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Ghostwriter Mystery #3
Sweet Spot
The USA Today bestselling host of the “All About Agatha” podcast injects the spark and fizz of a Golden Age Murder Mystery into the present day, as a ghostwriter-turned-sleuth must find a devious killer who’s transforming her new assignment into a real-life thriller…
Ghostwriters, just like ghosts, shouldn’t exist. Knowing that the latest juicy memoir was penned by a stranger for a paycheck tends to ruin the illusion of intimacy. But not every ghostwriter is in it for the money alone.
For Belle Currer—as the ghostwriter extraordinaire prefers to be known—Genevieve Caraway’s memoir is an irresistible project, a tale of tragedy overcome. At 14, Genevieve was abducted from her bedroom by a couple and held hostage for three months. She’s now a happily married mother with a flourishing career, a poster child for thriving after trauma. Still, the scars haven’t entirely faded.
Genevieve’s lavish Utah home, “Soft Spot,” is a guarded compound impregnable to outsiders— theoretically, at least. But Belle’s arrival coincides with the parole of Deirdre Gregory, one of Genevieve’s kidnappers. When Deirdre shows up at Soft Spot begging to see Genevieve, she is refused. The next day, Deirdre’s dead body is found on the grounds.
How did Deirdre get in? More importantly, who killed her? Belle soon joins Detective Kay Adams, the pregnant Mormon cop assigned to the case, in sifting through the suspects. The compound is filled with family and friends—and also with secrets, including one the ghostwriter has been carrying for far too long. She knows how guilt, remorse, and love can drive people to do unthinkable things. And that no matter how much you try to keep the world at bay, the best and worst of it may find a way to get in . . .
Ghostwriters, just like ghosts, shouldn’t exist. Knowing that the latest juicy memoir was penned by a stranger for a paycheck tends to ruin the illusion of intimacy. But not every ghostwriter is in it for the money alone.
For Belle Currer—as the ghostwriter extraordinaire prefers to be known—Genevieve Caraway’s memoir is an irresistible project, a tale of tragedy overcome. At 14, Genevieve was abducted from her bedroom by a couple and held hostage for three months. She’s now a happily married mother with a flourishing career, a poster child for thriving after trauma. Still, the scars haven’t entirely faded.
Genevieve’s lavish Utah home, “Soft Spot,” is a guarded compound impregnable to outsiders— theoretically, at least. But Belle’s arrival coincides with the parole of Deirdre Gregory, one of Genevieve’s kidnappers. When Deirdre shows up at Soft Spot begging to see Genevieve, she is refused. The next day, Deirdre’s dead body is found on the grounds.
How did Deirdre get in? More importantly, who killed her? Belle soon joins Detective Kay Adams, the pregnant Mormon cop assigned to the case, in sifting through the suspects. The compound is filled with family and friends—and also with secrets, including one the ghostwriter has been carrying for far too long. She knows how guilt, remorse, and love can drive people to do unthinkable things. And that no matter how much you try to keep the world at bay, the best and worst of it may find a way to get in . . .
368 pages, Hardcover
Published June 30, 2026
About the author
Kemper Donovan
7 books490 followersKemper Donovan is a full-time writer who is currently publishing an ongoing mystery series via Kensington Books (The Busy Body is the first in this series). Previously, he published the standalone novel The Decent Proposal (HarperCollins). He is also the host of the podcast All About Agatha, dedicated to all things Agatha Christie, in which guise he has appeared on BBC TV and Radio New Zealand, and written for the official Agatha Christie website at agathachristie.com. Kemper attended Stanford University and Harvard Law School, and now lives in Southern California with his husband and two daughters. Learn more at www.kemperdonovan.com, @allaboutthedame on Twitter, @allaboutagatha on Instagram, and kemperdonovanbooks on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
July 1, 2026
This book kept getting better every time Belle stoppedtalking.
The audiobook narration by Eva Kaminsky was excellent, and the final twist genuinely caught me by surprise. Once the investigation got underway, I enjoyed following the clues and trying to work out the culprit.
Unfortunately, I never clicked with Belle. Her snarky, judgmental inner monologue wore thin, and I kept waiting for her to reveal a little more depth. I also wasn't a fan of how often she addressed the reader, as it kept pulling me out of the story rather than drawing me into it. The opening was slower than expected, taking its time introducing the cast before the mystery finally found its footing.
Thankfully, the second half picked up, and the reveal made the journey worthwhile.
A clever mystery with a satisfying ending, but a protagonist who never won me over.
Thank you to Kemper Donovan, RBmedia | Recorded Books, and NetGalley for the advance listening copy. All opinions are my own.
The audiobook narration by Eva Kaminsky was excellent, and the final twist genuinely caught me by surprise. Once the investigation got underway, I enjoyed following the clues and trying to work out the culprit.
Unfortunately, I never clicked with Belle. Her snarky, judgmental inner monologue wore thin, and I kept waiting for her to reveal a little more depth. I also wasn't a fan of how often she addressed the reader, as it kept pulling me out of the story rather than drawing me into it. The opening was slower than expected, taking its time introducing the cast before the mystery finally found its footing.
Thankfully, the second half picked up, and the reveal made the journey worthwhile.
A clever mystery with a satisfying ending, but a protagonist who never won me over.
Thank you to Kemper Donovan, RBmedia | Recorded Books, and NetGalley for the advance listening copy. All opinions are my own.
June 30, 2026
4.25 stars
In the newest Ghostwriter mystery, the main character who goes by her pen name, Belle Currer, has the chance to ghostwrite a memoir of a woman she greatly admires. Genevieve Caraway was held hostage as a teenager, but is now thriving. Shortly after Belle arrives at Genevieve's Utah home, one of the abductors is released from prison and the next day is found dead on the grounds of the Caraway home. Belle is asked by the detective on the case to help her investigate.
The character of Genevieve seems to be inspired by Elizabeth Smart, but is definitely fictional. Belle is a flawed character, but I love her intelligence and determination. I like the humor but some of her snarkiness is mean in this book. However, Belle also shows a more vulnerable side, making her a complex character. The case takes a shocking turn, and it will be interesting to see how this affects Belle in the future. This book works as a standalone, but if you enjoy it, you'll want to go back to the first book, The Busy Body, my favorite in the series.
I received an advance copy of this book from Kensington Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
In the newest Ghostwriter mystery, the main character who goes by her pen name, Belle Currer, has the chance to ghostwrite a memoir of a woman she greatly admires. Genevieve Caraway was held hostage as a teenager, but is now thriving. Shortly after Belle arrives at Genevieve's Utah home, one of the abductors is released from prison and the next day is found dead on the grounds of the Caraway home. Belle is asked by the detective on the case to help her investigate.
The character of Genevieve seems to be inspired by Elizabeth Smart, but is definitely fictional. Belle is a flawed character, but I love her intelligence and determination. I like the humor but some of her snarkiness is mean in this book. However, Belle also shows a more vulnerable side, making her a complex character. The case takes a shocking turn, and it will be interesting to see how this affects Belle in the future. This book works as a standalone, but if you enjoy it, you'll want to go back to the first book, The Busy Body, my favorite in the series.
I received an advance copy of this book from Kensington Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
May 20, 2026
Book #29
Rating ⭐️⭐️💫
Sweet Spot by Kemper Donovan was such a disappointing read for me because I really wanted to love it. I’m a big fan of the author’s podcast, and to be fair, this is a very easy and quick read… but wow, I struggled so much with the writing style 😩
The inner thoughts of the main female character read more like a teenager than a professional woman in her 40s, and the descriptions of the female detective were honestly painful to read. At one point she’s described as having a “rodent-like air” with “protruding teeth” like a squirrel or beaver, and later her laugh is compared to a “chipmunk cackle” edging into “hyena territory.” It was so unnecessarily demeaning and objectifying that it completely took me out of the story.
What frustrated me the most is that these descriptions are coming from the perspective of another female character. I just found it infuriating, and there were multiple moments where I genuinely considered DNFing the book altogether.
The mystery itself was… fine. Entertaining enough to keep me reading, but the final twist felt incredibly far-fetched. I honestly would never have guessed that’s how it happened, but not in a satisfying “OMG” way… more in a “sure, I guess 😐” kind of way.
I’m genuinely sad this one didn’t work for me because I went in wanting to enjoy it so badly. Unfortunately, I just couldn’t get past the writing and the way women were described throughout the book.
⭐️ 2.5 stars, mostly because I actually finished it.
Rating ⭐️⭐️💫
Sweet Spot by Kemper Donovan was such a disappointing read for me because I really wanted to love it. I’m a big fan of the author’s podcast, and to be fair, this is a very easy and quick read… but wow, I struggled so much with the writing style 😩
The inner thoughts of the main female character read more like a teenager than a professional woman in her 40s, and the descriptions of the female detective were honestly painful to read. At one point she’s described as having a “rodent-like air” with “protruding teeth” like a squirrel or beaver, and later her laugh is compared to a “chipmunk cackle” edging into “hyena territory.” It was so unnecessarily demeaning and objectifying that it completely took me out of the story.
What frustrated me the most is that these descriptions are coming from the perspective of another female character. I just found it infuriating, and there were multiple moments where I genuinely considered DNFing the book altogether.
The mystery itself was… fine. Entertaining enough to keep me reading, but the final twist felt incredibly far-fetched. I honestly would never have guessed that’s how it happened, but not in a satisfying “OMG” way… more in a “sure, I guess 😐” kind of way.
I’m genuinely sad this one didn’t work for me because I went in wanting to enjoy it so badly. Unfortunately, I just couldn’t get past the writing and the way women were described throughout the book.
⭐️ 2.5 stars, mostly because I actually finished it.
July 4, 2026
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Pub Date: 6/30
•
I received a copy of an ARC and an ALC in exchange for my honest review from NetGalley, Recorded Books Media and Kensington books and Kemper Donovan, many thanks this was a pleasure to read! I think that mystery fans will eat this book up! This was such a fun read! I am really looking forward to going back and reading the others in this series!
•
Sweet Spot is the third in the Ghostwriter Mystery Series. I had never read the first two but had no problem reading this as a standalone, as the main characters in each of the books are different from my understanding. I definitely want to go back and read the first two in the series though. I really enjoyed this story as a whole. I loved the idea of Belle ghostwriting Geneveive's abduction story and the murder of one of the released abusers. The entire mystery was so intriguing and had me flying through this book. I did manage to figure out part of the big reveal, but not entirely which made this one even more fun for me.
•
I listened to this via audiobook while reading my ARC. Eva Kaminsky was fantastic for this role. I love where she took this story. If you just wanted to listen to this book, it's very easy to follow without the physical copy.
Pub Date: 6/30
•
I received a copy of an ARC and an ALC in exchange for my honest review from NetGalley, Recorded Books Media and Kensington books and Kemper Donovan, many thanks this was a pleasure to read! I think that mystery fans will eat this book up! This was such a fun read! I am really looking forward to going back and reading the others in this series!
•
Sweet Spot is the third in the Ghostwriter Mystery Series. I had never read the first two but had no problem reading this as a standalone, as the main characters in each of the books are different from my understanding. I definitely want to go back and read the first two in the series though. I really enjoyed this story as a whole. I loved the idea of Belle ghostwriting Geneveive's abduction story and the murder of one of the released abusers. The entire mystery was so intriguing and had me flying through this book. I did manage to figure out part of the big reveal, but not entirely which made this one even more fun for me.
•
I listened to this via audiobook while reading my ARC. Eva Kaminsky was fantastic for this role. I love where she took this story. If you just wanted to listen to this book, it's very easy to follow without the physical copy.
July 5, 2026
Thank you to Goodreads and Kensington Publishing for a copy of this book and an opportunity to review!
If you are looking for a classic whodunit to read next to the pool or sitting on a plane on the way to summer vacation, this is your pick. If you have never read a Kemper Donovan before, I invite you to explore his other books and get to know Belle Currer, the ghostwriter protagonist who seems to always find herself in situations where someone ends up dead.
Sweet Spot follows Belle on her journey out west, where she is teaming up with a child-victim-turned-celebrity, Genevieve Caraway, to write Genevieve's memoir. Upon her arrival, Belle is greeted by several members of Genevieve's family and friends on what turns out to be the exact day one of Genevieve's former captors is released from prison. Shortly after Belle's arrival, the captor is found dead on Genevieve's property under suspicious circumstances, resulting in all house members becoming suspects.
As much as I loved the book and truly enjoyed being an amateur sleuth by trying to determine who was responsible for the death on the property, I found the big reveal and accompanying storyline to lack realism when compared to the rest of the story. Belle, a writer, somehow always manages to solve crimes before actual detectives and piece things together that are awfully convenient and not obvious. However, as a reader, if you can suspend disbelief and just go with the storyline without focusing on the flaws, I promise it is a fun, easy, detective mystery that validates Kemper Donovan as a fabulous and fun mystery writer.
If you are looking for a classic whodunit to read next to the pool or sitting on a plane on the way to summer vacation, this is your pick. If you have never read a Kemper Donovan before, I invite you to explore his other books and get to know Belle Currer, the ghostwriter protagonist who seems to always find herself in situations where someone ends up dead.
Sweet Spot follows Belle on her journey out west, where she is teaming up with a child-victim-turned-celebrity, Genevieve Caraway, to write Genevieve's memoir. Upon her arrival, Belle is greeted by several members of Genevieve's family and friends on what turns out to be the exact day one of Genevieve's former captors is released from prison. Shortly after Belle's arrival, the captor is found dead on Genevieve's property under suspicious circumstances, resulting in all house members becoming suspects.
As much as I loved the book and truly enjoyed being an amateur sleuth by trying to determine who was responsible for the death on the property, I found the big reveal and accompanying storyline to lack realism when compared to the rest of the story. Belle, a writer, somehow always manages to solve crimes before actual detectives and piece things together that are awfully convenient and not obvious. However, as a reader, if you can suspend disbelief and just go with the storyline without focusing on the flaws, I promise it is a fun, easy, detective mystery that validates Kemper Donovan as a fabulous and fun mystery writer.
June 24, 2026
Intriguing mystery with fascinating characters. I do wish the author would have been less wordy ie; filler and maybe move the Thesaurus further away. The mystery itself, which when the author was concentrating on it, was actually quite good.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the third book in a series that is strikingly original in many ways. In the first book, Donovan’s heroine was not even named. She was just functioning as a ghostwriter (and amateur sleuth) for a Hilary Clinton-esque politician, who had recently lost an election. In the second, after writing about the crime she and the Hilary character solved, she’s a mini celebrity, and she’s asked on a cruise as a writing instructor. By book two, she has a pen name – Belle Currer – though it’s made very clear it’s not her real name. In book three, Donovan has chosen to model his story on the heartbreaking abduction of Elizabeth Smart in 2002 in Utah.
This novel is also set in Utah, and the Elizabeth Smart character, Genevieve, has asked Belle to help her write a memoir of the ordeal. While Genevieve has written many other books in the self-help genre, this will be the first straight up memoir of the experience. She lives in a walled compound with husband, son, father and his boyfriend, as well as a Mrs. Danvers like housekeeper. Genevieve’s mother has just died and Belle is set to arrive for the scattering of her ashes.
She is picked up at the airport by Genevieve’s best friend, Abi, who is now dating the man Belle was briefly involved with in the first book. There are a roil of emotions going on, and when the news arrives that one of Genevieve’s kidnappers, who has just been released from prison, has turned up at the front door, everything goes even more sideways. The kidnapper is sent away but the woman is later discovered dead of an apparent fentanyl overdose within the compound the next morning.
The police, who treat Genevieve and her family with kid gloves, are willing to see it as an overdose, but Belle is not so sure, and she soon partners up with one of the detectives on the case, a stalwart Mormon who is also an excellent investigator. She’s willing to work with Belle because of her writing, in addition to the fact that she’s actually solved two murders. The two women make a cute pair, with the sophisticated New Yorker Belle sometimes underestimating Kay’s smarts. Kay’s homespun manner disguises a keen intelligence.
The investigation takes the two to the prison where one of the kidnappers is still incarcerated. They aren’t allowed to see him, but they interview the social worked at the prison who worked with the woman, who said she felt she was totally rehabilitated and very unlikely to have killed herself. The mystery part of this novel is extremely clever, and the only caveat I had with it was how easily Belle hops into bed with a prison guard she’s using for book background.
She and Genevieve bond over their childhoods and the heaviness of assuming blame – Belle has her own family tragedy and resulting estrangements – and the end of the book leaves a very tantalizing thread for the next novel. These novels are cozies with an edge: Donovan does not sheathe his claws, and it’s most often to the benefit of the story, making it fresh and interesting. I’m looking forward to knowing even more about Belle in the next book.
This novel is also set in Utah, and the Elizabeth Smart character, Genevieve, has asked Belle to help her write a memoir of the ordeal. While Genevieve has written many other books in the self-help genre, this will be the first straight up memoir of the experience. She lives in a walled compound with husband, son, father and his boyfriend, as well as a Mrs. Danvers like housekeeper. Genevieve’s mother has just died and Belle is set to arrive for the scattering of her ashes.
She is picked up at the airport by Genevieve’s best friend, Abi, who is now dating the man Belle was briefly involved with in the first book. There are a roil of emotions going on, and when the news arrives that one of Genevieve’s kidnappers, who has just been released from prison, has turned up at the front door, everything goes even more sideways. The kidnapper is sent away but the woman is later discovered dead of an apparent fentanyl overdose within the compound the next morning.
The police, who treat Genevieve and her family with kid gloves, are willing to see it as an overdose, but Belle is not so sure, and she soon partners up with one of the detectives on the case, a stalwart Mormon who is also an excellent investigator. She’s willing to work with Belle because of her writing, in addition to the fact that she’s actually solved two murders. The two women make a cute pair, with the sophisticated New Yorker Belle sometimes underestimating Kay’s smarts. Kay’s homespun manner disguises a keen intelligence.
The investigation takes the two to the prison where one of the kidnappers is still incarcerated. They aren’t allowed to see him, but they interview the social worked at the prison who worked with the woman, who said she felt she was totally rehabilitated and very unlikely to have killed herself. The mystery part of this novel is extremely clever, and the only caveat I had with it was how easily Belle hops into bed with a prison guard she’s using for book background.
She and Genevieve bond over their childhoods and the heaviness of assuming blame – Belle has her own family tragedy and resulting estrangements – and the end of the book leaves a very tantalizing thread for the next novel. These novels are cozies with an edge: Donovan does not sheathe his claws, and it’s most often to the benefit of the story, making it fresh and interesting. I’m looking forward to knowing even more about Belle in the next book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and to RB Media for the ARC of Sweet Spot by Kemper Donovan.
Eva Kaminsky does an excellent job narrating the story -- I genuinely could not stop listening this and devoured it in a day - I wasn't even trying to multitask, at one point I was just on the couch with my eyes closed fully immersed in it.
And, wow, Kemper Donovan. I have read all three books in the series (and do highly recommend that to readers, especially the first book), and I think I felt a bit lukewarm about the second book after loving the first, but this one blew me out of the water.
First, we see a lot of growth for Belle, both with a resolution with Denny from Book 1, but also with finally learning more about her background and who she is and her actually thinking about why she is the way she is. Excellent character development that has been building and finally has pay off - and also the kind of reveal that is understandable and makes it easier to understand her.
Second, the mystery itself and where it takes Belle. I had my doubts at first because I don't love when any media takes a person made famous by tragic circumstances (in this case, Elizabeth Smart) and redoes their story. I liked the first book so much because it was someone who chose to be a public figure (Hilary Clinton) vs someone who became a public figure due to the horror of an incident. That being said, Donovan has a tragic backstory for Genevieve but takes it in a very separate and interesting and different direction. The way Belle and Kay handle it is respectful while also being an absolute page turner. I at first was confused about Kay and what type of foil she might be, but I loved her being on the page with Belle and riffing off each other in really wholesome ways (especially about her daughter, Caro). I think the case of characters was well thought out and that Donovan does an excellent job with the mystery and the murder and its resolution (completely wanting to avoid any spoilers but I was wowed).
Honestly, I loved this one. It ends in a place where a fourth book could really give us more on Belle (perhaps her real name?) amongst other things and it really shows how Belle's evolution and journey are going to shape other stories in the series vs her encountering new murders that shape her -- she now has a lot more strength and awareness that she is willing to use and confront.
Eva Kaminsky does an excellent job narrating the story -- I genuinely could not stop listening this and devoured it in a day - I wasn't even trying to multitask, at one point I was just on the couch with my eyes closed fully immersed in it.
And, wow, Kemper Donovan. I have read all three books in the series (and do highly recommend that to readers, especially the first book), and I think I felt a bit lukewarm about the second book after loving the first, but this one blew me out of the water.
First, we see a lot of growth for Belle, both with a resolution with Denny from Book 1, but also with finally learning more about her background and who she is and her actually thinking about why she is the way she is. Excellent character development that has been building and finally has pay off - and also the kind of reveal that is understandable and makes it easier to understand her.
Second, the mystery itself and where it takes Belle. I had my doubts at first because I don't love when any media takes a person made famous by tragic circumstances (in this case, Elizabeth Smart) and redoes their story. I liked the first book so much because it was someone who chose to be a public figure (Hilary Clinton) vs someone who became a public figure due to the horror of an incident. That being said, Donovan has a tragic backstory for Genevieve but takes it in a very separate and interesting and different direction. The way Belle and Kay handle it is respectful while also being an absolute page turner. I at first was confused about Kay and what type of foil she might be, but I loved her being on the page with Belle and riffing off each other in really wholesome ways (especially about her daughter, Caro). I think the case of characters was well thought out and that Donovan does an excellent job with the mystery and the murder and its resolution (completely wanting to avoid any spoilers but I was wowed).
Honestly, I loved this one. It ends in a place where a fourth book could really give us more on Belle (perhaps her real name?) amongst other things and it really shows how Belle's evolution and journey are going to shape other stories in the series vs her encountering new murders that shape her -- she now has a lot more strength and awareness that she is willing to use and confront.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for an advance copy of Sweet Spot by Kemper Donovan. Full disclosure, I had not read the previous books in this series before diving into this one. I do, however, really like the author’s podcast and did learn beforehand that you can kind of jump in with these and not feel lost. Donovan gives you enough background be feel up to speed without overloading and making you realize you should have just started with book 1.
Our main character, Belle, has been hired ghostwrite Genevieve’s harrowing story of being abducted and held hostage as a teenager, Just as Belle arrives to Genevieve’s “impenetrable” compound, one of the kidnappers is paroled and turned away from the compound when she tries to talk to Genevieve. However, that’s not the last we see the kidnapper as her body is found inside the compound the following morning. And now we enter into our classic locked room mystery scenario and Belle must work with the local police to find answers to the questions that will hopefully lead to their killer. Not only do they have to find out who killed her since everyone is already there, but also figure out how the woman even gained entrance in the first place.
In terms of characters, Belle is an enjoyable main character to follow through the mystery’s twist and turns. She’s sharp and a little snarky (although too be fair, maybe a little too snarky sometimes). I mean, I don’t necessarily really like people, but she may have even me beat. That being said, I still found her relatable and quirky in the best ways.
I thought the mystery was very well put together and definitely has a bit of that Golden Age feel. Plus, I truly didn’t see the ending coming and that always boosts my opinion of any mystery novel. I always feel a little sad when I’m looking forward to a mystery and can figure it out from the beginning. Donovan saved me from that fate, which is awesome.
I genuinely ended up enjoying this more than I thought and absolutely feel the need to go back and read the prior books in the series now. Sometimes a well-though out mystery that’s also just plain fun is exactly what I, as a reader, need and Donovan certainly provided that.
Our main character, Belle, has been hired ghostwrite Genevieve’s harrowing story of being abducted and held hostage as a teenager, Just as Belle arrives to Genevieve’s “impenetrable” compound, one of the kidnappers is paroled and turned away from the compound when she tries to talk to Genevieve. However, that’s not the last we see the kidnapper as her body is found inside the compound the following morning. And now we enter into our classic locked room mystery scenario and Belle must work with the local police to find answers to the questions that will hopefully lead to their killer. Not only do they have to find out who killed her since everyone is already there, but also figure out how the woman even gained entrance in the first place.
In terms of characters, Belle is an enjoyable main character to follow through the mystery’s twist and turns. She’s sharp and a little snarky (although too be fair, maybe a little too snarky sometimes). I mean, I don’t necessarily really like people, but she may have even me beat. That being said, I still found her relatable and quirky in the best ways.
I thought the mystery was very well put together and definitely has a bit of that Golden Age feel. Plus, I truly didn’t see the ending coming and that always boosts my opinion of any mystery novel. I always feel a little sad when I’m looking forward to a mystery and can figure it out from the beginning. Donovan saved me from that fate, which is awesome.
I genuinely ended up enjoying this more than I thought and absolutely feel the need to go back and read the prior books in the series now. Sometimes a well-though out mystery that’s also just plain fun is exactly what I, as a reader, need and Donovan certainly provided that.
July 1, 2026
Quick Summary: A tale to tell mystery/thriller
My Review: Sweet Spot by Kemper Donovan is book #3 in A Ghostwriter Mystery series. It was released on 6/20/26.
About the Book: "...a ghostwriter-turned-sleuth must find a devious killer who’s transforming her new assignment into a real-life thriller …"
In My Own Words: A modern day whodunit with an old school appeal
What I Liked/Loved:
🕵️♀️ - Belle Currer -> layered & likable
🤫 - Colorful characters with secrets galore
🎬 - Vibe of story - > Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil meets Fargo
🪡 - Dead ends & dangling threads angles (everything means something)
🧩 - Unpredictability until the very end
👥❓- Love Triangle...not??? (Surely, there is more to this. I must know.)
🗣️ - Confessions
🍭 - The word play associated with sweet spot
🔮 - That ending!
About the Audiobook: This novel was brilliantly narrated by Eva Kaminsky. I was completely locked in the entire time. The listening experience came across like a full cast, and that says something. Bravo!
My Final Say: This was my first exposure to A Ghostwriter Mystery book, and I am hooked. I cannot wait to read books 1 and 2. It was fantastic!
The story was captivating and made me want to see how everything started for the ghostwriter sleuth. It was simple without being straightforward. It was dark yet not blindingly so. It was unexpected and tragic. It was golden.
Other: Readers who enjoy a good old-fashioned mystery will like this novel.
Special Note: Due to the nature of some of the content, a warning advisory is suggested. Potential readers should refer to any author/publisher notes.
Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Re-read: Yes
Status: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Level: 🔎🌀
Format: 🎧
Narrator: +
Series: Yes
Cover: +
Title: +
Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (RBmedia | Recorded Books), and to NetGalley. Thank you for providing access to an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. It was a pleasure to review. I thoroughly enjoyed the listening experience. I look forward to reading/listening to more books from this writer.
My Review: Sweet Spot by Kemper Donovan is book #3 in A Ghostwriter Mystery series. It was released on 6/20/26.
About the Book: "...a ghostwriter-turned-sleuth must find a devious killer who’s transforming her new assignment into a real-life thriller …"
In My Own Words: A modern day whodunit with an old school appeal
What I Liked/Loved:
🕵️♀️ - Belle Currer -> layered & likable
🤫 - Colorful characters with secrets galore
🎬 - Vibe of story - > Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil meets Fargo
🪡 - Dead ends & dangling threads angles (everything means something)
🧩 - Unpredictability until the very end
👥❓- Love Triangle...not??? (Surely, there is more to this. I must know.)
🗣️ - Confessions
🍭 - The word play associated with sweet spot
🔮 - That ending!
About the Audiobook: This novel was brilliantly narrated by Eva Kaminsky. I was completely locked in the entire time. The listening experience came across like a full cast, and that says something. Bravo!
My Final Say: This was my first exposure to A Ghostwriter Mystery book, and I am hooked. I cannot wait to read books 1 and 2. It was fantastic!
The story was captivating and made me want to see how everything started for the ghostwriter sleuth. It was simple without being straightforward. It was dark yet not blindingly so. It was unexpected and tragic. It was golden.
Other: Readers who enjoy a good old-fashioned mystery will like this novel.
Special Note: Due to the nature of some of the content, a warning advisory is suggested. Potential readers should refer to any author/publisher notes.
Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Re-read: Yes
Status: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Level: 🔎🌀
Format: 🎧
Narrator: +
Series: Yes
Cover: +
Title: +
Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (RBmedia | Recorded Books), and to NetGalley. Thank you for providing access to an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. It was a pleasure to review. I thoroughly enjoyed the listening experience. I look forward to reading/listening to more books from this writer.
July 6, 2026
Sweet Spot by Kemper Donovan, and narrated by Eva Kaminsky, was a 3.5 star audiobook mystery for me (rounded up to 4 here). Sweet Spot is the story of Belle, a ghostwriter who steps into the role of pseudo-detective. Belle is hired to ghostwrite a memoir for a woman who was abducted in her youth, and her kidnapper appears dead on her property the day after her release from prison- all shortly after Belle's arrival to begin her project. This one drew my attention because the beautiful yet minimal cover art stood in such stark contrast to the yellow background, and it was very visually interesting. The description sealed the deal- I think the term ghostwriter, even though not meant to be spooky, really helped lend an air of mystery to the description!
There was a good deal I liked about this. First- the narration by Kaminsky was fantastic. I really enjoyed Belle's snarky internal monologue, and I felt it really added to the story and the atmosphere. I liked that she kind of pulled the reader/listener out of the story for a few moments to give her perspective on events (usually in a way that made me chuckle). The mystery absolutely held my attention, and there were many twists I did not anticipate. I don't think that the sequence of events was the most believable or realistic (like the role Belle played in the investigation, and how she seemed to be way ahead of law enforcement while having access to the same information...), but I don't think that necessarily detracted from the story too much.
This is the third novel in a series, and it worked great as a standalone. I will definitely be going back to check out the first 2, though! I recommend this to anyone looking for a mystery that isn't overly scary or gory. I think this is a great beach mystery--- but I will warn you: you'll want to stay curled up with your book rathern than splashing in the water, so plan your beach company accordingly!!!
There was a good deal I liked about this. First- the narration by Kaminsky was fantastic. I really enjoyed Belle's snarky internal monologue, and I felt it really added to the story and the atmosphere. I liked that she kind of pulled the reader/listener out of the story for a few moments to give her perspective on events (usually in a way that made me chuckle). The mystery absolutely held my attention, and there were many twists I did not anticipate. I don't think that the sequence of events was the most believable or realistic (like the role Belle played in the investigation, and how she seemed to be way ahead of law enforcement while having access to the same information...), but I don't think that necessarily detracted from the story too much.
This is the third novel in a series, and it worked great as a standalone. I will definitely be going back to check out the first 2, though! I recommend this to anyone looking for a mystery that isn't overly scary or gory. I think this is a great beach mystery--- but I will warn you: you'll want to stay curled up with your book rathern than splashing in the water, so plan your beach company accordingly!!!
July 1, 2026
Sweet Spot is a somewhat slow-paced mystery, as much of the story focuses on Belle's interactions with Genevieve, Detective Kay, and the rest of the cast, rather than the investigation itself. The story leans heavily into character development, allowing readers to get to know Belle through her inner dialogue, reflections, and observations about both her past and present. Her thought processes and personal perspective take center stage, making this a very character-driven mystery.
I listened to the Advance Listener Copy (ALC), and the narrator did an excellent job bringing Belle's personality to life as well as creating voices for the other characters. While the investigation remains an important part of the story, it often takes a back seat to the characters and their relationships. That's not necessarily a drawback; it simply reflects where the novel places its emphasis. Readers looking for a mystery with strong character exploration will likely appreciate this. I also enjoyed Donovan's writing style. The descriptions were vivid and easy to visualize, while the dialogue felt witty, intelligent, and engaging. The character interactions were one of the book's strongest aspects.
Although this is the third book in A Ghostwriter Mystery series, it can easily be read as a standalone. Donovan provides enough background information for new readers to follow the story without feeling lost, while still maintaining interest in the broader series.
There were a few moments where I noticed plot devices being used to move the story forward, particularly through certain character decisions. Likewise, there were instances where information was intentionally withheld to preserve the mystery. While these techniques were noticeable at times, they didn't significantly detract from my overall enjoyment of the book.
I listened to the Advance Listener Copy (ALC), and the narrator did an excellent job bringing Belle's personality to life as well as creating voices for the other characters. While the investigation remains an important part of the story, it often takes a back seat to the characters and their relationships. That's not necessarily a drawback; it simply reflects where the novel places its emphasis. Readers looking for a mystery with strong character exploration will likely appreciate this. I also enjoyed Donovan's writing style. The descriptions were vivid and easy to visualize, while the dialogue felt witty, intelligent, and engaging. The character interactions were one of the book's strongest aspects.
Although this is the third book in A Ghostwriter Mystery series, it can easily be read as a standalone. Donovan provides enough background information for new readers to follow the story without feeling lost, while still maintaining interest in the broader series.
There were a few moments where I noticed plot devices being used to move the story forward, particularly through certain character decisions. Likewise, there were instances where information was intentionally withheld to preserve the mystery. While these techniques were noticeable at times, they didn't significantly detract from my overall enjoyment of the book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Title: A Sweet Spot
Author: Kemper Donovan
Series: The Ghostwriter #3
Genre: Thriller
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Eva Kaminski
Publisher: RB Media / A John Scognamiglio Book
Pub Date: June 30, 2026
My Rating: 2.7 Stars!
Pages: 368
Belle Currer—is a ghostwriter who prefers the name—Genevieve Caraway. Genevieve’s memoir is tale of tragedy overcome. When Genevieve was fourteen, she was abducted from her bedroom by a couple and held hostage for three months. She’s now a happily married mother with a successful career, considered a poster child for thriving a trauma. Although, some memories have not entirely faded.
Genevieve’s lavish Utah home, “Sweet Spot,” is a guarded compound impregnable to outsiders
However, when Belle’s arrives at Sweet Spot, Deirdre Gregory, one of Genevieve’s kidnappers is there begging to see Genevieve. She, of course, is refused. The next day, Deirdre’s dead body is found on the grounds.
I read The Busy Body which was the first in this series. I gave it a ranking higher than 3 but not a 4. But was curious enough and wanted to read another in this series.
Unfortunately, I struggled with Belle. I finished but never got to the point of enjoying it.
I read Julie Clark’s The Ghostwriter and I - 5 star loved it- so it definitely set the bar high for ghostwriter type stories.
Want to thank NetGalley and RB Media/ A John Scognamiglio Book for this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for June 30, 2026.
Author: Kemper Donovan
Series: The Ghostwriter #3
Genre: Thriller
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Eva Kaminski
Publisher: RB Media / A John Scognamiglio Book
Pub Date: June 30, 2026
My Rating: 2.7 Stars!
Pages: 368
Belle Currer—is a ghostwriter who prefers the name—Genevieve Caraway. Genevieve’s memoir is tale of tragedy overcome. When Genevieve was fourteen, she was abducted from her bedroom by a couple and held hostage for three months. She’s now a happily married mother with a successful career, considered a poster child for thriving a trauma. Although, some memories have not entirely faded.
Genevieve’s lavish Utah home, “Sweet Spot,” is a guarded compound impregnable to outsiders
However, when Belle’s arrives at Sweet Spot, Deirdre Gregory, one of Genevieve’s kidnappers is there begging to see Genevieve. She, of course, is refused. The next day, Deirdre’s dead body is found on the grounds.
I read The Busy Body which was the first in this series. I gave it a ranking higher than 3 but not a 4. But was curious enough and wanted to read another in this series.
Unfortunately, I struggled with Belle. I finished but never got to the point of enjoying it.
I read Julie Clark’s The Ghostwriter and I - 5 star loved it- so it definitely set the bar high for ghostwriter type stories.
Want to thank NetGalley and RB Media/ A John Scognamiglio Book for this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for June 30, 2026.
May 18, 2026
Belle Currer is such a fun narrator to follow: sharp, observant, a little slippery in her own right, and quietly carrying more guilt than she lets on. Dropping her into Genevieve Caraway’s immaculate Utah compound — all curated perfection and tightly controlled access — sets the stage beautifully. You can feel the tension humming beneath the surface long before Deirdre Gregory turns up dead on the grounds.
The locked‑in atmosphere is delicious. A guarded estate, a cast of family and friends with polished façades and messy secrets, and a ghostwriter who sees more than she should. Belle’s partnership with Detective Kay Adams adds a lovely dynamic too — Kay’s steady, grounded presence balancing Belle’s more intuitive, emotionally tangled approach.
What makes the story sing is the blend of classic whodunnit structure with modern psychological nuance. Everyone has something to hide, but the motives feel rooted in real hurt, real history. And Belle’s own secret — the one she’s been carrying far too long — gives the mystery an extra layer of ache.
A smart, fizzy, tightly woven mystery with Golden Age charm and contemporary bite. Perfect for readers who love a locked‑compound puzzle with heart, humour, and a heroine who knows that sometimes the most dangerous secrets are the ones we keep from ourselves.
With thanks to Kemper Donovan, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The locked‑in atmosphere is delicious. A guarded estate, a cast of family and friends with polished façades and messy secrets, and a ghostwriter who sees more than she should. Belle’s partnership with Detective Kay Adams adds a lovely dynamic too — Kay’s steady, grounded presence balancing Belle’s more intuitive, emotionally tangled approach.
What makes the story sing is the blend of classic whodunnit structure with modern psychological nuance. Everyone has something to hide, but the motives feel rooted in real hurt, real history. And Belle’s own secret — the one she’s been carrying far too long — gives the mystery an extra layer of ache.
A smart, fizzy, tightly woven mystery with Golden Age charm and contemporary bite. Perfect for readers who love a locked‑compound puzzle with heart, humour, and a heroine who knows that sometimes the most dangerous secrets are the ones we keep from ourselves.
With thanks to Kemper Donovan, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There is so much to love in this book, that I don’t know where to begin! I guess it’s Belle’s voice, so relatable, so witty, it’s like Oscar Wilde teamed up with Dame Agatha to write this novel. I loved the meta-dialogue so much, that I think Belle would definitely be my bestie. If she was real, and didn’t hate people. The cast of suspects is so well drawn, that I pictured them perfectly in my head. This time, the Poirot to Belle’s Hastings is adorable, and very sharp. The setting is delicious, a fancy mansion more secure than Fort Knox. I loved the descriptions of the fabulous rooms, Donovan is so inventive. But the plot? OMG the plot, so reminiscent of classics from the Golden Age. It is perfect. I had a suspect in my head, but dismissed my theory because I couldn’t find a way to make it work. Once the whole twist is revealed, it was surprising how everything clicked. All the clues were there, craftily hidden. Is it a little over-the-top? Absolutely. Did it make me gasp and clutch my imaginary pearls? Oh yes! Then… well, it gets a little silly, in my opinion, but I will overlook it because I didn’t even notice at the time (only after I finished the novel). So really, I couldn’t recommend this book any more. Absolutely wonderful.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley/Kensington Publishing.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley/Kensington Publishing.
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July 7, 2026Sweet Spot
by Kemper Donovan
This is the third book in the Ghostwriter Mystery Series. I read and reviewed the second book, Loose Lips, back in February last year. I gave it a big thumbs up. Sweet Spot isn't quite the locked-room mystery that Loose Lips was, though it does have some of its elements, and they were smartly woven in.
Belle Currer is a ghostwriter, and she's been pursuing the gig of writing Genevieve Caraway's memoir. At 14, Genevieve was abducted from her bedroom by a couple and held hostage for three months. She's now the poster child for thriving after trauma, but her scars still remain.
Genevieve's lavish Utah home, Sweet Spot, is a guarded compound, but Belle's arrival coincides with the parole of one of Genevieve's kidnappers. The next day, a dead body is found on the grounds of Sweet Spot.
How did it get there? And more importantly, who killed them? Belle soon joins Detective Kay Adams, the pregnant Mormon detective assigned to the case, in sifting through the suspects.
Sweet Spot is a delightful mix of suspense and wit, with vividly drawn characters and twists that'll keep you guessing. If you like books by Anthony Horowitz, Fiona Hardy or Agatha Christie (who I believe is a major influence on this author), then I think you'll like this one.
Thumbs up 👍
#booksdeevaareads #2026bookshelf #RBmedia @allaboutagatha #SweetSpot #NetGalley
by Kemper Donovan
This is the third book in the Ghostwriter Mystery Series. I read and reviewed the second book, Loose Lips, back in February last year. I gave it a big thumbs up. Sweet Spot isn't quite the locked-room mystery that Loose Lips was, though it does have some of its elements, and they were smartly woven in.
Belle Currer is a ghostwriter, and she's been pursuing the gig of writing Genevieve Caraway's memoir. At 14, Genevieve was abducted from her bedroom by a couple and held hostage for three months. She's now the poster child for thriving after trauma, but her scars still remain.
Genevieve's lavish Utah home, Sweet Spot, is a guarded compound, but Belle's arrival coincides with the parole of one of Genevieve's kidnappers. The next day, a dead body is found on the grounds of Sweet Spot.
How did it get there? And more importantly, who killed them? Belle soon joins Detective Kay Adams, the pregnant Mormon detective assigned to the case, in sifting through the suspects.
Sweet Spot is a delightful mix of suspense and wit, with vividly drawn characters and twists that'll keep you guessing. If you like books by Anthony Horowitz, Fiona Hardy or Agatha Christie (who I believe is a major influence on this author), then I think you'll like this one.
Thumbs up 👍
#booksdeevaareads #2026bookshelf #RBmedia @allaboutagatha #SweetSpot #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The story follows Belle, a ghostwriter hired to help Genevieve Caraway tell the story of her traumatic abduction as a teenager. But before they can make much progress, Genevieve’s former kidnapper is released on parole, turned away from Genevieve’s heavily guarded compound, and then found dead on the property the very next day.
From there, the book transforms into a clever locked-room style mystery filled with secrets, suspects, and plenty of unanswered questions.
Belle was a fantastic character to follow. She's intelligent, observant, and just the right amount of sarcastic. I loved seeing the mystery unfold through her perspective, especially as her own secrets slowly came to light. Her partnership with Detective Kay Adams added another layer to the story, and I enjoyed watching them piece the puzzle together.
The setting worked perfectly for the mystery. The isolated compound created an atmosphere where suspicion could fall on almost anyone, and the mystery itself was well constructed, with plenty of surprises along the way. I thought I had things figured out more than once, only to be proven wrong.
Thank you so much Kemper Donovan & Kensington Books for the #gifted copy!
All opinions are my own 🖤
From there, the book transforms into a clever locked-room style mystery filled with secrets, suspects, and plenty of unanswered questions.
Belle was a fantastic character to follow. She's intelligent, observant, and just the right amount of sarcastic. I loved seeing the mystery unfold through her perspective, especially as her own secrets slowly came to light. Her partnership with Detective Kay Adams added another layer to the story, and I enjoyed watching them piece the puzzle together.
The setting worked perfectly for the mystery. The isolated compound created an atmosphere where suspicion could fall on almost anyone, and the mystery itself was well constructed, with plenty of surprises along the way. I thought I had things figured out more than once, only to be proven wrong.
Thank you so much Kemper Donovan & Kensington Books for the #gifted copy!
All opinions are my own 🖤
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4⭐ for Sweet Spot!
This is the third book in the series, and I knew I had to listen to it on audio. Honestly, audio is the way to go! Eva Kaminsky adds so much sass and personality to these characters that I found myself laughing out loud more than once.
For anyone new to the series, here's a quick recap:
Book 1: The Busy Body: Our ghostwriter is hired to write the story of a woman who lost an election and wants to tell her side of things… with a little murder thrown in.
Book 2: Loose Lips: The ghostwriter heads out on vacation and finds herself in a locked-room mystery aboard a cruise ship.
Book 3 – Sweet Spot: Our ghostwriter—who finally has a pen name, Belle Currer—is invited to write the memoir of a woman who was abducted as a child, and yes, another murder happens.
I love how each book has a completely different mystery while still giving us the same characters we've come to know and love (Yes there are past characters who make an appearance).
This series continues to be such a fun, clever read, and I can't wait to see where Belle ends up next!
More please.....I fully support Belle making questionable life choices for many more books to come!!!
I want to thank Netgalley, RBMedia and Kemper Donovan for an advanced audio ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is the third book in the series, and I knew I had to listen to it on audio. Honestly, audio is the way to go! Eva Kaminsky adds so much sass and personality to these characters that I found myself laughing out loud more than once.
For anyone new to the series, here's a quick recap:
Book 1: The Busy Body: Our ghostwriter is hired to write the story of a woman who lost an election and wants to tell her side of things… with a little murder thrown in.
Book 2: Loose Lips: The ghostwriter heads out on vacation and finds herself in a locked-room mystery aboard a cruise ship.
Book 3 – Sweet Spot: Our ghostwriter—who finally has a pen name, Belle Currer—is invited to write the memoir of a woman who was abducted as a child, and yes, another murder happens.
I love how each book has a completely different mystery while still giving us the same characters we've come to know and love (Yes there are past characters who make an appearance).
This series continues to be such a fun, clever read, and I can't wait to see where Belle ends up next!
More please.....I fully support Belle making questionable life choices for many more books to come!!!
I want to thank Netgalley, RBMedia and Kemper Donovan for an advanced audio ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a fun series and I enjoy the books a lot. I also particularly enjoy that I do not have to reread each one to enjoy the next. Donovan does a very nice job feeding you just enough reminders of what has happened in the past to keep things flowing nicely, and then moving her fabulous protagonist forward on journeys that are snarky and riddled with tension. I suspect you could even pick each one up on its own and not feel too disjointed by the lack of backstory. But for those like me who have been around since the days of The Busy Body, it continues to be entertaining and satisfying to see where things go.
I am a fan of breaking the fourth wall and enjoy when an author does that well - and Donovan uses the trick magnificently to let the reader feel like an insider who is able to benefit from omniscience while still traveling along the path of the mystery as it unfolds. It's not an easy path to walk, and she does a fantastic job with it. Add in a wonderfully complex and at times morally ambiguous protagonist with a dark sense of humor and a knack for trouble, and extricating herself from it, and the result is a very fun series that I hope continues for a long time!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
I am a fan of breaking the fourth wall and enjoy when an author does that well - and Donovan uses the trick magnificently to let the reader feel like an insider who is able to benefit from omniscience while still traveling along the path of the mystery as it unfolds. It's not an easy path to walk, and she does a fantastic job with it. Add in a wonderfully complex and at times morally ambiguous protagonist with a dark sense of humor and a knack for trouble, and extricating herself from it, and the result is a very fun series that I hope continues for a long time!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my obligation-free review copy.
July 7, 2026
𝗤𝗨𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗧 𝗣𝗘𝗘𝗞
Ghostwriter Belle heads to a secluded estate to help a kidnapping survivor write her memoir. But when a dead woman turns up inside the heavily fortified home, Belle teams up with the local detective to uncover the killer.
𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘
The audiobook narrator is so good. I can’t imagine reading this because Eva Kaminsk gives each character such personality. A delightful must-listen.
𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘
Even though this is book 3 in the series, you absolutely don’t need to have read books 1 and 2. This is the first time we get some of Belle’s backstory, so an easy place to jump in.
This is a witty, slightly meta, modern Golden Age murder mystery inspired by a true story. Often, a unique schtick (breaking the fourth wall for example) can overshadow the actual mystery, but not this time. The case is fascinating, and I was actually surprised by the reveal.
It does get a bit wordy and descriptive at times. I’m a character driven reader and tend to struggle with world-building and, in this case… house-building. I have a hard time picturing spaces, so I occasionally zoned out during some of the longer atmospheric descriptions.
But I also laughed, gasped, and groaned because now I have to wait for book 4.
𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗?
The vibe reminds me of the Everyone series by Benjamin Stevenson, but with the ghostwriter I dream of being. (Seriously, I want Belle’s job and personality.) It’s a quirky, cozy-adjacent whodunit series that doesn’t get nearly enough attention, so allow me to influence you.
Thank you RB Media, @williammorrowbooks and NetGalley for this gifted ARC.
🎧 Narrated by Eva Kaminsky
📖 Release 06•30•26 | 368 pages | 11h 23m
Ghostwriter Belle heads to a secluded estate to help a kidnapping survivor write her memoir. But when a dead woman turns up inside the heavily fortified home, Belle teams up with the local detective to uncover the killer.
𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘
The audiobook narrator is so good. I can’t imagine reading this because Eva Kaminsk gives each character such personality. A delightful must-listen.
𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘
Even though this is book 3 in the series, you absolutely don’t need to have read books 1 and 2. This is the first time we get some of Belle’s backstory, so an easy place to jump in.
This is a witty, slightly meta, modern Golden Age murder mystery inspired by a true story. Often, a unique schtick (breaking the fourth wall for example) can overshadow the actual mystery, but not this time. The case is fascinating, and I was actually surprised by the reveal.
It does get a bit wordy and descriptive at times. I’m a character driven reader and tend to struggle with world-building and, in this case… house-building. I have a hard time picturing spaces, so I occasionally zoned out during some of the longer atmospheric descriptions.
But I also laughed, gasped, and groaned because now I have to wait for book 4.
𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗?
The vibe reminds me of the Everyone series by Benjamin Stevenson, but with the ghostwriter I dream of being. (Seriously, I want Belle’s job and personality.) It’s a quirky, cozy-adjacent whodunit series that doesn’t get nearly enough attention, so allow me to influence you.
Thank you RB Media, @williammorrowbooks and NetGalley for this gifted ARC.
🎧 Narrated by Eva Kaminsky
📖 Release 06•30•26 | 368 pages | 11h 23m
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I absolutely love this series! The writing is fun and snarky and I want to be besties with the heroine, Belle, a clever, introverted ghost writer (Belle) who keeps finding herself involved in murders (and would probably prefer to stay far away from me). In this outing, she's writing the memoir of a woman who was kidnapped as a teen for a few months by a few people (sort of Elizabeth Smart–esque). The woman is finally paroled and comes straight to her compound to warn her that she's in danger, but does anyone listen? Of course not. This lady tortured her!
The next morning, PLOT TWIST, that woman is found murdered on a bench.
So Belle teams up with local Mormon mom police investor Kaydence to get to the bottom of it all, and when she's not busy sleuthing, she's getting busy with a hot prison guard.
I wasn't expecting this to be super twisty, but I did not see that ending coming! A delight from beginning to end! Also, I just learned that the author is a man! Which is kinda hilarious, given the extended diatribes Belle has about manspreading and why are men
Thanks to Kensington Publishing, via NetGalley for the ARC!
The next morning, PLOT TWIST, that woman is found murdered on a bench.
So Belle teams up with local Mormon mom police investor Kaydence to get to the bottom of it all, and when she's not busy sleuthing, she's getting busy with a hot prison guard.
I wasn't expecting this to be super twisty, but I did not see that ending coming! A delight from beginning to end! Also, I just learned that the author is a man! Which is kinda hilarious, given the extended diatribes Belle has about manspreading and why are men
Thanks to Kensington Publishing, via NetGalley for the ARC!
July 5, 2026
Agatha Christie mysteries are my Sweet Spot. This book takes the tropes from those plots and subverts them for its own ends. It is a very original way to honor Dame Agatha, while winking steadily at the reader from beyond the fourth wall.
Belle is a ghostwriter hired to assist a self help author write a memoir about her troubled past. When that past comes back with a vengeance, Belle is excited to be asked by the female police detective to assist in her investigations. What follows is a twisty mystery where everyone is a suspect.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. But it won’t be my last. I loved the wink-wink comments to the reader about common mystery novel tropes. Belle is a sarcastic witch of a narrator but it was fun hanging out with her for a while.
If you have read a bunch of mysteries like me, and are somewhat jaded at this point, pick up Sweet Spot. Its mystery is definitely a challenge and the snark is fun to read. 5 stars and a favorite!
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for providing me with an advanced review copy.
Belle is a ghostwriter hired to assist a self help author write a memoir about her troubled past. When that past comes back with a vengeance, Belle is excited to be asked by the female police detective to assist in her investigations. What follows is a twisty mystery where everyone is a suspect.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. But it won’t be my last. I loved the wink-wink comments to the reader about common mystery novel tropes. Belle is a sarcastic witch of a narrator but it was fun hanging out with her for a while.
If you have read a bunch of mysteries like me, and are somewhat jaded at this point, pick up Sweet Spot. Its mystery is definitely a challenge and the snark is fun to read. 5 stars and a favorite!
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for providing me with an advanced review copy.
April 1, 2026
Ghostwriter Belle Currer is back for a third book---this time she's set to write the memoir of Genevieve Caraway, who was abducted and held hostage as a teenager. Currer travels to Caraway's home in Utah, where right off the bat one of the kidnappers is paroled, shows up at Genevieve's house, and then is found murdered. Currer partners with a local detective to figure out who's the killer.
This latest title in the Ghostwriter series reminds me of the first title, The Busy Body, and I have some of the same criticism--I wasn't as thrilled with the meat of the investigation that mostly consisted of Belle & the detective interviewing the suspects--I would have liked a little less dialogue and more action. I didn't think this book was as funny or snarky as Loose Lips, and the killer was somewhate transparent due to Belle's blind spot/questionable decisions. Recommended if you're ok with a mystery that's mostly conversation.
This latest title in the Ghostwriter series reminds me of the first title, The Busy Body, and I have some of the same criticism--I wasn't as thrilled with the meat of the investigation that mostly consisted of Belle & the detective interviewing the suspects--I would have liked a little less dialogue and more action. I didn't think this book was as funny or snarky as Loose Lips, and the killer was somewhate transparent due to Belle's blind spot/questionable decisions. Recommended if you're ok with a mystery that's mostly conversation.
giveaway
June 27, 2026Somehow, the app doesn't record my star rating of 4
Won this one in a Goodreads giveaway
3.5 This is my first encounter with the works of this author, and I found the structure of this mystery to be unique. Unlike others, it delays the delivery a lot, perhaps because it becomes a book within a book, starting with a job and turning into a murder mystery.
We have access to the main character's inner thoughts, and that injects some humor, but it's a matter of personality if a reader connects or not with these.
The resolution choices by the author weren't my favorite, but I can see why the themes were explored. Many other secondary themes are being addressed, besides deception, resentment, blind loyalty, enabling parents, isolation, surveillance, the illusion of control, guilt.... It's quite rich in secondary themes.
Posting to my social and blog on the 30th
Www.thevioletwest.com/blog
Won this one in a Goodreads giveaway
3.5 This is my first encounter with the works of this author, and I found the structure of this mystery to be unique. Unlike others, it delays the delivery a lot, perhaps because it becomes a book within a book, starting with a job and turning into a murder mystery.
We have access to the main character's inner thoughts, and that injects some humor, but it's a matter of personality if a reader connects or not with these.
The resolution choices by the author weren't my favorite, but I can see why the themes were explored. Many other secondary themes are being addressed, besides deception, resentment, blind loyalty, enabling parents, isolation, surveillance, the illusion of control, guilt.... It's quite rich in secondary themes.
Posting to my social and blog on the 30th
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May 11, 2026
Ghostwriter Belle Currer returns in this third novel which brings her to Utah to write a memoir for a woman named Genevieve Caraway. Genevieve, at age 14, was kidnapped and held hostage for three months by a couple who are now serving time at the local prison. Upon arriving at Genevieve’s lavish home “Sweet Spot”, Belle discovers that one of the kidnappers, Deirdre Gregory, has been released from prison. Then Deirdre shows up at “Sweet Spot” trying to warn Genevieve that she is in danger once again. The next day, Deirdre is found murdered on the property and Detective Kay Adam’s shows up to begin an investigation. Everyone at the house is considered a suspect except Belle, who is asked to aid in the investigation. I love the snarky, entertaining way this author writes. I really enjoyed this novel and I’m looking forward to more in this series!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Belle Currer, a memoir ghostwriter turned mystery author (after her previous ghostwriter gigs turned into mysteries), is on her dream assignment: to write the memoir for Genevieve Caraway who was abducted and sexually assaulted as a child and later became a speaker/influencer on thriving after trauma.
When a member of the kidnappers is released on parole and then found the next morning dead on the Caraways’ property, Belle teams up with the local detective (a Mormon mother of 3+) to find out if she was murdered and by whom.
This is a great whodunnit while tackling issues of trauma, trust, and religion. The narrator does an excellent job differentiating the characters and bringing the story to life.
Many thanks to NetGalley and RBMedia for early access to the audiobook. These opinions are my own.
When a member of the kidnappers is released on parole and then found the next morning dead on the Caraways’ property, Belle teams up with the local detective (a Mormon mother of 3+) to find out if she was murdered and by whom.
This is a great whodunnit while tackling issues of trauma, trust, and religion. The narrator does an excellent job differentiating the characters and bringing the story to life.
Many thanks to NetGalley and RBMedia for early access to the audiobook. These opinions are my own.
July 1, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for the ALC of ‘Sweet Spot’ by Kempker Donovan.
Sweet Spot by Kempker Donovan was a really enjoyable read. I especially liked the mystery storyline, which kept me guessing, and the twist at the end was one I didn't see coming. The first-person perspective made it easy to connect with the narrator, and I really enjoyed experiencing the story through her eyes.
One of my favorite parts of the book was watching the narrator grow over the course of the story. Her journey toward forgiving herself felt genuine and added an emotional depth that complemented the mystery. By the end, it felt like she had truly earned her personal growth.
This was my first book by Kempker Donovan, and it definitely won't be my last. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author!
Sweet Spot by Kempker Donovan was a really enjoyable read. I especially liked the mystery storyline, which kept me guessing, and the twist at the end was one I didn't see coming. The first-person perspective made it easy to connect with the narrator, and I really enjoyed experiencing the story through her eyes.
One of my favorite parts of the book was watching the narrator grow over the course of the story. Her journey toward forgiving herself felt genuine and added an emotional depth that complemented the mystery. By the end, it felt like she had truly earned her personal growth.
This was my first book by Kempker Donovan, and it definitely won't be my last. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author!
July 2, 2026
Sweet Spot is the third book in Kemper Donovan's Ghostwriter Mystery series, and I've genuinely grown attached to this main character (Belle Currer). She's the kind of protagonist I'd follow into any mystery. The mystery kept me hooked, and on audio it moved at a solid pace. 🎧
I liked what happened at the very end, even after the mystery was solved.
My only drawback (which is personal taste only): the spicy scenes here were *a lot* for me. I don’t read romance, and I’m not interested in reading romance.
I’ve followed Kemper and the All About Agatha podcast almost since the beginning and will always support his work. Eva Kaminsky is the perfect narrator for this series.
Special thanks to NetGalley and RB Audio for the advanced audiobook copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
I liked what happened at the very end, even after the mystery was solved.
My only drawback (which is personal taste only): the spicy scenes here were *a lot* for me. I don’t read romance, and I’m not interested in reading romance.
I’ve followed Kemper and the All About Agatha podcast almost since the beginning and will always support his work. Eva Kaminsky is the perfect narrator for this series.
Special thanks to NetGalley and RB Audio for the advanced audiobook copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 3, 2026
📖 Sweet Spot by Kemper Donovan 📖
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Can you jump into a mystery series on book three and still enjoy it? For me, the answer was yes! Sweet Spot easily stands on its own.
A ghostwriter named Belle is hired to write a memoir for Genevieve, a woman who survived a horrific two month captivity as a young teen. But as the project gets underway, a whodunit unfolds where you literally cannot trust anyone.
A solid, engaging murder mystery that kept me guessing! The only downside for me was the dialogue style for the main character, Belle, which I struggled with at times. Overall, a really gripping premise!
🚫 TW: Kidnapping and SA of a minor. It’s not written with heavy graphic detail, but definitely worth noting before diving in.
Thank you Knight's Nook for the arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
💬 Drop your favorite standalone mystery recommendation below! 👇
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Can you jump into a mystery series on book three and still enjoy it? For me, the answer was yes! Sweet Spot easily stands on its own.
A ghostwriter named Belle is hired to write a memoir for Genevieve, a woman who survived a horrific two month captivity as a young teen. But as the project gets underway, a whodunit unfolds where you literally cannot trust anyone.
A solid, engaging murder mystery that kept me guessing! The only downside for me was the dialogue style for the main character, Belle, which I struggled with at times. Overall, a really gripping premise!
🚫 TW: Kidnapping and SA of a minor. It’s not written with heavy graphic detail, but definitely worth noting before diving in.
Thank you Knight's Nook for the arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
💬 Drop your favorite standalone mystery recommendation below! 👇
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sweet Spot is book three in the Ghostwriter series by Kemper Donovan.
It can be read as a standalone because I didn’t feel like I was missing anything at all while reading this book.
I was pleasantly surprised by the character development, dialogue and overall vibe of this book. Makes me want to read more mysteries. 😃
Quick synopsis:
💁🏼♀️Belle is a ghostwriter who has found herself surrounded by a few murders lately and is asked to write the memoir of a woman who was kidnapped as a teenager by a few people. Little does she know that the Utah estate that she’s entered is full of and surrounded by secrets that lead to another murder. 😅
🤔Does she and the pregnant detective involved figure who did it? You’ll have to read it to find out.
Book releases on 6/30/26
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this advanced reader copy.
It can be read as a standalone because I didn’t feel like I was missing anything at all while reading this book.
I was pleasantly surprised by the character development, dialogue and overall vibe of this book. Makes me want to read more mysteries. 😃
Quick synopsis:
💁🏼♀️Belle is a ghostwriter who has found herself surrounded by a few murders lately and is asked to write the memoir of a woman who was kidnapped as a teenager by a few people. Little does she know that the Utah estate that she’s entered is full of and surrounded by secrets that lead to another murder. 😅
🤔Does she and the pregnant detective involved figure who did it? You’ll have to read it to find out.
Book releases on 6/30/26
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this advanced reader copy.
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