Book Review: A Hot Flash of Homicide by Dawn Dugle
As I approached my own milestone birthday, A Hot Flash of Homicide: A Steamy Romantic Comedy Murder Mystery caught my eye, and boy, am I glad it did! Dawn Dugle masterfully blends humor, romance, and a dash of mystery in this delightful romp through Flamingo Cove. With a tagline that screams “fun,” it was impossible for me to resist this first book in a series that promised quirky characters and laugh-out-loud moments.
Meet Wysdom Ward, a feisty police sergeant navigating the chaos of turning 40 while juggling perimenopause and more than a few family mishaps. The moment things start to go south in Wysdom’s world, the laughs begin, and you can’t help but root for her. Dugle captures Wysdom’s struggles and triumphs with such authenticity that I felt a connection — after all, who hasn’t had a year where life throws one curveball after another?
The blend of mystery and comedy is pitch-perfect. The plot kicks off with Wysdom finding herself tangled up with a stunning silver fox who turns out to be more than just a birthday present; he becomes a suspect in a murder investigation. The narrative zips along, filled with witty banter and unexpected twists that kept me guessing and giggling. I adored the way Dugle weaves humor throughout, making even murder seem somehow light-hearted.
Dugle’s writing is conversational and engaging, with a rhythm that’s easy to fall into. I found myself laughing out loud at Wysdom’s snarky comments and hysterical inner thoughts as she navigates her personal and professional chaos. One line that stood out to me was when Wysdom quips about her “one-night stand” being a literal killer — it’s those clever turns of phrase that truly bring the spark to the narrative.
The characters are refreshingly relatable, especially Wysdom, who feels like a friend sharing her life’s absurdities over coffee. The supporting cast is colorful, each character enhancing the rich tapestry of the story. The chemistry between Wysdom and her love interest, Luke, crackles with energy; their relationship felt authentic and electric, adding just the right amount of spice.
As I closed the book, I found myself craving more of Wysdom’s adventures. The ending leaves you with just enough suspense to hunger for the next installment, and trust me, I’m ready to dive into book two. This book isn’t just for mystery lovers; it’s for anyone looking for a fun escape into the chaos of life over 40 with a side of romance.
In conclusion, if you enjoy witty heroines, humorous crime-solving, and a sprinkle of romance, A Hot Flash of Homicide is a must-read. Dawn Dugle not only entertains but also champions the idea that life (and love) doesn’t have an expiration date. This delightful romp will resonate with anyone who has ever navigated the complexities of adulthood with humor and grace. Grab a copy and settle in for an adventure that’s equal parts funny, thrilling, and utterly satisfying!
Happy reading!
