Review of Hollywood Assassin: A Psychological Suspense Thriller Book 1 (A Hollywood Alphabet Series Thriller) by M.Z. Kelly
From the moment I stumbled upon Hollywood Assassin, I was drawn in not just by its intriguing title but by the promise of a story that deftly intertwines comedy with suspense. M.Z. Kelly’s ability to blend the chaos of Hollywood with the gritty life of an LAPD detective captured my imagination right away, compelling me to dive into this wild ride alongside the fascinating character of Detective Kate Sexton.
In Hollywood Assassin, we meet Kate, whose life is spiraling in directions that make one wonder how much worse things can get. (Spoiler alert: a lot.) After a scandalous divorce and living above an appliance store with her K-9 partner, Bernie—who has a rather unconventional penchant for romance—Kate finds herself neck-deep in a thirty-year-old murder case while being pursued by a sadistic serial killer. The premise alone could set the stage for a serious thriller, but Kelly injects a refreshing dose of humor and absurdity that keeps the narrative lively and engaging.
Kate is a relateable protagonist, her struggles echoing those of many who must navigate personal and professional chaos. I found her determination and resilience inspiring, even amidst the hilarity of her quirky friends and family. There’s Natalie, her British best friend, who adds a colorful and unpredictable energy to the mix—though I could see how her over-the-top sarcasm might not resonate with everyone. Indeed, in the words of one reviewer, her vibrant vocabulary might just “make Howard Stern blush,” and I couldn’t help but chuckle at the blend of humor and dysfunction.
The plot unfolds at a brisk pace, packed with twists that had me second-guessing everything. I appreciated how Kelly maps out the complexity of the investigation intertwined with personal stakes, maintaining a balanced rhythm that makes it hard to put the book down. While some reviewers noted a slow start, I found that each chapter built anticipation, culminating in a series of revelations that were both thrilling and satisfying.
What truly impressed me was Kelly’s writing style. It’s sharp, witty, and filled with vivid descriptions that transport you right into the heart of Hollywood’s seedy underbelly. One standout moment—a beautifully chaotic car chase through Sunset Strip—resonated with me as a remarkably witty metaphor for Kate’s turbulent life.
For readers who enjoy a mix of humor with their mystery, this book is a must-read. If you’re a fan of characters who grapple with personal and professional lifeboat situations amidst high-stakes drama, you’ll likely cherish this escapade. Many have compared Kate Sexton to Stephanie Plum, and with good reason; both share a knack for stumbling into wild scenarios while consistently showcasing their resourcefulness.
Ultimately, Hollywood Assassin is as much a comedy as it is a thriller, promising laughter while keeping you on the edge of your seat. It’s a read that welcomes you into a madcap world of crime and absurdity, one I personally found refreshing and thoroughly enjoyable. Grab a glass of something lively and settle in—you’re in for a wild ride!