Bowled Over Americano (Sara and Sean Cozy Mystery, #1)

by Carolyn Arnold

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

Bowled Over Americano by Carolyn Arnold is the first book in the Sara and Sean Cozy Mystery series. This is a revamped and extended version of The Day Job is Murder, which was originally published in 2014. 

 Bowled Over Americano introduces Sara Cain and Sean Mckinley, who are both homicide detectives with the Albany police department. Sara is fairly new to the department, after only working there for two years. She writes a mystery novel in her spare time. One night while experiencing writer’s block, she goes for a run to clear her head. While on her run, she came across her neighbour’s dog, Magnum on the loose. She goes to return the dog to its owner but in doing so she stumbled onto a murder scene. 

Another detective is assigned to the case. Sara’s mother, however, pleaded with her to investigate the murder, as the detective in charge considered her friend to be the main suspect. Knowing she couldn’t legitimately investigate, Sara conducts her own investigation secretly with the help of her partner Sean McKinley. This was in addition to their own case involving the murder of an investment banker.

As the story progresses, readers learn that Sean and Sara love each other, but a relationship between them was off the table - mostly because it went against departmental rules. It was evident from the outset that they cared about each other and that they worked well together. Sara and Sean share similar traits, in that they are both smart and perceptive. However, while Sara is spontaneous, Sean prefers to follow a plan. These traits manifest throughout the story. 

The story hidden between the pages of Bowled Ober Americano was exciting, entertaining, and fun. In true Arnold style, the story came with twists and surprising revelations. Not for one moment did I guess the outcome of both investigations. Also amidst both investigations, Sean received news that brings about changes in both his and Sara’s working and personal relationship.

Bowled Over Americano delivered a delightful small town murder mystery infused with humour and a fun romance. I look forward to what’s next Arnold has for her readers.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading