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Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep: A Novel
Not yet published
Expected 23 Mar 27A laid-off mystery book editor turned lifeguard is thrust into a real-life whodunit when she finds a dead body in her pool.
After her career implodes, twenty-nine-year-old Hazel Turner retreats to Whispering Willows, her childhood home in the Pennsylvania suburbs, and returns to her teenage lifeguard job to stay afloat. But her plans to spend the summer piecing her life back together are thwarted when she stumbles upon two mysterious deaths in the deep end.
Hazel saved the first victim, Patrick Mason, from drowning when he was a child. The second victim—whose skeletal remains are clenched in Patrick’s death grip—brings back even more traumatic memories. The remains are identified as belonging to the missing teenager from the last cold case her police officer dad worked on before his death.
Hazel knows that she should leave the investigation to the professionals. After all, she has edited enough bestsellers to know how the story goes. But with the swim club closed until further notice and the police stumped, she lets her penchant for mysteries kick into full gear.
With the help of her retired detective godmother, the elderly neighborhood know-it-alls, and her internet sleuth stepsister, Hazel swan dives into the hunt for the killer.
But when you disturb the waters, you never quite know what secrets will float to the surface.
After her career implodes, twenty-nine-year-old Hazel Turner retreats to Whispering Willows, her childhood home in the Pennsylvania suburbs, and returns to her teenage lifeguard job to stay afloat. But her plans to spend the summer piecing her life back together are thwarted when she stumbles upon two mysterious deaths in the deep end.
Hazel saved the first victim, Patrick Mason, from drowning when he was a child. The second victim—whose skeletal remains are clenched in Patrick’s death grip—brings back even more traumatic memories. The remains are identified as belonging to the missing teenager from the last cold case her police officer dad worked on before his death.
Hazel knows that she should leave the investigation to the professionals. After all, she has edited enough bestsellers to know how the story goes. But with the swim club closed until further notice and the police stumped, she lets her penchant for mysteries kick into full gear.
With the help of her retired detective godmother, the elderly neighborhood know-it-alls, and her internet sleuth stepsister, Hazel swan dives into the hunt for the killer.
But when you disturb the waters, you never quite know what secrets will float to the surface.
- GenresMysteryContemporaryAdult
336 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication March 23, 2027
About the author
Hannah Karena Jones
6 books35 followersHannah Karena Jones is a Master Gardener and book publishing professional. She lives in a historic house in the Philadelphia area with her husband, dog, cat, lots of house plants, and even more books. Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
September 22, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Hannah Karena Jones for the advanced reader copy of Hazel Turner Is in Too Deep!
I really enjoyed this one! Hazel is a lovable mess in the best possible way. 😂 She makes questionable decisions, gets herself into increasingly complicated situations, and somehow keeps going. Even when I wanted to yell, “Hazel, WHAT are you doing?!” I couldn’t help rooting for her.
The mystery kept me guessing, and I loved that the book didn’t take itself too seriously. The mix of suspense, humor, and personality made this a quick, enjoyable read.
Was it perfect? No. A few parts moved more slowly than I would have liked, but overall, I had a great time. Hazel won me over, and I hope this isn’t the last time we see her.
4 stars from me!
I really enjoyed this one! Hazel is a lovable mess in the best possible way. 😂 She makes questionable decisions, gets herself into increasingly complicated situations, and somehow keeps going. Even when I wanted to yell, “Hazel, WHAT are you doing?!” I couldn’t help rooting for her.
The mystery kept me guessing, and I loved that the book didn’t take itself too seriously. The mix of suspense, humor, and personality made this a quick, enjoyable read.
Was it perfect? No. A few parts moved more slowly than I would have liked, but overall, I had a great time. Hazel won me over, and I hope this isn’t the last time we see her.
4 stars from me!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3⭐️
Hazel has recently returned to her childhood home after being let go from her job in the city. Luckily- or unluckily- for her, her old high school lifeguarding gig was still available! Dreading a summer spent at the neighbourhood pool, her place of work becomes a crime scene when she discovers a dead body in the pool.
This was fun, but honestly I struggled a bit reading it. It didn't have the vibe of a who-dun-it or a cozy cottage mystery. It was sort of just, rom-com ish but without the rom? I can't quite put my finger on what didn't work for me but I just never really cared about Hazel or the mystery we were trying to solve
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Hazel has recently returned to her childhood home after being let go from her job in the city. Luckily- or unluckily- for her, her old high school lifeguarding gig was still available! Dreading a summer spent at the neighbourhood pool, her place of work becomes a crime scene when she discovers a dead body in the pool.
This was fun, but honestly I struggled a bit reading it. It didn't have the vibe of a who-dun-it or a cozy cottage mystery. It was sort of just, rom-com ish but without the rom? I can't quite put my finger on what didn't work for me but I just never really cared about Hazel or the mystery we were trying to solve
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a fun and quirky cozy!
Hazel just got laid off from her job as book editor at TruCrime Books and has returned home in a blaze of shame, petsitting her mom's dog and returning to her high school job as lifeguard at the community pool, And then, as one does in mystery novels, she finds a body in the pool,. With the help of old and new besties, will she solve the murder?
Hazel is my new best friend. We both worked in book publishing for peanuts in NYC, we both enjoy being citizen detectives, and we both think we have what it takes to investigate crimes. I love all the characters that populate the novel, especially the walking group of little old ladies, each lovingly rendered. I had a suspicion early on about the perpetrator and it turned out I was right, but that didn't dampen my enthusiasm for the story. I can't wait for the next installment!
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books for the ARC!
Hazel just got laid off from her job as book editor at TruCrime Books and has returned home in a blaze of shame, petsitting her mom's dog and returning to her high school job as lifeguard at the community pool, And then, as one does in mystery novels, she finds a body in the pool,. With the help of old and new besties, will she solve the murder?
Hazel is my new best friend. We both worked in book publishing for peanuts in NYC, we both enjoy being citizen detectives, and we both think we have what it takes to investigate crimes. I love all the characters that populate the novel, especially the walking group of little old ladies, each lovingly rendered. I had a suspicion early on about the perpetrator and it turned out I was right, but that didn't dampen my enthusiasm for the story. I can't wait for the next installment!
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.75 Stars
Hannah is almost 30 and she just lost her editor job in Manhattan. Now she's back in her old childhood bedroom. House and dogsitting while her mom and step-dad are on a cruise.
Jobbing at her teenage job as a lifeguard at the community pool.
Where she accidentally finds a dead guy.
And with nothing much to do this summer ... she's going to try to find out what happened.
That was so adorable!
It felt like reading about an old friend - as if we've known Hazel for years! I really loved her. She is so lost and sad and she just wants to be back in NYC working her job. But now she's here trying to find a murderer ... with her merry band of new and old friends and neighbors.
Everything was so adorable. A bit mysterious. Funny. Summery. Small-Towny. Gossipy.
I just loved reading this.
HAZEL TURNER IS IN TOO DEEP was an adorable and funny and just beautiful small-town mystery! I need this to be a series!
click ► HERE! to buy the book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I am a sucker for a cozy small-town murder mystery, and “Hazel Turner Is in Too Deep” by Hannah Karena Jones gave me pretty much everything I want: a former mystery-book editor turned accidental detective, two dead bodies, a suspicious little town full of secrets, nosy neighbors, family drama, and an adorable elderly dachshund named Beans who absolutely deserves her own spin-off.
Hazel Turner is 29, recently laid off from her job as a book editor in NYC, and has returned to her hometown while she figures out what she's doing with her life. She takes a temporary job as a lifeguard at the local pool, a job she hasn't had since she was a teenager.
And because apparently Hazel's life couldn't get any more complicated, she finds a dead body floating in the pool. And then there's another one.
Except the second body isn't exactly fresh. A partial skeleton is discovered buried on the property, belonging to a teenager who disappeared years ago. Even more interesting? Hazel's dad, who was a deputy before his death, had investigated that disappearance and never managed to close the case.
So naturally, Hazel decides she needs to solve it.
Because if you're a former mystery-book editor who suddenly finds herself living inside an actual murder mystery, obviously you're not going to just sit around and let the professionals handle it.
I really loved Hazel as a protagonist. She's flawed, funny, relatable, and clearly trying to figure out her life while simultaneously getting herself deeper and deeper into a murder investigation. Her knowledge of mysteries gives her a fun perspective on the case, but she's not magically an expert detective. She has to actually piece things together, follow clues, make mistakes, and figure out who she can trust.
And her dad's presence throughout the story was one of my favorite emotional elements. He left Hazel a survival guide filled with advice from his years as a detective, and she uses it while trying to solve the case. It gives the investigation a really personal connection and makes Hazel's desire to solve the old disappearance about much more than simply being curious.
The small-town atmosphere was also so good! This book feels like summer. You've got the swimming pool, the lifeguard job, childhood memories, old friendships, neighborhood gossip, and a whole collection of people who know everybody else's business. Especially the elderly neighbors. Those ladies are basically the unofficial surveillance system of the entire town.
Hazel also has a fantastic group of people helping her investigate, including her retired-detective godmother and her internet-sleuth stepsister. Add in various friends, neighbors, and other colorful characters, and you've got one wonderfully chaotic amateur-detective team.
There are definitely a lot of characters, though, and I occasionally had trouble keeping track of everyone and remembering who was connected to whom. But most of them were entertaining enough that I didn't mind too much.
The mystery itself was really fun. There are plenty of suspects, multiple motives, twists, dead ends, and little clues scattered throughout. I liked that some of the seemingly unrelated subplots eventually connected back to the bigger mystery. Seasoned mystery readers might be able to figure out the culprit, but I still enjoyed watching all the pieces fall into place.
I also appreciated that the book isn't just about solving murders. Hazel is dealing with a lot personally, especially the realization that the people she grew up with aren't necessarily the same people they used to be. The stuff about friendships changing as you grow older really hit home. Sometimes you don't even realize you've grown apart from someone until you look up one day and realize your lives have completely changed.
Her relationship with Isla was another favorite. Their friendship/sisterhood added a really lovely emotional layer to the story, and I loved seeing Hazel surrounded by people who genuinely cared about her.
There's also a little romance sprinkled in, although it's definitely secondary to the mystery. I wouldn't have complained about getting a little more of it, but honestly, I'm perfectly happy with the murders getting priority.
And then there's Beans. Beans is the star. This elderly, slightly chunky dachshund has SO much personality, and every time she showed up, I was immediately happier. Also, she survives the entire book, so everyone can breathe a sigh of relief.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It's cozy without being boring, emotional without becoming too heavy, and suspenseful enough to keep you turning pages. I flew through it in basically one sitting because I needed to know how everything connected.
My only real complaint is that the ending felt a little abrupt. I wanted just a bit more resolution for some of the side characters and storylines after the murderer was revealed. I also wouldn't have minded seeing a little more of the events from years ago that led to the old disappearance.
But honestly? I had such a good time with this book.
Basically, if you like cozy mysteries with a relatable heroine, a ragtag group of investigators, lots of secrets, and a town where everyone knows everyone's business, “Hazel Turner Is in Too Deep” is definitely worth picking up.
And yes, I would absolutely read another Hazel Turner mystery.
Mostly because I need more Beans.
I am a sucker for a cozy small-town murder mystery, and “Hazel Turner Is in Too Deep” by Hannah Karena Jones gave me pretty much everything I want: a former mystery-book editor turned accidental detective, two dead bodies, a suspicious little town full of secrets, nosy neighbors, family drama, and an adorable elderly dachshund named Beans who absolutely deserves her own spin-off.
Hazel Turner is 29, recently laid off from her job as a book editor in NYC, and has returned to her hometown while she figures out what she's doing with her life. She takes a temporary job as a lifeguard at the local pool, a job she hasn't had since she was a teenager.
And because apparently Hazel's life couldn't get any more complicated, she finds a dead body floating in the pool. And then there's another one.
Except the second body isn't exactly fresh. A partial skeleton is discovered buried on the property, belonging to a teenager who disappeared years ago. Even more interesting? Hazel's dad, who was a deputy before his death, had investigated that disappearance and never managed to close the case.
So naturally, Hazel decides she needs to solve it.
Because if you're a former mystery-book editor who suddenly finds herself living inside an actual murder mystery, obviously you're not going to just sit around and let the professionals handle it.
I really loved Hazel as a protagonist. She's flawed, funny, relatable, and clearly trying to figure out her life while simultaneously getting herself deeper and deeper into a murder investigation. Her knowledge of mysteries gives her a fun perspective on the case, but she's not magically an expert detective. She has to actually piece things together, follow clues, make mistakes, and figure out who she can trust.
And her dad's presence throughout the story was one of my favorite emotional elements. He left Hazel a survival guide filled with advice from his years as a detective, and she uses it while trying to solve the case. It gives the investigation a really personal connection and makes Hazel's desire to solve the old disappearance about much more than simply being curious.
The small-town atmosphere was also so good! This book feels like summer. You've got the swimming pool, the lifeguard job, childhood memories, old friendships, neighborhood gossip, and a whole collection of people who know everybody else's business. Especially the elderly neighbors. Those ladies are basically the unofficial surveillance system of the entire town.
Hazel also has a fantastic group of people helping her investigate, including her retired-detective godmother and her internet-sleuth stepsister. Add in various friends, neighbors, and other colorful characters, and you've got one wonderfully chaotic amateur-detective team.
There are definitely a lot of characters, though, and I occasionally had trouble keeping track of everyone and remembering who was connected to whom. But most of them were entertaining enough that I didn't mind too much.
The mystery itself was really fun. There are plenty of suspects, multiple motives, twists, dead ends, and little clues scattered throughout. I liked that some of the seemingly unrelated subplots eventually connected back to the bigger mystery. Seasoned mystery readers might be able to figure out the culprit, but I still enjoyed watching all the pieces fall into place.
I also appreciated that the book isn't just about solving murders. Hazel is dealing with a lot personally, especially the realization that the people she grew up with aren't necessarily the same people they used to be. The stuff about friendships changing as you grow older really hit home. Sometimes you don't even realize you've grown apart from someone until you look up one day and realize your lives have completely changed.
Her relationship with Isla was another favorite. Their friendship/sisterhood added a really lovely emotional layer to the story, and I loved seeing Hazel surrounded by people who genuinely cared about her.
There's also a little romance sprinkled in, although it's definitely secondary to the mystery. I wouldn't have complained about getting a little more of it, but honestly, I'm perfectly happy with the murders getting priority.
And then there's Beans. Beans is the star. This elderly, slightly chunky dachshund has SO much personality, and every time she showed up, I was immediately happier. Also, she survives the entire book, so everyone can breathe a sigh of relief.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It's cozy without being boring, emotional without becoming too heavy, and suspenseful enough to keep you turning pages. I flew through it in basically one sitting because I needed to know how everything connected.
My only real complaint is that the ending felt a little abrupt. I wanted just a bit more resolution for some of the side characters and storylines after the murderer was revealed. I also wouldn't have minded seeing a little more of the events from years ago that led to the old disappearance.
But honestly? I had such a good time with this book.
Basically, if you like cozy mysteries with a relatable heroine, a ragtag group of investigators, lots of secrets, and a town where everyone knows everyone's business, “Hazel Turner Is in Too Deep” is definitely worth picking up.
And yes, I would absolutely read another Hazel Turner mystery.
Mostly because I need more Beans.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*Thank you to Crooked Lane for a complimentary arc of Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep. All opinions expressed are my own.*
I’ll admit, I went into this expecting it might disappoint me. The synopsis intrigued me, but for some reason, I had convinced myself the characters might annoy me or the prose might end up grating. I worried for absolutely no reason, because this turned out to be such an entertaining debut.
From the second that body showed up in the pool, putting the book down became increasingly difficult.
Armed with her late detective father’s guide to survival and safety, Hazel forms a sleuthing squad that brings such an eccentric and humorous element to the story. The further I got into the plot, the more I enjoyed the group, and as Hazel became increasingly tangled up in the mystery, I found myself getting pulled in right alongside her.
The prose is incredibly engaging and addictive, the twists are fun, and the plot is cleverly put together. The murder mystery itself leans toward the lighter side, but somehow that doesn’t make it any less entertaining. In fact, I had just as much fun following the mystery without needing it to constantly rely on suspense.
Hazel does have a tendency to overthink her way into some rather messy situations that probably could have been avoided, but surprisingly, those moments didn’t annoy me nearly as much as I expected them to. And whenever I did find myself getting slightly frustrated, the rest of the cast more than made up for it while Hazel’s character continued to grow throughout the story.
Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep is a witty, lighthearted cozy mystery with plenty of personality, an entertaining cast, and a murder mystery that knows how to have fun with itself. If you’re looking for something charming, eccentric, and easy to get swept up in, Hazel Turner is well worth following into the deep end.
I’ll admit, I went into this expecting it might disappoint me. The synopsis intrigued me, but for some reason, I had convinced myself the characters might annoy me or the prose might end up grating. I worried for absolutely no reason, because this turned out to be such an entertaining debut.
From the second that body showed up in the pool, putting the book down became increasingly difficult.
Armed with her late detective father’s guide to survival and safety, Hazel forms a sleuthing squad that brings such an eccentric and humorous element to the story. The further I got into the plot, the more I enjoyed the group, and as Hazel became increasingly tangled up in the mystery, I found myself getting pulled in right alongside her.
The prose is incredibly engaging and addictive, the twists are fun, and the plot is cleverly put together. The murder mystery itself leans toward the lighter side, but somehow that doesn’t make it any less entertaining. In fact, I had just as much fun following the mystery without needing it to constantly rely on suspense.
Hazel does have a tendency to overthink her way into some rather messy situations that probably could have been avoided, but surprisingly, those moments didn’t annoy me nearly as much as I expected them to. And whenever I did find myself getting slightly frustrated, the rest of the cast more than made up for it while Hazel’s character continued to grow throughout the story.
Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep is a witty, lighthearted cozy mystery with plenty of personality, an entertaining cast, and a murder mystery that knows how to have fun with itself. If you’re looking for something charming, eccentric, and easy to get swept up in, Hazel Turner is well worth following into the deep end.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
I love a small town mystery, and Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep really captured what I tend to like about these stories. The small town felt very real and lived in with plenty of interesting background characters, and Hazel herself also felt very realistic. Returning to her childhood home after losing a job, it was easy to sympathise with her. She felt relatable and her narration was very funny and engaging.
The mystery was neatly laid out and easy to follow. I liked watching Hazel try to solve the case, her conclusions made sense even when you as the reader can tell she's obviously not on the right track. I did suspect the eventual killer, but I was still unsure about two different possibilities, so it wasn't really obvious either. The reveal made sense and worked with the rest of the book.
What I liked most about this book was the humor and the tone, it was a light read and a fun one. I definitely recommend it if you enjoy whodunits set in small, cozy towns.
I love a small town mystery, and Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep really captured what I tend to like about these stories. The small town felt very real and lived in with plenty of interesting background characters, and Hazel herself also felt very realistic. Returning to her childhood home after losing a job, it was easy to sympathise with her. She felt relatable and her narration was very funny and engaging.
The mystery was neatly laid out and easy to follow. I liked watching Hazel try to solve the case, her conclusions made sense even when you as the reader can tell she's obviously not on the right track. I did suspect the eventual killer, but I was still unsure about two different possibilities, so it wasn't really obvious either. The reveal made sense and worked with the rest of the book.
What I liked most about this book was the humor and the tone, it was a light read and a fun one. I definitely recommend it if you enjoy whodunits set in small, cozy towns.
October 8, 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a fun, cozy mystery. Hazel Turner is a loveable character trying to figure out her life after losing her job and having to move back home. I like the small town community. Fun, light read
This was a fun, cozy mystery. Hazel Turner is a loveable character trying to figure out her life after losing her job and having to move back home. I like the small town community. Fun, light read
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
HAZEL TURNER IS IN TOO DEEP is the author’s debut novel featuring a recently laid-off 29-year-old book editor who returns to her childhood home to live and work as a lifeguard for the summer while she tries to figure out her next steps.
Hazel’s dad—a former detective—passed away nine years ago, and her mom and her new husband are off on a month-long cruise. Hazel is the perfect choice to watch the house and care for her mom’s senior rescue dachshund, Bean.
When a body is found at the pool holding a skeleton’s finger, the pool is closed for the investigation and Hazel is once out of work for a few days. Armed with her Detective Dad’s Guide to Survival and Safety, Hazel decides to use her free time to try to solve the case. Of course, she can’t do this alone. Many of the locals get involved in the investigation -
* Sarah, Hazel’s best friend from high school
* Bruce, her godmother and a retired detective (also her dad’s former partner)
* Isla, her college-aged stepsister, and an archaeology major who lives at their parents’ house
* Daisy, a realtor and new transplant to town
* And the neighborhood watch and walking club, comprised of several energetic senior citizens
I enjoyed the snippets from the Detective Dad’s Guide throughout the story. And Hazel’s inner voice was just so on point!
I LOVED Hazel’s character, and the author’s writing style was very engaging. The supporting characters were awesome, but Bean was especially hilarious. HAZEL TURNER IS IN TOO DEEP was so clever and FUN!
With its catchy title and plot that reminds me of FINLAY DONOVAN IS KILLING IT, this book was an excellent debut. I hope the author continues Hazel’s story in another novel!
🌟Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.🌟
Hazel’s dad—a former detective—passed away nine years ago, and her mom and her new husband are off on a month-long cruise. Hazel is the perfect choice to watch the house and care for her mom’s senior rescue dachshund, Bean.
When a body is found at the pool holding a skeleton’s finger, the pool is closed for the investigation and Hazel is once out of work for a few days. Armed with her Detective Dad’s Guide to Survival and Safety, Hazel decides to use her free time to try to solve the case. Of course, she can’t do this alone. Many of the locals get involved in the investigation -
* Sarah, Hazel’s best friend from high school
* Bruce, her godmother and a retired detective (also her dad’s former partner)
* Isla, her college-aged stepsister, and an archaeology major who lives at their parents’ house
* Daisy, a realtor and new transplant to town
* And the neighborhood watch and walking club, comprised of several energetic senior citizens
I enjoyed the snippets from the Detective Dad’s Guide throughout the story. And Hazel’s inner voice was just so on point!
I LOVED Hazel’s character, and the author’s writing style was very engaging. The supporting characters were awesome, but Bean was especially hilarious. HAZEL TURNER IS IN TOO DEEP was so clever and FUN!
With its catchy title and plot that reminds me of FINLAY DONOVAN IS KILLING IT, this book was an excellent debut. I hope the author continues Hazel’s story in another novel!
🌟Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.🌟
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I would like to thank Net Galley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I honestly adored this!
Sign me up for another, please.
This book was everything I needed today. For a murder mystery, it was quite light. This book has an extremely strong plot and AMAZING characters. The characters are what truly make this book. I want to be friends with Hazel and I would like for the author to make another in this series. I NEED to know what happens next in Hazel's life!
She is an extremely likeable character. Life has been tough for Hazel but honestly, I think it is going to be the start of something beautiful. I truly enjoyed Hazel's connection with Isla, Daisy - and even Sarah. Haunted by the death of her Dad, unemployed and housesitting, Hazel may think this is the worst her life has ever been but then she comes across the dead body in the local swimming pool. This book may sound a little depressing but honestly it's not in the slightest. It's funny, interesting and truly enjoyable.
The plot may not be the most complex in the world but that's not why we're here. Despite this, I'd say I thoroughly enjoyed every single red herring, every hidden clue and a satisfying ending.
This book is best summarised as a chick flic and a murder mystery in a 'village-like' setting.
A truly enjoyable read. I'm jealous of anyone who gets to read this for the first time in March 2027.
I honestly adored this!
Sign me up for another, please.
This book was everything I needed today. For a murder mystery, it was quite light. This book has an extremely strong plot and AMAZING characters. The characters are what truly make this book. I want to be friends with Hazel and I would like for the author to make another in this series. I NEED to know what happens next in Hazel's life!
She is an extremely likeable character. Life has been tough for Hazel but honestly, I think it is going to be the start of something beautiful. I truly enjoyed Hazel's connection with Isla, Daisy - and even Sarah. Haunted by the death of her Dad, unemployed and housesitting, Hazel may think this is the worst her life has ever been but then she comes across the dead body in the local swimming pool. This book may sound a little depressing but honestly it's not in the slightest. It's funny, interesting and truly enjoyable.
The plot may not be the most complex in the world but that's not why we're here. Despite this, I'd say I thoroughly enjoyed every single red herring, every hidden clue and a satisfying ending.
This book is best summarised as a chick flic and a murder mystery in a 'village-like' setting.
A truly enjoyable read. I'm jealous of anyone who gets to read this for the first time in March 2027.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Let me start my review by giving a quick thank you to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I initially read this book because I wasn't ready to give up summer, and it honestly filled that space for me. While I did find reading this book enjoyable, there were parts of it I didn't really like, mostly Hazel's approach to things. I liked Hazel as a character, but I also found her a bit immature and sometimes clueless. I can't imagine being 29 and so possessive over my friends in the way Hazel is. She obviously learns her lesson, but that aspect is one that I just hate in books, probably because I learned that lesson in high school. For a previous mystery editor and clear mystery enjoyer, I also found her quite clueless in the investigative sense. There were things that she was overlooking and trying to force instead of looking at the facts of things, which I could only take so much of when her dad was also a former detective. I expected more of her than I maybe should have, but I also understand that she had too much personal investment in the case itself. I will say I knew who the killer was the second they were introduced, which isn't a bad thing, but I did find the way things played out to be a bit delayed. I wish I could say that I loved this book because there was a lot of it that I did really enjoy, but I can't overlook the things that didn't work out for me. It was still a really fun read though.
September 26, 2026
Hazel Turner has just been fired from her editor position and is now heading home to dog sit for her mom and step-dad. Luckily, her old high school job - life guarding at the Whispering Willows pool - is open for her to return to. What she wasn’t expecting was her best friend’s engagement and finding a body in the deep end. Now, with nothing but free time, she decides she’s going to find the dirt on her friend’s fiance & solve the mystery of how Patrick, the body she found, ended up dead in the pool.
This started off SO well for me. I really loved the dead dad’s manual of survival, when it was introduced and his passing was discussed early on, it was very touching. Towards the ending, it felt sprinkled in and just added for novelty, not relevance.
Some of this felt drawn out, but I can’t put my finger on what. It didn’t necessarily feel like a cozy murder mystery, I didn’t feel a whole lot of mystery vibes even though it’s a “who-dunnit”.
There wasn’t any major character development/growth. Hazel was hard to like throughout the book and didn’t have any redemption in the end for me. The only person I did end up liking was Daisy & her hustle.. and Miss Rita.
The narration coming from a book editors perspective had a lot of potential and didn’t hit in some areas for me, but it could’ve done a lot more.
Overall, it isn’t something I’d reach for on my shelf again.
This started off SO well for me. I really loved the dead dad’s manual of survival, when it was introduced and his passing was discussed early on, it was very touching. Towards the ending, it felt sprinkled in and just added for novelty, not relevance.
Some of this felt drawn out, but I can’t put my finger on what. It didn’t necessarily feel like a cozy murder mystery, I didn’t feel a whole lot of mystery vibes even though it’s a “who-dunnit”.
There wasn’t any major character development/growth. Hazel was hard to like throughout the book and didn’t have any redemption in the end for me. The only person I did end up liking was Daisy & her hustle.. and Miss Rita.
The narration coming from a book editors perspective had a lot of potential and didn’t hit in some areas for me, but it could’ve done a lot more.
Overall, it isn’t something I’d reach for on my shelf again.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In her debut mystery, Hazel Turner Is in Too Deep, Hannah Karena Jones crafts a clever whodunit that is a cross between suburban cozy and dark, multi-layered mystery.
After losing her editing job in New York, Hazel Turner heads back home for a quiet summer as a lifeguard. Those plans are shattered when an attempted rescue turns into a grisly discovery: a corpse in the deep end clutching a skeletal finger. When the bone is tied to an unsolved cold case her late father investigated years ago, Hazel finds herself thrust straight into a dual investigation.
Supporting characters, including Hazel’s tech-savvy step-sister and her late father’s detective partner add depth to this double-murder mystery. Hazel is a bit impetuous (what cozy heroine isn’t?) and it’s hard to believe that her father’s retired partner would encourage a civilian like Hazel to investigate (most professionals frown on that sort of thing). Nevertheless, Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep bridges the gap between lighthearted cozy and dark murder mystery in a way that will have readers looking for the next series entry.
Full Disclosure--NetGalley and the publisher provided me with a digital ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
After losing her editing job in New York, Hazel Turner heads back home for a quiet summer as a lifeguard. Those plans are shattered when an attempted rescue turns into a grisly discovery: a corpse in the deep end clutching a skeletal finger. When the bone is tied to an unsolved cold case her late father investigated years ago, Hazel finds herself thrust straight into a dual investigation.
Supporting characters, including Hazel’s tech-savvy step-sister and her late father’s detective partner add depth to this double-murder mystery. Hazel is a bit impetuous (what cozy heroine isn’t?) and it’s hard to believe that her father’s retired partner would encourage a civilian like Hazel to investigate (most professionals frown on that sort of thing). Nevertheless, Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep bridges the gap between lighthearted cozy and dark murder mystery in a way that will have readers looking for the next series entry.
Full Disclosure--NetGalley and the publisher provided me with a digital ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hazel Turner Is in Too Deep by Hannah Karena Jones
I have to admit, I wasn't really sure cozy mysteries were going to be my thing since I typically gravitate toward psychological thrillers. Well, this book may have just changed my mind!
I really enjoyed Hazel as a character, the author's writing style, and the overall atmosphere of the story. The mystery was interesting, and I loved how it kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next. I was so hooked that I actually stayed up until 2 a.m. reading because I didn't want to put it down!
And that ending! I definitely did not see that twist coming! I love when a mystery manages to genuinely surprise me, especially when I think I might have things figured out.
What makes this even more impressive is that this is Hannah Karena Jones's debut novel! I think she did a great job creating an engaging story with characters I enjoyed and a mystery that kept my attention throughout. I would absolutely be interested in reading whatever she writes next.
An easy five stars for me, and I'm glad I gave this cozy mystery a chance!
Thank you to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Hannah Karena Jones for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Hazel Turner Is in Too Deep by Hannah Karena Jones
I have to admit, I wasn't really sure cozy mysteries were going to be my thing since I typically gravitate toward psychological thrillers. Well, this book may have just changed my mind!
I really enjoyed Hazel as a character, the author's writing style, and the overall atmosphere of the story. The mystery was interesting, and I loved how it kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next. I was so hooked that I actually stayed up until 2 a.m. reading because I didn't want to put it down!
And that ending! I definitely did not see that twist coming! I love when a mystery manages to genuinely surprise me, especially when I think I might have things figured out.
What makes this even more impressive is that this is Hannah Karena Jones's debut novel! I think she did a great job creating an engaging story with characters I enjoyed and a mystery that kept my attention throughout. I would absolutely be interested in reading whatever she writes next.
An easy five stars for me, and I'm glad I gave this cozy mystery a chance!
Thank you to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Hannah Karena Jones for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC Review ❣️
4 Hearts for me! ❤️💞
Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep was such a fun and entertaining mystery! I really enjoyed the slightly quirky setup, the small-town atmosphere, and Hazel herself. Watching her get pulled deeper and deeper into the mystery made the story easy to get invested in, and I liked how her background as a mystery book editor added an interesting layer to the investigation.
The mystery kept me curious without feeling overly complicated, and I especially enjoyed the mix of suspense, humour, and the eccentric group of people around Hazel. There were plenty of little details and secrets to keep me guessing, and I liked seeing how everything gradually came together rather than having the mystery feel completely predictable.
Overall, this was a light, engaging mystery that was easy to pick up and get lost in. It has that cosy-but-murderous atmosphere I enjoy, with an entertaining cast and enough twists to keep things interesting. A really enjoyable debut from Hannah Karena Jones, and definitely one I'd recommend to readers who like their mysteries with a little humour and personality.
4 Hearts for me! ❤️💞
Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep was such a fun and entertaining mystery! I really enjoyed the slightly quirky setup, the small-town atmosphere, and Hazel herself. Watching her get pulled deeper and deeper into the mystery made the story easy to get invested in, and I liked how her background as a mystery book editor added an interesting layer to the investigation.
The mystery kept me curious without feeling overly complicated, and I especially enjoyed the mix of suspense, humour, and the eccentric group of people around Hazel. There were plenty of little details and secrets to keep me guessing, and I liked seeing how everything gradually came together rather than having the mystery feel completely predictable.
Overall, this was a light, engaging mystery that was easy to pick up and get lost in. It has that cosy-but-murderous atmosphere I enjoy, with an entertaining cast and enough twists to keep things interesting. A really enjoyable debut from Hannah Karena Jones, and definitely one I'd recommend to readers who like their mysteries with a little humour and personality.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3 out of 5
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC
Hazel Turner is fired from her NYC mystery editor job, and has to move back to her parents' house in a small suburb to dogsit just as summer is starting. She falls back on her high school life guard job at the community pool, and falls into her former bestie's wedding plans. Then she finds a dead body and feels the need to find the killer (her dad was a detective).
She gets help from: a busybody group of seniors, her estranged stepsister and her dead dad's former detective partner. She's distracted by: her lack of a job/future, her bestie's so-called perfect life and a possible love interest.
I wanted to like this book more than I did. The protagonist, who had been living on her own for probably 10+ years, seemed pretty clueless about a lot of things. Possibly there were too many plotlines and characters for any of them to have enough time to develop well. It annoyed me that one of the characters is unrealistically harvesting tomatoes and broccoli from her outdoor garden at the beginning of June.
Fine as a beach book for new adult/cozy mystery readers.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC
Hazel Turner is fired from her NYC mystery editor job, and has to move back to her parents' house in a small suburb to dogsit just as summer is starting. She falls back on her high school life guard job at the community pool, and falls into her former bestie's wedding plans. Then she finds a dead body and feels the need to find the killer (her dad was a detective).
She gets help from: a busybody group of seniors, her estranged stepsister and her dead dad's former detective partner. She's distracted by: her lack of a job/future, her bestie's so-called perfect life and a possible love interest.
I wanted to like this book more than I did. The protagonist, who had been living on her own for probably 10+ years, seemed pretty clueless about a lot of things. Possibly there were too many plotlines and characters for any of them to have enough time to develop well. It annoyed me that one of the characters is unrealistically harvesting tomatoes and broccoli from her outdoor garden at the beginning of June.
Fine as a beach book for new adult/cozy mystery readers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hazel Turner is back in her quiet hometown after getting laid off from her editor position in New York City. She's housesitting for her mom and stepdad and working at her teenage job, lifeguarding at the local pool club. When Patrick Mason ends up dead in the pool one night, Hazel is on the case. She's especially invested because she saved Patrick from drowning when he was a child. Hazel's father was a detective and when he passed away, he left her a binder full of guides. Using his binder and her knowledge of mystery novels, Hazel starts investigating. Along with her stepsister, Isla, and her new friend, Daisy, Hazel throws all of her energy into solving Patrick's murder.
Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep was an enjoyable read. This is a fairly lighthearted murder mystery with moments of nostalgia, friendship and humor. The characters are interesting and likeable, especially The Council, the four elderly ladies who rule the pool. I really enjoyed the budding friendships between Hazel, Isla and Daisy. Beans the dog was a funny addition. Thank you, NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books, for this ARC!
Hazel Turner Is In Too Deep was an enjoyable read. This is a fairly lighthearted murder mystery with moments of nostalgia, friendship and humor. The characters are interesting and likeable, especially The Council, the four elderly ladies who rule the pool. I really enjoyed the budding friendships between Hazel, Isla and Daisy. Beans the dog was a funny addition. Thank you, NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books, for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hazel Turner is in Too Deep is a fun summer mystery as Hazel returns with her tail between her legs to her hometown.
Hazel Turner has recently been let go from her editor job and is housesitting for her mom and new step-dad while she works as a lifeguard- a job she last held as a teenager. Unfortunately for Hazel, she gets to discover not one but two dead bodies. One of the bodies belongs to a man, Patrick, that she had seen the day before. The second body belongs to a long-dead teen who disappeared when she was younger.
She's desperate to solve the murders, as her father had attempted to solve the missing teen's case before his untimely death. Hazel bands together with a rag-tag crew to try and find out who is causing mayhem in their little part of the world.
This book is funny, bittersweet, has memorable characters, and has all the potential to start a series that I would read starring Hazel.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
Hazel Turner has recently been let go from her editor job and is housesitting for her mom and new step-dad while she works as a lifeguard- a job she last held as a teenager. Unfortunately for Hazel, she gets to discover not one but two dead bodies. One of the bodies belongs to a man, Patrick, that she had seen the day before. The second body belongs to a long-dead teen who disappeared when she was younger.
She's desperate to solve the murders, as her father had attempted to solve the missing teen's case before his untimely death. Hazel bands together with a rag-tag crew to try and find out who is causing mayhem in their little part of the world.
This book is funny, bittersweet, has memorable characters, and has all the potential to start a series that I would read starring Hazel.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
Read
October 4, 2026This was OK. Hazel needs to get a grip. She’s not a police officer and she’s running around questioning people when they’re in their deepest grief. It was horrible and so cringe to read about her badgering this guy whose brother died because she thought maybe he’s a suspect. And then she keeps getting people arrested or getting people looked at by the police and then she’s wrong. The way she treats her friends is also just terrible. I did like seeing the lifeguarding. I liked the old ladies and the mystery itself was pretty good. I kinda knew from the beginning, oh here’s this random guy who just came in and he’s probably a suspect so that was pretty easy, but I thought the reason he did it was pretty dumb. Hazel just really needs to grow up. Her character was kind of insufferable.
Plus how many times will she say editor brain when she figures something small out? I’ll tell you. It’s 25 times.
Plus how many times will she say editor brain when she figures something small out? I’ll tell you. It’s 25 times.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was as cozy as a small town murder mystery can get!
The story follows Hazel, a 29-year-old former NYC book editor who moves back to her hometown after losing her job. She takes up a part time gig as a lifeguard at the local pool to figure out her next steps when she finds the body floating in the pool.
I loved watching Hazel step into the role of an amateur detective while also navigating grief and realizing people from her childhood have grown up and moved on. If you’ve ever worked as a lifeguard or swim teacher, the pool scenes are also ridiculously nostalgic. I flew through this book in one sitting!
Read if you love stories about cozy small town mysteries, swim culture and summer jobs, and nosy old ladies.
Thank you Crooked Lane Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The story follows Hazel, a 29-year-old former NYC book editor who moves back to her hometown after losing her job. She takes up a part time gig as a lifeguard at the local pool to figure out her next steps when she finds the body floating in the pool.
I loved watching Hazel step into the role of an amateur detective while also navigating grief and realizing people from her childhood have grown up and moved on. If you’ve ever worked as a lifeguard or swim teacher, the pool scenes are also ridiculously nostalgic. I flew through this book in one sitting!
Read if you love stories about cozy small town mysteries, swim culture and summer jobs, and nosy old ladies.
Thank you Crooked Lane Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
After losing her job and moving home for the summer, Hazel, a whiny almost thirty year old, starts lifeguarding at the neighborhood pool again. What she thinks will be a boring summer, turns into a crime solving spree, when she discovers a dead body in the pool, holding someone else’s pinky. She teams up with her stepsister and along the way makes some new friends, young and old, that aid in finding the killer.
This book is a bit juvenile and feels like it should be targeted at a younger audience, with a younger main character. The mystery was not much of a mystery and although it also read like a romcom, nothing romantic or funny happened. It just missed the mark for me and I wish it wasn’t trying to be so many different things at once.
This may be slightly under 3 stars for me, but I will round up.
This book is a bit juvenile and feels like it should be targeted at a younger audience, with a younger main character. The mystery was not much of a mystery and although it also read like a romcom, nothing romantic or funny happened. It just missed the mark for me and I wish it wasn’t trying to be so many different things at once.
This may be slightly under 3 stars for me, but I will round up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love a cozy mystery and Hazel Turner Is in Too Deep did not disappoint. After being laid off and returning to her hometown, Hazel finds herself caught up in both a murder investigation and a whirlwind of emotions.
The supporting cast was one of my favorite parts of the book. The nosy neighbors, Sarah, Hazel's best friend and the wider community all added warmth and charm to the story. While I guessed the murderer about halfway through, I still enjoyed following Hazel as she pieced everything together. More than the mystery itself, I loved the emotional connections (to her late father and his guide.. soo cool !!) and character dynamics. This is a strong debut from Hannah Karena Jones and I am excited to read what she writes next. Solid 4 stars from me :)
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The supporting cast was one of my favorite parts of the book. The nosy neighbors, Sarah, Hazel's best friend and the wider community all added warmth and charm to the story. While I guessed the murderer about halfway through, I still enjoyed following Hazel as she pieced everything together. More than the mystery itself, I loved the emotional connections (to her late father and his guide.. soo cool !!) and character dynamics. This is a strong debut from Hannah Karena Jones and I am excited to read what she writes next. Solid 4 stars from me :)
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Hazel Turner Is in Too Deep is a fun, light summer mystery that makes for an easy beach read.
After losing her New York editing job, Hazel returns to her hometown to house-sit and work as a part-time lifeguard—only to find a body floating in the community pool on her shift.
The story’s highlight is Hazel’s emotional arc as she begins processing her father’s death after avoiding home for years. That grief felt real and gave the light premise some genuine heart. However, the mystery itself was just okay, and while it was entertaining while reading, it lacked the hook that made me eager to pick it back up once put down.
Overall, a solid, breezy 3-star option if you want a casual seasonal read to toss in your bag.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Hazel Turner Is in Too Deep is a fun, light summer mystery that makes for an easy beach read.
After losing her New York editing job, Hazel returns to her hometown to house-sit and work as a part-time lifeguard—only to find a body floating in the community pool on her shift.
The story’s highlight is Hazel’s emotional arc as she begins processing her father’s death after avoiding home for years. That grief felt real and gave the light premise some genuine heart. However, the mystery itself was just okay, and while it was entertaining while reading, it lacked the hook that made me eager to pick it back up once put down.
Overall, a solid, breezy 3-star option if you want a casual seasonal read to toss in your bag.
October 10, 2026
Reviewed an early copy from Netgally
Oooo how I love a cozy mystery! And Jones delivers all the cozy vibes with ‘Hazel Turner is in too deep’. Firstly I just have to say I really enjoy the title with the mystery in question involving a dead body being found in the deep end of the local pool.
Hazel Jones our FMC is back in her home town after being laid off from her book editing job and back to her high school job as a lifeguard. Our girl is then thrust into a mystery that ties back her late father, a police detective.
With a cast of unique side characters, including a trio of fabulous older women, affectionately know as ‘the council’, Hazel is on a mission to solve the case!
Overall the book was a little too cozy for me … but it was a good read.
My favourite quote has to be - ‘Secrets don’t stay secret very long on Whispering Willows.’
Oooo how I love a cozy mystery! And Jones delivers all the cozy vibes with ‘Hazel Turner is in too deep’. Firstly I just have to say I really enjoy the title with the mystery in question involving a dead body being found in the deep end of the local pool.
Hazel Jones our FMC is back in her home town after being laid off from her book editing job and back to her high school job as a lifeguard. Our girl is then thrust into a mystery that ties back her late father, a police detective.
With a cast of unique side characters, including a trio of fabulous older women, affectionately know as ‘the council’, Hazel is on a mission to solve the case!
Overall the book was a little too cozy for me … but it was a good read.
My favourite quote has to be - ‘Secrets don’t stay secret very long on Whispering Willows.’
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Okay, this is cute. We all love envisioning ourselves as murder-solving detectives, right? Hazel is back in her old neighborhood, where some things have stayed the same while others have definitely changed.
She feels like she’s stepped right back into her old life—except now there’s a murder. Hazel clumsily maneuvers her way through all kinds of hijinks as she tries to catch a killer.
And Whispering Willows really puts the *nosy* in nosy neighborhood. 🤣 This story reads like a rom-com without the rom, so I guess it’s just a com! It’s a fun, lighthearted read that reminds you it really is possible to go home again—but be careful, because you might uncover a few surprises along the way.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
She feels like she’s stepped right back into her old life—except now there’s a murder. Hazel clumsily maneuvers her way through all kinds of hijinks as she tries to catch a killer.
And Whispering Willows really puts the *nosy* in nosy neighborhood. 🤣 This story reads like a rom-com without the rom, so I guess it’s just a com! It’s a fun, lighthearted read that reminds you it really is possible to go home again—but be careful, because you might uncover a few surprises along the way.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a fun, fast read. While Hazel was an entertaining mess, my favorite part was definitely the four older ladies. I would have happily joined them on their walks and for dinner. They were a hoot and added so much personality to the story. The mystery kept me guessing, and I loved the small-town cast of characters. Someone else described it as having all the charm and humor of a rom-com without the romance, and I thought that was spot on. It has quirky characters, plenty of laughs, and a mystery that kept me turning the pages. I flew through this one and would happily spend more time with this group.
Thank you to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Hannah Karena Jones for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Hannah Karena Jones for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2026
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC.
This was such a cozy, heartwarming mystery! I really enjoyed the small-town setting and watching the main character get closer to the people around her.
There were a few choices she made that frustrated me, especially when it came to respecting other people’s boundaries. But I could also understand how those moments were part of her growth throughout the story.
What I enjoyed most was seeing her slowly let go of the past and open herself up to the people around her. The mystery was fun, but the relationships and sense of community were what really stood out to me.
Overall, this was a sweet, cozy read with lots of heart.
This was such a cozy, heartwarming mystery! I really enjoyed the small-town setting and watching the main character get closer to the people around her.
There were a few choices she made that frustrated me, especially when it came to respecting other people’s boundaries. But I could also understand how those moments were part of her growth throughout the story.
What I enjoyed most was seeing her slowly let go of the past and open herself up to the people around her. The mystery was fun, but the relationships and sense of community were what really stood out to me.
Overall, this was a sweet, cozy read with lots of heart.
September 19, 2026
*ARC received through NetGalley*
Hazel’s summer to-do list:
✔️ Take care of Beans, her mom’s dog, while she’s away
✔️ Help Sarah, her best friend, plan her wedding
✔️ Get to know Isla, her stepsister, better
Oh…and…
Try to solve the mystery of the dead body she found floating in the pool on her second shift of being a lifeguard in her hometown after losing her job in New York 💀
I don’t have anything bad to say about this book, but I also, unfortunately, don’t have anything great to say about it either. I liked the idea of this story, but I felt it lacked excitement overall. Not a waste of time by any means, but I’m definitely not writing home about it.
Hazel’s summer to-do list:
✔️ Take care of Beans, her mom’s dog, while she’s away
✔️ Help Sarah, her best friend, plan her wedding
✔️ Get to know Isla, her stepsister, better
Oh…and…
Try to solve the mystery of the dead body she found floating in the pool on her second shift of being a lifeguard in her hometown after losing her job in New York 💀
I don’t have anything bad to say about this book, but I also, unfortunately, don’t have anything great to say about it either. I liked the idea of this story, but I felt it lacked excitement overall. Not a waste of time by any means, but I’m definitely not writing home about it.
October 10, 2026
I received an advanced reader copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I’m a big fan of mysteries where ordinary people take it upon themselves to do a little sleuthing, and this one was an enjoyable read! The characters were likable, and the story felt believable enough to keep me interested. I enjoyed following the clues and seeing how everything unfolded.
My biggest drawback was that I wasn’t particularly surprised by the killer’s identity. I was hoping for a twist that would catch me off guard, but the reveal felt a little predictable. Still, I enjoyed the journey and thought it was a solid mystery overall.
I’m a big fan of mysteries where ordinary people take it upon themselves to do a little sleuthing, and this one was an enjoyable read! The characters were likable, and the story felt believable enough to keep me interested. I enjoyed following the clues and seeing how everything unfolded.
My biggest drawback was that I wasn’t particularly surprised by the killer’s identity. I was hoping for a twist that would catch me off guard, but the reveal felt a little predictable. Still, I enjoyed the journey and thought it was a solid mystery overall.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was such a fun, quick read! After losing her job, Hazel is just enduring one thing after another, but she’s handling it so well! Then she finds a body. I was able to piece everything together a bit early on, but it didn’t take anything away from my enjoyment of this book! You really get to know all of the characters and I honestly like all of them! The whole vibe felt cozy and familiar, and a little bit like a Hallmark movie..with murder. This left me immediately needing more! I’ll be not-so-patiently waiting for an entire series!
Thank you so much Hannah Karena Jones and Netgalley for this gifted arc in exchange for my honest review!
Thank you so much Hannah Karena Jones and Netgalley for this gifted arc in exchange for my honest review!
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