Pomona Afton Can Totally Catch a Killer: A Novel

Pomona Afton #2

by Bellamy Rose

In this witty and delightful follow-up to the “glam and glorious” (Kat Ailes, author of the Expectant Detectives Mysteries) Pomona Afton Can So Solve a Murder, Pom finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery that threatens her up-and-coming charity foundation and—worst of all—her romantic life.

Pomona Afton knows how to throw a memorable party. After all, for her twenty-fifth birthday, she hosted a global extravaganza that included a masquerade ball in a Scottish castle, clubbing in Ibiza, and skinny dipping on a private island. So, throwing a gala for her fledgling nonprofit should be a breeze.

Unfortunately, she has to navigate the high-stakes (and snobby) world of philanthropy, a beloved boyfriend who just can’t seem to fit in, and of course, her dysfunctional family, all while planning a party that won't only affect the future of her charity, but her own future in society.

But Pom is no quitter. She pushes forward and perseveres…until, right in the middle of her party, she discovers the body of one of her biggest donors. Suddenly all her hard work is going up in flames. If she’s going to salvage her new life path, she must put on her (incredibly stylish) detective hat again and figure out who wants to bring her down. One more measly little murder mystery shouldn’t be that hard, right?

Genres: Mystery, Mystery Thriller, Cozy Mystery, Adult, Fiction

Kindle Edition

Expected publication April 14, 2026

Reviews

[ari [gin’s vrsn 🩵] [semi ia]]

one of my first ever arcs was the first book in this series so i’m SO excited to be getting the chance to read the second early too !!

tysm netgalley and atria publishing for the arc!!

[Sonja · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pomona Afton is the second book in this wonderful, quirky, frivolous series. It 's not trying to be something it's not, and the book never takes anything too seriously. The characters are fun and flawed, the plot is not too deep, and overall it is a quick, likable read perfect for the beach or when you have just come off reading a heavy and dark book.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this novel.

[Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun and witty who-done-it with rich girl, Pomona Afton as amateur detective. She previously solved the murder of her own grandmother so she’s game to solve another.

Pom is trying to give up her party girl image and do good in the world by starting a foundation to give scholarships to kids without funds for school. She organizes a gala to have her rich friends donate to her cause.

Unfortunately a wealthy man ends up murdered at her fashionable function. She’s off and running to solve his murder and still maintain her charitable foundation.

A bit verbose at times, kind of like a mind-dump of thoughts and commentary, but so humorous. Lots of fun characters including her dysfunctional family. I didn’t read the first book which did not present any problems. Enjoy!

Thanks Edelweiss and Atria.

[Bethany Tann · Rating 2 out of 5]

The first book was great, we saw character development, we saw Pomona fall in love, and we saw a touch of mystery.

This book had none of those things. Pomona was a dreadful character in this sequel. Not only did she revert back to the spoiled attitude that she had in the opening scenes of the first book but she actually got worse as the book went on. I hated her. Also the writing felt beyond cheesy at multiple points (like literally rolling my eyes questioning if it was AI generated or just truly that bad).

Tldr: I’m mad I read this book and I want my time back.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

[Angie Miale · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pomona Anton has a lot in common with Paris Hilton- starring in a Razzie movie, being in a reality show with her best friend in her 20’s, being a clubbing tabloid ridden heiress to a hotel empire. But in personality, Pom reminds me of Cher Horowitz from Clueless. Silly on the surface, but determined and kind hearted on the inside.

In this second installment, the biggest donor to her new non-profit ends up murdered at the gala she has been planning for weeks. She solved her grandmothers murder a few months ago, so why not this one? After all, he promised her a building to use and now that is completely up in the air.

With less of the “fish out of water” storyline from the first book, this story instead has more insecurity about her relationship and in her place in high society. She is still struggling with her place in the world.

Although the murder wasn’t as impactful, I loved the imagery and the world building that came right out of the shoot. Pom is funny and loyal to her friends as she figures out who she is. I liked the story but it didn’t grip me as much as the first. The murder itself is just. It as consequential.

That said, I’d definitely put this in the “to read” pile for those who like more campiness, gala, and cozy mystery vibes.

Thanks to NetGalley and Atria for the ARC. Book to be published April 13, 2026

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like the first novel in any new cozy mystery series requires a bit of table-setting: An author has to not just do all of the world-building and character introductions but also explain how a rando gets into the business of solving major crimes despite having no qualifications. After that, the second book is where you really find out if the whole premise has legs.

In this regard, Bellamy Rose did an excellent job with this sophomore outing for Pomona Afton. I enjoyed the first book in this series, but this one felt a lot more assured and lived-in. I loved the stakes of Pomona and Gabe's relationship, I continued to get a kick out of the people in Pomona's orbit, and I had fun following the murder mystery itself.

Reading ARCs has one major drawback though — and it's that I won't get to read the third book in this series for a while. SIGH.

[Athénia · Rating 3 out of 5]

*Netgalley ARC read*

This was my first murder mystery, and it was such a fun read! Pomona Afton may be a bit extravagant and eager to impress socialites, but when Conrad Phlume is murdered at her very first gala, she’s determined to find the killer. We follow her as she interrogates suspects, uncovers secrets, and forges new friendships, all while untangling the truth behind that night. The story gave me major Clue and Knives Out vibes, and I especially loved the unique touch of each chapter flowing seamlessly from the last. If you enjoy witty murder mysteries, definitely pick up Pomona Afton Can Totally Catch a Killer on April 14, 2026!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ My review: I read the first Pomona book to get ready for this one (will release in April). The first book was a slow start for me, mostly because Pomona started off as a pretentious, selfish, judgey snob. Over the course of the first book though, she evolved into a funny, thoughtful more mature woman. I really enjoyed the first mystery where she caught her grandmothers murderer and reclaimed her family's millions.
Onto book 2!

This time it's not a family member murdered but a rich jerk. Pom continues to navigate her way toward being a "better person" and helping others and being less shallow...and trying to solve a murder that happened at her "first gala". This one was a little less clear cut and I did figure out the murderer but it took longer....there were a lot of new characters. Pom is a good friend and girlfriend (for the most part) and works hard to grow and change. ("Did you know some people don't have washing machines in their apartments?") I love her realizations in this book and I still dislike her awful mother. And Gabe is a loyal, loving boyfriend AND a teacher. I like that ;)
This series could go on and I would definitely keep reading.

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for an advance digital copy in exchange for my review.

[Mikes Bookstagram · Rating 2 out of 5]

Pomona Afton Can Totally Catch A Killer is the follow up to Pomona Afton Can So Solve A Murder. In this book Pomona is working to revamp herself and help those in need by launching her nonprofit. At her first gala surrounded by friends, family, and donors someone is murdered. 

I like the feeling of being back in Pomona’s world! I think Bellamy did a great job of recapping book one in a sprinkled in kind of way and not shoe horned into the first chapters. The writing and feel are still the same as book 1 which was fantastic.

As the story continues I couldn’t help but think “Is Pomona going back to her hoitytoity ways?” I think her return to the money side of things has tainted most of the change she accomplished by the end of book 1. I liked who Pomona became but now I’m starting to feel like she’s slipping back to her old self. She seemed meaner, less considerate, and entitled, more so than where she ended in book 1. I am sad to say I actually ended up hating Pomona in this book. It was hard to root for her in any aspect as she seemed to not only revert back to her old privileged ways, but she just seemed worse. 

Unfortunately I did not enjoy Pomona in this book, and I wish she had maintained her character growth. Overall the murder mystery itself was fun. The characters were interesting and the story was engaging. 

I received an ARC of this ebook from Atria Books egalley via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Vanessa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Pomona Afton Can Totally Catch A Killer is the follow up to Pomona Afton Can So Solve A Murder. In this book Pomona is working to revamp herself and help those in need by launching her nonprofit. At her first gala surrounded by friends, family, and donors someone is murdered.

This book started off very well. It did a good job of easing the reader back into the world of Pomona Afton and giving gentle reminders of what happened in the first book which I appreciated. As the story continues our feisty FMC seems to be worse than she was in book 1. It felt like all of her character growth was erased. She seemed meaner, less considerate, and entitled, more so than where she ended in book 1. I am sad to say I actually ended up hating Pomona in this book. It was hard to root for her in any aspect as she seemed to not only revert back to her old privileged way, but she just seemed worse.

Unfortunately I did not enjoy the FMC in this book, and I wish she had more character growth. Overall the murder mystery itself was fun. The characters were interesting and the story was engaging.



I received an ARC of this ebook from Atria Books egalley via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

[Rachel Drummond · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was pure chaotic, clever, small-town mystery gold. Bellamy Rose gives us a heroine you can’t help but root for—Pomona Afton—whose sharp wit, lovable awkwardness, and unshakable determination make her one of the most relatable amateur sleuths I’ve ever read.

When a murder shakes her quiet town, Pomona is all in—armed with questionable plans, a knack for stumbling into suspicious situations, and a “totally under control” approach to investigating (read: absolutely not under control). The blend of humor, small-town gossip, and genuine stakes makes the mystery addictive without losing its cozy charm.

The suspects were layered and interesting, the clues sprinkled in so perfectly that I was sure I had it figured out… until the reveal blindsided me. The banter was sharp, the pacing kept me hooked, and I found myself laughing one moment and speed-flipping pages the next.

✨ If you love cozy mysteries with big personality, hilarious hijinks, and a heroine who’s equal parts determined and delightfully human—Pomona Afton is your girl.

Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[McKaylee Drake · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, so this book was fun, but not exactly mind-blowing. Pomona Afton is back, trying to be more than just a party heiress. I mean, she’s launching a non-profit, planning a fancy gala, and of course, ends up solving another murder when one of her big donors turns up dead. 

Pom is still her chaotic, slightly extra self, which is part of the charm. Her inner monologue is hilarious, but it also gets… a little much.  The mystery itself is decent with enough red herrings and suspects to keep you guessing, but it doesn’t feel super high-stakes. 

Unfortunate, I feel like all the character growth that happened in the first book is undone, she reverts to her old entitled ways and that was a little disappointing.

All in all, it’s a cozy, light mystery with glam vibes…good for when you want something breezy, but not the kind of thriller that keeps you up all night or is going to have you making your own murder board to solve it.

Thank you NetGalley and publishers for this arc

[Lilly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel is a fun, cozy mystery with a witty twist. We follow heiress Pomona Afton as she hosts a high stakes gala for her nonprofit. only for one of her major donors to turn up dead in the middle pof her event. Pomona’s world of good intentions, social climbing family drama, and budding romance provides plenty of fun contrast to the murder investigation she must lead. While the tone stays light and the characters are quirky and entertaining, the mystery itself sometimes feels predictable and the culprit reveal may not pack a surprising punch for seasoned mystery readers. On the plus side, Pomona is a lively and audacious character. If you’re looking for a glamorous whodunit that doesn’t take itself too seriously, this one checks the boxes.

[Bookluvr7 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you netgalley and atria for the arc!

After reading the first book I was excited to see where the story went with Pomona and Gabe. Pom definitely is still as headstrong and sometimes oblivious as she was in the first book but we really see some character development and trying on her end in this one. She still has her moments but she is learning better how to interact with the people in her life and communicate.

Gabe definitely is her partner in every way. She needs him to calm her down. And they just make sense. Seeing them work together again on a mystery was so fun. And the mystery was definitely crazy. A fun addition to this world and definitely has a possibility for a third based on the ending!

3/5⭐️

[Danielle Shearer · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a little difficult for me to get through. Between the long chapters and struggling to keep up with the characters, it wasn’t the easiest to read. The story line seemed a little dragged out. And it took me 5 chapters before actually understanding that it’s more than just about a gala. I think a big part of it was not reading the first book in this series. I feel like I would have been more connected to the characters and able to keep up better with the plot had I read the first one. All-in-all it was still an interesting read and I would have never guessed the ending.

Thank you Netgalley and Atria Books publisher for this ARC to review!

[Rhys · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.3 ⭐️ Pomona would of course demand it be nothing less than 5 (Sorry Pom!).

I was lucky to snag an eARC of the follow up in this series and had to quickly catch up. I am so glad I had the opportunity to dive into this series because it is just delightful. So lighthearted, fun, and quirky little murder mystery with Miss Socialite herself, Pomona Afton (a mix between Paris Hilton and Legally Blonde). The follow up in the series was wonderful with hunky Gabe by her side. Who knew the city’s most talked about socialite would wind up with a second murder mystery to solve?! Good thing she is the best detective in the city!

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this wonderful eARC!

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such a fun series. It's funny, sharp, and was just the right read for my mood. I was so thrilled to get this second in the series on Netgalley as I really enjoyed the first one. Pomona is once again on the hunt for a killer after her biggest donor at her charity event is murdered. The relationship between Pomona and Gabe is progressing in a way that makes you root for them. Pomona is also navigating complex relationships with her rich friends, which leads to some quirky heartfelt moments. A great ending that leaves you looking forward to the next in the series.

[Katrina · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a funny read that had me laughing with the outrageous ways that Pomona lived. I did not read the first book in the series, so I think that would have helped me enjoy this more as I could have understood Pomona better. I just don't think I love a book that is about the uber rich. I did find her lifestyle funny at times, but would have liked more engagement with Gabe and how they could solve it together. Overall, a funny book that just wasn't my favorite, but if you like the above tropes, I would recommend!

[Olivia Adrianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love her and Gabe and happy they’re still ongoing in this follow up.
I really have a love-hate relationship with Pom’s monologue but that’s totally personal, she’s an absolute hoot.
Glad to see her back solving a murder and doing right by her very wealthy background.

Thank you for the ARC NetGalley!

[Leslie Cooper · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for this ARC.

If you’re a crime stan and love Paris Hilton then this one’s for you!

Pomona Afton is an heiress to a hotel conglomerate. Known best for her partying ways and messy paparazzi shots. After solving the murder of her grandma, Pom is set on becoming the best version of herself by attending galas, galleries and starting her very own foundation that grants scholarships to young women. Where does one start? Of course a large gala to bring in the big donors. Little did anyone know that that gala would be the start of Pom’s second murder investigation.

This book was so very cute and a great reminder that we don’t have to change ourselves to gain our village.

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Pomona Afton! She’s so self-centered, so out of touch, so entitled, so engaging, so funny, so lovable. With any other writer, she’d remain nothing more than “poor little rich girl”. But in this author’s capable hands, she shines. I can only hope there’s more Pom, Gabe, and mysteries in the future!

[Alex Morra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pomona’s at it again, solving a murder with her boyfriend Gabe at her side. Admittedly, not as charming as the first book and didn’t keep my attention quite as well. Pom’s character arc faltered a bit and the over-the-top descriptions of upper echelon life felt grating this time around.

Thanks Net Galley & Emily Bestler Books / Atria!

[Alden Anthony · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely an improvement on the first one. The stakes didn’t feel very high but I guess it is a cosy mystery.

[Eliza | lizas.bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pom is SO SILLY and funny and the most unserious person I’ve ever read and it is so enjoyable!!! Her galavanting around NYC is more fun than her trying to solve a murder.
This one wasn’t as quick as the first, but I still enjoyed watching Pom grow as a person, albeit a smidge. Over all, enjoyable!!

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pomona is back, baby! I thought this was a wonderful follow up to one of my new favorite cozy mystery series. Pomona is starting her life after her solving the murder of her grandmother and is learning adjusting back to her prior life is harder when you've found someone who doesn't know the inner workings of the rich. I thought her relationship with Gabe grew in a really natural way and added to the subplot of figuring out who murdered the person at her first event. I'm looking forward to the next Pomona Afton book!

Thanks to Atria Books for this eARC provided from netgalley!

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

thank you to netgalley and the publisher for the arc!

This follow up to the first Pomona Afton book was just as fun as the first! Its a cozy murder mystery and I was on the edge of my seat and devoured it so quickly! Hoping for more about Pomona!

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disclosure: I received a copy of POMONA AFTON CAN TOTALLY CATCH A KILLER in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the publisher and author for the opportunity to review this book.

Thoughts:

First, heavy Hilton-Ritchie tones here. So if you like Paris and Nicole heiress drama then you’ll prob vibe with this book.

Second, who doesn’t love a character named Pom? How wonderful.

Third, kinda liked Gabe, and think you will too. Quirky characters are my jam.

Fourth, laughing out loud at times, so that was happening…versus snorting like the entitled rich. Who doesn’t love to be entertained?

All in all a fun and quick mystery read.

[Dhanya · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pomona Afton Can Totally Catch a Killer is a fun and fashionable follow-up that brings back Pom’s charm and flair for chaos. When a gala turns deadly, she’s once again in the middle of a mystery filled with glamour, gossip, and a dash of romance.

While it’s entertaining and lighthearted, the plot feels a bit predictable and lacks the freshness of the first book. Still, it’s an enjoyable cozy read for fans who loved Pom’s debut adventure.

[Gwen Stevens · Rating 4 out of 5]

THERE’S AN ART TO FASHION … AND TO MURDER

Don’t ever ask Pomona Afton about fashion. No, it’s not because she’s ignorant on the subject. In fact, it’s quite the opposite, in that, there is simply not enough time in the world for her to complete her analysis of what distinguishes “fashion” from “putting on clothes”. But two decades of cramming haute couture into suitcases destined for clubbing at exotic resorts has taught her something more, It's a secret that hypothesizes that if there is an art to fashion … then there is also one to murder.

Above is a snapshot of Pom Afton. She’s the main character in this mystery entitled POMONA AFTON CAN TOTALLY CATCH A KILLER. Written by Bellamy Rose, I gotta say this mystery/comedy charmer caught me completely by surprise. The plotline unconventional and the writing comprehensively witty, someone has died and it “falls” to our sparkly, sequined heroine to find out who performed the well-appointed shove that sent the victim flying off a balcony and slamming into the ground. Lucky for the deceased that in the game of murder, it doesn’t matter that the target of the felony was a villain of the most immodest proportions—the case still needs solving. And that’s where Pom comes in.

Did I mention that this mystery is loaded with atmosphere? Well, I am now. And because of it, there’s a very appealing 50’s vibe going on throughout. It’s the tip off that the uniqueness of Pom’s temperature always equates to “chill.” Likable, laughable and a great believer in one-liners, Bellamy has infused her leading lady with a combination of Dorothy Parker, Audrey Hepburn, Truman Capote (WHAT?), and Agatha Christie when she went rogue for those eleven days. And right now Pom is playing bloodhound and trying to solve her second homicide as easily as she solved the first, but was it beginner’s luck?

Pom hopes not, but she still owes it to everyone who attended the event to try. What event? A fundraiser. Why? Because the victim was murdered at that fundraiser—her fundraiser. It makes her responsible for the murder. And the sooner she gets started, the faster she’ll find out if she can deliver in solving this puzzle. She begins by wading through the sea of possibilities. There are friends, acquaintances, and a pool of rich benefactors who were called upon strictly because of their reputation for philanthropy. And as for the victim being hated, there are more than a few possible suspects that would fit that description as well. Thank you very much, please, but her mother came to mind. In fact, Pom’s mother was more than capable of carrying out a murder, but the question is whether she did off the victim and not could she. There was also her brother Nicholas, and his steady girlfriend Jessica. And the victim's wife, and Pom's friend Vienna … but, no … it couldn't be. They were like two peas in a pod, but Pom had been fooled before. Then there was the sister of a murderess. Did murderers run in families?

All-in-all this book is a sparkler … as is Pom. She’s the thread that holds all together and weaves an intricate web that our intrepid private detective/influencer is determined to figure out. Bellamy Rose does a great job fleshing Pom and the rest of the characters out, and an outstanding one on the coming up with this brain twizzler. It’s why I’m giving this book four stars and look forward to more in this series. Thank you both Atria/Emily Bestler Books and NetGalley for giving me an ARC copy.

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Fantastic. Somehow I didn't think the murder of the guest of honor at my first gala would make people excited about being the guest of honor at the next one."

After reading the first Pomona Afton book, I was hoping there would be more to come! In this book she's holding her very first gala to raise money for disadvantaged students. (Unfortunately, she can't have peacocks at the New York Public Library, what a bummer.) Her easy-to-dislike parents are in attendance, along with a lot of rich people who quickly become suspects once Pomona's major donor, Conrad Phlume falls to his death after his speech that night. Even though I guessed the murderer before Pomona revealed it to her guests (and readers) at the end, it was still fun. There were only so many people it could be after she ruled out the artist, her own parents (again) and Denise Ryan. And there were lots of clues that Kevin Miller wasn't the former scholarship recipient/kid from the wrong side of the tracks that he wanted all to believe. He used to live in the building Phlume was going to donate to Pomona, AND he was worried Conrad would reveal his back story to be a sham. I liked that Pomona and Persimmon, her frenemy at the beginning, became kind-of friends and that Persy helped her with taking the bullets out of Kevin's gun that he was going to pull on Pomona later.

At the end, Gabe proposes to Pomona in Central Park just like she envisioned. Thank goodness she wasn't pregnant - there were so many references to her stomach hurting and alcohol making her feel off, I was worried that would be how this ended, but apparently it was just nerves when confronting possible murder suspects. Oh and her brother is trying to succeed in a coup for the company and Pomona just now learned she was on the Afton Board.

Bellamy Rose gets the tone just right - another reviewer compares Pom to Cher from Clueless and I completely agree. She means well but she's still figuring out how the real world works - we can't all be riding private jets to private islands all the time, sometimes us normies ride the subway. This is definitely not the best plotted mystery but I'd spend time with Pom (and Gabe) anytime. There were a few points that felt fabricated to make things more drawn out (like Vienna insisting on a face to face meeting versus just talking over the phone) but I appreciated that part of the story is Pomona still figuring herself out. I also think the grammar can get a little lost in itself with her asides, but it fits the character in that it's a bit stream of consciousness - and she even admits she loses the thread sometimes.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Simon and Schuster and new-mama Bellamy Rose for the chance to read and give an honest review!