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BOOK INFO
Title: A Cute Little Murder
Author: Molly Harper
Publisher: Berkley
Publish Date: April 21, 2026
Genre: Amateur Investigators
Series: NA
My Rating: 4/5
BOOK BLURB
As teens, Harlow Drake and Lainey Piper built an online fandom solving small-town crimes. Harlow was the star, Lainey the behind-the-scenes genius (and often, Harlow’s scapegoat). Years later, Harlow’s hosting a hit true crime tv show. Lainey? She’s working in forensics. Well, forensic accounting . . . from home. In pajamas. With her cat.
But when Harlow faces significant backlash over fumbling a case, she needs a quick win—like a special investigation into the decades-old disappearance of a starlet from a once-glamorous, now decrepit island hotel. The catch? It’s bankrolled by Deke and Bryce of DBag Games, who are looking to shed their “frat bro” reputations. As long-time fans, they have one requirement for their funding: Lainey has to play the sidekick again.
Lainey is wary, but the offer is a lifeline in a sea of unpaid student loans. After reaching the Crossings Hotel, she realizes she’s not content to be Harlow’s helper anymore. As the cold case heats up, a crew member falls over dead, presenting Harlow and Lainey with a more modern mystery: what secrets does this hotel hide within its walls?
With sabotage, hidden staircases, and a killer in their midst, Lainey steps into the spotlight and takes charge of the investigation. It’s up to her to crack the case—as long as she can stay alive.
MY REVIEW
Harlow and Lainey were teen sleuths with a large online following. Harlow was the leader, and Lainey the sidekick. Now, Harlow hosts a true crime show, and Lainey is an accountant. Harlow needs Lainey’s help on a new project solving an old case at an isolated hotel. Lainey is wary, but agrees.
A Cute Little Murder is a fun cozy mystery. What starts as the duo investigating a cold case, soon leads to a modern case when someone on the crew dies.
This mystery isn’t too deep, and is great for a light and entertaining summer read. A Cute Little Murder is good for fans of cozy mysteries with friendship, humor, and a little romance.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.