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A Layla Virtue Mystery #2
Gimme Shelter
This whip-smart, witty series packs an emotional punch within an engaging mystery as Layla Virtue, a 30-something recovering alcoholic and former cop turned party musician, finds a sideline in solving murders from her new home in a Potomac County trailer park…
An unforgettable mystery brimming with hilarity and heart for readers of Margot Douaihy, Jane Pek, and Darynda Jones.
As the song says, you can’t always get what you want. Maybe that’s why, instead of fulfilling her youthful dream of being a rock star, Layla Fortune is living in a trailer park while playing third-rate gigs, including a stint at a ʼ70s Abba brunch. Given everything else she’s been through lately, she’s not complaining (much) about satin ruffles and go-go boots. She has a squad of supportive new BFFs, and she’s reclaimed a relationship with her famous rocker dad. His recent diagnosis has brought them even closer—sharing the trailer park’s lake house, which he’s had remodeled in typically over-the-top style.
Layla’s dad loves his new community and the feeling seems mutual. So, why is one of them blackmailing him? It’s a mystery almost as baffling as the assignment Layla receives from her former look into the brutal murder of a mild-mannered school teacher. Archie Wilkins was bludgeoned with a candelabra, shot up with drugs, and stuffed into a church confessional. Not the kind of outcome expected for a guy reputed to be the world’s nicest.
Perhaps Archie had secrets. Perhaps everyone does, including Layla’s one-time cop colleagues. She’s been blaming herself for a deadly ambush that destroyed her career and her peace of mind, but as her new friends help Layla regain her memories, a different picture emerges, and it’s one that forces her to question so much that she’s taken as truth . . .
An unforgettable mystery brimming with hilarity and heart for readers of Margot Douaihy, Jane Pek, and Darynda Jones.
As the song says, you can’t always get what you want. Maybe that’s why, instead of fulfilling her youthful dream of being a rock star, Layla Fortune is living in a trailer park while playing third-rate gigs, including a stint at a ʼ70s Abba brunch. Given everything else she’s been through lately, she’s not complaining (much) about satin ruffles and go-go boots. She has a squad of supportive new BFFs, and she’s reclaimed a relationship with her famous rocker dad. His recent diagnosis has brought them even closer—sharing the trailer park’s lake house, which he’s had remodeled in typically over-the-top style.
Layla’s dad loves his new community and the feeling seems mutual. So, why is one of them blackmailing him? It’s a mystery almost as baffling as the assignment Layla receives from her former look into the brutal murder of a mild-mannered school teacher. Archie Wilkins was bludgeoned with a candelabra, shot up with drugs, and stuffed into a church confessional. Not the kind of outcome expected for a guy reputed to be the world’s nicest.
Perhaps Archie had secrets. Perhaps everyone does, including Layla’s one-time cop colleagues. She’s been blaming herself for a deadly ambush that destroyed her career and her peace of mind, but as her new friends help Layla regain her memories, a different picture emerges, and it’s one that forces her to question so much that she’s taken as truth . . .
Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2026
About the author
Libby Klein
13 books660 followersLibby Klein graduated Lower Cape May Regional High School sometime in the '80s. Her classes revolved mostly around the culinary sciences and theater, with the occasional nap in Chemistry. A few years ago, she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that forced her to remove gluten from her kitchen and adopt a Paleo Diet. Now her life revolves around coffee and bacon. When she’s not feeling sorry for herself that she can’t eat bread, she writes from her Northern Virginia office while trying to keep her cat Figaro off her keyboard. Most of her hobbies revolve around eating, and travel, and eating while travelling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
May 2, 2026
Layla has her hands full dealing with her dad, the residents of the trailer park, a murder to investigate, and delving into what happened that night when her entire team, except her, was killed, including the man she hoped to spend the rest of her life with.
Layla Virtue is a complicated protagonist who is working on herself while working through the trauma in her life. I love her! She is unique, flawed, and doing her best to juggle everything thrown at her. She has a renewed relationship with her father now that a diagnosis of dementia has ended his rock career. She knows he is slipping away from her, and she plans to make every moment they have together count. Her new friend, Nick, is struggling with some demons of his own, and she wants to help him, but he has to let her. The women she met in AA, Scarlet, Bree, and Charisse, have become true friends, and one in the group is suffering. I love how they all come together when one or more of them is in need. The residents of the Lake Pinecrest Trailer Park put the “Q” in quirky. In various ways, they are doing everything they can to torment Layla. Layla and Nick are still sharing their black Lab, Ringo. He is a very intuitive service dog.
All of Ms. Klein’s characters are wonderfully created, but in this story, Nick immediately grabbed my attention. He did 3 tours in Afghanistan with the Marine Corps; it is not surprising that he knows all about PTSD. He was hiding in his trailer for several days until Layla forced him to open the door. He was struggling; one of his platoon mates had killed himself a few days before, bringing the total to 4 lost from his platoon. He was on his way to being number 5. After losing my son to suicide, I usually pass on books where it plays a prevalent role, but after reading most of this author’s work, I decided to trust her. She handled the topic well, and I was so happy that Layla and her dad were there to help Nick. There was one thing that gave me pause. A word that was once commonly attached to suicide was “committed”. Over the past two decades, the ‘language’ surrounding suicide has changed. We don’t say someone “committed” cancer. I can tell you my son committed nothing. He “died by suicide”. I know because I have personally experienced the grief and pain following my son’s death, I am more attuned to the phrasing. But it’s stories like this one, fictional stories that can bring attention to something so important.
While Gimme Shelter deals with heavy topics like PTSD, suicide, addictions, murder, and dementia, Libby Klein’s signature humor reigns in all the right places. From the bizarre remodel to the lake house to the “cat” Layla’s dad had found, to the over-the-top costumes, the ridiculous requests from the trailer park residents, and more, hilariousness ensues.
The three mysteries in this book are compelling. Teacher Archie Wilkins had his secrets, and Layla dug deep and asked the hard questions, leading to a surprising arrest, and keen observations pinned down Layla’s dad’s blackmailer. While involved in those investigations, she was handling drama and trauma of her own. One thing set another investigation in motion, and I couldn’t believe Layla wasn’t overwhelmed by it all. Many of her questions were answered, but this plotline will continue into book three.
Libby Klein has packed Gimme Shelter with powerful mysteries, captivating, genuine, and quirky characters, heaps of humor, a touch of romance, and a ton of heart. Something is always happening, so the story flows at a brisk pace. Be ready for an emotional ride. Grab your copy of Gimme Shelter today!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Layla Virtue is a complicated protagonist who is working on herself while working through the trauma in her life. I love her! She is unique, flawed, and doing her best to juggle everything thrown at her. She has a renewed relationship with her father now that a diagnosis of dementia has ended his rock career. She knows he is slipping away from her, and she plans to make every moment they have together count. Her new friend, Nick, is struggling with some demons of his own, and she wants to help him, but he has to let her. The women she met in AA, Scarlet, Bree, and Charisse, have become true friends, and one in the group is suffering. I love how they all come together when one or more of them is in need. The residents of the Lake Pinecrest Trailer Park put the “Q” in quirky. In various ways, they are doing everything they can to torment Layla. Layla and Nick are still sharing their black Lab, Ringo. He is a very intuitive service dog.
All of Ms. Klein’s characters are wonderfully created, but in this story, Nick immediately grabbed my attention. He did 3 tours in Afghanistan with the Marine Corps; it is not surprising that he knows all about PTSD. He was hiding in his trailer for several days until Layla forced him to open the door. He was struggling; one of his platoon mates had killed himself a few days before, bringing the total to 4 lost from his platoon. He was on his way to being number 5. After losing my son to suicide, I usually pass on books where it plays a prevalent role, but after reading most of this author’s work, I decided to trust her. She handled the topic well, and I was so happy that Layla and her dad were there to help Nick. There was one thing that gave me pause. A word that was once commonly attached to suicide was “committed”. Over the past two decades, the ‘language’ surrounding suicide has changed. We don’t say someone “committed” cancer. I can tell you my son committed nothing. He “died by suicide”. I know because I have personally experienced the grief and pain following my son’s death, I am more attuned to the phrasing. But it’s stories like this one, fictional stories that can bring attention to something so important.
While Gimme Shelter deals with heavy topics like PTSD, suicide, addictions, murder, and dementia, Libby Klein’s signature humor reigns in all the right places. From the bizarre remodel to the lake house to the “cat” Layla’s dad had found, to the over-the-top costumes, the ridiculous requests from the trailer park residents, and more, hilariousness ensues.
The three mysteries in this book are compelling. Teacher Archie Wilkins had his secrets, and Layla dug deep and asked the hard questions, leading to a surprising arrest, and keen observations pinned down Layla’s dad’s blackmailer. While involved in those investigations, she was handling drama and trauma of her own. One thing set another investigation in motion, and I couldn’t believe Layla wasn’t overwhelmed by it all. Many of her questions were answered, but this plotline will continue into book three.
Libby Klein has packed Gimme Shelter with powerful mysteries, captivating, genuine, and quirky characters, heaps of humor, a touch of romance, and a ton of heart. Something is always happening, so the story flows at a brisk pace. Be ready for an emotional ride. Grab your copy of Gimme Shelter today!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
December 2, 2025
Layla Virtue is a fun character. She has a unique personality that really makes these books easy to read.
Layla is trying to figure out who is blackmailing her father, while trying to find out who killed a well liked teacher.
The story is very good and I enjoyed reading the book.
Layla is trying to figure out who is blackmailing her father, while trying to find out who killed a well liked teacher.
The story is very good and I enjoyed reading the book.
April 24, 2026
This was an interesting take on a cozy murder mystery I just had a really hard time getting into it!
This is the second in an interconnected standalone series about a recovering alcoholic, former cop turned musician solving two seperate mysteries, the killing of the beloved school teacher, and who is blackmailing her famous dad. All while receiving the news her former lover and teammate might still be alive!
The premise sounded really interesting but there was just way too much going on in this book for me. I also had a really hard time getting into the writing style and I had a hard time following all the characters.
There was a few good twists and turns but I did guess quite a bit. I do think I would have enjoyed this more had I read the first one but I appreciated that it was possible to read it as a standalone. I did really enjoy the humour of our main character.
Thank you Kensington and netgalley for the gifted e-arc in exchange for an honest review
This is the second in an interconnected standalone series about a recovering alcoholic, former cop turned musician solving two seperate mysteries, the killing of the beloved school teacher, and who is blackmailing her famous dad. All while receiving the news her former lover and teammate might still be alive!
The premise sounded really interesting but there was just way too much going on in this book for me. I also had a really hard time getting into the writing style and I had a hard time following all the characters.
There was a few good twists and turns but I did guess quite a bit. I do think I would have enjoyed this more had I read the first one but I appreciated that it was possible to read it as a standalone. I did really enjoy the humour of our main character.
Thank you Kensington and netgalley for the gifted e-arc in exchange for an honest review
May 2, 2026
I do enjoy this series. The characters are fun but this book had way too much going on at once. There were at least 3 mysteries, 3 side plots and a love triangle. I would have rated it higher if it was less all over the place. I do plan to pick up the next when it comes out.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC provided by Kensington Publishing via Netgalley for an honest review.
This second book in this sort of dark yet cozy mystery series was just as fun as the first one, Vice and Virtue, which I read last year. I love the characters and the mystery was quite good. There are some heavier topics in this series than your usual cozy mystery, but the found family and the quirky trailer park folks make it a fun time.
Layla is such a great character. She is smart, sassy and dealing with a lot of stuff. She doesn’t trust easily, but once she does she is loyal. I really like her relationship with her father, a famous rock star from the 80’s. It feels like an honest one, even though he has disappointed her and wasn’t always there when she was growing up. She is now dealing with his dementia and worried about losing him. Mix that with recovering from alcohol addiction and having to deal with being a disgraced ex cop, she has a lot on her plate. She also somehow finds herself in charge of the trailer park, just because her father bought it for her. But she still somehow manages to keep her spirits up and help others when they need it.
There is a large cast of secondary characters but it is easy to keep them apart as they are all different and quirky, especially the trailer park gang. I love how she has managed to surround herself with people who want to support her, even as she pushes them away. I love the two love interests, not sure if this is going to be a love triangle or not. Nick seems to be content with being just her friend, but still seems hostile to Dayton whenever he shows up. Things could get interesting in the next book. I also just adore the three women who befriended her and who are also members of AA. They are fiercely loyal and will drop everything to help each other when things get tough. And a special shout out to Ringo, Layla’s sweet therapy dog. He is such a good boy!
There are actually two mysteries going on in this book. There is the easy one of trying to figure out who killed Archie Wilkins, the beloved teacher. Then there is the ongoing one of what happened to Layla’s partner and the truth behind the disastrous op that got her teamed killed. Layla is slowly getting her memories back from that day and things are not what they seem. The Archie Wilkins murder was a fun one, but somewhat easy. I knew the motive pretty quickly, but didn’t guess the who till it was revealed.
So much to love with this series. If you like cozy mysteries with quirky characters, yet deals with some heavier issues such as dementia and alcoholism then this is a series you want to give a chance. I love the musical aspect and the characters are really fun.
https://elnadesbookchat.com
This second book in this sort of dark yet cozy mystery series was just as fun as the first one, Vice and Virtue, which I read last year. I love the characters and the mystery was quite good. There are some heavier topics in this series than your usual cozy mystery, but the found family and the quirky trailer park folks make it a fun time.
Layla is such a great character. She is smart, sassy and dealing with a lot of stuff. She doesn’t trust easily, but once she does she is loyal. I really like her relationship with her father, a famous rock star from the 80’s. It feels like an honest one, even though he has disappointed her and wasn’t always there when she was growing up. She is now dealing with his dementia and worried about losing him. Mix that with recovering from alcohol addiction and having to deal with being a disgraced ex cop, she has a lot on her plate. She also somehow finds herself in charge of the trailer park, just because her father bought it for her. But she still somehow manages to keep her spirits up and help others when they need it.
There is a large cast of secondary characters but it is easy to keep them apart as they are all different and quirky, especially the trailer park gang. I love how she has managed to surround herself with people who want to support her, even as she pushes them away. I love the two love interests, not sure if this is going to be a love triangle or not. Nick seems to be content with being just her friend, but still seems hostile to Dayton whenever he shows up. Things could get interesting in the next book. I also just adore the three women who befriended her and who are also members of AA. They are fiercely loyal and will drop everything to help each other when things get tough. And a special shout out to Ringo, Layla’s sweet therapy dog. He is such a good boy!
There are actually two mysteries going on in this book. There is the easy one of trying to figure out who killed Archie Wilkins, the beloved teacher. Then there is the ongoing one of what happened to Layla’s partner and the truth behind the disastrous op that got her teamed killed. Layla is slowly getting her memories back from that day and things are not what they seem. The Archie Wilkins murder was a fun one, but somewhat easy. I knew the motive pretty quickly, but didn’t guess the who till it was revealed.
So much to love with this series. If you like cozy mysteries with quirky characters, yet deals with some heavier issues such as dementia and alcoholism then this is a series you want to give a chance. I love the musical aspect and the characters are really fun.
https://elnadesbookchat.com
May 5, 2026
I can't say enough how much I like this series. The first one took me by surprise...seemingly about a woman with a mess of a life but handled with humor and surprising insight for what I thought would be more of a "fluff" book. I was not expecting to enjoy this series because I really am not fond of the Poppy books. Don't know why other than that I just can't connect with her. The Virtue books have an entirely different feel and even have a sense of depth as well as being funny. Gimme Shelter was quite moving and relatable. Layla is VERY human. I love how she is a grump who wants to push most people away and regardless people are still there for her. It's great that the very strong relationship of her three AA gal pals has developed and they have become closer and really come together in support of one of their own going through a terrible time of trauma and how much they help her and are there for her. I really loved that. I could do without the obnoxious bossy weird people at the trailer park even though I get they are supposed to be comic relief in their ridiculousness. But then just as I want to throw one of them out a window, they're right there supporting Layla and being there for her father, so then I forgive them all again for how awful they are generally. Layla went through a great deal of her own trauma in this book and somehow managed to face it all and come through the other side with most questions/mysteries solved or wrapped up. I do hope that there will be more upcoming books in the series because I would most certainly continue to read about all these multifaceted interesting people.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Layla Virtue is a character that simply shines! She is a 30 something disgraced former cop/wanna be rocker. Layla finds herself with a posse of girlfriends for the first time in her life, along with a trailer park gifted to her by her ultra-famous rock star father, recently returned to her life. He has received a dementia diagnosis and now has more memory loss episodes from that than from his past drug use. In her efforts to build a career as a rocker Layla finds herself booked into one weird costume gig after another, going from tom turkey...it is almost Thanksgiving after all, to overly large, seriously heavy formal black gown, to Abba jumpsuit. In between gigs, she is asked by a former police detective to assist in the homicide investigation of an apparently much loved private school second grade teacher who is living far above his means. As she and her posse investigate a multitude of threats and attempts on her life interfere, giving her much cause to wonder just who to trust. And add to all this, having her father living with her so she can protect him from his fans and the person trying to blackmail him. Oh yes, she learns that her former partner and lover may still be alive and not who she thought he was!
Layla is a character that just continues to inhabit my mind, even after finishing the book. I find her hysterically funny, yet so relatable because she is trying so hard to learn and grow into a new life against all odds. I think we all have a little of Layla living inside all of us, at least I know I do and I hope she stays forever!
Layla is a character that just continues to inhabit my mind, even after finishing the book. I find her hysterically funny, yet so relatable because she is trying so hard to learn and grow into a new life against all odds. I think we all have a little of Layla living inside all of us, at least I know I do and I hope she stays forever!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Layla Virtue is officially one of my favorite protagonists of all time. Flawed, funny, and full of heart, readers can't help but root for the former cop and recovering alcoholic. In this second installment, Layla's just coming to terms with co-habitating with her rock star father who has purchased the trailor park in which she resides, leaving her to deal with the outrageous and often humorous demands of their tenants. While the Lake Pinecrest community seems intent on driving Layla crazy, they seem to love her rocker dad, Don. Since everyone seems to be such an adoring fan, why is someone blackmailing him? As Layla's concerns for her father's safety amplify, she's thrust into another mystery regarding the recent murder of a well-respected private school teacher. If that isn't enough, Layla receives a note that forces her to revisit the fuzzy and haunting memories of her past that resulted in her career ending in law enforcement, questioning everything she's known to be true. The mystery sizzles with tension, the characters and relationships shine, and the conclusion will leave readers begging for book three!!! The emotional depth and warmth make this such a special series. Highly recommend!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 29, 2026
3.5 stars
This cozy series features an ex-cop, current wannabe rock star named Layla Virtue. There is a lot of humor but also some serious stuff. Layla and several other characters have baggage, including PTSD, alcoholism and substance abuse. But they are a game and plucky bunch. Layla is caring for her (actual) rock star father surreptitiously. He is slipping into dementia and there are some poignant moments when they talk about their fears for the future.
Layla was traumatized and ostracized after a police drug op went bad and killed some of her team. She is still trying to investigate what actually happened. In the meantime, she and her father are receiving blackmail threats and someone keeps taking potshots at Layla.
At the same time Layla is trying to herd cats, those being the residents of the trailer park her dad bought for her. And her girl posse, AA buddies, always have her back. There are two strong male characters and Layla is trying to figure out where they will fit in her life. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This cozy series features an ex-cop, current wannabe rock star named Layla Virtue. There is a lot of humor but also some serious stuff. Layla and several other characters have baggage, including PTSD, alcoholism and substance abuse. But they are a game and plucky bunch. Layla is caring for her (actual) rock star father surreptitiously. He is slipping into dementia and there are some poignant moments when they talk about their fears for the future.
Layla was traumatized and ostracized after a police drug op went bad and killed some of her team. She is still trying to investigate what actually happened. In the meantime, she and her father are receiving blackmail threats and someone keeps taking potshots at Layla.
At the same time Layla is trying to herd cats, those being the residents of the trailer park her dad bought for her. And her girl posse, AA buddies, always have her back. There are two strong male characters and Layla is trying to figure out where they will fit in her life. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 30, 2026
This book is even better than the first! Wow. It really goes there, embracing and exploring a lot of tough topics, but in a way that focuses on winning the tough battles. Mental health, addiction, grief, and caring for a sick loved on, all wrapped into this fast pace story with such great characters. Even through all that, there is a lot of humor (a pig playground) and lightness and friendship that keeps the story from getting too grim. I love learning more about the mysterious events that shifted Layla's whole life. I love the trailer park, the residents, her friends from group, and of course her dad. The characters are really what shines from this author, and the twists were so good! I had a good laugh over some of poor Layla's ridiculous gig's and felt her strength fighting temptations all throughout this book, and teared up a bit reading about her and her friends struggling mental health. These characters may be over the top at home, but they are so flawed and real that I loved it and flew through this book. I already cannot wait to read more of this series.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
GIMME SHELTER is the second book in the Layla Virtue Mysteries by Libby Klein. With the author’s trademark humor—starting with the very first sentence—I couldn’t help but become enthralled with protagonist Layla Virtue. She’s deeply flawed with some deep-seated emotional injuries, yet she comes across as someone worthy of admiration. I especially love her relationship she’s developing with her famous rockstar dad, and how she’s doing everything she can to care for him as he struggles with dementia. And while this is a character-driven story, there are complex mysteries for Layla to solve. One of the mysteries begins in the first book and appears it will run through book three, but each is well-plotted and kept me turning pages to find out what happens next. Gimme Shelter tugs at your heartstrings, entertains with hilarious hijinks and witty characters, and pricks at your conscience with social issues woven throughout. This has become one of my favorite series, and I can’t wait to read the next one!
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was a fun read, especially as a rock musician myself. Layla Virtue is an ex-cop, a current musician playing some dubious gigs, and now the carer for her famous rock star dad who was recently diagnosed with dementia. To make matters funnier, I mean worse, her dad bought the trailer park she's been living in and gave it to her, adding an interesting cast of characters and all their wants and needs to the story. This book was a solid 3 star read for me at first, because the outcome seemed so predictable, but author Libby Klein kicked it into gear the last 25% of the book, and although I had guessed several of the answers to the multiple mysteries, I had not gotten them all right. There are some laughs and some genuine teary moments amongst all the sleuthing. I had not read the first book in the series and I don't think it hindered my understanding of what was going on, but I will be looking for more of Layla's adventures in the future.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and Libby Klein for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and Libby Klein for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
GIMME SHELTER is the second book in the Layla Virtue Mysteries by Libby Klein. Layla has issues that reach as far back as her childhood and culminates with a sanctioned police opt that went horribly wrong. All of the team perished but her. Now a pariah in the department Layla returns to her rock roots as her new job. She lives in a trailer park with several characters---including her famous rock star dad. Her life evolves at lightning speed with a variety of people and situations---though I was never lost.
This is such a fun series! I can't wait to read more about the characters. Libby Klein has a witty sense of humor while also bringing to light the problem of alcoholism through some of the characters.
I recommend this book and series to others who enjoy mysteries with heart and plenty of action. Great for fans of Darynda Jones!
My sincere thanks to #NetGalley #KensingtonPublishing #LibbyKlein for sending an eBook advanced copy at my request, with no obligation to review. I always review books I love so that others can find them, too.
This is such a fun series! I can't wait to read more about the characters. Libby Klein has a witty sense of humor while also bringing to light the problem of alcoholism through some of the characters.
I recommend this book and series to others who enjoy mysteries with heart and plenty of action. Great for fans of Darynda Jones!
My sincere thanks to #NetGalley #KensingtonPublishing #LibbyKlein for sending an eBook advanced copy at my request, with no obligation to review. I always review books I love so that others can find them, too.
April 29, 2026
Gimme Shelter by Libby Klein
Rating : 3 ⭐
Format : e-Book 💻
Pages : 353
Released : 28th April 2026
Time Period : 3 Days
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I've done it again, I broke my first rule. I've read part 2 before in a series before part 1, what a doofus.
Layla Virtue is a 30-something recovering alcoholic and former cop has found a new life as a musician, with a sideline in solving murders from her new home in a trailer park.
With a supportive cast of friends and a recently restablished relationship with her famous rock star dad she sets out to investigate the murder of a much loved local teacher as well as a blackmail attempt on her dad.
This was fun and easy going, a few twist and turns but to be honest I saw a few of them coming.
I find myself wondering if I would of got more from this book had I read them in order.
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You can find more reviews on my blog here : https://bookshelf018.wordpress.com/
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Rating : 3 ⭐
Format : e-Book 💻
Pages : 353
Released : 28th April 2026
Time Period : 3 Days
----------------
I've done it again, I broke my first rule. I've read part 2 before in a series before part 1, what a doofus.
Layla Virtue is a 30-something recovering alcoholic and former cop has found a new life as a musician, with a sideline in solving murders from her new home in a trailer park.
With a supportive cast of friends and a recently restablished relationship with her famous rock star dad she sets out to investigate the murder of a much loved local teacher as well as a blackmail attempt on her dad.
This was fun and easy going, a few twist and turns but to be honest I saw a few of them coming.
I find myself wondering if I would of got more from this book had I read them in order.
----------------
You can find more reviews on my blog here : https://bookshelf018.wordpress.com/
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
(4.5 stars)
Gimme Shelter surprised me in the best way.
This second installment builds on the first with stronger emotional depth and a more focused, controlled pace. Layla’s journey—balancing recovery, music, and complicated family dynamics—continues to evolve in a way that feels grounded and genuine.
The strength of this series remains its characters. The found-family dynamic is especially well done, with each relationship adding something meaningful without anyone getting lost in the mix. I also appreciated how the tone shifts slightly here, blending cozy mystery elements with a bit more edge and complexity.
It’s a tighter, more refined follow-up that deepens both the character arcs and the overall story. I’m really interested to see where the series goes next.
I received an advanced reader’s copy from NetGalley and Kensington. All opinions are my own.
Gimme Shelter surprised me in the best way.
This second installment builds on the first with stronger emotional depth and a more focused, controlled pace. Layla’s journey—balancing recovery, music, and complicated family dynamics—continues to evolve in a way that feels grounded and genuine.
The strength of this series remains its characters. The found-family dynamic is especially well done, with each relationship adding something meaningful without anyone getting lost in the mix. I also appreciated how the tone shifts slightly here, blending cozy mystery elements with a bit more edge and complexity.
It’s a tighter, more refined follow-up that deepens both the character arcs and the overall story. I’m really interested to see where the series goes next.
I received an advanced reader’s copy from NetGalley and Kensington. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I just love this series!! And if you're not reading it, you need to drop everything and start. Nope, no excuses.
Layla is a recovering alcoholic with a difficult past as a police officer that has left her with undiagnosed PTSD. Oh and she's the daughter of a famous rock star who has dementia.
Chaotic enough? She has 3 best friends who are also in recovery that forced themselves into her life and now partner with her to solve cases. Let's not forget the residents of the trailer park that she now owns, thanks to said rock star father.
It all works together to make for a well-written mystery with moments of heartbreak and then laughter.
While you'd want to classify this as a cozy mystery, it has some heavy themes that keep it solidly in the mystery genre. Triggers include PTSD, suicide, dementia.
Layla is a recovering alcoholic with a difficult past as a police officer that has left her with undiagnosed PTSD. Oh and she's the daughter of a famous rock star who has dementia.
Chaotic enough? She has 3 best friends who are also in recovery that forced themselves into her life and now partner with her to solve cases. Let's not forget the residents of the trailer park that she now owns, thanks to said rock star father.
It all works together to make for a well-written mystery with moments of heartbreak and then laughter.
While you'd want to classify this as a cozy mystery, it has some heavy themes that keep it solidly in the mystery genre. Triggers include PTSD, suicide, dementia.
Review of advance copy
4.5⭐
Second in this delightful series. Funny, with a full array of quirky characters, without going over the top. Layla Virtue is a singular character with fighting some battles. Last year she left the police force under a cloud after an incident that went spectacularly wrong. Having to switch careers after twenty years, she's trying to scratch out a living playing guitar and singing but her manager keeps sending her on horrible gigs where she has to dress in costumes. She comes by her music talent from her dad, a rock star icon, who has come to live with her in the decrepit trailer park after a frightening medical diagnosis. The mystery will keep you guessing, but the characters will nestle into your heart from her friends from AA to the denizens of the trailer park. Written with an empathetic touch and understanding of the foibles of people.
Second in this delightful series. Funny, with a full array of quirky characters, without going over the top. Layla Virtue is a singular character with fighting some battles. Last year she left the police force under a cloud after an incident that went spectacularly wrong. Having to switch careers after twenty years, she's trying to scratch out a living playing guitar and singing but her manager keeps sending her on horrible gigs where she has to dress in costumes. She comes by her music talent from her dad, a rock star icon, who has come to live with her in the decrepit trailer park after a frightening medical diagnosis. The mystery will keep you guessing, but the characters will nestle into your heart from her friends from AA to the denizens of the trailer park. Written with an empathetic touch and understanding of the foibles of people.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Layla has had a rough year. She was in charge of a police operation that went totally wrong and all officers died except her. She was accused of being drunk on duty and responsible for those deaths. Now she is caring for her famous rock 'n roll star dad and trying to get a music career going. Unfortunately, her jobs so far have been small gigs involving her in some embarrassing costumes.
What a great story. There’s so much happening, and never a dull moment. The cast is outstanding, from the mobile home park residents and AA friends to Layla's former police colleagues, and of course her dad. I am already excited for the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What a great story. There’s so much happening, and never a dull moment. The cast is outstanding, from the mobile home park residents and AA friends to Layla's former police colleagues, and of course her dad. I am already excited for the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 28, 2026
I found Libby Klein’s first series during a prolonged difficult time. The hours I absorbed myself in her books were my only moments of peace and humor. This is to say, I’m pre-eternally thankful to her for providing an escape via her writing.
Having moved forward, it’s nice to see that she has as well. Gimme Shelter is the second book in her Layla Virtue series. She’s still weaving a great story, developing characters to the point that you miss them when you take a break, and coming up with some hilarious dialogue. I snorted with laughter more than once. Layla is smart and capable, and this was such a fun adventure. I really enjoy that her life isn’t perfect (PTSD, AA), yet she moves forward. I hate giving away plot, so I’ll simply tell you that Gimme Shelter is well-worth your time.
Having moved forward, it’s nice to see that she has as well. Gimme Shelter is the second book in her Layla Virtue series. She’s still weaving a great story, developing characters to the point that you miss them when you take a break, and coming up with some hilarious dialogue. I snorted with laughter more than once. Layla is smart and capable, and this was such a fun adventure. I really enjoy that her life isn’t perfect (PTSD, AA), yet she moves forward. I hate giving away plot, so I’ll simply tell you that Gimme Shelter is well-worth your time.
April 23, 2026
I loved how realistic the author portrays AA and dementia. I loved the relationship between Layla and her dad as it evolves due to his dementia. I loved the group of friends she has, including Nick, and how Layla finally realizes she needs them. I loved the intriguing mystery of the school teacher who has too much money for his profession. I loved how the author has an ongoing mystery in the series about what really happened the day she lost her police crew. Throw in typical Libby Klein humor and chaos, and you have the making of a fabulous series.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
May 11, 2026
Thanks to the publisher, via Netgalley, for an e-galley for honest review.
I found this one to be even better than the first in the series, which is an admirable feat for a second book in a series- especially so for one that already had started strong. This is a great mix of tension, humor, and emotion, and it advances Layla's overall story quite a bit while having an interesting, contained case that she's assisting in solving. I am looking forward to more.
I found this one to be even better than the first in the series, which is an admirable feat for a second book in a series- especially so for one that already had started strong. This is a great mix of tension, humor, and emotion, and it advances Layla's overall story quite a bit while having an interesting, contained case that she's assisting in solving. I am looking forward to more.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There’s a lot going on in this one, yet it never feels that the author is pulling you in too many directions. They all weave together and tell one heck of a tale as Layla digs and sifts through everything.
Libby Klein did a great job with this one and it really delivered. Looking forward to more answers in the next entry!
Libby Klein did a great job with this one and it really delivered. Looking forward to more answers in the next entry!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Entertaining read! Protagonist, Layla Virtue’s Dad, a former hard rock singer, has been living with her in a small trailer house. Now, he’s purchased the trailer park and completely remodeled the owners cottage into a storybook cottage for Layla and himself to live.
Layla suffers PTSD from being a former police officer, and her dog, Ringo, is her support animal, trained by her neighbor, Nick, who has PTSD himself from his military time. Layla is also a struggling Alcoholics Anonymous member, and has made some good, supportive friends. However, Layla barely makes enough for living expenses playing gigs with the musical talent she inherited from her dad, Don, and he’s helping her now.
When her former occupation starts haunting her, and she and her dad are in danger, Layla doesn’t know who to trust.
Lots of humor in the dialogue and dad’s moments of dementia. Plus, there’s the usual spats and tension between the trailer park residents.
There’s plenty of intrigue and mystery as Layla begins to unravel what led to her last drug bust blowing up in her team’s faces. How does it tie into a recent murder?
Author Libby Klein ramps up the intrigue and high stakes game going on in Layla Virtue’s world. I look forward to book three. I highly recommend this book to readers!
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. All opinions are my own.
Layla suffers PTSD from being a former police officer, and her dog, Ringo, is her support animal, trained by her neighbor, Nick, who has PTSD himself from his military time. Layla is also a struggling Alcoholics Anonymous member, and has made some good, supportive friends. However, Layla barely makes enough for living expenses playing gigs with the musical talent she inherited from her dad, Don, and he’s helping her now.
When her former occupation starts haunting her, and she and her dad are in danger, Layla doesn’t know who to trust.
Lots of humor in the dialogue and dad’s moments of dementia. Plus, there’s the usual spats and tension between the trailer park residents.
There’s plenty of intrigue and mystery as Layla begins to unravel what led to her last drug bust blowing up in her team’s faces. How does it tie into a recent murder?
Author Libby Klein ramps up the intrigue and high stakes game going on in Layla Virtue’s world. I look forward to book three. I highly recommend this book to readers!
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I need more Layla! This book was crazy funny and so, so good! If you want a read that is fall-off-your-chair funny, this is it. Humor aside, the mystery was great and I love Layla's friendship with Bree, Scarlet and Charisse. The mystery kept me guessing till the end, too. Loved this book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love this series so much! The characters are so real and amazing, especially Layla. I was worried the multiple mysteries going on would be confusing, but it was so well done that each one kept my interest. I really hope this series continues, since one mystery is still not solved.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am loving this series! The characters are great, there's lots of action, and several quirky characters to keep you on your toes.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Smart, engaging, and interesting mystery with an intriguing and complex plotting, especially for a cozy mystery. 5 stars. tysm for the E-ARC.
May 4, 2026
The last minute romance was unnecessary (as always). Hopefully this doesn't turn out to be another annoying love triangle like the Poppy series. I'm sure I lost plot skipping those scenes.
May 7, 2026
Giving shelter
This is a phenomenal book. I could not put it down. What a whacky group of characters and so damn funny. I cannot wait for the next one!!
This is a phenomenal book. I could not put it down. What a whacky group of characters and so damn funny. I cannot wait for the next one!!
May 7, 2026
Layla Virtue is back with her super cool dad and AA squad. I love all the characters in this series. Plus, it very tenderly explores PTSD, caring for an aging parent, dealing with addictions while being super funny.
I loved this second novel in the series and can't wait for the next.
I loved this second novel in the series and can't wait for the next.
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