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Adina Donati, Accidental Sleuth #1
Think Murder
Adina Donati came to Washington D.C. to find excitement, not a dead body.
When a friend is murdered, Adina is drawn into the middle of the police investigation. Tensions rise as the suspect list expands to include Adina, her friends, and colleagues at the prestigious think tank where she works.
But every cloud has a silver lining. Between the nice detective, the hot new volunteer at the dog rescue center, and the newly available preppy ex-boyfriend, Adina's dating dry spell appears near its end.
That is, if she doesn't become the next victim.
When a friend is murdered, Adina is drawn into the middle of the police investigation. Tensions rise as the suspect list expands to include Adina, her friends, and colleagues at the prestigious think tank where she works.
But every cloud has a silver lining. Between the nice detective, the hot new volunteer at the dog rescue center, and the newly available preppy ex-boyfriend, Adina's dating dry spell appears near its end.
That is, if she doesn't become the next victim.
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
207 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
53 people are currently reading
511 people want to read
About the author
Cassidy Salem
13 books187 followersCassidy Salem has always been an avid reader. She is especially fond of mysteries and historical fiction. When she’s not reading, she enjoys music and spending time with family and friends, and travels with her husband and son whenever possible.
Cassidy Salem is the author of the Adina Donati, Accidental Sleuth Mystery Series (Think Murder, Dying for Data, Killer Reputation, Fit for Murder, and Dead amid the Dogwoods).
Cassidy is also co-author of the Hannah and Tamar Mystery series for YA (The Mysterious Package, Mrs. Tedesco's Missing Cookbook, The Misplaced Dog, Malicious Mischief, and Mayhem on the Midway).
Cassidy Salem is the author of the Adina Donati, Accidental Sleuth Mystery Series (Think Murder, Dying for Data, Killer Reputation, Fit for Murder, and Dead amid the Dogwoods).
Cassidy is also co-author of the Hannah and Tamar Mystery series for YA (The Mysterious Package, Mrs. Tedesco's Missing Cookbook, The Misplaced Dog, Malicious Mischief, and Mayhem on the Midway).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
March 16, 2019
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
First of all, this is a clean, cozy mystery that is an easy, entertaining read. Anyone who enjoys a classic "whodunnit" with nothing more untoward than the discovery of a body with minimal detail will probably fully enjoy this book. In fact, I would give it a 4.5 rating only because I would have preferred a bit more "meat" to the story. However, I also recognize the fact that this is the first book in the series, and in setting the stage, sometimes the first mystery is a bit slower and often slightly mundane. Notwithstanding, I am intrigued to read the rest in this series.
For my taste, this book had a relatable heroine in Adina Donati. She was not looking for murder, and in truth, she merely did her job, which aided in the ultimate solving of the crime. The fact that Adina has two potential suitors, is a Jewish girl with a rather typical career-girl life, and mostly keeps to herself and only happens upon a murder "by chance" makes the plot even more relatable. Depending on where the next book goes from here, I could easily see this being made into a cozy mystery movie for Hallmark, but only time will tell on that prediction.
First of all, this is a clean, cozy mystery that is an easy, entertaining read. Anyone who enjoys a classic "whodunnit" with nothing more untoward than the discovery of a body with minimal detail will probably fully enjoy this book. In fact, I would give it a 4.5 rating only because I would have preferred a bit more "meat" to the story. However, I also recognize the fact that this is the first book in the series, and in setting the stage, sometimes the first mystery is a bit slower and often slightly mundane. Notwithstanding, I am intrigued to read the rest in this series.
For my taste, this book had a relatable heroine in Adina Donati. She was not looking for murder, and in truth, she merely did her job, which aided in the ultimate solving of the crime. The fact that Adina has two potential suitors, is a Jewish girl with a rather typical career-girl life, and mostly keeps to herself and only happens upon a murder "by chance" makes the plot even more relatable. Depending on where the next book goes from here, I could easily see this being made into a cozy mystery movie for Hallmark, but only time will tell on that prediction.
April 28, 2015
Adina Donati is the new Nancy Drew (hmmm, or maybe she'd be Bess. . .), all grown up and a single young professional working at a prestigious think tank in Washington D.C. What makes this story a bit more realistic than a Nancy Drew story is that for the most part, Adina does the responsible thing in passing on information she stumbles across to the proper authority -- namely, the attractive detective, Jonathan Saks, who may or may not be interested in a relationship beyond the case. Author Cassidy Salem does a great job of establishing the setting in D.C. and clearly knows the city and its dwellers well, but it is her characterization that really shines. From the lovable neighbor, Daniel Sullivan, to the loathsome new boss, Dr. Stickler, Salem gives readers exactly the right information to create a definite profile and impression of each character, which keeps each memorable and unique. She also expertly throws hints at what's coming, but just as often Salem throws foils that misdirect and muddy-up the whodunnit part of the mystery. The resolution of the story works well as is, but it's set-up in a way that Adina's story may very well continue into subsequent books! Full review on Hall Ways Blog http://kristinehallways.blogspot.com/...
August 24, 2021
4 Star review Think Murder (Adina Donati Accidental Sleuth #1) by Cassidy Salem
AUDIO REVIEW:
Cassidy Salem is a new author to me as is the narrator Melissa Haley. This was a good mystery that was well written and entertaining. This is the first book in the series about Adina Donati, who after discovering the body of her friend becomes an amateur sleuth. As she becomes more invested in finding out what happened to her friend, Adina will not only uncover secrets and lies, she will also become a target herself.
Although not a particularly long read, Ms.Salem managed to pack a lot into the story. Adina was a likeable character and was easy to relate to and I could easily picture the hustle and bustle of Washington D.C. as I was listening. I did feel that the narrators’ male voices were a bit of a let down, but then that is just my opinion; it didn’t stop me from enjoying the story and other than that she was easy to listen too.
AUDIO REVIEW:
Cassidy Salem is a new author to me as is the narrator Melissa Haley. This was a good mystery that was well written and entertaining. This is the first book in the series about Adina Donati, who after discovering the body of her friend becomes an amateur sleuth. As she becomes more invested in finding out what happened to her friend, Adina will not only uncover secrets and lies, she will also become a target herself.
Although not a particularly long read, Ms.Salem managed to pack a lot into the story. Adina was a likeable character and was easy to relate to and I could easily picture the hustle and bustle of Washington D.C. as I was listening. I did feel that the narrators’ male voices were a bit of a let down, but then that is just my opinion; it didn’t stop me from enjoying the story and other than that she was easy to listen too.
March 25, 2015
This was a surprisingly good mystery. I'm not 100% sure it is a cozy because the main character, Adina, isn't actively trying to solve the case, she just happens to be doing some things that put her in places where she hears things about her friend Hannah's murder. Plus she always passes along the info to the detective in charge...who is attractive and interested in her too.
And what story wouldn't be complete without a love triangle. Not only do we have Detective Saks interested in Adina, but there is also Bruce who volunteers at the same dog shelter and is very handsome. Adina is definitely interested in him.
I don't want to give away the mystery (and I won't) but it is definitely not anything you would be expecting, or maybe you will based on some of what Adina discovers.
And what story wouldn't be complete without a love triangle. Not only do we have Detective Saks interested in Adina, but there is also Bruce who volunteers at the same dog shelter and is very handsome. Adina is definitely interested in him.
I don't want to give away the mystery (and I won't) but it is definitely not anything you would be expecting, or maybe you will based on some of what Adina discovers.
April 3, 2015
According to the bio following the book, this is the author's first work of fiction. I hope it is not her last. Her mystery is well developed but rushes too quickly to the conclusion. I hope in her next book, the resolution will be as well crafted as her set up deserves. The lead character is likable and you root for her. I would like to see further books in this series, if it will be a series, deepen her relationships with her friends, family and budding romantic interests. In all, a very promising first entry, demostrating the skill of the author in an enjoyable read.
April 7, 2015
This is a captivating whodunit that will keep you on the edge of your seat with its plot twists and turns. I couldn't put it down and when it was done I eagerly wanted more. The characters are well developed and the story line holds your interest from the first page. I love visiting D.C. and this book really brought me back there with the details and story. I was hooked and hope you will read it to be hooked too.
January 7, 2022
Adina is in the middle of a mess in this cozy mystery. Her good friend from work has been murdered and she’s the one who found her body. In the following days, it seems like somebody may be after Adina as well. This mystery had fun, interesting characters. And there was some humor to lighten the murder mystery. And Adina meets some interesting men. And there are dogs involved at the dog rescue center. I listened to the audiobook and the narration was very good.
May 7, 2021
fast easy read with just the right amount of mystery and romance.
March 26, 2019
Cassidy Salem is a new-to-me author, and I was unsure what to expect when I started her Adina Donati, Accidental Sleuth series, but I’m a sucker for murder mysteries! These books are everything I could want in a cozy mystery series! From the first page the author captured my attention and had me caught up in the life of Adina.
Adina is living a normal life in D.C. when she finds her friend and co-worker murdered. Somehow, despite not a lot of effort on her part, Adina becomes involved in the investigation. Adina has a knack for finding out information, and she’s more than willing to share it with the detective investigating the murder. She also finds herself taking over the report her friend was working on, and finding herself getting the wrong kind of attention.
I loved this story and how the author built the mystery. It felt very natural that Adina was involved in solving the mystery of her friend’s death, as she really was just doing her job and talking to people. There was never a point that Adina was trying to take over the case, and I really liked that. Also, Adina who hasn’t been dating, suddenly finds herself attracted to two different men who are also interested in her.
Many times the first book in a series can be a lot as the author is building the world, but not this one. There wasn’t a lot of forced information in the story, it gradually built through the book and series which just allowed me to read and enjoy. I’d definitely recommend this book and series! It was an easy, quick read that kept my attention the entire time. The mystery was very well done and we had a chance of following along with Adina as she discovered more information. And, as I’ve mentioned many times, I’m not a fan of romance in my mysteries because it can overwhelm the story. Not so with this one. It was a mystery with a small dash of romance, so don’t go into this series thinking there’s a love story with a HEA!
Rating: 5 stars!
**Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.**
Adina is living a normal life in D.C. when she finds her friend and co-worker murdered. Somehow, despite not a lot of effort on her part, Adina becomes involved in the investigation. Adina has a knack for finding out information, and she’s more than willing to share it with the detective investigating the murder. She also finds herself taking over the report her friend was working on, and finding herself getting the wrong kind of attention.
I loved this story and how the author built the mystery. It felt very natural that Adina was involved in solving the mystery of her friend’s death, as she really was just doing her job and talking to people. There was never a point that Adina was trying to take over the case, and I really liked that. Also, Adina who hasn’t been dating, suddenly finds herself attracted to two different men who are also interested in her.
Many times the first book in a series can be a lot as the author is building the world, but not this one. There wasn’t a lot of forced information in the story, it gradually built through the book and series which just allowed me to read and enjoy. I’d definitely recommend this book and series! It was an easy, quick read that kept my attention the entire time. The mystery was very well done and we had a chance of following along with Adina as she discovered more information. And, as I’ve mentioned many times, I’m not a fan of romance in my mysteries because it can overwhelm the story. Not so with this one. It was a mystery with a small dash of romance, so don’t go into this series thinking there’s a love story with a HEA!
Rating: 5 stars!
**Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.**
June 9, 2015
First, I want to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read her book. Second, you need to read this book! This little mystery is a real gem.
Adina Donati is a young lady just starting out her career in Washington, D.C. She works for a think-tank as a researcher during the day, and volunteers at a dog rescue center at night. On Wednesdays, she and her best friend Hilary stop in at McSweeney’s bar for a drink after work. This particular Wednesday everything is going as usual until Hilary ends up dead on the bathroom floor. Adina finds herself being swept up in the police investigation which begins to focus more and more on the work Hilary was doing at the think-tank. She also finds herself in danger after she takes over the project that Hilary’s death left unfinished.
You can’t help but like Adina, who is just a regular person getting caught up in terrible circumstances. Her dating life has gone stale and her mother is constantly trying to match her up. She lives by herself and struggles with the loneliness that comes with it. She gets bored at work and succumbs to social media surfing when she just can’t focus. I could totally relate to all of it. Luckily for Adina the author is about to send a couple of hunky guys her way, just at the moment she needs to be rescued.
This story was very well-written and the narrative flowed smoothly and at a steady pace. I found it difficult to pull myself away from it once the story got going. The characters were believable and felt real to me. I also really enjoyed her descriptions of the parts of the city Adina finds herself in, such as Farragut Square and the Library of Congress.
Lovers of cozy mysteries with some danger thrown in will really enjoy this book. This is meant to be the first in a series and I will be looking for future installments.
Adina Donati is a young lady just starting out her career in Washington, D.C. She works for a think-tank as a researcher during the day, and volunteers at a dog rescue center at night. On Wednesdays, she and her best friend Hilary stop in at McSweeney’s bar for a drink after work. This particular Wednesday everything is going as usual until Hilary ends up dead on the bathroom floor. Adina finds herself being swept up in the police investigation which begins to focus more and more on the work Hilary was doing at the think-tank. She also finds herself in danger after she takes over the project that Hilary’s death left unfinished.
You can’t help but like Adina, who is just a regular person getting caught up in terrible circumstances. Her dating life has gone stale and her mother is constantly trying to match her up. She lives by herself and struggles with the loneliness that comes with it. She gets bored at work and succumbs to social media surfing when she just can’t focus. I could totally relate to all of it. Luckily for Adina the author is about to send a couple of hunky guys her way, just at the moment she needs to be rescued.
This story was very well-written and the narrative flowed smoothly and at a steady pace. I found it difficult to pull myself away from it once the story got going. The characters were believable and felt real to me. I also really enjoyed her descriptions of the parts of the city Adina finds herself in, such as Farragut Square and the Library of Congress.
Lovers of cozy mysteries with some danger thrown in will really enjoy this book. This is meant to be the first in a series and I will be looking for future installments.
March 21, 2015
What starts out as drinks with a her friend Hillary ends in tragedy for Adina Donati when her friend is found dead in the bathroom an apparent suicide but everything is not what it seems in D.C. Adina seems to be in the middle of something big and someone wanted to kill her friend but who did it remains to be seen.
As Adina tries to help her friend's boss with a project Hillary was working on she starts to notice things aren't right, and quickly alerts the attention of someone. Whether it be for good or bad remains to be seen. With every action being watched by someone Adina relies on the police more and that seems to be upsetting someone who wants to make sure Adina suffers the same fate as Hillary.
I really enjoyed this book as it dealt with D.C. and was different then other cozy mysteries I have read this one focused on think tank type jobs, volunteering at a pet rescue place and Adina's apartment rather normal cozies which either focus on cooking, books, or things like that. I really enjoyed this journey you take with Adina. Definitely a great author I hope to read more by her.
As Adina tries to help her friend's boss with a project Hillary was working on she starts to notice things aren't right, and quickly alerts the attention of someone. Whether it be for good or bad remains to be seen. With every action being watched by someone Adina relies on the police more and that seems to be upsetting someone who wants to make sure Adina suffers the same fate as Hillary.
I really enjoyed this book as it dealt with D.C. and was different then other cozy mysteries I have read this one focused on think tank type jobs, volunteering at a pet rescue place and Adina's apartment rather normal cozies which either focus on cooking, books, or things like that. I really enjoyed this journey you take with Adina. Definitely a great author I hope to read more by her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2015
Think Murder features a think tank setting and one of the research assistants is murdered. Her friend, Adina, is part suspect and possibly in danger as she is assigned to complete the project. Adina and the other characters are well developed. Adina is a strong, smart female but not over the top. The plot is well-developed with enough tension to keep the pages turning. The conclusion makes sense, but isn't obvious. This was an enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more books by Cassidy Salem. I hope there's a sequel in the works.
January 21, 2015
A definite intrigue
Welcome to Washington DC and I bet "Murder" wasn't on the itinerary. This book held me captive until I finished it. It was the first book I've ready by Salem but it won't be my last. It starts when Adina finds her friends murdered body, just moments after they were having drinks together. This book was a great caper to discover more than just a murderer as the clues started to pile up, pulling in Adina to places very dangerous. Just when you think you figured it out, you could just be wrong. Highly recommended.
Welcome to Washington DC and I bet "Murder" wasn't on the itinerary. This book held me captive until I finished it. It was the first book I've ready by Salem but it won't be my last. It starts when Adina finds her friends murdered body, just moments after they were having drinks together. This book was a great caper to discover more than just a murderer as the clues started to pile up, pulling in Adina to places very dangerous. Just when you think you figured it out, you could just be wrong. Highly recommended.
July 8, 2015
Think Murder offers a refreshing glimpse into the world of the mundane as it clashes with high stakes politics. Set in Washington, DC, the main character, Adina, is thrust into a police investigation that becomes more dangerous at every turn. She tries to maintain a sense of normalcy while the events around her seem anything but normal. This whodunnit kept me guessing until the end. There is just the right amount of romance to make the story sweet and believable. The novel is well-written and enjoyable to read. I am hoping for a sequel and look forward to reading more by this talented author.
August 19, 2021
I enjoyed this book, there is a nice mix of mystery solving, a complicated love interest and home life. The story wasn't to complicated and flowed along nicely. It was fairly short but a good way to fill in a few hours. The mystery was interesting (if a bit obvious, with no real twist) and working in a think tank is a different career choice for the main character, although gossiping and playing computer games seemed to be the majority of the work done. There was some nice characters and I liked the fun of the dog shelter. I nice start to a new series that I would like to see develop.
Every Wednesday Adina and her best friend Hilary break up the week by going to the local pub near there office for happy hour but when Hilary goes to the toilet and doesn't return, Adina gets worried and goes to find her. Only to find her friend. When the police begin to treat it like murder the office gossip starts to fly and as Hilary was eating Adina ex boyfriend and had the better job, Adina becomes the number one suspect. It doesn't help things when Adina is asked to work on Hilary's report for the boss. Adina starts to get the feeling that her friend might have been the target over something that happened at work, when she gets the sense she is being followed. Helping the police with there inquiries gets her in trouble with her boss but she has to keep on looking in to the matter when she receives a threatening note and looks like she might be the next victim. Can she find out Tqhe motive behind her friends death?
The narrator was okay but I found I had to slow down the listening speed of the story because she spoke a bit to fast for me to take it in. Once I did that I enjoyed the story.I
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Every Wednesday Adina and her best friend Hilary break up the week by going to the local pub near there office for happy hour but when Hilary goes to the toilet and doesn't return, Adina gets worried and goes to find her. Only to find her friend. When the police begin to treat it like murder the office gossip starts to fly and as Hilary was eating Adina ex boyfriend and had the better job, Adina becomes the number one suspect. It doesn't help things when Adina is asked to work on Hilary's report for the boss. Adina starts to get the feeling that her friend might have been the target over something that happened at work, when she gets the sense she is being followed. Helping the police with there inquiries gets her in trouble with her boss but she has to keep on looking in to the matter when she receives a threatening note and looks like she might be the next victim. Can she find out Tqhe motive behind her friends death?
The narrator was okay but I found I had to slow down the listening speed of the story because she spoke a bit to fast for me to take it in. Once I did that I enjoyed the story.I
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
January 19, 2020
The book description pretty much sums up the story except for the finite details which the author introduces in each new chapter. When starting the book, I first felt like I was reading a Stephanie Plum story as the main character, Adina stumbles across information that might help solve the murder. I did find the relationship between Adina and the investigating detective to be much too cozy for a murder investigation but their shared information eventually solves the case.
I continued to second-guess who the murderer was, initially, hanging my hat on the boyfriend and then later on Bruce, the new helper at the dog shelter. However, when guessing at the motive, I found myself way in left field.
I especially enjoyed the interfacing between Adina and her co-workers at the Think Tank; their gossiping, jealousies, and meanness are typical of most office environments that I had experienced. And a big plus for her boss who was quite supportive and compassionate during her ordeal - they are far and few in between.
Overall, the story kept my interest throughout - compliments to the author for including so many twists and turns. I'd recommend Think Murder by Cassidy Salem to anyone looking for an afternoon of 'who done it' entertainment.
I continued to second-guess who the murderer was, initially, hanging my hat on the boyfriend and then later on Bruce, the new helper at the dog shelter. However, when guessing at the motive, I found myself way in left field.
I especially enjoyed the interfacing between Adina and her co-workers at the Think Tank; their gossiping, jealousies, and meanness are typical of most office environments that I had experienced. And a big plus for her boss who was quite supportive and compassionate during her ordeal - they are far and few in between.
Overall, the story kept my interest throughout - compliments to the author for including so many twists and turns. I'd recommend Think Murder by Cassidy Salem to anyone looking for an afternoon of 'who done it' entertainment.
July 1, 2018
Adina Donati is off for a couple of hours relaxing with a co-worker and friend, they have enjoyed a couple of glasses of wine when Hilary (the friend) goes to freshen up, when she doesn't arrive back in a timely manner Adina goes to track her down, only to find her dead body in the pub's bathroom. From then on Adina finds that life is not as simple as it used to be, with threatening behaviour, threatening letters and blow ups at work. Luckily the very nice Detective is looking out for her, as are the other volunteers at the dog rescue centre (oh and Adina is putting off telling her Mother about the nice detective as he is Jewish and Adina's Jewish mother would be planning the wedding before you can say L'Chaim!)
A fairly gentle first in a series, I did find the writing style a little "choppy" (not that I think I could do any better!) but I like the characters of Adina and Detective Jonathan Saks and I look forward to seeing what happens in the next book.
A fairly gentle first in a series, I did find the writing style a little "choppy" (not that I think I could do any better!) but I like the characters of Adina and Detective Jonathan Saks and I look forward to seeing what happens in the next book.
July 11, 2022
This was my first experience with Cassidy Salem's work, and I was entertained. This first book introduced Adina Donati, who works for a think tank in Washington D.C. Adina was drawn into a murder investigation when one of her friends was found murdered. The mystery was convoluted. The characters were interesting. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series. Melissa Haley's narration was just barely passable. There were overlong pauses between each sentence. There were times when she raced through the sentence and there was one time, I'm still not sure what she said. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
October 4, 2017
Available Kindle Unlimited which is how I got it, seemed a bit 'off' or maybe dragging in a couple of places but then again this was not a 'cozy' murder and is set up differently so with that in mind it was a good story and worth the time.
Think Murder (Adina Donati, Accidental Sleuth Book 1)
Dying for Data (Adina Donati, Accidental Sleuth #2)
Also the co-author of the Hannah and Tamar Mystery series for YA
for some reason didn't review this from when read on amazon
Think Murder (Adina Donati, Accidental Sleuth Book 1)
Dying for Data (Adina Donati, Accidental Sleuth #2)
Also the co-author of the Hannah and Tamar Mystery series for YA
for some reason didn't review this from when read on amazon
January 3, 2025
New author for me
I actually read about this book in another book. The main character was reading this book, so I looked it up to see if it was a real book. I decided to take a chance on it, and I am glad I did. You can read the synopsis for yourself. So I will just say that I will be reading more in this series.
I actually read about this book in another book. The main character was reading this book, so I looked it up to see if it was a real book. I decided to take a chance on it, and I am glad I did. You can read the synopsis for yourself. So I will just say that I will be reading more in this series.
July 1, 2018
Two dimensional and flat
A bit anti- climatic. Well written but there was no suspense and the characters were a bit two dimensional. I suppose it could be classified as a cozy mystery but I didn't feel it was. Will not be reading any more.
A bit anti- climatic. Well written but there was no suspense and the characters were a bit two dimensional. I suppose it could be classified as a cozy mystery but I didn't feel it was. Will not be reading any more.
November 5, 2019
An interesting plot and characters. I had difficulty with unnecessary details: food, and apartment descriptions. They were unnecessary to the story, and I found them to be distracting. A quick read and enjoyable.
October 30, 2021
I really enjoyed listening to this story. I definitely learnt a lot re the Washington political scene.
The narration was really good and suited the story.
The narration was really good and suited the story.
June 11, 2024
Who killed Hilary and why??? She was teaching her how to take panoramic pictures and accidently caught them??? I enjoyed this story and recommended the book.
September 11, 2015
Think Murder is a light mystery with a good plot that had some very interesting political turns to it. The case itself felt real and I could easily imagine a thing like this happening in real life, so the true story feeling is definitely a huge plus for me.
It was easy to read and the story progressed at an even pace. I did get the feeling this was more like a romance novel than a mystery to me though. Which definitely doesn’t have to be a bad thing at all, and for those who like to read romance with a hint of mystery, this is a very good novel. But personally, I would have wanted some more mystery though, but that is just me.
The main character, Adina, is well developed and as a reader I got a good sense of who she was. I think the other characters could have benefited from some more detail, and it was at times hard to picture the other people around Adina. There were also many characters that could have been brought in to the murder investigation as red herrings, but unfortunately they was just there as friends and coworkers.
Adina and Hilary are two young women working together at a think tank, and they seem to be very good friends. This makes me feel like Adina’s reaction to Hilary’s death is a bit off. She is devastated at first, but then a day later she seems more focused on hot guys around her and her emotions about the murder doesn’t feel very genuine to me. But perhaps the two women weren’t as good friends as I thought.
When Adina takes over Hilary’s work, bad things start to happen to her and she realizes she may be in danger. This gives the story a nice turn and the mystery of Hilary’s death is starting to unravel. Unfortunately I found the writing style to be a bit awkward, making it hard for me to follow along in the development of the mystery at times. And it felt like the core of the story got lost under page after page of rather uneventful things and conversations that only repeated an event that just had happened. There was a lot of “how are you doing?” questions from countless friends. I would have wanted to see that these conversations were there to add conflict and tension rather than simply sympathizing with Adina.
Had Adina been more active in the investigation, trying harder to find clues and maybe even having some of her friends being the prime suspect for some time, the story would have gained another star. But I felt like the story lacked surprises and that perfect climax in the end.
Still, if you like cozy mysteries with a big splash of romance, this is a novel you will enjoy. So be sure to read it.
This book was provided to me for free for an honest review.
It was easy to read and the story progressed at an even pace. I did get the feeling this was more like a romance novel than a mystery to me though. Which definitely doesn’t have to be a bad thing at all, and for those who like to read romance with a hint of mystery, this is a very good novel. But personally, I would have wanted some more mystery though, but that is just me.
The main character, Adina, is well developed and as a reader I got a good sense of who she was. I think the other characters could have benefited from some more detail, and it was at times hard to picture the other people around Adina. There were also many characters that could have been brought in to the murder investigation as red herrings, but unfortunately they was just there as friends and coworkers.
Adina and Hilary are two young women working together at a think tank, and they seem to be very good friends. This makes me feel like Adina’s reaction to Hilary’s death is a bit off. She is devastated at first, but then a day later she seems more focused on hot guys around her and her emotions about the murder doesn’t feel very genuine to me. But perhaps the two women weren’t as good friends as I thought.
When Adina takes over Hilary’s work, bad things start to happen to her and she realizes she may be in danger. This gives the story a nice turn and the mystery of Hilary’s death is starting to unravel. Unfortunately I found the writing style to be a bit awkward, making it hard for me to follow along in the development of the mystery at times. And it felt like the core of the story got lost under page after page of rather uneventful things and conversations that only repeated an event that just had happened. There was a lot of “how are you doing?” questions from countless friends. I would have wanted to see that these conversations were there to add conflict and tension rather than simply sympathizing with Adina.
Had Adina been more active in the investigation, trying harder to find clues and maybe even having some of her friends being the prime suspect for some time, the story would have gained another star. But I felt like the story lacked surprises and that perfect climax in the end.
Still, if you like cozy mysteries with a big splash of romance, this is a novel you will enjoy. So be sure to read it.
This book was provided to me for free for an honest review.
September 26, 2016
Review originally posted on Brooke Blogs.
Think Murder by Cassidy Salem is the first book in the Adina Donati, Accidental Sleuth mystery series. I received this book for review since I am reviewing the second book for a blog tour. I thought the plot sounded good and I was looking forward to a Washington DC set mystery.
Adina finds herself wrapped up in the murder of a coworker. At first, no one can figure out why the victim was killed or who would want to do that to her. As the plot unfolds, it seems there is more than meets the eye in this case. Adina is right in the thick of things and is in danger herself.
I like the characters and the setting of Think Murder by Cassidy Salem. There are some things that I did not think would really happen (like some of the private case information Adina was privy to). Overall, this is a good story and I enjoyed my time reading it. Enough so that I am really glad I had the next book in the series to read.
The author does a nice job of unraveling the mystery throughout the story. Also, I like the possibility of a romantic relationship that was apparent in the book. There are two guys for Adina to get to know better, and I am looking forward to seeing this play out. The setting of Washington DC really helps the book come to life. It was nice that Adina volunteers at Cutie Pie, helping to take care of dogs. This provides another fun element to the story and paints Adina as a kind, caring person.
The Bottom Line:
Think Murder by Cassidy Salem is the perfect book to cozy up with this fall. You'll find yourself quickly flipping pages. Because Adina is a strong main character, she is easy to like. This was a quick read and I would recommend it. I am glad I had the chance to review it.
Think Murder by Cassidy Salem is the first book in the Adina Donati, Accidental Sleuth mystery series. I received this book for review since I am reviewing the second book for a blog tour. I thought the plot sounded good and I was looking forward to a Washington DC set mystery.
Adina finds herself wrapped up in the murder of a coworker. At first, no one can figure out why the victim was killed or who would want to do that to her. As the plot unfolds, it seems there is more than meets the eye in this case. Adina is right in the thick of things and is in danger herself.
I like the characters and the setting of Think Murder by Cassidy Salem. There are some things that I did not think would really happen (like some of the private case information Adina was privy to). Overall, this is a good story and I enjoyed my time reading it. Enough so that I am really glad I had the next book in the series to read.
The author does a nice job of unraveling the mystery throughout the story. Also, I like the possibility of a romantic relationship that was apparent in the book. There are two guys for Adina to get to know better, and I am looking forward to seeing this play out. The setting of Washington DC really helps the book come to life. It was nice that Adina volunteers at Cutie Pie, helping to take care of dogs. This provides another fun element to the story and paints Adina as a kind, caring person.
The Bottom Line:
Think Murder by Cassidy Salem is the perfect book to cozy up with this fall. You'll find yourself quickly flipping pages. Because Adina is a strong main character, she is easy to like. This was a quick read and I would recommend it. I am glad I had the chance to review it.
September 4, 2015
Cozy style mysteries aren’t usually a go-to genre for me, but I am trying to expand my reading horizons. I decided to give Think Murder by Cassidy Salem a shot. I must say I was entertained!
Synopsis (from the author): Adina Donati came to Washington D.C. to find excitement, not a dead body.
When a friend is murdered, Adina is drawn into the middle of the police investigation. Tensions rise as the suspect list expands to include Adina, her friends, and colleagues at the prestigious think tank where she works. But every cloud has a silver lining. Between the nice detective, the hot new volunteer at the dog rescue center, and the newly available preppy ex-boyfriend, Adina's dating dry spell appears near its end. That is, if she doesn't become the next victim.
What I liked: The story was interesting and held my interest. Adina was a fresh take on the overworked (and underpaid) office minion. Her budding potential romance with the detective and the flirtations with another volunteer at the animal rescue shelter made for an interesting side story. The clues to the killer’s identity were nicely scattered throughout the story and did keep me guessing for a large part of the book.
What I didn’t like: Despite Adina’s likeability, I thought her reaction to the murder could have been more realistic. The budding relationships between Adina and her potential beaus as a predictable part of the book, too, and I thought Bruce (from the animal rescue center) would have made a great suspect.
Overall impression: Think Murder was a well-written and entertaining book. The plot could have been a bit more complex, but the book was an easy enjoyable read!
My Rating: 4 Stars
Synopsis (from the author): Adina Donati came to Washington D.C. to find excitement, not a dead body.
When a friend is murdered, Adina is drawn into the middle of the police investigation. Tensions rise as the suspect list expands to include Adina, her friends, and colleagues at the prestigious think tank where she works. But every cloud has a silver lining. Between the nice detective, the hot new volunteer at the dog rescue center, and the newly available preppy ex-boyfriend, Adina's dating dry spell appears near its end. That is, if she doesn't become the next victim.
What I liked: The story was interesting and held my interest. Adina was a fresh take on the overworked (and underpaid) office minion. Her budding potential romance with the detective and the flirtations with another volunteer at the animal rescue shelter made for an interesting side story. The clues to the killer’s identity were nicely scattered throughout the story and did keep me guessing for a large part of the book.
What I didn’t like: Despite Adina’s likeability, I thought her reaction to the murder could have been more realistic. The budding relationships between Adina and her potential beaus as a predictable part of the book, too, and I thought Bruce (from the animal rescue center) would have made a great suspect.
Overall impression: Think Murder was a well-written and entertaining book. The plot could have been a bit more complex, but the book was an easy enjoyable read!
My Rating: 4 Stars
May 5, 2020
I read this book rather quickly. I don't regularly read mysteries of the cozy variety. Although all the points of a thrilling story were present, I couldn't help but feel a little disappointed when I'd finished it. Wait, That's it? I suppose the even keel of emotions throughout the book may be typical for the genre? Adina didn't seem quite upset enough over finding her murdered best friend. It appeared her lukewarm romantic interest in two different men mitigated her distress pretty quickly. When she uncovered political secrets that could have triggered the killing, I thought, 'here we go; this is an interesting angle,' but again, even with attempted kidnapping, the tension didn't seem to rise. The drama appears at the office amongst coworkers and the jealousy between volunteers at the animal shelter. Alternate suspects were hinted at with little to no reason behind the suggestions - and those spins didn't take root, they could have been played out to the benefit of the mystery. So many times, I thought scenes were building to an event, 'maybe this will happen,' I thought, 'or maybe that,' but really, nothing happened. Even though Adina uncovered the clues that led to the case being solved, once those details were known, the investigator figured it all out and then just dumped the info into Adina's - and the reader's - lap. Boom; done. All we're left with going into the next book is wondering which man Adina will choose. If you enjoy a book with a realistic setting and clean romance that entails murder, kidnapping, and political intrigue but reads quickly and easily without making your emotions reel and doesn't keep you awake at night, perhaps you'll enjoy this book.
November 12, 2015
The book had three strikes against it before I even started reading. (My personal bias that is...)
1. I rarely read books with female protagonists.
2. I am not a big fan of the 'Cozy Mystery' genre.
3. I have read everything ever written by some of the great murder mystery detective writers - Robert B. Parker, Dashiell Hammet and many others so my expectations in any variation of the mystery genre are quite high.
Nevertheless, I was surprised when I found myself caught up in what upon first glance starts out as a mundane 'girl's night out' story.
One can easily see themselves in a similar situation - a friend and co-worker has passed away under suspicious circumstances. Was it suicide or was it murder? If it was suicide one would want to know why, how did I fail this person as a friend? If it was murder, who did it and why?
Both the writing and the storyline was reminicent of another of my favorite writers, Jonathan Kellerman; the regular Joe (or in this case Jane) who turns semi-detective to solve the case is used effectively in this story.
There were a couple of moments where I had to 'suspend belief' - While I felt that a bit more graphic detail (blood and violence) might have made the story more believeable, it would then not have been true to genre.
I give the book four stars. If 1/2 stars were possible I would give it 3 1/2 stars for those who aren't cozy mystery fans and 4 1/2 stars who follow the genre. Overall, a pleasant surprise and a good read.
1. I rarely read books with female protagonists.
2. I am not a big fan of the 'Cozy Mystery' genre.
3. I have read everything ever written by some of the great murder mystery detective writers - Robert B. Parker, Dashiell Hammet and many others so my expectations in any variation of the mystery genre are quite high.
Nevertheless, I was surprised when I found myself caught up in what upon first glance starts out as a mundane 'girl's night out' story.
One can easily see themselves in a similar situation - a friend and co-worker has passed away under suspicious circumstances. Was it suicide or was it murder? If it was suicide one would want to know why, how did I fail this person as a friend? If it was murder, who did it and why?
Both the writing and the storyline was reminicent of another of my favorite writers, Jonathan Kellerman; the regular Joe (or in this case Jane) who turns semi-detective to solve the case is used effectively in this story.
There were a couple of moments where I had to 'suspend belief' - While I felt that a bit more graphic detail (blood and violence) might have made the story more believeable, it would then not have been true to genre.
I give the book four stars. If 1/2 stars were possible I would give it 3 1/2 stars for those who aren't cozy mystery fans and 4 1/2 stars who follow the genre. Overall, a pleasant surprise and a good read.
July 3, 2015
3.5 Stars for this cozy mystery!
Adina and Hilary are two twenty-somethings finding their niche in the complicated world of Washington D.C.. They both work for a “think tank”, they both love photography and they both enjoy the fast-paced life of our country’s capital city.
When Hilary is found dead by Adina in the restroom of a pub they frequent, its initially thought that Hilary committed suicide, but Adina knows that can’t be true…she’s soon proven right.
Although Adina is devastated by the death of her friend, she agrees to take on Hilary’s project at work and soon discovers something is wrong. When she tries to broach the subject with Hilary’s boss, bad things start to happen. A mysterious man who knows more than he should about Hilary’s project, another man following Adina through the city, an attempted kidnapping and to ice the cake, not one, but two handsome and eligible bachelors complicate Adina’s already complicated life.
This was an enjoyable mystery with a good plot, unfortunately I found the writing style a bit awkward and at times difficult to follow, however I wouldn’t let that deter you too much, if you enjoy cozy mysteries with a touch or romance, this is the book for you.
This book was provided to me for free for an honest and unbiased review (see all our reviews at http://www.bookexplosions.com/ or on Goodreads at https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/... )
Adina and Hilary are two twenty-somethings finding their niche in the complicated world of Washington D.C.. They both work for a “think tank”, they both love photography and they both enjoy the fast-paced life of our country’s capital city.
When Hilary is found dead by Adina in the restroom of a pub they frequent, its initially thought that Hilary committed suicide, but Adina knows that can’t be true…she’s soon proven right.
Although Adina is devastated by the death of her friend, she agrees to take on Hilary’s project at work and soon discovers something is wrong. When she tries to broach the subject with Hilary’s boss, bad things start to happen. A mysterious man who knows more than he should about Hilary’s project, another man following Adina through the city, an attempted kidnapping and to ice the cake, not one, but two handsome and eligible bachelors complicate Adina’s already complicated life.
This was an enjoyable mystery with a good plot, unfortunately I found the writing style a bit awkward and at times difficult to follow, however I wouldn’t let that deter you too much, if you enjoy cozy mysteries with a touch or romance, this is the book for you.
This book was provided to me for free for an honest and unbiased review (see all our reviews at http://www.bookexplosions.com/ or on Goodreads at https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/... )
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