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Finlay Donovan #6
Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line
Not yet published
Expected 9 Feb 27Life hasn’t been easy for Finlay Donovan lately, but it just got a whole lot harder. Her nanny and partner-in-crime, Vero, has been extradited from Virginia to Maryland, where she’s facing criminal charges for a theft she swears she didn’t commit. A prisoner to an ankle bracelet as she awaits her trial, Vero is forced to live with her overbearing mother and nosy aunt. Threatening messages keep arriving on her mother’s door, demanding Vero “turn over the money . . . or else.” And if she doesn’t figure out who really stole her former sorority’s treasury funds, her next home might be a prison cell.
But proving her innocence might be an impossible feat. Vero was the treasurer of her sorority when the money went missing—one of the only people who had access to the cash. And her alibi is a date who ghosted her. With her court date quickly approaching, and her mysterious stalker on her tail, Vero needs to clear her name fast.
Finlay decides a trip to Maryland is in order. After all, Vero stood by her through her darkest moments, and Finlay will be damned if she lets her best friend and children’s nanny be convicted for something she didn’t do. She sets off on a mission to sus out the real thief and bring Vero home.
But proving her innocence might be an impossible feat. Vero was the treasurer of her sorority when the money went missing—one of the only people who had access to the cash. And her alibi is a date who ghosted her. With her court date quickly approaching, and her mysterious stalker on her tail, Vero needs to clear her name fast.
Finlay decides a trip to Maryland is in order. After all, Vero stood by her through her darkest moments, and Finlay will be damned if she lets her best friend and children’s nanny be convicted for something she didn’t do. She sets off on a mission to sus out the real thief and bring Vero home.
384 pages, Paperback
First published March 17, 2026
About the author
Elle Cosimano
17 books9,065 followersUSA TODAY and New York Times bestselling author, Edgar® Nominee, Bram Stoker® Nominee, & ITW Thriller Award winner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,707 reviews
September 11, 2026
“Everyone loves a good Robin Hood story.”About a year ago, Vero was accused of stealing the money from an illegal gambling ring in her sorority and when no one believed her, she ran for it.
And things were looking up, she was a nanny/accountant for Finlay Donovan, the famous author...and yeah, that job came with a lot of perks and a few detriments (like helping her boss hide multiple bodies) (not a serial killer, just...a lot of people die around them)...but Vero's past has caught up with her.
The more Finlay thinks about Vero's case, the more worried she becomes. Eventually, she decides she needs to do something about it - and fast!
"The girls all believed Vero had stolen it, and charges were filed against her for larceny. ...'What if something's gone haywire with her case?' "
The series is picking up again!
"Nothing about this night was going like we’d planned."
There were so many of the books that focused on hiding dead bodies, covering up murders, and evading the police that this one (where they're trying to find the money!) was a breath of fresh air.
I mean, we still have very dubious detecting, and pole vaulting to conclusions, and questionable applications to the law - but hey, can't have it all!
I enjoyed seeing more of Vero/Javi - they did a great job of toeing the line for will-they-won't-they relationship shenanigans.
I do kinda miss the kiddos in this one, their mischievous minds always brightened the chapter for me but hopefully next time she'll be in town with them!
Overall, I was entertained and had fun in the story and honestly, what more can you ask for in a book?
March 25, 2026
This is a series that just keeps on giving!
If you plan to read the series, or haven’t read the 5th book yet, please skip this synopsis for the sixth and newest book Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line and go to my thoughts:
At the end of book 5 Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave, we saw Vero being extradited from Virginia to Maryland to face outstanding charges for the theft of her sorority’s money. She was the treasurer and the last person seen with the money, and her protestations of innocence have fallen on deaf ears.
While on the run from those charges, she’s been a nanny for Finlay’s two young children Delia and Zach. Under normal circumstances, finding out your nanny is facing such charges might be a dealbreaker, but anyone who’s read the series knows that Finlay and Vero have broken or bent a LOT of other laws and been on an extraordinary track of bad luck at avoiding trouble!
Vero and Finlay are each other’s “ride or die”, so there’s no question Finlay is going to help try to solve the mystery of who really stole the money and clear Vero’s name. Lucky for her, her hot cop boyfriend Nick is more than willing to take on babysitting duties, which if you’re familiar with Finlay’s kids - particularly Zach - is a whole adventure in its own right!
The question isn’t really will Finlay and Vero figure out who stole the money. The question you’ll want to ask is how many laws will they break while they do it!
My thoughts:
This was such a fun immersion read! I’ve been listening to Angela Dawe as these characters since the third book and I can’t imagine the series any other way now. She’s got the range to do women, men, teenagers, young kids, senior citizens, Russians … you name it. What an asset to the series!
Finlay and Vero are staying with Vero’s mom Norma and aunt Gloria (her cousin Ramon’s mom). Also in the mix are Vero’s love Javi and later, everyone’s favorite teenage hacker and mooch, Cam. Since the action is primarily in Maryland away from home, there are a lot of new faces as we meet the potential suspect pool from Vero’s old college. Some of the best new characters, though, are the Fantastic Four: Lenore, Wendell, Eugene and Joan, Vero’s hilarious senior citizen neighbors. They were a hoot!
Vero’s family members bring a whole new energy to the whirlwind that is this series. Norma and Gloria are their own dynamic duo and Ramon and Javi have their hands full trying to keep ankle-monitor wearing Vero out of even more trouble. The ankle monitor is almost its own character in this book. I’ll leave you to discover what I mean! Cam and Finlay’s dynamic is always hilarious too.
As would be expected, Finlay and Vero can’t avoid trouble. They are the magnet to its steel, and watching how they get out of a whole slew of new fiascos is what makes this series so entertaining. I only wish there’d been a little more Nick in this book, but it’s a minor complaint.
The mystery itself won’t be as dynamic for some as the other books which involved the Russian mob, neighbors with secrets and quite a few dead bodies, but it’s still a solid one in its own right and the ending sets the stage for a VERY unexpected turn of events in the next book. It can be read as a standalone, but the book and characters will mean so much more to you if you start from the beginning as the stories build on each other. If you like a mystery with humor, a bit of romance and all manner of crazy hijinks, this series always delivers!
★★★★
Thanks to my library/Libby for the Kindle and audio copies. This is out now!
If you plan to read the series, or haven’t read the 5th book yet, please skip this synopsis for the sixth and newest book Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line and go to my thoughts:
At the end of book 5 Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave, we saw Vero being extradited from Virginia to Maryland to face outstanding charges for the theft of her sorority’s money. She was the treasurer and the last person seen with the money, and her protestations of innocence have fallen on deaf ears.
While on the run from those charges, she’s been a nanny for Finlay’s two young children Delia and Zach. Under normal circumstances, finding out your nanny is facing such charges might be a dealbreaker, but anyone who’s read the series knows that Finlay and Vero have broken or bent a LOT of other laws and been on an extraordinary track of bad luck at avoiding trouble!
Vero and Finlay are each other’s “ride or die”, so there’s no question Finlay is going to help try to solve the mystery of who really stole the money and clear Vero’s name. Lucky for her, her hot cop boyfriend Nick is more than willing to take on babysitting duties, which if you’re familiar with Finlay’s kids - particularly Zach - is a whole adventure in its own right!
The question isn’t really will Finlay and Vero figure out who stole the money. The question you’ll want to ask is how many laws will they break while they do it!
My thoughts:
This was such a fun immersion read! I’ve been listening to Angela Dawe as these characters since the third book and I can’t imagine the series any other way now. She’s got the range to do women, men, teenagers, young kids, senior citizens, Russians … you name it. What an asset to the series!
Finlay and Vero are staying with Vero’s mom Norma and aunt Gloria (her cousin Ramon’s mom). Also in the mix are Vero’s love Javi and later, everyone’s favorite teenage hacker and mooch, Cam. Since the action is primarily in Maryland away from home, there are a lot of new faces as we meet the potential suspect pool from Vero’s old college. Some of the best new characters, though, are the Fantastic Four: Lenore, Wendell, Eugene and Joan, Vero’s hilarious senior citizen neighbors. They were a hoot!
Vero’s family members bring a whole new energy to the whirlwind that is this series. Norma and Gloria are their own dynamic duo and Ramon and Javi have their hands full trying to keep ankle-monitor wearing Vero out of even more trouble. The ankle monitor is almost its own character in this book. I’ll leave you to discover what I mean! Cam and Finlay’s dynamic is always hilarious too.
As would be expected, Finlay and Vero can’t avoid trouble. They are the magnet to its steel, and watching how they get out of a whole slew of new fiascos is what makes this series so entertaining. I only wish there’d been a little more Nick in this book, but it’s a minor complaint.
The mystery itself won’t be as dynamic for some as the other books which involved the Russian mob, neighbors with secrets and quite a few dead bodies, but it’s still a solid one in its own right and the ending sets the stage for a VERY unexpected turn of events in the next book. It can be read as a standalone, but the book and characters will mean so much more to you if you start from the beginning as the stories build on each other. If you like a mystery with humor, a bit of romance and all manner of crazy hijinks, this series always delivers!
★★★★
Thanks to my library/Libby for the Kindle and audio copies. This is out now!
March 23, 2026
3.5 stars - I read this whole series for the Finlay & Vero fun dynamic and this one had a lot of it - love their snark & crazy! But I also felt that the "crime" here & whole plot was very weak & just a way to tie up a lot of loose ends and advance the characters & action forward for the next installment - which fair. I did enjoy it but prefer them investigating murders with lots of crazy characters & action- Vero's family just didn't do it for me.
June 10, 2026
Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line—book #6—continues where Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave—book #5— left off...
Vero, Finlay's BFF and live-in Nanny, was extradited from Virginia to Maryland on criminal charges she swears she didn't commit. Now she's under house arrest, living with her domineering mother, Norma, and meddlesome Aunt Gloria, and wearing an ankle monitor that limits her freedom while awaiting trial.
Finlay, refusing to let Vero work through this dilemma solo, decides to drive to Maryland with Javi, Vero's boyfriend, on a mission to prove Vero's innocence. Not far behind is Ramone, Javi's cousin, and soon after, Finlay's favorite IT wizard, Cam, arrives to assist with the complicated shenanigans that quickly escalate to an emergency level. All are focused on Finlay's mission: Find the real thief and bring Vero home...
For me, this is the second-best in the Finlay Donovan series since the first book Finlay Donovan Is Killing It. It's fast-paced, the perfect mix of regular and new characters, and off-the-charts humor—three favorite aspects that draw me to this series. I mean, the mystery is good, but I need to laugh and be distracted from the constant "Breaking News" of life whirling around us. It was nice to be back with Finlay and Vero again, and I didn’t realize how much I missed them.
The one character I did miss from the main storyline was Nick, Finlay's hot cop boyfriend. He offered to stay behind to watch Finlay's two rambunctious kiddos, Delia and Zach—he's that kind of guy. There is a story within the story that subtly involves him, though, and helps to make up for his absence.
An immersive reading experience, the audiobook is narrated by Angela Dawe, the voice of Finlay and Vero, whose talent continues to amaze me. With this narrator's voice, the audiobook will always be my preferred format for this series.
Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line has a cliffhanger ending, which seems to be the way of things for this series, which is good news. It means Finlay and Vero will be back for book #7, Finlay Donovan Plays with Fire, due to publish in March 2027, and I'll be there for it!
4.75⭐
Thank you, St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books, Macmillan Audio, and Elle Cosimano for the gifted sampler DRC and ALC through NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Vero, Finlay's BFF and live-in Nanny, was extradited from Virginia to Maryland on criminal charges she swears she didn't commit. Now she's under house arrest, living with her domineering mother, Norma, and meddlesome Aunt Gloria, and wearing an ankle monitor that limits her freedom while awaiting trial.
Finlay, refusing to let Vero work through this dilemma solo, decides to drive to Maryland with Javi, Vero's boyfriend, on a mission to prove Vero's innocence. Not far behind is Ramone, Javi's cousin, and soon after, Finlay's favorite IT wizard, Cam, arrives to assist with the complicated shenanigans that quickly escalate to an emergency level. All are focused on Finlay's mission: Find the real thief and bring Vero home...
For me, this is the second-best in the Finlay Donovan series since the first book Finlay Donovan Is Killing It. It's fast-paced, the perfect mix of regular and new characters, and off-the-charts humor—three favorite aspects that draw me to this series. I mean, the mystery is good, but I need to laugh and be distracted from the constant "Breaking News" of life whirling around us. It was nice to be back with Finlay and Vero again, and I didn’t realize how much I missed them.
The one character I did miss from the main storyline was Nick, Finlay's hot cop boyfriend. He offered to stay behind to watch Finlay's two rambunctious kiddos, Delia and Zach—he's that kind of guy. There is a story within the story that subtly involves him, though, and helps to make up for his absence.
An immersive reading experience, the audiobook is narrated by Angela Dawe, the voice of Finlay and Vero, whose talent continues to amaze me. With this narrator's voice, the audiobook will always be my preferred format for this series.
Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line has a cliffhanger ending, which seems to be the way of things for this series, which is good news. It means Finlay and Vero will be back for book #7, Finlay Donovan Plays with Fire, due to publish in March 2027, and I'll be there for it!
4.75⭐
Thank you, St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books, Macmillan Audio, and Elle Cosimano for the gifted sampler DRC and ALC through NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
April 10, 2026
I was a bit over Finlay after reading "Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave", but I really enjoyed this new book in the series. The mix of buildup, family drama and the search for answers worked really well.
Vero is still one of my favourite characters, so I loved that Finlay took off to help her, leaving the kids with her hot cop boyfriend, Nick. Little Zach always cracks me up! This one definitely brought the series back for me.
Vero is still one of my favourite characters, so I loved that Finlay took off to help her, leaving the kids with her hot cop boyfriend, Nick. Little Zach always cracks me up! This one definitely brought the series back for me.
March 24, 2026
ATTENTION! I AM ABOUT TO GO ON A RANT LADIES AND GENTLEMEN! RING A DING DING.
What are we doing? I gave this two stars because I love Finlay books one through maybe three. Seriously though, what is happening?
No love triangle.
No kids.
No mom or sister.
No Steven.
Everyone acting in the opposite of their best interests.
In the last book Nick was about as annoying as he could be. Finlay left for a girls trip and he couldn't stand it for one second and practically lost his job following her around but in this one she says she's going to go check on her friend that's just a couple hours away and winds up staying a week and he's like: I'M HAVING A GREAT TIME BABYSITTING!!!! and Steven doesn't even pop up his weasel head to have a single problem with it?
We've got a woman who is nervous enough to go buy pregnancy tests but DOESN'T USE THEM FOR TWO WHOLE WEEKS??? What are we doing? If I was even a day late I'd be like: ohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygod even if I'd been in a stable relationship married for 10 years and trying for a kid that test wouldn't go without me peeing on it for a day. And if it took two weeks for me to use them it would be because I was too scared to pee.
Everyone in this book is just committing crimes. It's so stupid. If the love of my life had on an ankle monitor and her and her friend snuck out to a bar so the friend can chat up some dude... I would not be out there committing crimes and getting attention drawn to the situation, but every time Vero tries to leave that house for important reasons and absolutely is evading the law these MEN are like: LETS PUNCH SOMEONE!!!! WHOO-HOO!
Let's steal a cop car, let's kidnap people, let's break and enter. At zero times was Vero needed but here she is always ready to get her butt put in the clink because she can't trust Finlay to do what Finlay does best. Oh and the one person who is absolutely helpful to Vero at every corner she cannot stop being a dick to. Vero shut up, sit down and let your friends save you.
Oh the "crime" that has been at the back of all of these books? I don't get it. Everyone comes over to play poker and then all the money disappears. Then a LOOOOOOONNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGGG time passes. At least 4 books worth of time and they think the money is just like... in someone's house still? The whole thing is nonsense. Why is the money pooled in the first place? And the outcome... it's just so ok whatever. I'm disappointed.
Oh, oh and one more thing. There's this series of vandalizations going on and if I even told you how MANY DIFFERENT PEOPLE are involved in what turned out to have nothing to do with anything you still wouldn't be able to guess how many people were involved because your brain would turn to mush and you would forget that I told you because it's just dumb.
At this point I think the author is doing all this nonsense stuff to make the novel funny, but all I'm getting is irritated.
What are we doing? I gave this two stars because I love Finlay books one through maybe three. Seriously though, what is happening?
No love triangle.
No kids.
No mom or sister.
No Steven.
Everyone acting in the opposite of their best interests.
In the last book Nick was about as annoying as he could be. Finlay left for a girls trip and he couldn't stand it for one second and practically lost his job following her around but in this one she says she's going to go check on her friend that's just a couple hours away and winds up staying a week and he's like: I'M HAVING A GREAT TIME BABYSITTING!!!! and Steven doesn't even pop up his weasel head to have a single problem with it?
We've got a woman who is nervous enough to go buy pregnancy tests but DOESN'T USE THEM FOR TWO WHOLE WEEKS??? What are we doing? If I was even a day late I'd be like: ohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygodohmygod even if I'd been in a stable relationship married for 10 years and trying for a kid that test wouldn't go without me peeing on it for a day. And if it took two weeks for me to use them it would be because I was too scared to pee.
Everyone in this book is just committing crimes. It's so stupid. If the love of my life had on an ankle monitor and her and her friend snuck out to a bar so the friend can chat up some dude... I would not be out there committing crimes and getting attention drawn to the situation, but every time Vero tries to leave that house for important reasons and absolutely is evading the law these MEN are like: LETS PUNCH SOMEONE!!!! WHOO-HOO!
Let's steal a cop car, let's kidnap people, let's break and enter. At zero times was Vero needed but here she is always ready to get her butt put in the clink because she can't trust Finlay to do what Finlay does best. Oh and the one person who is absolutely helpful to Vero at every corner she cannot stop being a dick to. Vero shut up, sit down and let your friends save you.
Oh the "crime" that has been at the back of all of these books? I don't get it. Everyone comes over to play poker and then all the money disappears. Then a LOOOOOOONNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGGG time passes. At least 4 books worth of time and they think the money is just like... in someone's house still? The whole thing is nonsense. Why is the money pooled in the first place? And the outcome... it's just so ok whatever. I'm disappointed.
Oh, oh and one more thing. There's this series of vandalizations going on and if I even told you how MANY DIFFERENT PEOPLE are involved in what turned out to have nothing to do with anything you still wouldn't be able to guess how many people were involved because your brain would turn to mush and you would forget that I told you because it's just dumb.
At this point I think the author is doing all this nonsense stuff to make the novel funny, but all I'm getting is irritated.
May 23, 2026
Another fun adventure
June 10, 2025
This was another installment in the Finlay Donovan series, book #6. And it doesn't disappoint!
This one is brings us back to Vero and the issues we've been working through for the last few books. This one really digs in, gives us time with her family and gives Finlay time away from hers. This was entertaining with multiple laugh out loud moments - and still had the reoccurring characters we love.
AND it ended on the revelation of a HUGE moment and a new mystery. Now I can't wait for the next one. I love this series, I'm glad it looks like we're getting another!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
This one is brings us back to Vero and the issues we've been working through for the last few books. This one really digs in, gives us time with her family and gives Finlay time away from hers. This was entertaining with multiple laugh out loud moments - and still had the reoccurring characters we love.
AND it ended on the revelation of a HUGE moment and a new mystery. Now I can't wait for the next one. I love this series, I'm glad it looks like we're getting another!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I always really look forward to a new Finlay Donovan book, and Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line did not disappoint. These books are always full of complete chaos and humour, making them so fun and quick to read.
These books absolutely must be read in order, as each one picks up where the previous one left off. This time we have Vero under house arrest and Finlay determined to clear her nanny and best friend’s name. Of course it is full of misunderstandings and crazy situations. All the usual suspects are there, with Nick the hot cop playing babysitter to Finlay’s kids which really did make me laugh.
These characters are so fun to read about and it is hard to wait for the next year for the next book. There are emotional scenes as these characters are so familiar to us all now.
Such a great series and one that I recommend if you haven’t picked it up yet.
Thank you so much to Headline for allowing me to read this early. Out on March 17th.
These books absolutely must be read in order, as each one picks up where the previous one left off. This time we have Vero under house arrest and Finlay determined to clear her nanny and best friend’s name. Of course it is full of misunderstandings and crazy situations. All the usual suspects are there, with Nick the hot cop playing babysitter to Finlay’s kids which really did make me laugh.
These characters are so fun to read about and it is hard to wait for the next year for the next book. There are emotional scenes as these characters are so familiar to us all now.
Such a great series and one that I recommend if you haven’t picked it up yet.
Thank you so much to Headline for allowing me to read this early. Out on March 17th.
July 23, 2026
**3.5-stars rounded up**
Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line is the 6th-installment of the much loved Finlay Donovan series by Elle Cosimano.
I've listened to all of these books on audio, and absolutely adore the narration by Angela Dawe. She is Finlay to me at this point. As soon as I hear her voice, I'm locked in and ready for whatever Finlay has in store for me.
This installment continues the story of Vero's shady past. We've had piecemeal info on what exactly lead to Vero working for Finlay, but this book definitely helps fill in the entirety of her backstory.
Vero gets extradited back to Maryland, facing criminal charges for a theft that occurred at her sorority house while she was Treasurer there, which she swears she didn't commit. She's placed under house arrest at her Mom's home back in her hometown, ankle bracelet and all.
Finlay knows Vero is innocent and she's committed to helping her friend clear her name. Vero has been there for her through all sorts of tough times, and Finlay is ready to step up to return the favor.
Leaving her kids behind in Virginia with her boyfriend, Finlay heads off to Maryland to support Vero any way she can, and if you've read any of the books in this series, you know a lot of hi-jinks are going to ensue.
While this wasn't my favorite of the series, as far as the plot and mystery component, I still really enjoyed my time with it. I absolutely love this great cast of characters that Cosimano has created. Their relationships and banter, watching their bonds grow, it's all filled my heart.
Prior to reading this, I hadn't seen the announcement for the 7th book, but this ending made clear there was another coming and I've since found that information. I'm personally hoping Finlay's Mom will be more prominent again in the next installment, because I definitely missed her in this one.
Thank you to the publisher, Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio, for providing me copies to read and review.
I love this series and will continue to pick them up as long as they're released. I'm already looking forward to Book #7!!
Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line is the 6th-installment of the much loved Finlay Donovan series by Elle Cosimano.
I've listened to all of these books on audio, and absolutely adore the narration by Angela Dawe. She is Finlay to me at this point. As soon as I hear her voice, I'm locked in and ready for whatever Finlay has in store for me.
This installment continues the story of Vero's shady past. We've had piecemeal info on what exactly lead to Vero working for Finlay, but this book definitely helps fill in the entirety of her backstory.
Vero gets extradited back to Maryland, facing criminal charges for a theft that occurred at her sorority house while she was Treasurer there, which she swears she didn't commit. She's placed under house arrest at her Mom's home back in her hometown, ankle bracelet and all.
Finlay knows Vero is innocent and she's committed to helping her friend clear her name. Vero has been there for her through all sorts of tough times, and Finlay is ready to step up to return the favor.
Leaving her kids behind in Virginia with her boyfriend, Finlay heads off to Maryland to support Vero any way she can, and if you've read any of the books in this series, you know a lot of hi-jinks are going to ensue.
While this wasn't my favorite of the series, as far as the plot and mystery component, I still really enjoyed my time with it. I absolutely love this great cast of characters that Cosimano has created. Their relationships and banter, watching their bonds grow, it's all filled my heart.
Prior to reading this, I hadn't seen the announcement for the 7th book, but this ending made clear there was another coming and I've since found that information. I'm personally hoping Finlay's Mom will be more prominent again in the next installment, because I definitely missed her in this one.
Thank you to the publisher, Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio, for providing me copies to read and review.
I love this series and will continue to pick them up as long as they're released. I'm already looking forward to Book #7!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC for the first 12 chapters and I Love It! Seeing where the plot finally ended up is a real adventure, as is a given with a Finlay Donovan book! Vero, Finlay's nanny, has always been a crafty character. She has shady friends and family and connections that have saved Finley's bacon on more than one occasion. Now, Vero is in trouble, and it is Finley to the rescue. At least I hope she is the rescuer and doesn't end up in a jail cell next to Vero. There is also a little something, something that Finlay is up to . . . To Be Continued . . .
Now for the rest of the story . . . While Finlay is off trying to keep Vero out of jail for the theft of $200k from her sorority, Stacey, Finlay's nemesis neighbor, has started a social media site: #hotcopcrotchwatch, featuring all things Nick, which is blowing up the internet. Finlay so doesn't need this distraction right now as she is on the trail of the actual thief of the sorority's ill-gotten gambling money with Vero, who has slipped her ankle monitor with help from Cam. Yeah, what could possibly go wrong?
For the first 12 chapters, my thanks to the Publisher, and Author, for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. For the rest of the book, I have to credit Libby for A Skip The Line Loan. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Now for the rest of the story . . . While Finlay is off trying to keep Vero out of jail for the theft of $200k from her sorority, Stacey, Finlay's nemesis neighbor, has started a social media site: #hotcopcrotchwatch, featuring all things Nick, which is blowing up the internet. Finlay so doesn't need this distraction right now as she is on the trail of the actual thief of the sorority's ill-gotten gambling money with Vero, who has slipped her ankle monitor with help from Cam. Yeah, what could possibly go wrong?
For the first 12 chapters, my thanks to the Publisher, and Author, for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. For the rest of the book, I have to credit Libby for A Skip The Line Loan. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
March 6, 2026
4💫
my favorite one in the series!!!!
i just love these characters ans the story that we are taken on so much. its always so chaotic and finlay gets in the messiest situations, which is always so enjoyable. i love to audiobook these books because the narrator is so good and really brings the story to life.
i loved this one! i really enjoyed following vero & finlay as they hunted for who really committed the crime veri was accused of. i think the books got a littel repetitive in regards to the bad people involved and all the criminal crossovers, and so im glad we got some new characters in a new setting.
i was on the edge of my seat but was also having so much fun!!!
there were also so many sweet moments in this book! i adore these characters and the relationships they have with one another. you wouldn’t expect such a sweet found family in these books, but its the best!
i just love these books & can’t wait for the next ones!
☁️☁️☁️☁️☁️☁️☁️
thank you Minotaur and Elle Cosimano for the first 12 chapters!!
I absolutely binged these chapters and am eager to get my hands on this book!!! Typical Finlay getting herself into crazy situations, but im so anxious to see how Vero gets out of this one and claims her innocence.
No rating right now since I haven't read the entire book, but this one seems like it's playing out to be one of my favorites!
Very fast paced, humorous, and engaging! I love this series and I cant wait to read the rest in a few weeks!
Out 3/17🤍
my favorite one in the series!!!!
i just love these characters ans the story that we are taken on so much. its always so chaotic and finlay gets in the messiest situations, which is always so enjoyable. i love to audiobook these books because the narrator is so good and really brings the story to life.
i loved this one! i really enjoyed following vero & finlay as they hunted for who really committed the crime veri was accused of. i think the books got a littel repetitive in regards to the bad people involved and all the criminal crossovers, and so im glad we got some new characters in a new setting.
i was on the edge of my seat but was also having so much fun!!!
there were also so many sweet moments in this book! i adore these characters and the relationships they have with one another. you wouldn’t expect such a sweet found family in these books, but its the best!
i just love these books & can’t wait for the next ones!
☁️☁️☁️☁️☁️☁️☁️
thank you Minotaur and Elle Cosimano for the first 12 chapters!!
I absolutely binged these chapters and am eager to get my hands on this book!!! Typical Finlay getting herself into crazy situations, but im so anxious to see how Vero gets out of this one and claims her innocence.
No rating right now since I haven't read the entire book, but this one seems like it's playing out to be one of my favorites!
Very fast paced, humorous, and engaging! I love this series and I cant wait to read the rest in a few weeks!
Out 3/17🤍
May 25, 2026
4.5 Stars.
Finlay and Vero never cease to make me laugh as they attempt to navigate through their latest crazy scheme.
Finlay and Vero never cease to make me laugh as they attempt to navigate through their latest crazy scheme.
March 27, 2026
always a fun time
April 1, 2026
Vero and I would always be there for each other, no matter how far we had to travel, or how many crimes we had to commit.
Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line picks up a few weeks after Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave. Vero is under house arrest in Maryland—not for one of the many crimes she and Finlay committed, but for one she didn’t: stealing tens of thousands of dollars from her college sorority. Finlay is determined to prove Vero’s innocence, so she goes to Maryland with Vero’s boyfriend Javi to find the evidence that will reveal the real thief.
The Finlay Donovan series is telling one long story, and Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line is a continuation of the first five books. And the novel ends on multiple cliffhangers—someone’s missing, and someone’s pregnant!—that guarantees that the next book will tell the next part of the story. As with the earlier entries in the series, it is not gritty, realistic crime fiction. And while I thought it was one of the weaker entries, it’s still entertaining. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. Recommended.
March 31, 2026
This audiobook was good. Good humor. Not as much suspense and adrenaline rush as the previous book but still good. As always, the narrator is good and I love this series!
This story focused on Veronica's past troubles. She's on house arrest awaiting trial. She was accused of taking the money and hid. Back when she was a college student, she joined a sorority group. They did some illegal gambling and raked in a lot of money. One day, the money went missing. All fingers points to Vero. She was scared, dropped out of school, and went into hiding. Unexpectedly, Vero and Cam got into an altercation with his car and Cam reported Vero. This altercation lead the police to Vero.
Finlay traveled to Vero's mom's house to help investigate Vero's situation. Vero's boyfriend came along because he's lovesick. Vero's boyfriend has mom troubles. Vero's mom and aunt can be persistent, but not as much as their elderly neighbors. Finlay's kids are volunteered to be taken care of by Nick, her cop boyfriend. Cam was there to help with technical support.
I listened to this audiobook via Cloud Library app.
This story focused on Veronica's past troubles. She's on house arrest awaiting trial. She was accused of taking the money and hid. Back when she was a college student, she joined a sorority group. They did some illegal gambling and raked in a lot of money. One day, the money went missing. All fingers points to Vero. She was scared, dropped out of school, and went into hiding. Unexpectedly, Vero and Cam got into an altercation with his car and Cam reported Vero. This altercation lead the police to Vero.
Finlay traveled to Vero's mom's house to help investigate Vero's situation. Vero's boyfriend came along because he's lovesick. Vero's boyfriend has mom troubles. Vero's mom and aunt can be persistent, but not as much as their elderly neighbors. Finlay's kids are volunteered to be taken care of by Nick, her cop boyfriend. Cam was there to help with technical support.
I listened to this audiobook via Cloud Library app.
April 27, 2026
Rating 2.85
While I enjoyed most of the previous episodes this one left me cold. It slogs along for over 260 pages then shifts gears to an underwhelming conclusion.
The author picks up the story from #5 where Vero is accused of stealing gambling money from a sorority house fund raiser and put under house arrest. The majority of the plot is focused on learning the whereabouts of Theo since he'd given Vero a ride home the night of the party. Chapter upon chapter of 'where's Theo' drags the plot and goes nowhere. Worse yet, the attempts at humor were poor at best where I'm concerned.
While many may disagree I can't recommend it and doubt I'll bother with further episodes. Its clear Elle's contract with the publisher requires her to keep pushing these out. Enough said
While I enjoyed most of the previous episodes this one left me cold. It slogs along for over 260 pages then shifts gears to an underwhelming conclusion.
The author picks up the story from #5 where Vero is accused of stealing gambling money from a sorority house fund raiser and put under house arrest. The majority of the plot is focused on learning the whereabouts of Theo since he'd given Vero a ride home the night of the party. Chapter upon chapter of 'where's Theo' drags the plot and goes nowhere. Worse yet, the attempts at humor were poor at best where I'm concerned.
While many may disagree I can't recommend it and doubt I'll bother with further episodes. Its clear Elle's contract with the publisher requires her to keep pushing these out. Enough said
November 24, 2025
still as fun as it was for the sampler! i also love the direction that the series seems to be going in :)
**thank you to St. Martin's Press for the gifted copy**
**thank you to St. Martin's Press for the gifted copy**
Want to Read
July 2, 2025More? Finlay plz stay out of illegal shenanigans 🙏
Change your name, your kids' names, and your nanny's name and move to the Netherlands or something, and get a very safe boring job. Like an accountant.* Be a law-abiding accountant.
*No offense to accountants
Change your name, your kids' names, and your nanny's name and move to the Netherlands or something, and get a very safe boring job. Like an accountant.* Be a law-abiding accountant.
*No offense to accountants
March 18, 2026
now i’ll be depressed until next march :(
not-my-cuppa-don-t-need-gr-dnf-sh
May 2, 2026Libby app, Overdrive was better
☆☆
------
I went along with this for awhile and it started out great but took a rapid slide downhill, my brain 🧠 was pinging on some things but I kept going for a bit longer (mainly because at the time it was distracting me from a complication from my spinal shot) and stopped abruptly once
I have my people I would be there for no matter what, but if I did the stuff Finlay did up to where I stopped reading, they'd kick my butt up and down the street. I appreciated how strong their bond was but yeah...
Glad Nick wasn't in it as much... like him mostly as a character but him and Finlay together makes my brain run in the other direction..the way their relationship was written for me.. nails on a chalkboard.
I'm in the minority it looks like. If you love them together , I'm glad for ya 👍🏼.
I just cant continue with this series anymore.
I was wondering during this if everything was abducted by aliens 👽 than shook up in a blender and beemed down to 🌎 earth.
Just my humble opinion.
☆☆
------
I went along with this for awhile and it started out great but took a rapid slide downhill, my brain 🧠 was pinging on some things but I kept going for a bit longer (mainly because at the time it was distracting me from a complication from my spinal shot) and stopped abruptly once
I have my people I would be there for no matter what, but if I did the stuff Finlay did up to where I stopped reading, they'd kick my butt up and down the street. I appreciated how strong their bond was but yeah...
Glad Nick wasn't in it as much... like him mostly as a character but him and Finlay together makes my brain run in the other direction..the way their relationship was written for me.. nails on a chalkboard.
I'm in the minority it looks like. If you love them together , I'm glad for ya 👍🏼.
I just cant continue with this series anymore.
I was wondering during this if everything was abducted by aliens 👽 than shook up in a blender and beemed down to 🌎 earth.
Just my humble opinion.
January 29, 2026
Funny silly nonsense copaganda as usual
March 22, 2026
Um hello, I think this might be my favorite Finlay book yet??? I would read 1638930 more of the chaotic adventures of Finlay & Vero.
May 17, 2026
This is a Cozy Mystery, and this is the sixth book in the Finlay Donovan series. I have read one of the other books in this series before picking up this book. I think you can read this book as a standalone without any problems. I really enjoyed the characters in this book, and this book was fun to read. I loved all the craziness in this book, and the ending was really great. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
April 8, 2026
This one has not been getting a ton of love from my GR friends, but it turned out to be my second favorite of the series. I really loved it, and I am wavering between a 4 and a 5.
In this book, we finally get the resolution to the theft for which Vero is falsely accused. There is more focus on Vero and Javi than there is in other books, and she is a delight. (I did read the novella that is entirely focused on Vero, Veronica Ruiz Breaks the Bank, and I really disliked it, so I am not counting that throwaway.) For me, this is the book where we get inside the brilliant, impulsive, loving, cautious head of Vero and the unflinchingly loyal and devoted heart of Javi. Finlay and Vero are in full suburban vigilante mode as they work to keep Vero out of prison. I liked this storyline, though the sorority sisters all seemed pretty basic. I liked the extra time spent with Cam, and I loved that this relentlessly odd boy with next-level hacking skills finds a little companionship other than from his dog, Arnold Schwarzenegger. And I also loved Hawt Cawp Nick in this book -- he is not there for the vast majority, but the specter of this perfect boyfriend hovers. I was glad to get a break from Finlay's family, including her ex. I like those characters, but they take up a lot of space. I didn't stop smiling at all while reading this.
In this book, we finally get the resolution to the theft for which Vero is falsely accused. There is more focus on Vero and Javi than there is in other books, and she is a delight. (I did read the novella that is entirely focused on Vero, Veronica Ruiz Breaks the Bank, and I really disliked it, so I am not counting that throwaway.) For me, this is the book where we get inside the brilliant, impulsive, loving, cautious head of Vero and the unflinchingly loyal and devoted heart of Javi. Finlay and Vero are in full suburban vigilante mode as they work to keep Vero out of prison. I liked this storyline, though the sorority sisters all seemed pretty basic. I liked the extra time spent with Cam, and I loved that this relentlessly odd boy with next-level hacking skills finds a little companionship other than from his dog, Arnold Schwarzenegger. And I also loved Hawt Cawp Nick in this book -- he is not there for the vast majority, but the specter of this perfect boyfriend hovers. I was glad to get a break from Finlay's family, including her ex. I like those characters, but they take up a lot of space. I didn't stop smiling at all while reading this.
June 14, 2026
One of the rare series I not only read, but can’t get enough of.
Pure escapist fun with a unique blend of mystery, suspense, female friendship, humor, a touch of romance, and endearing characters.
Starting with Book 1 is s MUST, where harried mom/romantic suspense author Finlay Donovan is mistaken as a hitman for hire. By book 6, we are on to Finlay trying to clear her best gal pal from theft charges.
Like a tilt-a-whirl, the plot twists and turns you in a multitude of directions. I don’t care that it’s not a pulse pounding roller coaster, I just like the ride.
4,25 ⭐️ rounded up
Pure escapist fun with a unique blend of mystery, suspense, female friendship, humor, a touch of romance, and endearing characters.
Starting with Book 1 is s MUST, where harried mom/romantic suspense author Finlay Donovan is mistaken as a hitman for hire. By book 6, we are on to Finlay trying to clear her best gal pal from theft charges.
Like a tilt-a-whirl, the plot twists and turns you in a multitude of directions. I don’t care that it’s not a pulse pounding roller coaster, I just like the ride.
4,25 ⭐️ rounded up
July 20, 2026
*** 7/20/26 *** Recently finished this March 2026 new release, #6 in the Finlay Donovan series, of which I've read all the books! Elle Cosimano has managed to create a very popular series out of a MILF with little kids and a young bestie/nanny among other crazy characters that weave in and out of her life. This book focuses a bit more on BFF/nanny Vero's situation of being framed for stealing, and also Vero's boyfriend Javi. Finlay must help Vero figure out who is really behind the loss of the money, and do it while Vero is wearing an ankle bracelet stuck at her mother's home. Escalating chaos and hijinks ramp up through the book to the point of feeling a little insane and comical, but that's how I feel about all of the Finlay books and I still seek them out. This book also focuses on Finlay's romance with Nick, who is portrayed as the fictional perfect boyfriend. He was a little much for me lol. All in all, a light, zany semi-relatable mystery story. 4 stars.
April 19, 2026
Finley Donovan Crosses the Line by Elle Cosimano
Finlay Donovan mystery series #6. Best read in series order.
Finlay Donovan misses her nanny Vero has been extractor to Maryland. Vero continues to claim she’s innocent and begs Finlay to visit and help figure out who really stole the money. Ankle bracelet antics and climbing in and out of windows ensues as the women try to figure out where the missing money went.
Entertaining and often hilarious, the women will do whatever they need to in finding the answers they need to exonerate Vero.
Reads like it may be the last in the series. If so, it’s been a fun ride of adventure, found friendship, with a side of single mother finding romance.
Finlay Donovan mystery series #6. Best read in series order.
Finlay Donovan misses her nanny Vero has been extractor to Maryland. Vero continues to claim she’s innocent and begs Finlay to visit and help figure out who really stole the money. Ankle bracelet antics and climbing in and out of windows ensues as the women try to figure out where the missing money went.
Entertaining and often hilarious, the women will do whatever they need to in finding the answers they need to exonerate Vero.
Reads like it may be the last in the series. If so, it’s been a fun ride of adventure, found friendship, with a side of single mother finding romance.
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