Book Review: A Hot Flash of Homicide by Dawn Dugle
I stumbled upon A Hot Flash of Homicide: A Steamy Romantic Comedy Murder Mystery by Dawn Dugle while perusing for something light-hearted to brighten my day. It caught my eye not just because of its cheeky title, but also the promise of a relatable protagonist stuck in the chaos of turning 40. As someone who’s floundered through the ups and downs of life, I was immediately drawn to the premise—and boy, did it exceed my expectations!
Meet Wysdom Ward, the fiercely relatable Sergeant grappling with perimenopause, a forgetful family, and, most notably, the unfortunate twist of having to arrest her one-night stand for murder. The blend of humor and the chaotic realities of life over 40 quickly drew me in. Wysdom is refreshingly authentic; her snarky responses to both her pressing family issues and romantic misadventures made me laugh out loud more than once.
The romance with the "drop-dead gorgeous silver fox" adds not just spice but also depth as Wysdom’s character develops through the story. Dugle crafts a world where the chemistry between characters feels tangible and earnest. The dynamic with Luke, her handsome entanglement-turned-suspect, is deliciously complicated and provides an intoxicating backdrop against the murder mystery unfolding.
Dugle’s writing style is a delightful mix of witty banter and compelling storytelling, creating a fast-paced narrative that keeps you flipping the pages. The plot offers satisfactory twists that keep you guessing, feeling a bit like a spirited game of detective. One moment you’re giggling at Wysdom’s antics, and the next, you’re invested in the whodunit aspect, wondering how everything ties together.
One memorable passage highlights Wysdom’s struggle with both aging and identity: “When I asked for a lady killer, I didn’t mean that literally.” This blend of humor and self-reflection resonates deeply, reminding us that navigating the complexities of life is both absurd and beautiful. Many readers echoed this sentiment, with phrases like “a breath of fresh air” and “perfect for older heroines” popping up in reviews.
This book is a gem for anyone seeking a hearty laugh alongside a dose of mystery. If you’re in your 30s or 40s, or if you appreciate stories of women who embody strength, resilience, and yes, comic misfires, this book will surely resonate with you. It’s a reminder that life’s hurdles can be met with humor and sass, and sometimes, it’s the fiery middle-aged women that steal the show.
In conclusion, A Hot Flash of Homicide is not just a mystery—it’s a celebration of reemerging into life with spunk and zest. I truly enjoyed this captivating read and can’t wait to dive into the next installment of Flamingo Cove. Trust me, you won’t want to miss Wysdom’s further adventures! Whether you’re looking for a fun escape or simply a good laugh, this book is likely to hold a special place on your bookshelf. Happy reading!