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Mann & Mason #2
Deadly Does It
When Natasha Mason’s AA sponsor is in deadly danger, she turns to the cranky yet brilliant Julia Mann for help, in this exciting new mystery novel from the USA Today bestselling author of One Death at a Time.
Mason, a Gen Z adrenaline junkie, and Mann, an ex-con, ex-actress, and lawyer turned sleuth, have already solved one murder together. United by their commitment to sarcasm and general disappointment with the human race, they now face a second crime that’s way too close to home. Alexa Rousso keeps having accidents, and no one but her thinks it’s a coincidence. Could her checkered past be coming back to get her? Mason and Mann’s investigation takes them to the Bay Area, to the Central Coast, and – of course – to the hippest spots in Los Angeles. Will the Berkeley boho vibe convert Mann from vintage couture? Will the wine snobs of Ojai drive Mason to drink (or to vinicide, which isn’t even a thing)? More importantly, will they solve the mystery before the murderer’s sights settle on the detectives themselves, or will this new challenge also be their last?
Mason, a Gen Z adrenaline junkie, and Mann, an ex-con, ex-actress, and lawyer turned sleuth, have already solved one murder together. United by their commitment to sarcasm and general disappointment with the human race, they now face a second crime that’s way too close to home. Alexa Rousso keeps having accidents, and no one but her thinks it’s a coincidence. Could her checkered past be coming back to get her? Mason and Mann’s investigation takes them to the Bay Area, to the Central Coast, and – of course – to the hippest spots in Los Angeles. Will the Berkeley boho vibe convert Mann from vintage couture? Will the wine snobs of Ojai drive Mason to drink (or to vinicide, which isn’t even a thing)? More importantly, will they solve the mystery before the murderer’s sights settle on the detectives themselves, or will this new challenge also be their last?
384 pages, Paperback
First published July 21, 2026
About the author
Abbi Waxman
13 books5,000 followersHi there. I'm a chocolate loving, dog loving writer living in Los Angeles. I sit down if I can, and lie down whenever possible. If you enjoy my book and would like a personalized, signed bookplate to go in it, email me your name and address and I'll send you one! abbi@amplecat.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
July 22, 2026
3 "very meh" and disappointed stars. While I did read the previous mystery, this one was a big miss for me - way too many characters, a very messy plot and way, way, way too much focus on addiction and recovery, which can get awfully preachy and tedious to those without such issues. I only really liked the Cali road trip parts, which were fun and authentic, so gave a star for that and also liked the tie in to the tragic "Ghost Ship" fire in Oakland. I do enjoy the author & have loved a lot of her back-list, esp. "Nina Hill" but I won't be reading any more of these, sigh...
August 25, 2026
“Yeah, I’m not that woman anymore.” She turned to look at her husband, who smiled gently at her. “But I have a sneaking suspicion she’s coming back to haunt me.”
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for sending me an ARC of Deadly Does It in exchange for an honest review.
The Goodreads description of Deadly Does It is solid, so I’ll jump directly to my thoughts.
Deadly Does It is the sequel to 2025’s One Death at a Time. As with the first book, your enjoyment of this one will largely depend on your tolerance for the lead characters, Julia and Mason. Their dynamic is straight out of the HBO series Hacks, which for me is a compliment but your mileage may vary. Julia is the outwardly abrasive, wealthy former Gen X star surrounded by a staff of quirky characters, and Mason is the Gen Z woman who rapidly evolved from being Julia’s interim sobriety sponsor to temporary assistant to her now-permanent sidekick. They are funny and snarky towards each other, but underneath you know they care. There was a solid collection of supporting characters, some returning and others new (welcome, Teddy!). The recovering alcoholic storylines remain an uncommon touch in this type of series, with a heavy focus on addiction and its consequences. The mystery itself is solid; you’ll likely have your suspicions of who is lying, but I did not see all the pieces and connections until the reveal.
After writing novels in several different genres, Ms. Waxman may be settling in to writing a series of whodunnit mysteries, a slightly more serious version of the Finlay Donovan series. It is another compliment, though as someone who’s favorite book of hers is still The Bookish Life of Nina Hill, I’ll miss her work in romance and women’s fiction. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. Recommended.
July 21, 2026
The second book in the Mason & Mann mysteries series showcases the sensational chemistry of the core group of characters with a witty and fast-paced story.
The unusual sleuthing duo in this series is a hoot, and their banter is pure gold. Mason and Julia have a relationship that thrives on bickering and sarcasm. Their dynamic is humorous, but warm, and they truly care about each other. As a former film star and ex-con turned lawyer, Julia provides the strategic legal intellect, while Mason is the resourceful and fast-talking ground investigator. Both are recovering alcoholics in AA, and this mystery has them investigating threats toward Mason's sponsor.
However, it’s the secondary characters who nearly steal the show in this one. They are a quirky, tightly knit found family who mostly handle the tech and domestic needs of the crew. There's a new addition in Teddy, an experienced PI who mentors Mason, and I really enjoyed his character. The group, too, is in recovery, and everyone shares a deep bond, acceptance, and understanding because of that. The book takes a realistic but compassionate look at addiction and life in recovery.
The mystery is interesting, and it takes Mason and Julia on a road trip, which was fun. I did guess the culprit, but that didn't lessen my enjoyment, as I'm there first for the characters and to see them work the case. This is such a charming and entertaining group to spend time with.
Patti Murin does a sensational job with the audiobook narration. Her comedic timing and energy are perfect for the funny dialogue. She makes every character come to life, but I particularly enjoy her portrayal of Julia. Her ability to pivot between all of the wildly different personalities in each scene is impressive. Highly recommend this one on audiobook!
The unusual sleuthing duo in this series is a hoot, and their banter is pure gold. Mason and Julia have a relationship that thrives on bickering and sarcasm. Their dynamic is humorous, but warm, and they truly care about each other. As a former film star and ex-con turned lawyer, Julia provides the strategic legal intellect, while Mason is the resourceful and fast-talking ground investigator. Both are recovering alcoholics in AA, and this mystery has them investigating threats toward Mason's sponsor.
However, it’s the secondary characters who nearly steal the show in this one. They are a quirky, tightly knit found family who mostly handle the tech and domestic needs of the crew. There's a new addition in Teddy, an experienced PI who mentors Mason, and I really enjoyed his character. The group, too, is in recovery, and everyone shares a deep bond, acceptance, and understanding because of that. The book takes a realistic but compassionate look at addiction and life in recovery.
The mystery is interesting, and it takes Mason and Julia on a road trip, which was fun. I did guess the culprit, but that didn't lessen my enjoyment, as I'm there first for the characters and to see them work the case. This is such a charming and entertaining group to spend time with.
Patti Murin does a sensational job with the audiobook narration. Her comedic timing and energy are perfect for the funny dialogue. She makes every character come to life, but I particularly enjoy her portrayal of Julia. Her ability to pivot between all of the wildly different personalities in each scene is impressive. Highly recommend this one on audiobook!
July 22, 2026
3.5 stars. I miss Abbi Waxman's signature wit—the kind that made me absolutely fall in love with The Bookish Life of Nina Hill. This new mystery wasn't a total disaster, but it didn't dazzle me either. It lands firmly in the middle of the road. I'm not ready to fire my favorite author just yet, but I'm definitely waiting for a comeback.
March 18, 2026
Deadly Does It is the sequel to Abbi Waxman’s 2025 book One Death at a Time.
This was another fun mystery full of witty banter and controlled chaos featuring Gen Zer Mason and ex-actress turned lawyer Julia Mann, along with a colorful cast of supporting characters.
Mason’s AA sponsor Alexa has been receiving threating letters and strange things have been happing to her and those around her. First a fashion show she’s organized is sabotaged by falling giant vegetables, and then attendees of a new restaurant’s opening night come down with food poisoning.
Alexa hires Julia and Mason to get to the bottom of what’s going on. It’s possible the threats have something to do with her checkered, pre-rehab past, but Alexa’s memory of those days are pretty spotty.
Julia and Mason travel to the Bay Area and the Central Coast for their detective work, and we get to meet Mason’s family during their travels.
This isn’t a fast-paced thriller, but it is a smart and insightful mystery with lots of warmth, heart, and humor. It’s helpful to read One Death at a Time before Deadly Does it, but it’s not 100% necessary.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the advanced review copy.
This was another fun mystery full of witty banter and controlled chaos featuring Gen Zer Mason and ex-actress turned lawyer Julia Mann, along with a colorful cast of supporting characters.
Mason’s AA sponsor Alexa has been receiving threating letters and strange things have been happing to her and those around her. First a fashion show she’s organized is sabotaged by falling giant vegetables, and then attendees of a new restaurant’s opening night come down with food poisoning.
Alexa hires Julia and Mason to get to the bottom of what’s going on. It’s possible the threats have something to do with her checkered, pre-rehab past, but Alexa’s memory of those days are pretty spotty.
Julia and Mason travel to the Bay Area and the Central Coast for their detective work, and we get to meet Mason’s family during their travels.
This isn’t a fast-paced thriller, but it is a smart and insightful mystery with lots of warmth, heart, and humor. It’s helpful to read One Death at a Time before Deadly Does it, but it’s not 100% necessary.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the advanced review copy.
July 21, 2026
Natasha Mason and her boss, Julia Mann, had been successful in solving a murder previously. Perhaps the opportunity is before them once again. Both Mason and Julia are smart, funny and sarcastic, each with a colorful past. Julia is an ex-con, ex-actress and lawyer, but is becoming a private investigator something that she’s truly meant to do? Meanwhile, there is Mason. She is much younger than Mann, yet shares many of her qualities.
This time around Mason’s AA sponsor, Alexa Rousso, is in trouble. In fact, she is in danger. Mason asks Julia to help, but with this case hitting closer to home, they really have their work cut out for them. Is Alexa suddenly accident prone or is something far more sinister at play?
This series by Abbi Waxman is proving to quite enjoyable. I love Mason and Julia together, even when they see things differently. With excellent pacing, this story delivers wit and mystery while giving real weight to the struggles of alcoholism.
Many thanks to Berkley and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
This time around Mason’s AA sponsor, Alexa Rousso, is in trouble. In fact, she is in danger. Mason asks Julia to help, but with this case hitting closer to home, they really have their work cut out for them. Is Alexa suddenly accident prone or is something far more sinister at play?
This series by Abbi Waxman is proving to quite enjoyable. I love Mason and Julia together, even when they see things differently. With excellent pacing, this story delivers wit and mystery while giving real weight to the struggles of alcoholism.
Many thanks to Berkley and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
August 9, 2026
4.5/5 stars
This is a review of the ebook and audiobook. The audiobook is performed by Patti Murin
Deadly Does It is A Mason & Mann Mystery. This is the second book in the series. But it can be read as a standalone. I read the first book last year. But all of the characters and who they are is recapped in the first chapters.
This is a cozy mystery. This series features an eclectic group who work together. Julia and Mason/Natasha are such a fun duo. But I also adore Will, Archie, Claudia and Teddy. They solve cases. But the banter and camaraderie is exceptional!
Julia is a former movie star who served jail time for allegedly killing her husband. She is now a lawyer. And has put together an amazing group of quirky characters to help her solve cases. Natasha Mason is the main character and I love her so much.
Patti Murin is the audiobook narrator. She is amazing. She has a different voice for each character. And she truly makes this audiobook incredible.
There is a mystery to do with Mason’s sponsor. Both Mason and Julia are sober. But both are recovering alcoholics. This aspect of the books adds so much to the story. I really enjoy seeing various characters go to meetings. And seeing how important their sobriety is to them.
I love this book. Patti Murin is so good. The mystery is so interesting. But there is also so much humor. I really hope that this series continues because I love it so much.
This is a review of the ebook and audiobook. The audiobook is performed by Patti Murin
Deadly Does It is A Mason & Mann Mystery. This is the second book in the series. But it can be read as a standalone. I read the first book last year. But all of the characters and who they are is recapped in the first chapters.
This is a cozy mystery. This series features an eclectic group who work together. Julia and Mason/Natasha are such a fun duo. But I also adore Will, Archie, Claudia and Teddy. They solve cases. But the banter and camaraderie is exceptional!
Julia is a former movie star who served jail time for allegedly killing her husband. She is now a lawyer. And has put together an amazing group of quirky characters to help her solve cases. Natasha Mason is the main character and I love her so much.
Patti Murin is the audiobook narrator. She is amazing. She has a different voice for each character. And she truly makes this audiobook incredible.
There is a mystery to do with Mason’s sponsor. Both Mason and Julia are sober. But both are recovering alcoholics. This aspect of the books adds so much to the story. I really enjoy seeing various characters go to meetings. And seeing how important their sobriety is to them.
I love this book. Patti Murin is so good. The mystery is so interesting. But there is also so much humor. I really hope that this series continues because I love it so much.
July 9, 2026
An excellent second book in the Mann & Mason series that does a great job of integrating & reminding you of all the necessary “stuff” in the beginning and onward (meaning a reread isn’t mandatory) without clunky info dumps. It just flows!
Another case to solve, still close to home, and all the fun and eclectic characters are back.. plus new ones too! Little more backstory here for some, some depth and layers and flirting there, and a whole lot of WTF danger in the middle. Sleuthing and clue-ing and gathering up and down California while Mason settles into herself a bit more with every step.
It’s an excellent story and arc from beginning to end BUT I will admit that the perpetrator is fairly obvious, the clues too glaring. That didn’t diminish my enjoyment though. The characters and their interactions are so strong that I was happy to go along for the ride anyway.
I did have one actual complaint about the baffling choice of a minor character, it really made no sense, but let’s avoid spoilers. Just had to make a note and come back to discuss after you read the book too.
Overall, though, an excellent follow-up and I’m already clamoring for more from this series.
* I received a free early ecopy from the publisher
Another case to solve, still close to home, and all the fun and eclectic characters are back.. plus new ones too! Little more backstory here for some, some depth and layers and flirting there, and a whole lot of WTF danger in the middle. Sleuthing and clue-ing and gathering up and down California while Mason settles into herself a bit more with every step.
It’s an excellent story and arc from beginning to end BUT I will admit that the perpetrator is fairly obvious, the clues too glaring. That didn’t diminish my enjoyment though. The characters and their interactions are so strong that I was happy to go along for the ride anyway.
I did have one actual complaint about the baffling choice of a minor character, it really made no sense, but let’s avoid spoilers. Just had to make a note and come back to discuss after you read the book too.
Overall, though, an excellent follow-up and I’m already clamoring for more from this series.
* I received a free early ecopy from the publisher
August 27, 2026
3.5 rounding up. I love this detecting duo of a fabulous boomer actress and a butt kicking Gen Z Enforcer. The banter is top notch just like in the last one. This gets points taken off because this all would have been solved in 30 seconds if the client who hired them had actually just told them the truth. I also figured out who all the villains were way too fast. I wanted much more from the mystery than what came.
Mason and Mann decide to help out Mason’s AA sponsor, Alexa, who has been getting threatening notes and having her events sabotaged. They realize it might be connected to Alexa’s past before she got sober and they set off to Northern California to look into her past. However they find even more mysteries there and possibly a cold case murder that they have a new lead for.
The crew is fantastic. Everyone adds a little something, including the cat and it’s just a lot of fun in between the thrills of the chase. I really wish the story had been stronger here but I’ll be back for the next one
Mason and Mann decide to help out Mason’s AA sponsor, Alexa, who has been getting threatening notes and having her events sabotaged. They realize it might be connected to Alexa’s past before she got sober and they set off to Northern California to look into her past. However they find even more mysteries there and possibly a cold case murder that they have a new lead for.
The crew is fantastic. Everyone adds a little something, including the cat and it’s just a lot of fun in between the thrills of the chase. I really wish the story had been stronger here but I’ll be back for the next one
August 5, 2026
I didn't realize this was going to be a series, but I really enjoyed the first book and this one was fun as well. Waxman has become a favorite author. And I love the southern California setting, especially since I'm in Ventura county now, just a short drive from Ojai.
July 25, 2026
Thank you, Goodreads, for a free copy of the book - winning a giveaway was very exciting!
I enjoyed this book more than the first, and while the who was pretty obvious from the beginning, the how was not so I enjoyed watching the story unfold.
It focused heavily on Mason, and maybe could have benefited from a little more Mann. Also a very heavy slant on (over?)explaining AA, sobriety, etc. which was an interesting choice that took me out of the book from time to time.
Overall, I really enjoyed the read and look forward to Waxman's next book!
I enjoyed this book more than the first, and while the who was pretty obvious from the beginning, the how was not so I enjoyed watching the story unfold.
It focused heavily on Mason, and maybe could have benefited from a little more Mann. Also a very heavy slant on (over?)explaining AA, sobriety, etc. which was an interesting choice that took me out of the book from time to time.
Overall, I really enjoyed the read and look forward to Waxman's next book!
July 26, 2026
I love these characters! This is a really fun sequel. I hope for many more adventures to come.
August 15, 2026
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader. If you like this post, you might like others on that site. Consider checking it out!
---
WHAT'S DEADLY DOES IT ABOUT?
It's been six months or so since Mason has gone to work as an investigator/assistant to ex-actress turned activist lawyer Julia Mann. They've taken some cases to make money, and keep some room handy to take con cases to help people they like (and/or hurt those they don't).
It's the latter that comes into play when Mason's sponsor reveals she's been getting threatening notes, and someone seems to be following through with them—Alexa is an event planner and two of her recent events have gone spectacularly, headline-makingly bad. The threats promise to do more than just ruin her reputation soon. Julia and Mason assume it has to do with Alexa's past—back decades ago when she was drinking, doing drugs, and some minor crimes—and was associated with people who were doing some more serious crimes. So they start looking into the past she's tried to put behind her to uncover who's trying to make her present unlivable.
Meanwhile, Mason's father had a minor heart attack and she has to visit home a couple of times, connecting with her semi-estranged family. Also, Julia teams her up with a P.I.* to get some actual training rather than just fumbling around has she has been—it forces Mason to think about her future in a way that I'm not sure she's done since she got sober, in addition to giving her some tools she needs for this case.
* The similarity between this P.I. (Teddy) and Peter Key's mentor from Killer Vibes are pretty strong, but Teddy seems like a better guy to hang out. I'm curious if I'll think the same after one more book featuring each.
RECOVERY
This book, more than One Death at a Time and similarly to the Assassins Anonymous books, is a tribute to AA and similar programs. Many things—many things near and dear to the characters—will be mocked by characters in the book—but not their sobriety and recovery. Characters will talk about getting to a meeting, their need for one, talks with their sponsor, etc.—and the investigation will stop for them to do so.
There's even a clear need and justification to investigate people at a certain meeting, and discussion about it is shutdown by Julia so quickly it'll make your head spin. She might get pushed to it by circumstances, she makes it clear—but it's going to take a lot for her to go there and things never got there.
Due to the nature of the investigation, almost everyone they talk to is an addict in recovery or has been avoiding it for decades. Either way, Julia and Mason can relate to them, sympathize and empathize with them. This adds a different flavor to their interviews/conversations than you get in most P.I. novels. It endeared me to them even more than I already was.
WHY DID I PICK THIS UP? WHY DID I KEEP READING?
Because Abbi Waxman has been an auto-read for me since 2019 and because the fist book in this series was so good that any future books in it would've been a reflex pick up as well.
The short version of why I kept reading it is that I have more fun with it than its predecessor. The longer version is that when it comes to heart, humor, convincing mystery, believable characters, and compelling story-telling—this book nailed it all.
WHAT DOES THIS BOOK TELL US ABOUT HUMANITY?
This book is about the capacity for change, and how that capacity (exercised or not) is something we all possess. It may be major changes—like working the 12 Steps—or something relatively minor—like Julia's cook realizing she's a cat person and starting to pamper Mason's cat with cooking better than many people ever get.
Mason's father has to make some changes due to his health, Mason's sister and Mother need to acknowledge that Mason's made some positive changes in her life (whether they do or not, I won't say). Mason has to make some decisions about changing her life. Many of the characters in this book have made significant lifestyle changes due to substance abuse and addiction. There might even be a couple who haven't made the changes they need to which creates the mayhem our duo takes on.
Regardless, the opportunity is there for the taking, the possibility is there.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT DEADLY DOES IT?
The interaction between Julia and Mason—and between Julia's employees/friends/odd family—is the heart of this novel, in terms of character growth, the plot, and for entertainment. Most of the laughs come from them interacting with each other. It's in this that the link between Waxman's earlier novels and this series can be seen.
But the mystery and the investigative work are no slouch. As with One Death at a Time, Waxman shows she knows away around this kind of story. Yes, I was yelling at them (rightly) to pay attention to one character far earlier than they did, and I cottoned on to the motivation to the notes before they did—but it's only because Waxman laid out the clues so clearly for the reader.
I like these characters—including the new ones and the new layers we saw in our old friends—I thought the main story was really well executed. I think Waxman could've done a little more with the arc about Mason's family, but what was there was great. And the set up for future books is clear and I look forward to seeing what she does with the seeds she planted.
This would work wonderfully as a jumping-on point for the series, but it might resonate a little better with the reader if they go back to the beginning (which isn't that far)—but either way if you're looking for a mystery novel with dazzling characters, some genuine humor. great dialogue, and plenty to chew on, Deadly Does It fits the bill.
---
"Prison's very dull, apart from the all-pervading fear of violence and the occasional bug in the food. Trust me, you'd hate it, not because it’s scary, but because it’s skull-crushingly boring.”
“I have no intention of going to jail.”
Julia laughed. “No one intends to go to jail, Mason, yet there they are.”
WHAT'S DEADLY DOES IT ABOUT?
It's been six months or so since Mason has gone to work as an investigator/assistant to ex-actress turned activist lawyer Julia Mann. They've taken some cases to make money, and keep some room handy to take con cases to help people they like (and/or hurt those they don't).
It's the latter that comes into play when Mason's sponsor reveals she's been getting threatening notes, and someone seems to be following through with them—Alexa is an event planner and two of her recent events have gone spectacularly, headline-makingly bad. The threats promise to do more than just ruin her reputation soon. Julia and Mason assume it has to do with Alexa's past—back decades ago when she was drinking, doing drugs, and some minor crimes—and was associated with people who were doing some more serious crimes. So they start looking into the past she's tried to put behind her to uncover who's trying to make her present unlivable.
Meanwhile, Mason's father had a minor heart attack and she has to visit home a couple of times, connecting with her semi-estranged family. Also, Julia teams her up with a P.I.* to get some actual training rather than just fumbling around has she has been—it forces Mason to think about her future in a way that I'm not sure she's done since she got sober, in addition to giving her some tools she needs for this case.
* The similarity between this P.I. (Teddy) and Peter Key's mentor from Killer Vibes are pretty strong, but Teddy seems like a better guy to hang out. I'm curious if I'll think the same after one more book featuring each.
RECOVERY
This book, more than One Death at a Time and similarly to the Assassins Anonymous books, is a tribute to AA and similar programs. Many things—many things near and dear to the characters—will be mocked by characters in the book—but not their sobriety and recovery. Characters will talk about getting to a meeting, their need for one, talks with their sponsor, etc.—and the investigation will stop for them to do so.
There's even a clear need and justification to investigate people at a certain meeting, and discussion about it is shutdown by Julia so quickly it'll make your head spin. She might get pushed to it by circumstances, she makes it clear—but it's going to take a lot for her to go there and things never got there.
Due to the nature of the investigation, almost everyone they talk to is an addict in recovery or has been avoiding it for decades. Either way, Julia and Mason can relate to them, sympathize and empathize with them. This adds a different flavor to their interviews/conversations than you get in most P.I. novels. It endeared me to them even more than I already was.
WHY DID I PICK THIS UP? WHY DID I KEEP READING?
Because Abbi Waxman has been an auto-read for me since 2019 and because the fist book in this series was so good that any future books in it would've been a reflex pick up as well.
The short version of why I kept reading it is that I have more fun with it than its predecessor. The longer version is that when it comes to heart, humor, convincing mystery, believable characters, and compelling story-telling—this book nailed it all.
WHAT DOES THIS BOOK TELL US ABOUT HUMANITY?
This book is about the capacity for change, and how that capacity (exercised or not) is something we all possess. It may be major changes—like working the 12 Steps—or something relatively minor—like Julia's cook realizing she's a cat person and starting to pamper Mason's cat with cooking better than many people ever get.
Mason's father has to make some changes due to his health, Mason's sister and Mother need to acknowledge that Mason's made some positive changes in her life (whether they do or not, I won't say). Mason has to make some decisions about changing her life. Many of the characters in this book have made significant lifestyle changes due to substance abuse and addiction. There might even be a couple who haven't made the changes they need to which creates the mayhem our duo takes on.
Regardless, the opportunity is there for the taking, the possibility is there.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT DEADLY DOES IT?
"I think I can still write by hand, but on the few occasions I have to, it looks like a centipede has done two lines of coke, stepped in a tiny pot of ink and scrambled across the page in a hurry to get to somewhere else. Not exactly legible."
There was a pause.
“Thanks for the colorful image, Mason,” said Julia, “no sure who would sell a centipede the minuscule amount o¢ drugs they could take, but your rich and vivid imagination will eventually come in handy, I expect."
The interaction between Julia and Mason—and between Julia's employees/friends/odd family—is the heart of this novel, in terms of character growth, the plot, and for entertainment. Most of the laughs come from them interacting with each other. It's in this that the link between Waxman's earlier novels and this series can be seen.
But the mystery and the investigative work are no slouch. As with One Death at a Time, Waxman shows she knows away around this kind of story. Yes, I was yelling at them (rightly) to pay attention to one character far earlier than they did, and I cottoned on to the motivation to the notes before they did—but it's only because Waxman laid out the clues so clearly for the reader.
I like these characters—including the new ones and the new layers we saw in our old friends—I thought the main story was really well executed. I think Waxman could've done a little more with the arc about Mason's family, but what was there was great. And the set up for future books is clear and I look forward to seeing what she does with the seeds she planted.
This would work wonderfully as a jumping-on point for the series, but it might resonate a little better with the reader if they go back to the beginning (which isn't that far)—but either way if you're looking for a mystery novel with dazzling characters, some genuine humor. great dialogue, and plenty to chew on, Deadly Does It fits the bill.
March 12, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Abbi Waxman for the chance to read deadly does it early as an arc. This review is honest and voluntary.
3.5.5. Just like On Death at a Time I really enjoyed the banter and wit in this book. The characters were likable and the humor brought a lighthearted-ness that is often missing from book like this!
It took me a few chapters for me to warm up into the book but that is a me problem, not a writing issue.
Overall I would 100% recommend this book to friends and fellow readers!
3.5.5. Just like On Death at a Time I really enjoyed the banter and wit in this book. The characters were likable and the humor brought a lighthearted-ness that is often missing from book like this!
It took me a few chapters for me to warm up into the book but that is a me problem, not a writing issue.
Overall I would 100% recommend this book to friends and fellow readers!
August 27, 2026
https://openbooksociety.com/article/d...
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Five years sober and in her twenties, Mason met former actress Julia Mann at an AA meeting. The former actress was in prison for a murder she didn’t commit when she earned her degree and became an attorney. She got sober there, had a couple slips over the years, and immediately returned to meetings. Julia asked Mason to be her temporary sponsor.
Even with the substantial gap between their ages and their polar opposite lifestyles, they got along quite well. Neither are delicate little flowers. Julia has many skills, from being professionally adept to acting to understated elegance. Mason became her sidekick after helping Julia solve a major case, and lives in one of Julia’s guest houses.
Julia met her housekeeper and excellent chef, Claudia, when they became close friends in prison. Claudia’s boyfriend, Teddy, is a former con and a private investigator. Mason is deciding on a career and whether to return to college, and went on stakeouts with Teddy for on-the-job training to be a PI.
Mason’s mother called her from Berkeley; her father had a mild heart attack. He should recover quickly with some lifestyle changes. If Mason went to visit, it would only be for her father. Her mother and sister never understood her, and have always, only, questioned and critiqued her.
Mason’s sponsor, Alexa, had been sober for over twenty-five years and sponsored two other women. Alexa is an event planner with a huge fashion show scheduled. Mason attended to support Alexa. Several attendees were injured as a result of a mechanical “attack”, and some of her clients cancelled their events.
Jennifer is another of Alexa’s sponsees. Mason attended the grand opening of Jennifer’s third restaurant, made memorable for several people going to the hospital with food poisoning. The police could only ascertain that each person who got sick had wine from Jennifer’s new wine vendor, but none of the bottles tested positive.
Alexa and her husband Scott went to see Julia with a troubling situation. She received threatening letters with unique similarities but refused to tell the police. The threats implied that “I know what you did; you know what I did” and “I’ll keep your secret if you keep mine”. Alexa said she had no idea what she did, but she had survived a fire in a rundown warehouse, lived in and used by artists who drank, used, and/or sold drugs. Many people died that night, and it was still discussed almost thirty years later.
Mason planned a brief visit to visit her father and family. Julia joined her so they could interview people Alexa knew from the time of the fire. Julia saw how her family interacted with Mason, and Mason’s parents were thrilled to meet the star that her father once had a crush on! Mason learned what was stressing her father’s working life and discussed ways to resolve the situation. Julia and Mason tracked down and questioned Alexa’s ex-husbands, friends, a policeman, and a fire inspector before returning to LA.
A loyal friend, Mason believed what Alexa told them. Alexa sent Mason to check on her third sponsee, Iris, and found her dead of an overdose. Detectives saw an inconsistency with the needle, still in her arm, and declared it a homicide.
Alexa received another letter, “one down, two to go, then it’s your turn”. They believed “one” was Iris, and “two to go” were Alexa’s other sponsees, then Alexa herself. Julia convinced her to tell the police. They would continue to investigate for her, but the detectives needed to consider the letters when investigating Iris’s death. Then, someone attempted to kill Mason.
The characters are three-dimensional in their actions and conversations. Most are engaging and transparent, but at least one is keeping a secret or two. I genuinely like Mason and Julia. They help others, and are a “family” that includes staff and friends. Some of Mason’s family have not gotten past her troubled teen years or addictions, but people can surprise us!
I appreciate that Abbi Waxman’s protagonists are people in recovery and fell in love with the series when reading the first in the series. For readers unfamiliar with the groups, the author explains certain aspects of twelve-step programs. She presents each person with value and dignity.
There are several twists and hair-raising U-turns, even changing the course of their investigation. It will take everything this crew has to solve the crimes before another person is murdered. I love the ending! I highly recommend this challenging mystery and the first in series!
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Five years sober and in her twenties, Mason met former actress Julia Mann at an AA meeting. The former actress was in prison for a murder she didn’t commit when she earned her degree and became an attorney. She got sober there, had a couple slips over the years, and immediately returned to meetings. Julia asked Mason to be her temporary sponsor.
Even with the substantial gap between their ages and their polar opposite lifestyles, they got along quite well. Neither are delicate little flowers. Julia has many skills, from being professionally adept to acting to understated elegance. Mason became her sidekick after helping Julia solve a major case, and lives in one of Julia’s guest houses.
Julia met her housekeeper and excellent chef, Claudia, when they became close friends in prison. Claudia’s boyfriend, Teddy, is a former con and a private investigator. Mason is deciding on a career and whether to return to college, and went on stakeouts with Teddy for on-the-job training to be a PI.
Mason’s mother called her from Berkeley; her father had a mild heart attack. He should recover quickly with some lifestyle changes. If Mason went to visit, it would only be for her father. Her mother and sister never understood her, and have always, only, questioned and critiqued her.
Mason’s sponsor, Alexa, had been sober for over twenty-five years and sponsored two other women. Alexa is an event planner with a huge fashion show scheduled. Mason attended to support Alexa. Several attendees were injured as a result of a mechanical “attack”, and some of her clients cancelled their events.
Jennifer is another of Alexa’s sponsees. Mason attended the grand opening of Jennifer’s third restaurant, made memorable for several people going to the hospital with food poisoning. The police could only ascertain that each person who got sick had wine from Jennifer’s new wine vendor, but none of the bottles tested positive.
Alexa and her husband Scott went to see Julia with a troubling situation. She received threatening letters with unique similarities but refused to tell the police. The threats implied that “I know what you did; you know what I did” and “I’ll keep your secret if you keep mine”. Alexa said she had no idea what she did, but she had survived a fire in a rundown warehouse, lived in and used by artists who drank, used, and/or sold drugs. Many people died that night, and it was still discussed almost thirty years later.
Mason planned a brief visit to visit her father and family. Julia joined her so they could interview people Alexa knew from the time of the fire. Julia saw how her family interacted with Mason, and Mason’s parents were thrilled to meet the star that her father once had a crush on! Mason learned what was stressing her father’s working life and discussed ways to resolve the situation. Julia and Mason tracked down and questioned Alexa’s ex-husbands, friends, a policeman, and a fire inspector before returning to LA.
A loyal friend, Mason believed what Alexa told them. Alexa sent Mason to check on her third sponsee, Iris, and found her dead of an overdose. Detectives saw an inconsistency with the needle, still in her arm, and declared it a homicide.
Alexa received another letter, “one down, two to go, then it’s your turn”. They believed “one” was Iris, and “two to go” were Alexa’s other sponsees, then Alexa herself. Julia convinced her to tell the police. They would continue to investigate for her, but the detectives needed to consider the letters when investigating Iris’s death. Then, someone attempted to kill Mason.
The characters are three-dimensional in their actions and conversations. Most are engaging and transparent, but at least one is keeping a secret or two. I genuinely like Mason and Julia. They help others, and are a “family” that includes staff and friends. Some of Mason’s family have not gotten past her troubled teen years or addictions, but people can surprise us!
I appreciate that Abbi Waxman’s protagonists are people in recovery and fell in love with the series when reading the first in the series. For readers unfamiliar with the groups, the author explains certain aspects of twelve-step programs. She presents each person with value and dignity.
There are several twists and hair-raising U-turns, even changing the course of their investigation. It will take everything this crew has to solve the crimes before another person is murdered. I love the ending! I highly recommend this challenging mystery and the first in series!
September 1, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley for providing me with an eARC.
This was a fun mystery with nice characters. Since I haven't read the first book, it took me a while to figure out what the character relationships and backgrounds are so it might be better to read that first. The mystery aspect itself seemed to be standalone enough. As a group I liked the characters but individually I found them annoying. A pet peeve of mine is when the character development doesn't feel natural but rather they're each given one exemplified trait that defines their entire personality. It was like that for almost every character. The mystery itself was written well and is along the lines of a cozy mystery, the twists were well executed. I still liked The Bookish Life of Nina Hill by the author more but this was a fun, fast-paced read. I would recommend this to anyone looking for fast-paced low stakes mystery books.
This was a fun mystery with nice characters. Since I haven't read the first book, it took me a while to figure out what the character relationships and backgrounds are so it might be better to read that first. The mystery aspect itself seemed to be standalone enough. As a group I liked the characters but individually I found them annoying. A pet peeve of mine is when the character development doesn't feel natural but rather they're each given one exemplified trait that defines their entire personality. It was like that for almost every character. The mystery itself was written well and is along the lines of a cozy mystery, the twists were well executed. I still liked The Bookish Life of Nina Hill by the author more but this was a fun, fast-paced read. I would recommend this to anyone looking for fast-paced low stakes mystery books.
August 10, 2026
Abbi Waxman is an auto-read for me! I love her books. They bring you into the story, and keep you interested the entire time. I listened to the audio and enjoyed the narration by Patti Murin immensely. I hope we get more books in this series because I'm invested and attached to the characters! More, please!!
Thank you to PRH Audio and Abbi Waxman for the review copy!
Thank you to PRH Audio and Abbi Waxman for the review copy!
August 12, 2026
Not my first Abbi Waxman book which I love loads, but my first in this detective series. Unfortunately it was number 2 accidentally. Oh well. I can backtrack with the best of em. Mason and Mann are the most unlikely pair ever but they work. I have to find book 1 somewhere now. Geez.
August 21, 2026
the best part for me, a member of my local UC faculty association, was the careful noting that tenure line faculty at Berkeley aren’t unionized but they do have the FA and they “like to help”— book research at its finest. that and the zippy dialogue.
September 4, 2026
I liked the first book in the series quite a bit, but this one not so much. In the first one, Mason's snarky comments seemed witty and kind of cute. In this one they just seem rude. I also got [tired of all the AA details. I know its a great organization, but I'm not really that interested in it.
July 25, 2026
I have been reading mysteries for a lot of years. It is becoming a bit of a challenge to find “smart” novels with the depth of background, experience and knowledge in the author that makes a book enjoyable- a book that makes you glad that you read it as well as enjoying the plot and characters.
I read the first in the series: ONE DEATH AT A TIME and liked it. The second one is even better. It means that the characters have been steeping and the first instalment was not just an accident. With an older series I often start with the second book just to make sure that the investment in my precious listening/reading time is worth it. DEADLY DOES IT was worth every minute.
I read the first in the series: ONE DEATH AT A TIME and liked it. The second one is even better. It means that the characters have been steeping and the first instalment was not just an accident. With an older series I often start with the second book just to make sure that the investment in my precious listening/reading time is worth it. DEADLY DOES IT was worth every minute.
August 14, 2026
The essential bits of the cold case are: a sex worker went missing during the fire. She was assumed killed by the fire. Her body was later found somewhere else and she was clearly murdered. Alexa's timeline of events at the fire don't add up and it's clear she knows more about the woman's death than she's admitting.
The modern day attacks come down to: who has a vested interest in the events of the fire to want revenge on Alexa now? Who in Alexa's life might have ties to her past? And finally, is the woman's murderer the present day murderer?
Despite the Bay Area oddities, I still enjoyed the mystery. The characters are interesting. The puzzle part of the mystery is good and the solution is rewarding.
https://pussreboots.com/blog/2026/com...
The modern day attacks come down to: who has a vested interest in the events of the fire to want revenge on Alexa now? Who in Alexa's life might have ties to her past? And finally, is the woman's murderer the present day murderer?
Despite the Bay Area oddities, I still enjoyed the mystery. The characters are interesting. The puzzle part of the mystery is good and the solution is rewarding.
https://pussreboots.com/blog/2026/com...
July 21, 2026
I first fell in love with this author when I read The Bookish Life of Nina Hill. Since then, I’ve read several of her books and this newest novel is a sequel to her previous mystery novel, One Death At a Time.
Mason and Julia are back again to investigate strange happenings with Mason’s AA sponsor, Alexa. From threatening letters to falling giant vegetables at a fashion show to food poisoning during the opening night of a restaurant, Alexa is convinced that someone is out to get her and destroy her business.
With the same humor, wit and banter that is characteristic of her novels, Waxman has crafted another fun mystery with memorable characters. And a bonus for me is that it is set in the Bay Area and so many of the locations felt so familiar to me.
Thank you @berkleypub @netgalley @abbiwaxman for a gifted early digital copy of this book.
Mason and Julia are back again to investigate strange happenings with Mason’s AA sponsor, Alexa. From threatening letters to falling giant vegetables at a fashion show to food poisoning during the opening night of a restaurant, Alexa is convinced that someone is out to get her and destroy her business.
With the same humor, wit and banter that is characteristic of her novels, Waxman has crafted another fun mystery with memorable characters. And a bonus for me is that it is set in the Bay Area and so many of the locations felt so familiar to me.
Thank you @berkleypub @netgalley @abbiwaxman for a gifted early digital copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Comedic murder mystery in the Mason and Mann series.
The author does a great job developing her characters, both those on the investigative team as well as potential suspects and victims. The plot moves along at a brisk pace but takes the time for the scene-setting, both in the present and events in the past which are a lead in to current day crimes. The banter between some characters is wonderful.
Although the plot is a bit convoluted, it became obvious (to me) which way the story was going and why certain characters were acting strangely. Perhaps this is the author's intention, but it took a little fun out of it for me. I still enjoyed it, but wish certain details were a little less obvious to figure out.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The author does a great job developing her characters, both those on the investigative team as well as potential suspects and victims. The plot moves along at a brisk pace but takes the time for the scene-setting, both in the present and events in the past which are a lead in to current day crimes. The banter between some characters is wonderful.
Although the plot is a bit convoluted, it became obvious (to me) which way the story was going and why certain characters were acting strangely. Perhaps this is the author's intention, but it took a little fun out of it for me. I still enjoyed it, but wish certain details were a little less obvious to figure out.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2026
2.8 stars. The Bookish Life of Nina Hill was one of my favorites of all time! However- the last two books from this author are mysteries and this genre departure from her previous works has not been a good thing for me. I loved so many other books of her family stories from the Nina Hill universe - but these mysteries are not working out for me. I hate to say it but this may be my last Abbi Waxman read for a while.
June 8, 2026
Mann and Mason are back! Julie, an Oscar winner, lawyer, and convicted murderer, and Natasha Mason are running a business that keeps getting Mason beat up. But when her AA sponsor is threatened, they start investigating what in shady past could lead to murder.
All these characters are in recovery, which is such an interesting place to work from. It’s a good mystery and there’s lots of sarcasm. I was disappointed in a decision Mason made at the very end, but overall a good sequel/probably book 2 in a series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
All these characters are in recovery, which is such an interesting place to work from. It’s a good mystery and there’s lots of sarcasm. I was disappointed in a decision Mason made at the very end, but overall a good sequel/probably book 2 in a series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
July 21, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the early copy of *Deadly Does It* by Abbi Waxman.
I really enjoy Abbi Waxman's particular brand of charm: witty banter, warm and complicated characters, laugh-out-loud moments, and a little bit of controlled chaos. *Deadly Does It*, the second book in the Mason & Mann Mysteries, delivers all of that while expanding the world of the series across modern California.
Mason and Julia are back, this time investigating threatening letters and escalating harassment directed at Mason's AA sponsor, Alexa. What begins as a mystery involving Alexa's past quickly becomes much more dangerous, taking the team from the Bay Area to the Central Coast and bringing in more of the colorful characters who make this series so much fun.
The mystery itself is enjoyable, although I did figure out the general direction of the solution fairly early. That didn't diminish my enjoyment, though. The characters and their relationships are strong enough that I was happy to go along for the ride. There are plenty of clues, twists, danger, and WTF moments, but the real appeal for me is watching this eclectic group of people interact.
I especially enjoy the relationship between Gen Z Mason and Julia, a former famous actress, convicted murderer, and now lawyer. Their relationship is difficult to categorize: not quite family, not exactly friends, but something that feels very real and increasingly meaningful. I also enjoyed getting to know Mason's family and seeing more of the supporting characters, including Archie, who I would happily have seen more of in this installment.
This book does meander a bit in the middle, but not in a way that bothered me much. Some of those quieter sections don't necessarily move the mystery forward, but they do give us more of the characters, their histories, and their relationships. And I am always willing to spend more time with a well-written cast of characters.
I also appreciated how Waxman handles the series backstory. While I think *One Death at a Time* is worth reading, this book does a good job of giving readers the information they need without clunky exposition or requiring a reread.
Overall, this is a smart, warm, funny mystery with a genuinely enjoyable cast of characters. Abbi Waxman clearly understands how to balance humor, heart, character development, and a mystery that keeps the story moving.
An excellent follow-up to *One Death at a Time*, and I am already hoping for more Mason, Julia, and this wonderfully eclectic group of characters.
I really enjoy Abbi Waxman's particular brand of charm: witty banter, warm and complicated characters, laugh-out-loud moments, and a little bit of controlled chaos. *Deadly Does It*, the second book in the Mason & Mann Mysteries, delivers all of that while expanding the world of the series across modern California.
Mason and Julia are back, this time investigating threatening letters and escalating harassment directed at Mason's AA sponsor, Alexa. What begins as a mystery involving Alexa's past quickly becomes much more dangerous, taking the team from the Bay Area to the Central Coast and bringing in more of the colorful characters who make this series so much fun.
The mystery itself is enjoyable, although I did figure out the general direction of the solution fairly early. That didn't diminish my enjoyment, though. The characters and their relationships are strong enough that I was happy to go along for the ride. There are plenty of clues, twists, danger, and WTF moments, but the real appeal for me is watching this eclectic group of people interact.
I especially enjoy the relationship between Gen Z Mason and Julia, a former famous actress, convicted murderer, and now lawyer. Their relationship is difficult to categorize: not quite family, not exactly friends, but something that feels very real and increasingly meaningful. I also enjoyed getting to know Mason's family and seeing more of the supporting characters, including Archie, who I would happily have seen more of in this installment.
This book does meander a bit in the middle, but not in a way that bothered me much. Some of those quieter sections don't necessarily move the mystery forward, but they do give us more of the characters, their histories, and their relationships. And I am always willing to spend more time with a well-written cast of characters.
I also appreciated how Waxman handles the series backstory. While I think *One Death at a Time* is worth reading, this book does a good job of giving readers the information they need without clunky exposition or requiring a reread.
Overall, this is a smart, warm, funny mystery with a genuinely enjoyable cast of characters. Abbi Waxman clearly understands how to balance humor, heart, character development, and a mystery that keeps the story moving.
An excellent follow-up to *One Death at a Time*, and I am already hoping for more Mason, Julia, and this wonderfully eclectic group of characters.
July 23, 2026
Book rating: 3.5 ⭐️
Genre: mystery
Themes: found family, addiction, sobriety, foodie
📖 Read if you like: A Murderous Business, The Marlow Murder Club, The Forty Year Grudge
The premise: A group of addicts continuously working at their sobriety solve crimes. Mason is an impulsive adrenaline junkie who acts first and thinks later despite being rather clever. She works for the forever glamourous ex-con and ex-actress Julia Mann who now happens to be a lawyer. When Mason’s AA sponsor starts receiving meticulous crafted threats that are followed by a series of strange and unfortunate events, the team will have to dig into Alexa’s past to uncover the ugly secret that is spurring on these violent delights.
This is a book that could survive off of banter and sarcasm alone. The team of Julia and Mason is made better with addition of the would be jeopardy star and forever curious Will, the chef de cuisine with a checkered past Claudia, the crafty and morally ambiguous P.I. Teddy, and of course the earnest love interest Archie who happens to be Julia’s agent and occasional lawyer. I basically want to lunch regularly with this group of friends who proved to be hilarious and clever in equal measure.
The mystery itself was rather obvious to me, but I liked that they did a lot of leg work to get to that conclusion. There were elements of the ludicrous, cue falling giant vegetable, but they were smartly included in the plot. The mystery of the past had enough moving parts to create depth of character and a myriad of possible lies.
A lot of the story centres around addiction and the lies that are told along the way. There was a lot of the program that was explained in the book that it often felt like reading the manual. I am not overtly fond of this sort of telling in novels rather than experiencing the shifts through actions and conversations, but as it was critical to so many of the characters and their mindsets I didn’t mind so much. It also offered a much needed compassionate lens for the ongoing battle addicts face day to day, from familial judgement to anxiety and social pressure.
Overall, this was an entertaining and fun mystery with a group I enjoy following. As the series continues we get to learn more about these characters and get heart and humour in the perfect combination.
Thank you to @BerkleyPub for this #gifted book. Mason and Mann were once again an entertaining duo off to solve a new mystery. #BerkleyPartner #BerkleyBookstgram
Genre: mystery
Themes: found family, addiction, sobriety, foodie
📖 Read if you like: A Murderous Business, The Marlow Murder Club, The Forty Year Grudge
The premise: A group of addicts continuously working at their sobriety solve crimes. Mason is an impulsive adrenaline junkie who acts first and thinks later despite being rather clever. She works for the forever glamourous ex-con and ex-actress Julia Mann who now happens to be a lawyer. When Mason’s AA sponsor starts receiving meticulous crafted threats that are followed by a series of strange and unfortunate events, the team will have to dig into Alexa’s past to uncover the ugly secret that is spurring on these violent delights.
This is a book that could survive off of banter and sarcasm alone. The team of Julia and Mason is made better with addition of the would be jeopardy star and forever curious Will, the chef de cuisine with a checkered past Claudia, the crafty and morally ambiguous P.I. Teddy, and of course the earnest love interest Archie who happens to be Julia’s agent and occasional lawyer. I basically want to lunch regularly with this group of friends who proved to be hilarious and clever in equal measure.
The mystery itself was rather obvious to me, but I liked that they did a lot of leg work to get to that conclusion. There were elements of the ludicrous, cue falling giant vegetable, but they were smartly included in the plot. The mystery of the past had enough moving parts to create depth of character and a myriad of possible lies.
A lot of the story centres around addiction and the lies that are told along the way. There was a lot of the program that was explained in the book that it often felt like reading the manual. I am not overtly fond of this sort of telling in novels rather than experiencing the shifts through actions and conversations, but as it was critical to so many of the characters and their mindsets I didn’t mind so much. It also offered a much needed compassionate lens for the ongoing battle addicts face day to day, from familial judgement to anxiety and social pressure.
Overall, this was an entertaining and fun mystery with a group I enjoy following. As the series continues we get to learn more about these characters and get heart and humour in the perfect combination.
Thank you to @BerkleyPub for this #gifted book. Mason and Mann were once again an entertaining duo off to solve a new mystery. #BerkleyPartner #BerkleyBookstgram
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I don't know if I have the right words to describe how phenomenal Abbi Waxman's "Mason & Mann Mystery" novels are. A year ago, I begged for more. The unholy cross between the Matthew Scudder novels of Lawrence Block, the Spellman books by Lisa Lutz and a hundred other classic detective novels and shows with a band of misfits that are beyond perfect. Not only do we get more banter between Mason and Julia...we get more Claudia, more Will, more Phil. We get a new character, Teddy. We get more of Mason and her family. I love that the characters have to deal with everything they deal with...AND sobriety. I might not be an addict (I'm not even that much of a drinker) but there is a certain level of "realness" (a word I'm inventing) to how they have to navigate their lives.
All of this combined with the expanded setting of modern (and past) California. In all it's glory, glitter, glamour and warts. Waxman is clearly enjoying what she's writing - maybe more than she ever has before - and it shows on the page. It is littered with laugh-out-loud moments, tender bits and deep character development. Plus a fun mystery that...yeah...I'd kind of guessed at what was going on, but it was fun to watch the characters get there.
It is an almost perfect book. I felt it needed more Archie, but maybe we'll get there in a third installment. I also felt that while I'd figured out the mystery earlier, the characters sort of figure it all out right at once and I got the feeling that Waxman had maybe written herself into a corner and had to figure a way out. It meanders a bit in the middle - not in a bad way (gods no - like the first book, there are portions that don't truly advance the plot too much that are, nevertheless, delightful for what they reveal about the other characters).
This book series is now an auto-buy for me. I recommend them to anyone who loves fun, mysteries that are kinda "feel good" and don't hesitate to show the world as it really is. 4.75 stars (mostly because I deperately wanted more of Archie) - rounded up for GR. EXTREMELY recommended.
The absolute most thankyous to NetGalley and Berkley for the chance to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own and were not compensated. Deadly Does It is out July 21st and you can preorder it now!
All of this combined with the expanded setting of modern (and past) California. In all it's glory, glitter, glamour and warts. Waxman is clearly enjoying what she's writing - maybe more than she ever has before - and it shows on the page. It is littered with laugh-out-loud moments, tender bits and deep character development. Plus a fun mystery that...yeah...I'd kind of guessed at what was going on, but it was fun to watch the characters get there.
It is an almost perfect book. I felt it needed more Archie, but maybe we'll get there in a third installment. I also felt that while I'd figured out the mystery earlier, the characters sort of figure it all out right at once and I got the feeling that Waxman had maybe written herself into a corner and had to figure a way out. It meanders a bit in the middle - not in a bad way (gods no - like the first book, there are portions that don't truly advance the plot too much that are, nevertheless, delightful for what they reveal about the other characters).
This book series is now an auto-buy for me. I recommend them to anyone who loves fun, mysteries that are kinda "feel good" and don't hesitate to show the world as it really is. 4.75 stars (mostly because I deperately wanted more of Archie) - rounded up for GR. EXTREMELY recommended.
The absolute most thankyous to NetGalley and Berkley for the chance to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own and were not compensated. Deadly Does It is out July 21st and you can preorder it now!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sober alcoholic Natasha “Mason” is now working full time for Julia Mann, a fellow alcoholic, former famous actress, convicted murderer and now a lawyer. After closing their most recent case, Mason’s AA sponsor Alexa Rousso hires Julia to find out who has been sending her harassing letters. The letters state that Alexa did something in her past that the sender knows about and threatens to destroy her. Alexa claims to have no idea what the sender is talking about but concedes she did her fair share of bad things before getting sober. Julia accepts the case and so begins a deep dive into Alexa’s former life.
Julia along with her amazing team; Mason, her investigator in training, Will her legal assistant (and resident Know-it-all), Claudia, a former prison mate and cook extraordinaire, Teddy, PI and Claudia’s long time lover, and Archie, who is not technically part of the team, but is Julia’s agent and sometime lawyer, start checking out Alexa’s past and find way more than they were expecting. And with each clue they uncover, the more the letter sender begins to escalate their reign of terror on Alexa. Julia is sure Alexa is holding out on them, but when the threats turn deadly, they will need to solve this mystery before anyone else gets hurt.
This is the second book in the Mason & Mann Mysteries, but if like me, you missed the first book, worry not! The author does a great job of giving the reader plenty of backstory on the characters, so you don’t feel lost. Mason and Julia have an interesting relationship, not quite family, not really friends, but somewhere in-between. I enjoyed the interaction and banter between them, as well as all the secondary characters, including Mason’s family. The story takes lots of twists and turns, which left me thinking I knew who the villain was, but then had me second-guessing myself on more than one occasion. I was totally invested in this story and loved the ending! As I mentioned, I didn’t read the first book, but it is now on my TBR and I will definitely be on the lookout for the next installment of the series!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
Julia along with her amazing team; Mason, her investigator in training, Will her legal assistant (and resident Know-it-all), Claudia, a former prison mate and cook extraordinaire, Teddy, PI and Claudia’s long time lover, and Archie, who is not technically part of the team, but is Julia’s agent and sometime lawyer, start checking out Alexa’s past and find way more than they were expecting. And with each clue they uncover, the more the letter sender begins to escalate their reign of terror on Alexa. Julia is sure Alexa is holding out on them, but when the threats turn deadly, they will need to solve this mystery before anyone else gets hurt.
This is the second book in the Mason & Mann Mysteries, but if like me, you missed the first book, worry not! The author does a great job of giving the reader plenty of backstory on the characters, so you don’t feel lost. Mason and Julia have an interesting relationship, not quite family, not really friends, but somewhere in-between. I enjoyed the interaction and banter between them, as well as all the secondary characters, including Mason’s family. The story takes lots of twists and turns, which left me thinking I knew who the villain was, but then had me second-guessing myself on more than one occasion. I was totally invested in this story and loved the ending! As I mentioned, I didn’t read the first book, but it is now on my TBR and I will definitely be on the lookout for the next installment of the series!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
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