her at the signing event for her newest book and demands to talk to her about her husband’s murder for his podcast.
This is a lively, and in many ways, heartwarming, story about coming to terms with your past. That is, if you can get past the serial killer thing, which I was easily able to do.
May 10, 2025
★★★★
Jane is a widow best known for writing cozy mysteries that take place around Cape Cod. When she isn’t writing, she volunteers her time at the local dog shelter or senior center. If she weren’t a local celebrity, you might easily overlook her—and who could blame you? The police have been overlooking her for years. Jane has a few skeletons in her closet, and though she left that life behind, one nagging true crime podcaster might force her out of “retirement”…
What a treat! I read Wicked Fun in a single sitting—I could not put it down! Though Jane’s life might seem a bit beige, she is a straight shooter and unafraid to voice her thoughts. The plot was fun and action-packed—never a dull moment. Jane is an incredibly likable character, and despite claiming to despise people, they somehow feel drawn to her (including me). The story wrapped up quite nicely, yet ended on a bit of a cliffhanger that makes me excited for the sequel!
Thank you NetGalley, Sterling & Stone, and Dave Pasquantonio for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Jane is a widow best known for writing cozy mysteries that take place around Cape Cod. When she isn’t writing, she volunteers her time at the local dog shelter or senior center. If she weren’t a local celebrity, you might easily overlook her—and who could blame you? The police have been overlooking her for years. Jane has a few skeletons in her closet, and though she left that life behind, one nagging true crime podcaster might force her out of “retirement”…
What a treat! I read Wicked Fun in a single sitting—I could not put it down! Though Jane’s life might seem a bit beige, she is a straight shooter and unafraid to voice her thoughts. The plot was fun and action-packed—never a dull moment. Jane is an incredibly likable character, and despite claiming to despise people, they somehow feel drawn to her (including me). The story wrapped up quite nicely, yet ended on a bit of a cliffhanger that makes me excited for the sequel!
Thank you NetGalley, Sterling & Stone, and Dave Pasquantonio for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
May 30, 2025
I LOVED it ! I know I probably shouldn't have loved this book so much but Dave, my man what a wicked sense of humor you have. Jane is so clever, and funny. Hilarious even; especially when it came to her thoughts being spoken out loud and some of those inner thoughts too !
Her adversary, Esmir Roux was something else !!! Clever also, pushy to the point of being a stalker and determined to prove Jane as a murder. The murder of the 10 people at least.
Dexter, the dog she ends up adopting was a hoot. And he ended up being the best addition to her solitary life; she said so herself !!
The ending of the story was even better than the beginning; with dangerous, quirky Jane trying to live a normal, quiet life. Will she be able to? I doubt it and I hope I find the next book because it looks like its going to be "delicious" too !!
I loved the cover for this book too. So appropriate and clever ! Sure fit Jane, the main character too !
Her adversary, Esmir Roux was something else !!! Clever also, pushy to the point of being a stalker and determined to prove Jane as a murder. The murder of the 10 people at least.
Dexter, the dog she ends up adopting was a hoot. And he ended up being the best addition to her solitary life; she said so herself !!
The ending of the story was even better than the beginning; with dangerous, quirky Jane trying to live a normal, quiet life. Will she be able to? I doubt it and I hope I find the next book because it looks like its going to be "delicious" too !!
I loved the cover for this book too. So appropriate and clever ! Sure fit Jane, the main character too !
June 18, 2025
I read "Wicked Fun" in one day. It was so hard to put down!
Jane Hawkins is a 60-year-old widow who writes Cozy Mysteries. Everyone loves Jane, including her young neighbor who is her personal Geek Squad, the proprietors of the best bakery in Port Fletcher, and everyone at the senior center where Jane volunteers. But Jane has a secret past that no one would believe, and she's beginning to feel the pull of those old habits.
I wasn't sure that I liked Jane at first. She *is* a serial killer, after all, and she has a bit of a temper. On the other hand, she's my age, and we have the same taste in dogs (mine also brays like a wounded moose and is currently snoring at my side), and her victims were not nice men. By the end of the book, I was rooting for her and impatient for the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. I'm looking forward to reading more from Dave Pasquantonio.
Jane Hawkins is a 60-year-old widow who writes Cozy Mysteries. Everyone loves Jane, including her young neighbor who is her personal Geek Squad, the proprietors of the best bakery in Port Fletcher, and everyone at the senior center where Jane volunteers. But Jane has a secret past that no one would believe, and she's beginning to feel the pull of those old habits.
I wasn't sure that I liked Jane at first. She *is* a serial killer, after all, and she has a bit of a temper. On the other hand, she's my age, and we have the same taste in dogs (mine also brays like a wounded moose and is currently snoring at my side), and her victims were not nice men. By the end of the book, I was rooting for her and impatient for the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. I'm looking forward to reading more from Dave Pasquantonio.
June 1, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Sterling & Stone for providing this book, with my honest review below.
Wicked Fun follows Jane, the kindly elderly neighbor who is all about puppies, supporting her peers, writing cozy novels… and killing. Well she was all about killing, Jane retired as a serial killer, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t tempted. Pushing those temptations into action is a copycat (who doesn’t hold a candle on Jane) and a podcaster who absolutely should not be asking Jane questions. Typically you’d think getting into the mind of a serial killer would be disturbing and leave you hating this lady, but Jane is smart and charismatic, and you can’t help but nod with her line of thinking - which is definitely disturbing.
This book is the funnest of thrillers and leaves an opening to continue the story which I would absolutely support.
Wicked Fun follows Jane, the kindly elderly neighbor who is all about puppies, supporting her peers, writing cozy novels… and killing. Well she was all about killing, Jane retired as a serial killer, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t tempted. Pushing those temptations into action is a copycat (who doesn’t hold a candle on Jane) and a podcaster who absolutely should not be asking Jane questions. Typically you’d think getting into the mind of a serial killer would be disturbing and leave you hating this lady, but Jane is smart and charismatic, and you can’t help but nod with her line of thinking - which is definitely disturbing.
This book is the funnest of thrillers and leaves an opening to continue the story which I would absolutely support.
October 10, 2025
Oh, Jane… A phrase that takes on a whole new meaning as you read.
This book is absolutely captivating. And Jane—what can I even say? Morally gray doesn’t begin to cover it. How often do we see the serial killer become the crime novelist? Isn’t it usually the other way around? Jane Hawkins is not your typical sixty-year-old woman, and she’s definitely not your average serial killer.
She’s complicated—her reasons are complicated, her career is complicated, her relationships are complicated. What’s a woman to do when someone starts poking under too many rocks and uncovering her darkest secrets? Simple: stay one step ahead and expose their secrets first.
If you enjoy a truly unhinged, morally gray FMC tangled in layers of manipulation, obsession, and secrets—with a cliffhanger ending that’ll leave you blinking at the last page—this one’s for you.
10/10. Totally worth reading.
This book is absolutely captivating. And Jane—what can I even say? Morally gray doesn’t begin to cover it. How often do we see the serial killer become the crime novelist? Isn’t it usually the other way around? Jane Hawkins is not your typical sixty-year-old woman, and she’s definitely not your average serial killer.
She’s complicated—her reasons are complicated, her career is complicated, her relationships are complicated. What’s a woman to do when someone starts poking under too many rocks and uncovering her darkest secrets? Simple: stay one step ahead and expose their secrets first.
If you enjoy a truly unhinged, morally gray FMC tangled in layers of manipulation, obsession, and secrets—with a cliffhanger ending that’ll leave you blinking at the last page—this one’s for you.
10/10. Totally worth reading.
October 14, 2025
I was given this book as an ARC from Hidden Gems for my honest review. The following is exactly that.
This book is crazy good - in a psychopathic sort of way! The character growth and development through this is awesome, as well as the humor sprinkled throughout. I loved the large amount of sensory details that kept the story alive in my brain! How can you not love and cheer for Jane in all of her adventures and search for "the feeling" of her past. The twist and turns are just what us fans want and need from a book like this! You will truly be amazed. However, I did not see the final twist and cliffhanger coming! Not sure what I was expecting with so few pages left to read! Fooled me! Can't wait for book 2!
"What 'lives' in your head is scarier than what's really out there!" There is more truth in that statement than many of us want to believe!
This book is crazy good - in a psychopathic sort of way! The character growth and development through this is awesome, as well as the humor sprinkled throughout. I loved the large amount of sensory details that kept the story alive in my brain! How can you not love and cheer for Jane in all of her adventures and search for "the feeling" of her past. The twist and turns are just what us fans want and need from a book like this! You will truly be amazed. However, I did not see the final twist and cliffhanger coming! Not sure what I was expecting with so few pages left to read! Fooled me! Can't wait for book 2!
"What 'lives' in your head is scarier than what's really out there!" There is more truth in that statement than many of us want to believe!
May 3, 2025
"Everyone had dirt, but Jane had truckloads."
Jane is not your average gray-haired widow. Jane, who volunteers at the senior center and the dog rescue, writes loveable cozy mysteries, and, like any good old lady, pays the teenager next door to fix her computer,is was a serial killer. But that life is in the past. Until the past comes knocking with a microphone in its hands.
I couldn't put this story down! Jane is smart and methodical and always a step ahead. As this is the start of a series, it has a satisfying ending but leaves a few loose ends for future books. I look forward to more bloody adventures with Jane and Dexter.
Jane is not your average gray-haired widow. Jane, who volunteers at the senior center and the dog rescue, writes loveable cozy mysteries, and, like any good old lady, pays the teenager next door to fix her computer,
I couldn't put this story down! Jane is smart and methodical and always a step ahead. As this is the start of a series, it has a satisfying ending but leaves a few loose ends for future books. I look forward to more bloody adventures with Jane and Dexter.
October 2, 2025
This is book 1 in the new series, Jane Hawkins, Unretired Serial Killer. Jane is you typical 60ish neighbor who bakes cookies and watches out for her neighbors. NOT. 20 years ago she was the most prolific serial killer on the East Coast. Suddenly a mysterious copycat starts reenacting her signature kills, and Jane realizes she has to stop him before the police are led directly to her doorstep. With bodies everywhere and the press getting nosy she need to put a halt to new killer. I can't wait for book 2, I hope it comes out soon.
June 5, 2025
It’s probably wrong to love a serial killer as much as I loved Jane Hawkins. This former serial killer is forced out of retirement by a nosy true crime podcaster who is looking a little too closely at her past. Jane has more adventures in a week than most people have in their entire life…she is very busy. The writing is skilled and the plot is intriguing, but Jane is what really makes this a great read. Highly recommended! I enjoyed this book and hope there will be a sequel.
October 21, 2025
Thank you Hiddengemsbooks for the free ARC! I was entertained by this novel. The protagonist Jane Hawkins was quirky and amusing. She was also very strong physically. When I’m 60 I would love to have that stamina. The storyline was exciting and well paced. The ending definitely feels like a cliffhanger, so hopefully book two will come out and we can keep up with the shenanigans! I recommend this book and these are my honest opinions.
August 28, 2025
I picked this up as a free eBook through BookBub and honestly wasn't expecting much, but I was pleasantly surprised! This turned out to be a fun mystery that pulled me in right from the start and kept me turning the pages. The pacing never dragged, and the story held my interest all the way through. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
September 29, 2025
Oh Jane!
This book is great right from the first page. The characters are entertaining and story is twisty enough to leave the reader guessing. The main character is the kind of woman I would love to meet someday. I can definitely recommend this to anyone who likes snarky and laugh out loud funny characters and situations.
This book is great right from the first page. The characters are entertaining and story is twisty enough to leave the reader guessing. The main character is the kind of woman I would love to meet someday. I can definitely recommend this to anyone who likes snarky and laugh out loud funny characters and situations.
May 15, 2025
So I wanted to read this primarily because the MC was an older retired serial killer -something I haven’t read before! I loved it! Great pacing & atmosphere! The MC was highly relatable somehow, lol, just very well written!
August 16, 2025
I loved reading every sentence!
Welp, after reading the first two chapters, I rescheduled my day so I could read the entire book. Captivating, engrossing, terrific story-telling! I look forward to reading the followup book!
Welp, after reading the first two chapters, I rescheduled my day so I could read the entire book. Captivating, engrossing, terrific story-telling! I look forward to reading the followup book!
September 4, 2025
Wicked Fun
Jane is an author of cozy mysteries but 20 years ago she murdered 10 people. No one ever found out that Jane was a serial killer.
But now there is someone after Jane. Can she outsmart him or will her killing spree finally end??? Great, entertaining book.
Jane is an author of cozy mysteries but 20 years ago she murdered 10 people. No one ever found out that Jane was a serial killer.
But now there is someone after Jane. Can she outsmart him or will her killing spree finally end??? Great, entertaining book.
September 30, 2025
Wicked Fun
What an awesome serial killer book. Great characters, and storyline. This is one that you really hate to put down. Seems like so many turns. Hard for a serial killer to change, but then anything is possible. Definitely recommend. A+++++
What an awesome serial killer book. Great characters, and storyline. This is one that you really hate to put down. Seems like so many turns. Hard for a serial killer to change, but then anything is possible. Definitely recommend. A+++++
October 9, 2025
She seems like a nice old lady but she has secrets she wants to keep hidden. They want to find a killer but there is another killer mirroring her kills. Now she needs to find out what is going to happen next
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a great mystery
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a great mystery
October 9, 2025
Fun Book
I am so happy I received a free copy of this book. I really enjoyed it. It is different, as it focuses on a 60 year old female serial killer. She gave that up 20 years ago, but now her past has come back to haunt her
I am so happy I received a free copy of this book. I really enjoyed it. It is different, as it focuses on a 60 year old female serial killer. She gave that up 20 years ago, but now her past has come back to haunt her
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews