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The Worst Detective Ever #7
Gaffe Out Loud
Actress Joey Darling is beginning a new season . . . of her TV show and her life.
Joey Darling’s life is finally on track. Her hit series has been picked up by a new network, her relationship with Detective Jackson Sullivan couldn’t be better, and she’s even bought a house. But right after taking possession, Joey discovers a dead body upstairs.
Joey knows she won’t have any peace until she figures out why a dead woman was left at her house and who killed her. And she desperately needs peace as the “normal” life she’s trying to establish quickly progresses from great to the brink of collapse.
The countdown is ticking as Joey must soon leave to begin filming. But one gaffe after another slows her investigation and makes her question her choices. The closer Joey gets to answers, the more someone is determined to make sure this season of her life is canceled—permanently.
Joey Darling’s life is finally on track. Her hit series has been picked up by a new network, her relationship with Detective Jackson Sullivan couldn’t be better, and she’s even bought a house. But right after taking possession, Joey discovers a dead body upstairs.
Joey knows she won’t have any peace until she figures out why a dead woman was left at her house and who killed her. And she desperately needs peace as the “normal” life she’s trying to establish quickly progresses from great to the brink of collapse.
The countdown is ticking as Joey must soon leave to begin filming. But one gaffe after another slows her investigation and makes her question her choices. The closer Joey gets to answers, the more someone is determined to make sure this season of her life is canceled—permanently.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2018
About the author
Christy Barritt
366 books1,784 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
June 15, 2022
This mystery caught me by surprise. I didn’t figure out the bad guys—or rather, I suspected them but had no clue how or why they played into the scene. So the mystery was great.
There are some elements I didn’t prefer like a guy friend staying at Joey’s house (though it was all fine).
The romance progressed in a very real way with doubts and conflict and resolution. There are kisses but nothing more.
The Christianity element had a sermon mentioned which is more than other books have had.
There are some elements I didn’t prefer like a guy friend staying at Joey’s house (though it was all fine).
The romance progressed in a very real way with doubts and conflict and resolution. There are kisses but nothing more.
The Christianity element had a sermon mentioned which is more than other books have had.
January 14, 2019
Not my favorite of the series but still really good. I thought some of the drama was reaching in this one. However, it's nice to finally see Joey and Jackson in a relationship and happy with one another. Joey has some career choice to make in this one and she's highly insecure about being away from Jackson. Suspected her neighbors the whole time. Well written as always and a great ending, really love Joey Darling!
January 7, 2019
Reading a Christy Barritt novel is like returning to a family reunion after a couple months away. I get swept up into the character's lives right where Barritt left them in the last book. I watched the characters move forward, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worst. I enjoy returning to familiar characters and familiar settings. Barritt is also a wonderful creator of cozy mysteries. All of her mysteries are different and unique. I don't know how she does it. As for me, her newest book in the Joey Darling series, Gaffe Out Loud, had a mystery element I didn't see coming, but I thoroughly enjoyed the hunt as Joey and Jackson worked together on their relationship and the hunt for clues. The story moved quickly, and I was sad to see another Barritt novel end, but I know Barritt will write more, so it lifts my spirit. I recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of any of Barritt's previous novels or enjoy a good mystery to pass the time.
August 7, 2020
Joey is back!
I've been highly anticipating the next release in The Worst Detective Ever Mystery Series and Gaffe Out Loud is it. I loved it! Christy Barritt takes readers on another fun and romance filled adventure with everyone's favorite drama-prone TV detective actress Joey Darling.
I'm probably using the word 'favorite' too much but Joey really is my favorite Christy Barritt created amateur detective. She is fun, funny, and is such a relatable mess. By turns Joey makes me laugh, shake my head, and nod in understanding.
I enjoyed Gaffe Out Loud immensely. The mystery was good, kept me guessing even though I came close a time or two, and I loved the romance between Joey and Jackson finally getting its chance to bloom. This story is a real winner and I personally can't wait for the next crazy adventure that Joey finds herself in...
I've actually read this book once before but I really enjoy audiobooks and I love Joey Darling so I was tickled to listen to her. Once again, the narrator has done an amazing job bringing Joey and the others to life in vivid color. The sound and production were A+ as well making this audiobook a perfectly delightful listen.
(I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are entirely my own.)
I've been highly anticipating the next release in The Worst Detective Ever Mystery Series and Gaffe Out Loud is it. I loved it! Christy Barritt takes readers on another fun and romance filled adventure with everyone's favorite drama-prone TV detective actress Joey Darling.
I'm probably using the word 'favorite' too much but Joey really is my favorite Christy Barritt created amateur detective. She is fun, funny, and is such a relatable mess. By turns Joey makes me laugh, shake my head, and nod in understanding.
I enjoyed Gaffe Out Loud immensely. The mystery was good, kept me guessing even though I came close a time or two, and I loved the romance between Joey and Jackson finally getting its chance to bloom. This story is a real winner and I personally can't wait for the next crazy adventure that Joey finds herself in...
I've actually read this book once before but I really enjoy audiobooks and I love Joey Darling so I was tickled to listen to her. Once again, the narrator has done an amazing job bringing Joey and the others to life in vivid color. The sound and production were A+ as well making this audiobook a perfectly delightful listen.
(I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are entirely my own.)
December 25, 2019
I feel like the narrator of the audiobooks in this series encompasses Joey Darling. It’s kind of enjoyable listening to someone voicing the thoughts running around Joey’s head. And oh boy, are there a lot of those in Gaffe Out Loud.
Joey Darling is becoming an official resident of Nags Head with the purchase of a home. Even with her series reboot a go, she’s putting down roots in North Carolina. But, in true Joey fashion, trouble finds her. This time in the form of a dead body in her new-to-her house.
Finally, Joey and Jackson have the DTR talk and, even though there are some ups and downs in it along the way, the conclusion made me happy. I’m looking forward to finding out how Christy Barritt will resolve the new challenges thrown at Joey when she returns to work.
Joey Darling is becoming an official resident of Nags Head with the purchase of a home. Even with her series reboot a go, she’s putting down roots in North Carolina. But, in true Joey fashion, trouble finds her. This time in the form of a dead body in her new-to-her house.
Finally, Joey and Jackson have the DTR talk and, even though there are some ups and downs in it along the way, the conclusion made me happy. I’m looking forward to finding out how Christy Barritt will resolve the new challenges thrown at Joey when she returns to work.
January 8, 2019
Joey Darling bought a house in Nags Head, intent on making it her home base before she heads to Wilmington to film the next season of her show Relentless. The day she moves in she finds a dead body in one of her spare bedrooms. She tries to stay out of the way of her detective boyfriend but curiosity (and a desire to sleep soundly in her new home) gets the best of her and she's off on her own investigation.
It's been awhile since I read the last book in this series but it was recapped well enough that I was quickly up to speed. I enjoyed the ending and look forward to the next installment!
It's been awhile since I read the last book in this series but it was recapped well enough that I was quickly up to speed. I enjoyed the ending and look forward to the next installment!
February 3, 2019
: GAFFE OUT LOUD is the seventh book in Ms Barritt's cozy mystery series The Worst Detective Ever but it does stand alone. Fans will want to read the other books in the series though. In order, they are: Ready to Fumble, Reign of Error, Safety in Blunders, Join the Flub, Blooper Freak, Flaw Abiding Citizen, and GAFFE OUT LOUD.
It has been awhile since I read a book in this series and I'd forgotten how funny Joey is. Jackson makes a nice side-kick, though he is much more serious than Joey.
Travel along with Joey as she tries to figure out who killed the woman in her new house -- and why. Jackson does allow her to work with him some, but mostly she's on her own. I did figure out who-dun-it but not why or anything like that.
The story is fast-paced and I read the entire thing in an afternoon.
If you like cozy mysteries, grab a copy of GAFFE OUT LOUD or any of the other books in the series.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
It has been awhile since I read a book in this series and I'd forgotten how funny Joey is. Jackson makes a nice side-kick, though he is much more serious than Joey.
Travel along with Joey as she tries to figure out who killed the woman in her new house -- and why. Jackson does allow her to work with him some, but mostly she's on her own. I did figure out who-dun-it but not why or anything like that.
The story is fast-paced and I read the entire thing in an afternoon.
If you like cozy mysteries, grab a copy of GAFFE OUT LOUD or any of the other books in the series.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
January 5, 2019
I can't wait to read more.
This was a wonderful book.
This was a wonderful book.
December 30, 2018
On move-in day, finding a body in her beach home was not in Joey Darling's plans. In fact, that was worst-case scenario and places her spot-on target in a tangled web of shady tourists, the eccentric artist seller and connection to her Relentless series reboot. While she would prefer to allow the police, especially her Jackson, to investigate, Joey learns that this is more than personal. Once again, her worlds collide in Christy Barritt's latest series success and leaves fans wanting the next episode.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
December 27, 2018
Joey Darling is back in action. Her role as a TV detective will continue as well as her fumbling into real-life mysteries and crimes that need her assistance to solve. This novel showcases her bumbles and her successes. This case is personal because she found a dead women in her new home. As usual, the story keeps you guessing and wondering if Joey will survive unscathed. She seems so real that it makes the tale quite believable. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
December 27, 2018
Gaffe Out Loud
Another exciting adventure for Joey Darling. It was so much fun to read about her crazy life again. She and Jackson are a great couple, and now there is someone in Phoebe's life. All good.
Another exciting adventure for Joey Darling. It was so much fun to read about her crazy life again. She and Jackson are a great couple, and now there is someone in Phoebe's life. All good.
January 4, 2019
there comes a point in every relationship where you have to learn how to disagree, and how to argue.
no relationship is perfect. being controlling, insulting, manipulative etc is no way to sustain a relationship.
Joey and Detective Jackson have certainly reached that point. what man really wants to see his beloved kissing another man - but if she is an actress, then he needs to deal, just like she would have to do if he were undercover. Trust and accept that you may not love that it needs to happen, but move on.
An omg is Joey a drama queen - a bit understandably so, if she survived an abusive ex husband. But if the new man says he accepts your job or life and what it entails and is willing to work with you on a future, then you either have to accept it, work together on it, or walk away because it isn't important enough to you to take the risk and put in the work.
The story is funny, but I didn't laugh as much as in previous stories.
It was interesting to see the ghosts of Joey's past being used - by her and others - pain make for great acting.
Maybe the next Joey Darling extravaganza will see her on the red carpet - and having a lot of fun on her honeymoon, at least until the mystery/murder dujour interrupts!
no relationship is perfect. being controlling, insulting, manipulative etc is no way to sustain a relationship.
Joey and Detective Jackson have certainly reached that point. what man really wants to see his beloved kissing another man - but if she is an actress, then he needs to deal, just like she would have to do if he were undercover. Trust and accept that you may not love that it needs to happen, but move on.
An omg is Joey a drama queen - a bit understandably so, if she survived an abusive ex husband. But if the new man says he accepts your job or life and what it entails and is willing to work with you on a future, then you either have to accept it, work together on it, or walk away because it isn't important enough to you to take the risk and put in the work.
The story is funny, but I didn't laugh as much as in previous stories.
It was interesting to see the ghosts of Joey's past being used - by her and others - pain make for great acting.
Maybe the next Joey Darling extravaganza will see her on the red carpet - and having a lot of fun on her honeymoon, at least until the mystery/murder dujour interrupts!
January 7, 2019
Joey Darling is back in Gaffe Out Loud, the seventh installment of the hilarious Worst Detective Ever series. And oh my goodness, I am so glad she's back! I hadn't realized how much I'd missed her and all the rest of these quirky characters.
Everything's finally going great for Joey. She's got a wonderful boyfriend, her TV show was uncancelled and is about to start filming again, and she just bought a new house. Life is perfect...well... it was for a little while, but knowing Joey, nothing ever goes smoothly for long. The first day she's in her new house, she finds a woman murdered in one of the bedrooms. And as we all know, Joey's not about to stay out of it. She's gotta solve this murder herself!
Joey's still just as sassy, dramatic, and hilarious as ever! I laughed so much while reading this and seemed to have a perpetual smile on my face. This book was like a breath of fresh air. I was sad to see it end, but am very excited to find out what's gonna happen next. I highly recommend this series!
Everything's finally going great for Joey. She's got a wonderful boyfriend, her TV show was uncancelled and is about to start filming again, and she just bought a new house. Life is perfect...well... it was for a little while, but knowing Joey, nothing ever goes smoothly for long. The first day she's in her new house, she finds a woman murdered in one of the bedrooms. And as we all know, Joey's not about to stay out of it. She's gotta solve this murder herself!
Joey's still just as sassy, dramatic, and hilarious as ever! I laughed so much while reading this and seemed to have a perpetual smile on my face. This book was like a breath of fresh air. I was sad to see it end, but am very excited to find out what's gonna happen next. I highly recommend this series!
January 8, 2019
I was so happy to have the next installment in The Worst Detective Ever series. Christy Barritt always does an amazing job mixing in mystery, humor, romance, and making it a clean read. While Gaffe Out Loud was not my favorite Joey Darling mystery, it was still enjoyable and it had plenty of twists and a surprise ending. I deducted a star only because I felt like some of the humor fell flat as opposed to other books in the series where I laughed out loud (ironic that I didn't laugh out loud as much in Gaffe Out Loud!) and also because there were times when Joey was a little too much drama for me and had me questioning why Jackson would want to deal with that! But overall, this was a nice addition to series that will make me wait in eager anticipation for Book # 8, Joke And Dagger. Hoping the next book continues with the humor and mystery that made all the books so far a must-read.
Please see more of my reviews at: https://wadeurspider01.wixsite.com/we...
Please see more of my reviews at: https://wadeurspider01.wixsite.com/we...
September 23, 2019
Joey feels like everything is falling into place. In a week she starts filming her new season of relentless, she and Jackson are in a great place, and she just bought a home. Then on the day she moves she finds a womans body upstairs in one of her new guest rooms. She first doesnt think this has anything to do with her, but soon learns the woman had auditioned to be on relentless, and suddenly Joey feels far more responsible for her. She should really stay out of it, but this IS her house, so obviously someone wants her involved. The real question is, can she finish with the real mystery in time to record the fake ones?
This is the final one they released so far. New books are coming out later this year but this book ended on a spot that while I want to continue the series it's not something I'll be chewing at the bit waiting to be released since it had a good ending. It still had the humour and suspense of the other books too
This is the final one they released so far. New books are coming out later this year but this book ended on a spot that while I want to continue the series it's not something I'll be chewing at the bit waiting to be released since it had a good ending. It still had the humour and suspense of the other books too
December 27, 2019
Addictive series... kind of like Pringles .
I have had so many recommendations for this series- “The Worst Detective Ever”and I ignored them for months. After a suspense filled book, I chose the first Joey Darling story as a uplifting palette cleanser. I’m now 7 books in. I am amazed at the character development and plot twists .i have alternated between rooting for Zane and being suspicious of him. I cheered when Joey finally, finally found what she was looking for in book 6. I love this book- I love this series. It’s entertaining and bingeable. It’s lighthearted and funny. It’s engaging and warm. I even love it In spite of the fact that the author insists on including the phrase “smeared” every single time she talks about a sunset or sunrise - in each and every book of the Joey Darling series. Read it, you’ll be very glad you did. ( but start with book 1. )
I have had so many recommendations for this series- “The Worst Detective Ever”and I ignored them for months. After a suspense filled book, I chose the first Joey Darling story as a uplifting palette cleanser. I’m now 7 books in. I am amazed at the character development and plot twists .i have alternated between rooting for Zane and being suspicious of him. I cheered when Joey finally, finally found what she was looking for in book 6. I love this book- I love this series. It’s entertaining and bingeable. It’s lighthearted and funny. It’s engaging and warm. I even love it In spite of the fact that the author insists on including the phrase “smeared” every single time she talks about a sunset or sunrise - in each and every book of the Joey Darling series. Read it, you’ll be very glad you did. ( but start with book 1. )
January 29, 2019
Mystery, romance, and LOL moments...
“Seriously, when I encouraged people to “follow” me, I was just talking about on Instagram, not parking lots.” Joey Darling keeps up the quips, even in the midst of a dead body showing up in her new house. I loved how the mystery unfolded and the whodunnit kept me guessing. The ultimate part of this story was how she works through her fears to come to a happy place in her life. The struggle is real between her and Jackson finding a good balance. However, fans must read this sublime, and perhaps conclusion to the series. 5+ stars!
“Seriously, when I encouraged people to “follow” me, I was just talking about on Instagram, not parking lots.” Joey Darling keeps up the quips, even in the midst of a dead body showing up in her new house. I loved how the mystery unfolded and the whodunnit kept me guessing. The ultimate part of this story was how she works through her fears to come to a happy place in her life. The struggle is real between her and Jackson finding a good balance. However, fans must read this sublime, and perhaps conclusion to the series. 5+ stars!
April 12, 2021
I enjoyed this installment of the Joey Darling series via audiobook. With her quirky traits, behavior, and dialogue, I found myself engaged in this cozy mystery. I did not like the choice of using the tea leaves reference during the story indicating a witchcraft reference. It was one reference in the whole of the story. I enjoy Ms. Barritt's writing style and enjoyed this escapade of Joey Darling. I look forward to reading about Joey's other crime adventures.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the author All opinions and thoughts are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the author All opinions and thoughts are my own.
May 14, 2025
Really funny, of course. Was feeling very happy with Joey and Jackson's relationship development when all the sudden...whelp, that escalated quickly. I'm not sure how I feel about how quickly things are moving. Actually..lie. I hate it. Everyone knows instalove is only real at Christmas time or for shifters and vampires. (sarcastic eye roll) I'm giving Barrit the benefit of the doubt here. Don't make this suck!
Quote:
“Joey, we’re not going to have a perfect relationship. There’s no such thing. We’re going to argue. We’re going to disagree. We’re not always going to see eye to eye. But that’s okay. The best marriages are the ones where a couple knows how to disagree.”
Quote:
“Joey, we’re not going to have a perfect relationship. There’s no such thing. We’re going to argue. We’re going to disagree. We’re not always going to see eye to eye. But that’s okay. The best marriages are the ones where a couple knows how to disagree.”
February 3, 2019
Couldn't put this down!
Joey is so likable. She is funny and humble, and I think she and I could be friends. I feel like I am right in there with her. I like the way she interacts with Zane and Phoebe, and of course I am pulling for her and Jackson. THIS is how real the characters are. This story kept me guessing all the way. Wow. Thanks for keeping me on my toes and for this very enjoyable, and entertaining, book. I hope they keep coming.
Joey is so likable. She is funny and humble, and I think she and I could be friends. I feel like I am right in there with her. I like the way she interacts with Zane and Phoebe, and of course I am pulling for her and Jackson. THIS is how real the characters are. This story kept me guessing all the way. Wow. Thanks for keeping me on my toes and for this very enjoyable, and entertaining, book. I hope they keep coming.
February 1, 2019
Just when you think Barritt MUST have run out of ideas, she comes up with yet another great story in this fun series about the everyday life of a movie star who acts the part of a detective on TV, and somehow finds herself in the middle of solving crimes in real life. With her finally established detective boyfriend, the story starts off with finding a dead body in her house and continues to get more exciting with each page turn.
February 25, 2019
I forgot how much I missed reading this series until it came back! I love Joey and Jackson! As always trouble just seems to fall into Joey’s lap this time she didn’t have Jackson as much to help her out but she still seems to get things going anyway. Their rocky relationship had me on the edge of my seat because I want to see great things for them! The Author doesn’t disappoint with the direction their relationship is headed(no spoilers here!) can’t wait to read more in this series.
March 14, 2019
Beach, mystery, romance and comedy!
Beach house, mystery of who done it, and a fun comedy. What more do y’all want in a good read? I love the characters, and getting to know the area and the regulars. It makes the reading feel like your keeping up on what’s happening with good friends. Then there’s the mystery to solve, and the oh so funny mind set and thought pattern of Joey and of course the romance! Enjoy
Beach house, mystery of who done it, and a fun comedy. What more do y’all want in a good read? I love the characters, and getting to know the area and the regulars. It makes the reading feel like your keeping up on what’s happening with good friends. Then there’s the mystery to solve, and the oh so funny mind set and thought pattern of Joey and of course the romance! Enjoy
January 1, 2022
Continuing to enjoy this series! I liked how Joey is dealing with the fears and insecurities that her past has caused her to have in this book. And I really liked the overarching theme that the couples who make it are the ones who are committed to making it work even when things are rough, when they are fighting, and/or when they have to be apart. I enjoyed the mystery in this one, and it was fun to meet one of Joey's co-stars on her show. I'm hoping for more of Sam in future books!
March 13, 2019
In the latest Installment of the Joey Darling books, she begins a new chapter professionally and personally. I really enjoyed Joey and Jackson's growing relationship, Joey maturing into a homeowner, and the mystery surrounding the dead woman in Joey's new house. Joey and her friends are so much fun, and I always enjoy seeing what they will get into next! Can't wait to see what happens next!
January 16, 2020
This series just keeps getting better.
Things got better for Joey in the last book and all is well until she finds a dead woman in her house that she just purchased. Why did it? The suspect list st is long and I could not put this book down until I knew he answer. There were some twists that I did not see coming.
Things got better for Joey in the last book and all is well until she finds a dead woman in her house that she just purchased. Why did it? The suspect list st is long and I could not put this book down until I knew he answer. There were some twists that I did not see coming.
September 30, 2020
Darling Joey
Joey Darling thinks she has some time to settle in to her new house and just relax and enjoy Jackson before it’s time to film again. Her new house is great - until she discovers a dead body upstairs! Gaffe Out Loud is quick-paced with believable characters. Twists and turns will keep you turning pages! Good buy!
Joey Darling thinks she has some time to settle in to her new house and just relax and enjoy Jackson before it’s time to film again. Her new house is great - until she discovers a dead body upstairs! Gaffe Out Loud is quick-paced with believable characters. Twists and turns will keep you turning pages! Good buy!
July 19, 2021
Another good read except...
Some things have started to sound the same from book to book. For example, whenever Joey and Jackson are about to kiss, the phone rings or someone knocks on the door. Like every time. The guilty approach Joey at the crime scene. And others. The read is still enjoyable, but often sounds like deja vu. We'll give the next one a try and see what happens
Some things have started to sound the same from book to book. For example, whenever Joey and Jackson are about to kiss, the phone rings or someone knocks on the door. Like every time. The guilty approach Joey at the crime scene. And others. The read is still enjoyable, but often sounds like deja vu. We'll give the next one a try and see what happens
January 14, 2019
Love Joey Darling
This is another great book in the worst detective ever series. I cannot wait for the next book! How will Joey and Jackson survive long distance? What direction is she headed?
This is another great book in the worst detective ever series. I cannot wait for the next book! How will Joey and Jackson survive long distance? What direction is she headed?
January 16, 2019
Gaffe Out Loud didn’t seem like a fit title for this book. She wasn’t the worst detective ever. I liked these characters and found this book to be entertaining and moved at a very good pace. If you like Christy Barrett books, this one fun.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews