Final Draft

Olivia Lively Mystery #1

by Shelley Burbank

Sin, suffer… stakeout?

While untangling an academic plagiarism case involving a well-known author and his troubled protege, private investigator Olivia Lively learns that when it comes to life, love, and authorship, the lines can get pretty fuzzy.

Olivia Lively’s private investigation business might be flourishing, but her private life is a mess. Her latest romantic mistake is stalking her, her socialite mother is trying to hook her up with a commitment-minded cardiologist, and her best friend is struggling to start a family and is totally fed up with Liv’s drama.

So when graduate writing student Cooper Tedeschi begs Liv to prove that his professor—one of the most famous novelists in the country—stole his manuscript, Liv is grateful for the distraction and is soon entangled in the competitive world of academia. Meanwhile, the hot heart doc her mother has chosen for her surprises Liv in more ways than one, and Liv’s conniving ex isn’t quite done playing with her yet.

As the plagiarism case grows more complicated, and her private life more confusing, Liv learns that the line between truth and fiction–and right and wrong–is not always clearly defined.

Genres: Mystery, Mystery Thriller, Chick Lit

308 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 8, 2023

About the author

Shelley Burbank writes private investigator mystery and personal reinvention women's fiction, often set in Maine, for readers who want hope, triumph over adversity, justice, and bittersweet satisfaction.

Shelley's debut female private investigator mystery novel, FINAL DRAFT: An Olivia Lively Mystery was published by Encircle Publications in March 2023. The second book in the series, NIGHT MOVES came out in August 2024. A new standalone novella, Strawberry Moon Mystery, released January 2026.

Her short fiction has been published in True Story Magazine, San Diego Woman Magazine, and The Maine Review.
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PRAISE...

Shelley Burbank's Portland, Maine P.I., Liv Lively, is a memorable character, flawed but self-aware, determined to go her own way and, in Final Draft, a champion of the underdog. I'm looking forward to reading more of Liv's forays into crime-solving.
–Kaitlyn Dunnett, author of the Liss MacCrimmon Mysteries


Sassy, stylish Olivia Lively is a private investigator with almost as many skeletons in her closet as her clients. And her debut in this fast-paced page turner will delight mystery readers the world over.
–Cynthia Dagnal-Myron, author and award-winning Chicago Sun Times journalist

Reviews

[Lackof_shelf_control · Rating 4 out of 5]

“She has been afraid of getting tied down, she realized, and she’d gotten herself tied up instead.” One POV and perfect chapter lengths. Had me saying “just one more” before bed. I love that there are multiple storylines going on, but all centered around Liv. She is one of those characters that i just wanted to continue reading about her life and not have the book end. I definitely think continuing this on as a series is a smart move! I’m the first to say- i usually care way more about the mystery parts and way less about the love interests. However, this love interest storyline kept me engaged and i couldn’t decide who i wanted her to be with (I’m secretly rooting for a love triangle with Snow 😅). It wasn’t overly graphic with the romance scenes and i appreciated that because thats not my cup of tea! Some things i guessed early on, but it didn’t spoil my enjoyment of reading the book. I definitely look forward to reading more of Shelley’s work! Also- as a fellow New Englander - i much appreciated the Mike’s pastry reference and was drooling at the mention 🤤

[Anne B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia Lively is smart, spirited, independent, and a private detective taking on cases in Portland, Maine. In Final Draft, she is hired to investigate a case of possible plagiarism involving a world-famous but washed-up novelist and his student. Complicating things are her ex, now on the lam from the FBI; the FBI agent sent to find the ex; and a surgeon her society parents have decided would make a perfect romantic partner for her.


There is much to love about this novel. Olivia is the perfect beach-read detective, who adores good food, fine wine, designer clothes, and handsome men. The plot twists and turns: the reader might think they know whodunnit, but the whys are complicated. Finally, the Portland setting is fully realized in the way Boston is fully realized in the Spenser novels. Shelley Burbank has an eye for the details that make her characters attractive to readers, and that paint a perfect backdrop for those characters to act against.

[Kathryn Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kudos to Shelley Burbank with the creation of her heroine, Olivia Lively, a private investigator who is a savvy, independent, and resilient. From the first page the author draws you in with intrigue, a little suspense and revenge humor. Olivia, aka Liv, is a relatable character who is juggling many different relationships, tasks, and responsibilities all while trying to solve a mystery for her client and stay safe while she is being pursued. You just can’t stop turning the page. The chapters were the right length. I love that the author keeps the reader engaged completely with Liv and when you reach the last page you want more. I can’t wait to see what future adventures are in store for Liv Lively. I could definitely see a network grabbing this up and making a series based the heroine, Olivia “Liv” Lively. I would absolutely binge watch that.

[Summer H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed this book!! I love the character of Liv Lively so much, she is so well fleshed out in this book and I really hope it ends up a series like it looks to br on Goodreads.

The story in this was so good too, I truly enjoyed all the characters, all the story. I love a good mystery and I appreciate it doesn't always have to be a murder mystery.

The writing is very well done and descriptive, at times a little overly much. But it definitely painted a picture and I appreciated that. And while the ending was easy-ish to see coming, what I really liked is that the why threw me.

I cannot wait for this book to be out so I can tell others to read it and I cannot wait for more Liv adventures!!

I received an advanced review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks BookSirens!

[Mary Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I predict that Burbank will be part of a new sub-genre of mystery that I see coming: Women's Mystery. Her heroine; Liv Lively, is an independent woman with flaws we can all relate to. Liv is for the underdog, and when she takes on a grad students plagiarism case she is all in! Nope, there is no dead body, but with a few hot male bodies- I didn't even notice. So pick up your copy, and be ready for a fun romp through the streets of Portland, Maine with new P.I. Liv Lively!

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is so colorful!!! The settings for each chapter really drew me in. The writing was good and easy to follow. Liv is a bad ass I could be friends with. Can’t wait for the next one!

[Katya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Olivia Lively is a strong and independent woman, a PI with her own business, and a daughter whose mother hasn't yet accepted her choice of occupation and is constantly looking for a perfect husband for Olivia. One day Olivia attends a party organized by her mother, and a young man - Cooper - approaches her and asks for her help stating that a famous author has stolen his novel. Everyone around him thinks he is crazy, but will Olivia dig up the whole truth and solve the case?

I decided to pick up this book solely because of its description. Who would not love a story about a famous author allegedly stealing someone else's work and denying it? Not us bookworms!

And I'm so glad I did read it! The story develops gradually, starting with the scene when Olivia herself hesitates to believe Cooper. She even asks him about his mental health, because, of course, it's hard to believe his story. However, she still decides to take on the investigation - and that just shows, that she is a nice person too. What I loved about the case is that she really has to work for it. The solution is not handed to her on a silver platter, she has to collect different bits and pieces from various sources and even has to talk to the same people several times to shed light on the new information she has gathered. All in all, it is a really interesting and intriguing investigation, where everything is not so obvious.

Apart from the work life we also follow Olivia's personal one. We have a recently failed love interest - Robert - and a new hot doctor - Jasper (matched to Olivia by her mother). The scene in the restaurant, where Olivia is "accidentally" introduced to Jasper is entertaining and funny, and I also really like how Olivia handles the situation and is bold and confident. We also meet a mysterious FBI Agent Colin (can't tell you, why he is involved in all this, guess, you'll just have to find out for yourself).

I also like the characters in this book, it is obvious that the author has put a lot of work into both character and plot building. It is a great first book in the series, well-written, easy to follow, humorous, makes you curious, and keeps your attention till the very end. I would recommend this book to everyone since it not only has an intriguing mystery to be solved but also an engrossing life story of Olivia to follow.

[Katerina Dennison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was surprised and delighted to find in this book a mix of mystery and women's fiction that I've never really seen before. Olivia was a layered character and her personal life drama blended well with the main mystery, keeping my brain occupied with both story lines and keeping me reading for the next revelation. I see this becoming a wonderful series to follow if you're up for a blend of mystery and contemporary women's fiction. I foresee Olivia Lively getting herself into trouble in the future, and I'm here for it.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This is the first of the Olivia Lively mysteries. Olivia, or Liv, was a character that came to life very easily for me. As soon as she was introduced, I could picture her in my mind. She was a good protagonist - confident, sassy and fun, and this book was a very fun, entertaining read. If you like modern cosy mysteries with female leads, you would probably like this. I would probably read another book featuring Olivia as a protagonist.

Thank you to Booksirens and the author for a free copy to review.

[Darcia Helle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Olivia Lively is fun and a little bit naughty!

Final Draft is the first book in the new Olivia Lively Mystery Series. She’s a talented, single PI, both of which rankles her high-society mom.

The mystery is well structured and kept me guessing. We have humor intermingled with a realistic case and some deep emotional content, all perfectly balanced to keep the plot moving forward.

The characters are complex and interesting. I could envision them all as real people.

I was thoroughly entertained by this debut novel.

[Fireplace.Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want more Olivia Lively! This book had it all mystery, drama, a love line. I enjoyed all of it! The writing and plot style reminded me a lot of Christie. This is definitely a cozy mystery! I think it could have used a bit more suspense, but overall I really enjoyed this read. Liv has depth (even if she is annoying at times) as a character and I can’t wait to read another of Burbank’s mysteries!

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hadn’t read a cozy mystery in a while and I’m so glad I chose this one!

This story really kept my attention and had just enough suspense to keep me reading/guessing yet not losing sleep from “too much” suspense.

There were a few different “situations” happening simultaneously within this book and I liked how they were intertwined and didn’t get confusing. Great read!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[David Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Final Draft by Shelley Burbank

What I enjoyed most about this book, which I didn’t realize when I began reading it, was that it’s set in Maine, my home state. So, I’m a bit biased to begin with. And warning, there will be spoilers, but I’ll try not to give away the main plot. After all, it’s a mystery and should remain as such until you yourself read it.

This is the story of Olivia ‘Liv’ Lively, a private detective. Not the most glamorous of career choices, given the status of her parents and family who all wanted more for her. Possibly along with her career, Lively also hasn’t made the best choices when it comes to boyfriends, either. Between justifying her life decisions to her parents, being set up on dates by her mother, and attempting to deal with her own social life, Liv leads a complex existence.

Working independently out of an old warehouse in Portland, Maine, Liv takes on a case involving a stolen book manuscript. It seems that a ‘nobody’ writer had his draft manuscript stolen by his mentor, a very successful author, and he’d made money from it. Her client wants Liv to prove that the manuscript had, in fact, been stolen. The problem with the new case is that even before she gets started with her investigation an old mistake, aka former boyfriend, shows up. The former beau had also hired Liv to look into a personal matter involving his wife (again, proving that Liv has made some bad choices). The only difficulty is that when Liv agreed to take the case and began to ‘snoop’, what she’d found was that it was her old beau who had been doing the cheating with several other women. And Liv had sent the evidence to his wife. This obviously causes problems between her and her ‘client’. But, as you can well imagine, it gets worse, and juicier.

Back to the stolen manuscript. Liv agrees to investigate the once successful, now washed-up author and mentor who has seemingly stolen a manuscript from his pupil, published a book, and made money from something that wasn’t his to begin with. I enjoyed this plot, it wasn’t your typical private eye case from books and movies. This was far more original. Liv agrees to take the case, primarily because it is out of the ‘ordinary’ and because the client has hired a lawyer to sue the college that he was attending. Obviously, Liv sees a paycheck in this if she can prove her client was the victim of plagiarism and can help prove the case in court of law.

Of course, during the investigation Liv has found herself at the beginning of another romance. This time with a doctor and set up by her parents. And to add more to her problems, she finds herself being ‘tailed’ by someone in an SUV that turns out to be the FBI, who are also investigating her ex-lover for mortgage fraud (aka ‘the juicy’ part). To make matters even worse, she begins to feel an attraction to the FBI agent as well. The author does a great job of describing just how complex Liv’s life seems to be, with all of the various things going on around her. Her life is a mess, and her choices in men seemingly all bad. Although, one will certainly stand out as worse than the others.

Without giving too much of the plot away, things certainly thicken as Liv delves deeper into her case of plagiarism, her new relationships, her old relationships, problems with burglars, issues with close friends, and her attempts to juggle all these seemingly at once. Again, this isn’t your typical ‘murder mystery’, and that in itself was refreshing. There’s no dead bodies, no over-the-top fight scenes, and nothing graphic. It’s simply a really good, thought-provoking story with plenty to keep the reader’s attention. Highly recommended.

[Kirk Brote · Rating 5 out of 5]

Final Draft (An Olivia Lively Mystery) is a captivating blend of mystery, romance, and self-discovery that keeps readers hooked from page 1. Olivia Lively is a successful private investigator struggling with chaos in her personal life. The narrative delves into of Liv's messy world, where tangled relationships, unexpected twists, and ethical dilemmas make for a riveting story.

Olivia is a refreshing take on the classic detective archetype. She's sharp, witty, and fiercely independent, but her vulnerabilities and personal struggles make her relatable and endearing. As her latest case unfolds, involving a graduate writing student's accusation of plagiarism against a renowned novelist, Liv's life becomes even more complicated. The academic backdrop adds an intriguing layer to the story, blending the worlds of literature and investigation seamlessly.

The writing style is crisp and engaging, with witty dialogue and vivid descriptions that bring the characters and settings to life. As someone who enjoys the setting as an integral part of the story, Final Draft does an amazing job with its Portland, Maine setting. The pacing is well-balanced, ensuring that the plot threads, both personal and professional, evolve organically. As Liv navigates the murky waters of truth, fiction, and morality, readers are kept guessing until the final pages.

In conclusion, "Final Draft (An Olivia Lively Mystery)" is a great read that combines mystery and romance with a compelling protagonist a richly woven plot, and a wonderful setting. Shelley Burbank has crafted a story that leaves readers both entertained and reflective. If you're in the mood for a book that keeps you guessing and tugs at your heartstrings, "Final Draft (An Olivia Lively Mystery)" is a must-read.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟 FINAL DRAFT 🌟
by Shelley Burbank, Encircle, out 3/8/23.

"She wanted an amazing career, a cleaning service, a fantastic art collection, and trips to exotic locales around the world."

The author has written a delicious debut -- a fine romantic mystery -- with a character and story that hold you close. Olivia Lively grew up in a monied family, but choose to be a private investigator rather than a society wife. She's smart, fearless, funny, a classical music aficionado, and boy does she know how to dress:

"He ran his hands down her arms swathed now in luscious antique gold and brown brocade ..... Her coat was vintage, mid-calf with large embroidered peonies along the hem and a fox collar."

Her current client has a plagiarism problem and was kicked out of an MFA program as a result. Did his famous professor copy his work and present it as his? Or is the student delusional? Or is someone else the culprit? What about Olivia's former boyfriend wanted by the FBI? Or that handsome FBI agent who's watching out for her? Or the gorgeous cardiac surgeon her parents introduced her to? Oh, my!

I so love this character that I long for a book series, a Netflix series and her fully stocked closet. Highly recommended for romantic mystery and women's fiction fans who adore feisty female protagonists.

Thanks to @shirleyburbankwriter and @encirclepublications for the ARC; opinions are mine.

#finaldraft #shelleyburbank #encirclepublications #romanticmystery #womensfictionnovel #portlandmainemystery #fabdebutmystery #olivialivelymystery
#bookstagramcommunity

[Sarah Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lively is a fitting name for the main character of Final Draft: An Olivia Lively Mystery by Shelley Burbank. Olivia, who calls herself Liv, is the smart, vivacious character at the center of this realistic world. She fights for truth and stands up for herself, while also leaving time in her busy schedule to help friends. She’s insatiably curious, always three steps ahead in her mind, sometimes inspecting others with a healthy dose of doubt. It was that honesty I loved about the novel—Olivia’s observations about others, not without the occasional opinion, suspicion, or other human traits. This inquisitive, tangential mind is what makes Liv as a private investigator not only credible but intriguing. Burbank isn’t afraid to show her supporting characters’ weaknesses too—the subtle mind games, the clever subtext and body language that is so well illustrated. The writing is strong and descriptive, and moves along effortlessly, inviting the reader from place to place. I enjoyed following Liv on her investigation, and around the beautiful city of Portland, Maine. The novel is part mystery, part domestic drama, with a touch of romance and a lot of spirit. I’d be happy to follow Liv on another journey, or to read anything Shelley Burbank writes.

[Lina Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great start to a new series! Burbank has created the ultimate modern heroine - chic, clever, professional, determined - and completely messed up.
This was a refreshing change from wading through tons of cozy mysteries, some well-written, a lot not so much. Mind you, this isn't a cozy, some pages are quite, uh: sizzly? and there's quite a bit of (low-key) violence. But it suited the genre and the character.
The plot is highly original as well - established author steals manuscript from budding new talent. Boo! Hiss! An author's ultimate nightmare. Okay, some of the plot points were a bit wild -- I wasn't really buying all that hacking going on--but hey, this is fiction and within the framework of the story, it all made sense.
Burbank has a knack for creating credible, three-dimensional characters none of which is totally likeable. THAT I thought was actually the biggest achievement: A spoiled, rich daughter gone PI with a sex, clothes, shoe, food and whatever tick. Olivia made me groan, she made me laugh--and I really, really wouldn't like to be her friend. But this is exactly what made the story so fresh and enjoyable. She's got flaws, but she's going to get her target. A super-exciting start to a new series!

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Final Draft by Shelley Burbank is a cross between women's fiction, romance, and mystery. All the elements I like in a book. The story was so original and fresh, and I loved it!

Having left behind a privileged upbringing, and to her parent's dismay, Olivia Lively becomes a private investigator. While attending a charity event, Liv is approached by someone claiming that a famous author and professor stole his manuscript, and is now having it published as his own. Though Liv is wary of the accusation, she is willing to hear about the manuscript and take the plagiarism case.

Along with the mystery, we also get a view into Liv's romantic life, her choice in men, and her love of fashion and classical music. Liv doesn't let people get too close, and is not a fan of being vulnerable. Being a private investigator isn't all glamorous, Liv has several run-ins with some dangerous people. She also finds out that a former lover is wanted by the FBI.

While reading the story, I could totally see it as a movie or series. I received an arc from the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Matthew Cost · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia Lively is a PI with panache. Solidly enmeshed in the city of Portland, Maine, she wends her way between socialite and gritty investigator, full of flaws, doubts, and an unswervingly positive attitude. Her bold, brassy, and brazen attitude makes her successful at her job as she probes into her latest case in which her client claims that his professor stole his manuscript to be published as his own. These same traits immerse Lively into a cluttered love life as she escapes and adulteress relationship to a seriously sketchy character into dating a too-perfect doctor, all the while flirting with lawyers and FBI agents and trying to retain her one true friend. The novel, FINAL DRAFT, is brilliant, but Olivia Lively is still in the editing stages of her life as she tries to find her own way in what can often be a confusing world. This flair, mixed with her flaws, creates a character that is lovable and worth rooting for. I look forward to the next saga in the life of Olivia Lively, PI.

[Miss W Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Final Draft by Shelley Burbank is the first book in a the brand new Olivia Lively Mystery series.

Anyone that has followed me for more than a minute knows I am a HUGE mystery lover, and I am always very excited to come across a new author.

Final Draft is definitely a genre crossing book that has elements of womens fiction, mystery and romance.

I enjoyed Olivia Lively's character, someone that has left her wealthy family and became a private investigator. She is a flawed character with some of her own secrets. There is a lot about Olivia we learn, and the book is heavier on the womens fiction and romance side along with the mystery.

Olivia has taken on a case about the theft of a manuscript which is a very interesting mystery.

I enjoyed the backdrop of Academia as well. This is a well written mystery with heavy romance elements.

Looking forward to the next book in this series.

[Nicole Gabor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a busy mom of three who barely has time to sit, let alone read a book. But this book was the perfect escapist delight! It has all my favorite elements: a smart, sophisticated (yet relatable) heroine, a tasteful detective story (no gore here, thank you!) with intrigue that follows a case of plagiarism at a university, and a bit of romance tangled in with irresistible hotties .. all set among the backdrop of Portland, Maine’s cultural scene. Olivia Lively is a fashionista, a classical music lover, and a brave new PI determined to do things her way, no matter what! You will be rooting for her till the very end!

Ladies: highly recommend this for your next book club – and don’t forget the martinis and the Mozart!

(Side note: Olivia reminds a bit of a modern day Eliza Scarlet from PBS’s Victorian-era “Miss Scarlet and the Duke.” Fearless and feisty. If you love that show, you will love Liv Lively!)

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Final Draft, an engaging detective fiction story in a lighter vein than I've often read.

Olivia Lively is a young, thirty-ish private detective in the university town of Portland, Maine. A well drawn, identifiable character, Liv is organised and good at her job. She has a new brief with a nice twist, a university professor is accused of plagiarising one of his own students work.

Liv is not so good at her private life, with an overbearing mother who wants her to meet a handsome doctor and dangerous ex-boyfriend who wants something else.

She keeps fit and is in training for a half-marathon. She likes her life and is fully enjoying her career and independence. But can it last? No spoilers here.

Do read it, Shelley Burbank's writing is lively (like her detective) and draws you along. I hear there's another Olivia Lively book in the pipeline, I shall look forward to it.

[Star · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I found my new favorite series.

As a huge fan of the Finlay Donavan series, I am always looking for new female sleuths, and Olivia Lively is it.

Liv is a PI in Portland ME, who is used to tailing insurance scammers & cheating husbands, including her ex.

In walks Cooper, a student at who is accusing his professor, who also happens to be a best selling author, of stealing his manuscript. In the mist of trying to solve this case, Liv is also being watched by a cute FBI agent who is looking for Liv’s said ex. Add in her upper class mother who doesn’t approve of her profession and just wants her daughter to live a happy comfortable life married to a handsome doctor.

Final Draft sets up a potential love triangle which I always love. I hope we get to see more of Snow in future books. I would also love to see more of Ledeau. I think he and Liv would be great business associates.

[Sharon Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pardon my puns, but Olivia Lively lives up to her name. She’s discarded the expectations, though not the clothing, of her upscale background in favor of becoming a private investigator. That’s been a better choice than her choice in men, one of whom we see as a bad guy with nothing to redeem him. What I like better is the way Burbank unravels the plot about a stolen book draft to show how good people make bad decisions. It takes some time for Liv to acknowledge her own bad decisions and grow into a woman whose lifestyle will bring emotional purpose to her investigative skills. For its moral complexity and its setting in the city of Portland, Maine, Final Draft is worth reading.

[Nisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you BookSirens for this book! All opinions are my own.

This was such a great book! I was so excited to pick it up every time I went to read. The setting is so cozy and well set up. Liv is complex, interesting, and fun. I actually ended up really liking that there were multiple plots going on surrounding Liv. The mysteries, the love interests, and her evolving views on her life were all enjoyable to explore. The writing is well done so it didn't make it confusing or make it overwhelming. Though I didn't really like her best friend character, this was a great book overall. I am looking forward to the next book.

[Johannah A Classy Rebel Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a digital advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The way Shelley Burbank writes reminds me of the Nancy Drew novels I used to read in middle school, but all grown up. Burbank does a great job of creating realistic characters with real-world problems.

At times, the pacing felt off. At the beginning of the book I was hooked, but about the midway point, my interest started to wane a bit. Nevertheless, I always wanted to find out what happened next!

Overall, I really liked Burbank's writing style and can't wait to read more books in the Olivia Lively Mystery series.

[Stef Trunk · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for all of my cozy mystery loving readers! This cozy had it all… academia, drama, secrets, clues, interesting characters, bookish/writerish elements, romance, suspense, it really is the full package! I loved our MC, private investigator Liv Lively & how professional, but also how quirky & fun she was! It was really cool how there were 2 separate storylines from the start. The back and forth between the storylines kept me on the edge of my seat! The way the book ends left me excited to see what’s next for Liv!

[Megan Ferguson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you for this Advanced Reading Copy! I really enjoyed this book and enjoyed the character development of Olivia Lively or Liv, who is a private investigator who is very intelligent! I thought that this book had lots to offer in terms of genre-it had mystery, romance, thrill! I enjoyed the chapter lengths and also how the author drew you in! I couldn't put the book down. It shows Liv's life from trying to help her client, but she is also being pursued. I think this would make a good series too, what would Liv solve next?

[Robben Vikart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will keep you on your toes. It has so many twists and turns that keep the reader from the outcome. I liked the reflective thought process of the main character Olivia and how it helped reinvent her future. Olivia lively could be a real person with all the family and friends drama, you could feel the pull of emotions. The story line was very intriguing and imaginative and gave a good description of the less than glamorous work of being a private investigator. This story will be with me long after I finish up the last word, memorable.
I wrote this review voluntarily.

[Jane Verco · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful book. Olivia Lively ticks all the boxes as a hot new private investigator, who i hope will be entertaining us in many more episodes. A smart young lady detective with all the right attributes, an interesting bunch of characters for her to wade through, and a plot which keeps us guessing (even though you think you know!) right to the end; the author has blessed us with a wonderful book which I hope will have a sequel very soon.

My thanks to BookSirens for a complimentary copy of this book, which I am reviewing voluntarily.