Engaging Plot and Lovable Characters
When I started The Body in the Backyard, the fourth book in Lucy Score’s Riley Thorn series, I knew I was in for a wild ride, but this installment exceeded all expectations. From laugh-out-loud moments to heartwarming scenes, this book has it all.
Riley Thorn, our psychic detective heroine, finds herself reluctantly teaming up with her infuriating ex-husband, Griffin Gentry. Griffin’s reappearance and plea for help are the catalysts for a series of hilarious and dangerous events. Watching Riley navigate the chaos with her hot private investigator boyfriend, Nick Santiago, is pure joy. Nick, initially hesitant about taking on Griffin’s case, finds himself overruled by his charmingly obstinate octogenarian business partner. This sets the stage for a delightful blend of humor and suspense as Santiago Investigations dives into a murder mystery with a suspect list a mile long.
Character Development and Chemistry
What stands out in this book is the impeccable character development. Riley’s journey to mastering her psychic abilities is compelling, and her chemistry with Nick is more electric than ever. Nick, flawed yet irresistibly endearing, shows significant growth, proving himself to be the perfect partner for Riley. The way he navigates their relationship while solving crimes adds a layer of depth to the story that fans will adore.
The supporting cast, especially Riley’s elderly roommates and their antics, adds a unique charm to the narrative. Their involvement in surveillance operations provides a constant source of amusement and keeps the story lively. And then there’s Griffin, who manages to be both exasperating and sympathetic—a testament to Score’s skill in creating multifaceted characters.
Memorable Moments and Plot Twists
One of my favorite parts of the book was the sweet and humorous babysitting scene with Riley and Nick. Watching Nick, the tough PI, turn into a teddy bear around his nieces was heartwarming and hilarious. It’s these moments that balance the intense whodunit plot, making the story a well-rounded read.
Speaking of the plot, the mystery itself is intricately woven with plenty of red herrings and unexpected twists. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, Score throws in a curveball that keeps you on your toes until the very end. The final reveal was both surprising and satisfying, wrapping up the mystery in a way that left me eager for the next book in the series.
Negatives and Critiques
However, the book isn’t without its flaws. The sheer number of characters and subplots can make the story feel a bit chaotic at times. Some readers might find it challenging to keep track of all the different threads and personalities. Additionally, Griffin’s character, while essential to the plot, can be overwhelmingly annoying, which might detract from the overall enjoyment for some.
In summary, The Body in the Backyard is a delightful blend of comedy, romance, and mystery. It’s a perfect summer read that will leave you feeling good long after you’ve turned the last page. If you haven’t started the Riley Thorn series yet, now is the perfect time. And if you’re already a fan, this latest installment will not disappoint. Lucy Score has delivered another hit that solidifies her place as a master of the rom-com mystery genre. Despite some minor drawbacks, the book’s charm and engaging story make it a must-read.
