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House-Flipper Mystery #8
The Barn Identity
Not yet published
Expected 31 Mar 26Win a free print copy of this book!
18 days and 20:56:10
25 copies available
U.S. and Canada only
The eighth in the House-Flipper mystery series set in Nashville, TN, where the real estate market is to die for.
In Nashville, carpenter Whitney Whitaker is ecstatic when she discovers an abandoned barn perfect for her next project. However, since the surrounding former farmland has now developed into a shiny new shopping center, it seems the decrepit antebellum barn that once served as a livery stable should be torn down to make way for something more modern. Even so, Whitney can’t help but think the barn should be preserved. While unproven, it’s rumored the building once served as a hiding place for escaped slaves as part of the Underground Railroad. She convinces her cousin to take a chance on the old property. After all, the barn would make a unique retail space or, with its high ceilings and wide walls, could be turned into an arthouse cinema.
When a local print journalist reporting on the renovation is found dead on the property, investigators suspect he might have been murdered for any one of several exposés he’d published about local politicians, movers, and shakers. Whitney suspects there’s more to the story, and that the journalist’s fate might be tied directly to the stable renovation. Can she solve the murder and bring a killer to justice? Or might this goal be too lofty?
In Nashville, carpenter Whitney Whitaker is ecstatic when she discovers an abandoned barn perfect for her next project. However, since the surrounding former farmland has now developed into a shiny new shopping center, it seems the decrepit antebellum barn that once served as a livery stable should be torn down to make way for something more modern. Even so, Whitney can’t help but think the barn should be preserved. While unproven, it’s rumored the building once served as a hiding place for escaped slaves as part of the Underground Railroad. She convinces her cousin to take a chance on the old property. After all, the barn would make a unique retail space or, with its high ceilings and wide walls, could be turned into an arthouse cinema.
When a local print journalist reporting on the renovation is found dead on the property, investigators suspect he might have been murdered for any one of several exposés he’d published about local politicians, movers, and shakers. Whitney suspects there’s more to the story, and that the journalist’s fate might be tied directly to the stable renovation. Can she solve the murder and bring a killer to justice? Or might this goal be too lofty?
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Expected publication March 31, 2026
16 people are currently reading
4460 people want to read
About the author
Diane Kelly
69 books1,235 followersAward-winning author Diane Kelly writes romance and romantic mysteries featuring feisty heroines, quirky sidekicks, and sexy leading men, with humor that leaves readers laughing out loud.
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January 30, 2026Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
#TheBarnIdentity #NetGalley is a fun addition to this house flipper series, featuring cousins Whitney and Buck.
When the house flipping duo are offered the chance to renovate an old livery stable that was part of the Underground Railroad, they can't resist saying yes.
Even though they aren't buying the stable, the chance to work on something with so much history is hard to refuse.
Even though the story is focused on the murder and the whodunit, I really loved the history that the author included.
I absolutely recommend this book to any and all readers.
When the house flipping duo are offered the chance to renovate an old livery stable that was part of the Underground Railroad, they can't resist saying yes.
Even though they aren't buying the stable, the chance to work on something with so much history is hard to refuse.
Even though the story is focused on the murder and the whodunit, I really loved the history that the author included.
I absolutely recommend this book to any and all readers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The eighth installment in the House-Flipper Mystery series by Diane Kelly proves this long-running cozy is still going strong. Set in the outskirts of Nashville, this entry blends renovation drama, local history, and murder in a way that feels fresh and thoughtfully layered…a clever cozy with history, heart, and a solid mystery.
Whitney Whitaker is at her best here…passionate, stubborn in the right ways, and driven by more than just profit. The abandoned antebellum barn is a fantastic centerpiece for the story, especially with the rumored Underground Railroad connection (a short and captivating history lesson seamlessly woven in). The tension between preservation and progress adds real emotional weight and elevates the stakes beyond a typical property flip.
The murder mystery itself is well-paced and engaging. The victim’s background as an investigative journalist opens up several plausible motives, and Ms Kelly does a good job of weaving political intrigue and small-town power dynamics into the plot without overwhelming the cozy tone. Clues are cleverly planted, suspects feel believable, and the “who done it?” is satisfying without being obvious.
Include the case for plant-based diets done in a non-preaching way, an adorable cow and farm dog, and what could have easily turned into a cult-like new church creation arc, but its characters actually grow on you as the story develops. They play an pivotal part in participating with law enforcement to solve the crime.
Hearts will melt from an adorable cow and her enthusiastic, tail-wagging farm dog companion…unlikely mascots for a non-pushy exploration of a plant-based diet (recipes from the story’s restaurant included), as well as what seems to be an uncommon group with cult-like “new church” vibes gradually wins readers over through genuine growth and likable characters, and playing a pivotal part in aiding law enforcement in solving the crime instead of spiraling into anything sinister.
Fans of the series will appreciate the continued character development and familiar relationships, while newcomers can still jump in without feeling lost. My only small critique is that the secondary characters introduced in this installment could have been expanded upon more, but that didn’t detract much from the overall enjoyment.
If you like cozy mysteries with strong female leads, renovation themes, and a touch of historical intrigue, this one is definitely worth picking up. A solid, engaging read that balances charm and suspense nicely.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
Whitney Whitaker is at her best here…passionate, stubborn in the right ways, and driven by more than just profit. The abandoned antebellum barn is a fantastic centerpiece for the story, especially with the rumored Underground Railroad connection (a short and captivating history lesson seamlessly woven in). The tension between preservation and progress adds real emotional weight and elevates the stakes beyond a typical property flip.
The murder mystery itself is well-paced and engaging. The victim’s background as an investigative journalist opens up several plausible motives, and Ms Kelly does a good job of weaving political intrigue and small-town power dynamics into the plot without overwhelming the cozy tone. Clues are cleverly planted, suspects feel believable, and the “who done it?” is satisfying without being obvious.
Include the case for plant-based diets done in a non-preaching way, an adorable cow and farm dog, and what could have easily turned into a cult-like new church creation arc, but its characters actually grow on you as the story develops. They play an pivotal part in participating with law enforcement to solve the crime.
Hearts will melt from an adorable cow and her enthusiastic, tail-wagging farm dog companion…unlikely mascots for a non-pushy exploration of a plant-based diet (recipes from the story’s restaurant included), as well as what seems to be an uncommon group with cult-like “new church” vibes gradually wins readers over through genuine growth and likable characters, and playing a pivotal part in aiding law enforcement in solving the crime instead of spiraling into anything sinister.
Fans of the series will appreciate the continued character development and familiar relationships, while newcomers can still jump in without feeling lost. My only small critique is that the secondary characters introduced in this installment could have been expanded upon more, but that didn’t detract much from the overall enjoyment.
If you like cozy mysteries with strong female leads, renovation themes, and a touch of historical intrigue, this one is definitely worth picking up. A solid, engaging read that balances charm and suspense nicely.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
You know, sometimes, I wish these cozy mysteries would be marked a bit differently. The silly puns in the titles and the covers make them seem more shallow than they are. Some are that shallow, but others have a surprising depth to them that the gimmicks belie. This is the case for me with this book. Yes, it is a cozy, and yes, there are chapters from the perspective of the main character, Whitney's cat (I will not comment on those...), but there's also a lot of interesting information and pathos in this book. For instance, the titular barn was a stop on the Underground Railroad, and the land's owner is half black and half white. Her black ancestors were enslaved people on the farm, and her white ancestors were the farm's owners originally, but her story isn't one of r**e. Instead, it's one of courage, bravery, and choosing to blend despite the odds. Also, one of the characters, Tyler Yee, has a podcast and is a freelance journalist, and he covers topics as broad in range as the Underground Railroad, electrical co-ops, and cult-ish mega churches. The information that the first-person narrator, Whitney, gives on these vast topics, along with others, is really interesting and eye-opening. I wish there was a real podcast like Yee Spills the Tea that treated such diverse topics (if you know of one, tell me!) in an investigative journalistic way.
The mystery itself is solid. The end made me a little disappointed, but overall, it built up the suspense well and kept me wanting to read more. What hooked me more, though, were the characters, suspects and non-suspects alike. I enjoyed Whitney's perspective as a pregnant carpenter working on the barn with her cousins and digging into the murder. Since she and her husband Collin were keeping the baby's gender a surprise, I was happily surprised at the end when it's revealed. That was almost as much of a tantalizing mystery as the murder. I also liked reading about Gail, the barn's owner, Deborah and her sisters who own a vegan garden-to-table restaurant and rescue animals and have a literal soapbox they bring out when they want to explain why they went vegan, Devin and Bess (and her twin sister, Tess), the pastor and his wife at the mega church and how they might be what people criticize them for or might not be, and the local cafe and other minor characters and places that crop up.
Overall, I found this book light and fun to read while still providing depth that made it interesting to learn from as well. I recommend this book if you like fixer-upper shows, cozy mysteries, random facts about a variety of topics, cats, farm animals, and coffee.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the book!
The mystery itself is solid. The end made me a little disappointed, but overall, it built up the suspense well and kept me wanting to read more. What hooked me more, though, were the characters, suspects and non-suspects alike. I enjoyed Whitney's perspective as a pregnant carpenter working on the barn with her cousins and digging into the murder. Since she and her husband Collin were keeping the baby's gender a surprise, I was happily surprised at the end when it's revealed. That was almost as much of a tantalizing mystery as the murder. I also liked reading about Gail, the barn's owner, Deborah and her sisters who own a vegan garden-to-table restaurant and rescue animals and have a literal soapbox they bring out when they want to explain why they went vegan, Devin and Bess (and her twin sister, Tess), the pastor and his wife at the mega church and how they might be what people criticize them for or might not be, and the local cafe and other minor characters and places that crop up.
Overall, I found this book light and fun to read while still providing depth that made it interesting to learn from as well. I recommend this book if you like fixer-upper shows, cozy mysteries, random facts about a variety of topics, cats, farm animals, and coffee.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Despite being pregnant,Whitney (now) Flynn is delighted to discover an old barn with Underground Railroad ties that needs renovated. Unlike most of Whitney and Buck's other projects, however, this one won't be a flip. The owner wants to keep it but have it turned into something safe and practical due to her own family's ties to the property. It's ultimately decided to create a unique apartment project to be called the "hayloft" apartments. Then, a reporter who was doing a story on the transformation is killed on the property. While Whitney doesn't let that or the threats she receives detour her determination to redo the old barn, she's also hot on the trail of whodunit. Much to her surprise, the local investigator seems to welcome, even encourage her sleuthing. Husband Collin assists when possible but the murder took place out of his jurisdiction, so his options are legally limited.
I thoroughly enjoyed the bit of Civil War era history shared, including the significance of symbols and credit given to the enslaved people who build the barn originally and their handiwork. On the more humorous side, you'll learn a bit about not just chickens but the sexuality of roosters. The vegetarian diet gets some kudos, too, with even meat eater Buck showing appreciation at a local restaurant near the barn after sampling some of its offerings. Maizy the cow, with her perpetual itch, is quite the character, too. While neither murderous nor humorous, you'll learn quite a bit about some not so upfront methods some shady land developers use. And, oh, I can't forget, the fancy church operation. Think mega-church.
But, enough teasers. I enjoy spending time with Whitney and Buck and now their extended families. While I wonder about the wisdom of Whitney tackling such a physically demanding job while pregnant, I have always admired her ability to make her way in what most would consider a man's world. Collin was a bit of a hoot fretting and catering to her, not to mention her mother's constant checking up on her. I think it's obvious this one is heading to the birth of a spoiled baby...oops, not telling the name, so not really a spoiler. You're just going to have to read the book. It's a fun one with multi-layered side stories and characters that are well fleshed out. The regulars, even Sawdust the cat, get their moments, too, of course, and it's going to be fun Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for giving me this early peek at how life is going for Whitney. I am always fascinated by their projects and it's been fun getting to know them and those about them.
I thoroughly enjoyed the bit of Civil War era history shared, including the significance of symbols and credit given to the enslaved people who build the barn originally and their handiwork. On the more humorous side, you'll learn a bit about not just chickens but the sexuality of roosters. The vegetarian diet gets some kudos, too, with even meat eater Buck showing appreciation at a local restaurant near the barn after sampling some of its offerings. Maizy the cow, with her perpetual itch, is quite the character, too. While neither murderous nor humorous, you'll learn quite a bit about some not so upfront methods some shady land developers use. And, oh, I can't forget, the fancy church operation. Think mega-church.
But, enough teasers. I enjoy spending time with Whitney and Buck and now their extended families. While I wonder about the wisdom of Whitney tackling such a physically demanding job while pregnant, I have always admired her ability to make her way in what most would consider a man's world. Collin was a bit of a hoot fretting and catering to her, not to mention her mother's constant checking up on her. I think it's obvious this one is heading to the birth of a spoiled baby...oops, not telling the name, so not really a spoiler. You're just going to have to read the book. It's a fun one with multi-layered side stories and characters that are well fleshed out. The regulars, even Sawdust the cat, get their moments, too, of course, and it's going to be fun Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for giving me this early peek at how life is going for Whitney. I am always fascinated by their projects and it's been fun getting to know them and those about them.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
BOOK REPORT
Received a complimentary copy of Stakeouts and Strollers, by Rob Phillips, from St. Martin’s Press | Minotaur Books/NetGalley, for which I am appreciative, in exchange for a fair and honest review. Scroll past the BOOK REPORT section for a cut-and-paste of the DESCRIPTION of it from them if you want to read my thoughts on the book in the context of that summary.
⭐ 2 ⭐
I swear to you that I read somewhere that this could be read as a standalone mystery, even though it’s the eighth in the House-Flipper series.
Well, no never mind, I’m not sure knowing any of these unbelievable characters’ back stories would’ve made any sort of positive difference in my reading experience. And, at least I know now not to bother with any more.
Because: B O R I N G
As in, put me to sleep in the middle of a sunshiny afternoon boring.
I did get a small chuckle out of brothers being named Buck and Owen, although nobody said they were a-pickin’ or a-grinnin.
Shame, that.
DESCRIPTION
The eighth in the House-Flipper mystery series set in Nashville, where the real estate market is to die for.
In Nashville, carpenter Whitney Whitaker is ecstatic when she discovers an abandoned barn perfect for her next project. However, since the surrounding former farmland has now developed into a shiny new shopping center, it seems the decrepit antebellum barn that once served as a livery stable should be torn down to make way for something more modern. Even so, Whitney can’t help but think the barn should be preserved. While unproven, it’s rumored the building once served as a hiding place for escaped slaves as part of the Underground Railroad. She convinces her cousin to take a chance on the old property. After all, the barn would make a unique retail space or, with its high ceilings and wide walls, could be turned into an arthouse cinema.
When a local print journalist reporting on the renovation is found dead on the property, investigators suspect he might have been murdered for any one of several exposés he’d published about local politicians, movers, and shakers. Whitney suspects there’s more to the story, and that the journalist’s fate might be tied directly to the stable renovation. Can she solve the murder and bring a killer to justice? Or might this goal be too lofty?
Received a complimentary copy of Stakeouts and Strollers, by Rob Phillips, from St. Martin’s Press | Minotaur Books/NetGalley, for which I am appreciative, in exchange for a fair and honest review. Scroll past the BOOK REPORT section for a cut-and-paste of the DESCRIPTION of it from them if you want to read my thoughts on the book in the context of that summary.
⭐ 2 ⭐
I swear to you that I read somewhere that this could be read as a standalone mystery, even though it’s the eighth in the House-Flipper series.
Well, no never mind, I’m not sure knowing any of these unbelievable characters’ back stories would’ve made any sort of positive difference in my reading experience. And, at least I know now not to bother with any more.
Because: B O R I N G
As in, put me to sleep in the middle of a sunshiny afternoon boring.
I did get a small chuckle out of brothers being named Buck and Owen, although nobody said they were a-pickin’ or a-grinnin.
Shame, that.
DESCRIPTION
The eighth in the House-Flipper mystery series set in Nashville, where the real estate market is to die for.
In Nashville, carpenter Whitney Whitaker is ecstatic when she discovers an abandoned barn perfect for her next project. However, since the surrounding former farmland has now developed into a shiny new shopping center, it seems the decrepit antebellum barn that once served as a livery stable should be torn down to make way for something more modern. Even so, Whitney can’t help but think the barn should be preserved. While unproven, it’s rumored the building once served as a hiding place for escaped slaves as part of the Underground Railroad. She convinces her cousin to take a chance on the old property. After all, the barn would make a unique retail space or, with its high ceilings and wide walls, could be turned into an arthouse cinema.
When a local print journalist reporting on the renovation is found dead on the property, investigators suspect he might have been murdered for any one of several exposés he’d published about local politicians, movers, and shakers. Whitney suspects there’s more to the story, and that the journalist’s fate might be tied directly to the stable renovation. Can she solve the murder and bring a killer to justice? Or might this goal be too lofty?
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Though my baby was new to the world, I felt new, too, in a way. It struck me then that people were much like buildings. We were continually being remodeled.
Whitney has a bun in the oven! But that doesn't stop her from searching for a killer when a journalist doing a story on Whitney's latest remodeling project is found stabbed with a pitchfork on the property. There are so many suspects, Whitney hardly knows where to start but fortunately the local detective is willing to work with Whitney and once the two of them band together the killer doesn't stand a chance of getting away.
Whitney and Buck start out this book by agreeing to complete a remodeling project at an old barn in Leipers Fork. The barn has historic significance, having been built by enslaved people and then serving as a stop on the Underground Railroad. One of the descendants is now the owner of the property and she wants to save the barn and give it a new purpose. Of course, Whitney and Buck are all in. But when Whitney returns to the barn and hears the murder of a reporter who is doing a story on the barn and its renovation, her focus changes. Restoring the barn is important, but bringing a killer to justice comes first. This book is packed with investigation and there is no down time, which makes for a fast read.
I normally read a series in order, I think that's important to do with most cozy series because there is usually a story arc that can make some aspects of the series confusing if you didn't follow the arc from the beginning. For some reason I started this series with book 5 and haven't ever gone back to read the first four. Surprisingly, I didn't find it difficult at all to start mid-series and I don't feel like I missed anything (though I definitely plan to go back and read the first four books at some point).
This author is among my favorites and I would highly recommend her books to anyone who enjoys cozies. I haven't read all her of different series, but this one is definitely worth reading and her Moonshine Shack series and Mountain Getaway series are also both really good.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Whitney has a bun in the oven! But that doesn't stop her from searching for a killer when a journalist doing a story on Whitney's latest remodeling project is found stabbed with a pitchfork on the property. There are so many suspects, Whitney hardly knows where to start but fortunately the local detective is willing to work with Whitney and once the two of them band together the killer doesn't stand a chance of getting away.
Whitney and Buck start out this book by agreeing to complete a remodeling project at an old barn in Leipers Fork. The barn has historic significance, having been built by enslaved people and then serving as a stop on the Underground Railroad. One of the descendants is now the owner of the property and she wants to save the barn and give it a new purpose. Of course, Whitney and Buck are all in. But when Whitney returns to the barn and hears the murder of a reporter who is doing a story on the barn and its renovation, her focus changes. Restoring the barn is important, but bringing a killer to justice comes first. This book is packed with investigation and there is no down time, which makes for a fast read.
I normally read a series in order, I think that's important to do with most cozy series because there is usually a story arc that can make some aspects of the series confusing if you didn't follow the arc from the beginning. For some reason I started this series with book 5 and haven't ever gone back to read the first four. Surprisingly, I didn't find it difficult at all to start mid-series and I don't feel like I missed anything (though I definitely plan to go back and read the first four books at some point).
This author is among my favorites and I would highly recommend her books to anyone who enjoys cozies. I haven't read all her of different series, but this one is definitely worth reading and her Moonshine Shack series and Mountain Getaway series are also both really good.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review of Uncorrected Digital Galley
When Whitney Whitaker Flynn is contacted by Gail Pittman, she learns that the woman is interested in a rehab project for a livery stable. It turns out that the stable may have a connection to the Underground Railroad and journalist Tyler Yee is doing a story on the barn. Unfortunately, Gail does not want to sell the barn; she simply wants to hire Whitney and her cousin, Buck, to rehab the building.
After touring the property and having a heartfelt discussion with Gail, they decide to do the work and turn the livery stable into a barndominium. The plan calls for creating ten apartments.
A week later, while waiting for a meeting with Gail, Whitney takes a nap only to be awakened by the sound of Tyler yelling. She investigates and discovers Tyler’s body.
Who killed Tyler? And why?
=========
Eighth in the author’s House-Flipper Mystery series, this book brings all the expected characters into the telling of the tale and fits perfectly with others in the series. The book works well as a standalone with sufficient backstory for readers who have not read the earlier books in the series.
The main focus of the narrative, naturally, is on solving the murder, but there are some very interesting tidbits of information regarding the Underground Railroad that give the story depth as readers are introduced to lore involving the Railroad. The story also includes some background and information on architectural design and house flipping that are quite interesting. A subplot involving Whitney’s pregnancy is a delightful addition to the book.
A strong sense of place, interesting characters, and an intriguing mystery all work together to keep readers involved in the unfolding narrative. While some of Whitney's actions seem rather questionable, it’s an enjoyable cozy mystery that readers are sure to enjoy.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#TheBarnIdentity #NetGalley
When Whitney Whitaker Flynn is contacted by Gail Pittman, she learns that the woman is interested in a rehab project for a livery stable. It turns out that the stable may have a connection to the Underground Railroad and journalist Tyler Yee is doing a story on the barn. Unfortunately, Gail does not want to sell the barn; she simply wants to hire Whitney and her cousin, Buck, to rehab the building.
After touring the property and having a heartfelt discussion with Gail, they decide to do the work and turn the livery stable into a barndominium. The plan calls for creating ten apartments.
A week later, while waiting for a meeting with Gail, Whitney takes a nap only to be awakened by the sound of Tyler yelling. She investigates and discovers Tyler’s body.
Who killed Tyler? And why?
=========
Eighth in the author’s House-Flipper Mystery series, this book brings all the expected characters into the telling of the tale and fits perfectly with others in the series. The book works well as a standalone with sufficient backstory for readers who have not read the earlier books in the series.
The main focus of the narrative, naturally, is on solving the murder, but there are some very interesting tidbits of information regarding the Underground Railroad that give the story depth as readers are introduced to lore involving the Railroad. The story also includes some background and information on architectural design and house flipping that are quite interesting. A subplot involving Whitney’s pregnancy is a delightful addition to the book.
A strong sense of place, interesting characters, and an intriguing mystery all work together to keep readers involved in the unfolding narrative. While some of Whitney's actions seem rather questionable, it’s an enjoyable cozy mystery that readers are sure to enjoy.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#TheBarnIdentity #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read "The Barn Identity" in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is the 8th book in the House-Flipper series and it grabbed me from the first page and I read it in one sitting! Diane Kelly has crafted another exciting book in the series, with characters that the reader has come to care about. Personally I enjoy the parts written in the perspective of Sawdust, they are the best! You know a book by Diane Kelly will be an exciting read.
Whitney Whitaker Flynn and her husband homicide detective Collin Flynn of the Nashville Police Department are expecting an addition to their family. That doesn't stop Whitney from stumbling into another exciting mystery. Gail Pittman contacts Whitney about a possible rehab job on a livery stable. Along with her cousin Buck they decide to turn the stable in to "hayloft" apartments.
When she stumbles upon a body at the stable, there is nothing that will stop Whitney from following the clues and helping Detective Alonzo solve this case. Clues point to many different suspects and many false leads but Whitney never gives up and provides vital clues to the police. In this story a cow may just save the day.
This is the 8th book in the House-Flipper series and it grabbed me from the first page and I read it in one sitting! Diane Kelly has crafted another exciting book in the series, with characters that the reader has come to care about. Personally I enjoy the parts written in the perspective of Sawdust, they are the best! You know a book by Diane Kelly will be an exciting read.
Whitney Whitaker Flynn and her husband homicide detective Collin Flynn of the Nashville Police Department are expecting an addition to their family. That doesn't stop Whitney from stumbling into another exciting mystery. Gail Pittman contacts Whitney about a possible rehab job on a livery stable. Along with her cousin Buck they decide to turn the stable in to "hayloft" apartments.
When she stumbles upon a body at the stable, there is nothing that will stop Whitney from following the clues and helping Detective Alonzo solve this case. Clues point to many different suspects and many false leads but Whitney never gives up and provides vital clues to the police. In this story a cow may just save the day.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Barn Identity by Diane Kelly
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books, Netgalley, and the author for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
A delightful cozy mystery, The Barn Identity has intrigue, humor, and heart. The Barn Identity, the eighth installment in the House-Flipper mystery series, is fast-paced, entertaining, and has absolutely everything a cozy mystery needs!
Whitney Whitaker, a carpenter in Nashville, discovers an abandoned barn that’s ideal for her next project. However, the barn is set to be torn down since the area has now developed into a new shopping center. Whitney believes the barn should be preserved, so she convinces her cousin to take a chance on it. When a journalist is found dead on the property, Whitney suspects there’s more to the story and that the journalist’s fate might have something to do with the renovation.
The Barn Identity is a well-written story that blends drama, local history, and a mystery in a way that is fresh, clever, and entertaining. A cozy mystery with history, lots of heart, and a solid mystery. Overall, this is a fantastic story with excellent character development, an engrossing plot, and some suspense!
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books, Netgalley, and the author for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
A delightful cozy mystery, The Barn Identity has intrigue, humor, and heart. The Barn Identity, the eighth installment in the House-Flipper mystery series, is fast-paced, entertaining, and has absolutely everything a cozy mystery needs!
Whitney Whitaker, a carpenter in Nashville, discovers an abandoned barn that’s ideal for her next project. However, the barn is set to be torn down since the area has now developed into a new shopping center. Whitney believes the barn should be preserved, so she convinces her cousin to take a chance on it. When a journalist is found dead on the property, Whitney suspects there’s more to the story and that the journalist’s fate might have something to do with the renovation.
The Barn Identity is a well-written story that blends drama, local history, and a mystery in a way that is fresh, clever, and entertaining. A cozy mystery with history, lots of heart, and a solid mystery. Overall, this is a fantastic story with excellent character development, an engrossing plot, and some suspense!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Barn Identity started out really interesting and I thought it had great potential, but I found the plot to be completely unbelievable. I enjoy a good amateur sleuth story, but no homicide detective is taking a house flipper with them to interview and arest suspects.
I was very intrigued by the barns history, and loved plans to remodel it in a way that protected that legacy.
I liked the characters, but Whitney's reaction to finding the body made no sense. We are told couple of times that she is traumatized or will have nightmares, but we never see that at all. She never displays any signs of grief, or any emotion other than determination to solve the case. The only exception would be a moment of her looking upset and sounding frustrated, but that is told during a chapter from the perspective of a cat. I think I would have had a deeper connection to the characters if I had read the rest of the books in the house flipper series, but as a standalone, I still felt like I had a clear understanding of the characters, and I never felt like I was missing chunks of the story like I sometimes do with interconnected series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was very intrigued by the barns history, and loved plans to remodel it in a way that protected that legacy.
I liked the characters, but Whitney's reaction to finding the body made no sense. We are told couple of times that she is traumatized or will have nightmares, but we never see that at all. She never displays any signs of grief, or any emotion other than determination to solve the case. The only exception would be a moment of her looking upset and sounding frustrated, but that is told during a chapter from the perspective of a cat. I think I would have had a deeper connection to the characters if I had read the rest of the books in the house flipper series, but as a standalone, I still felt like I had a clear understanding of the characters, and I never felt like I was missing chunks of the story like I sometimes do with interconnected series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In the next book in the House-Flipper Mystery series, THE BARN IDENTITY by Diane Kelly, Whitney Whitaker Flynn is the protagonist. Whitney and her husband, Collin, are expecting a baby. Gail Pittman contacts Whitney about refurbishing a livery. Whitney and her Whitaker Woodworking partner, cousin Buck, hear about the history of Gail’s ancestors, the barn and livery, and the land. I want to know what happens.
This book may be one in a series, but it can be read as a standalone. The characters are well developed and believable. A dose of history adds to the plot. It is interesting to read about what it takes to refurbish a building. I think devoting entire chapters to a cat is unnecessary. I want to know what happens with Whitney and her family and look forward to reading future books in the House-Flipper Mystery series. Thank you, St. Martin's Press and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of THE BARN IDENTITY.
This book may be one in a series, but it can be read as a standalone. The characters are well developed and believable. A dose of history adds to the plot. It is interesting to read about what it takes to refurbish a building. I think devoting entire chapters to a cat is unnecessary. I want to know what happens with Whitney and her family and look forward to reading future books in the House-Flipper Mystery series. Thank you, St. Martin's Press and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of THE BARN IDENTITY.
February 1, 2026
First off, I learned way more from this book than I expected. Everything from house design and flipping, to the Underground Railroad, to the very important realization that I would never want to be a hen.
I have not read the previous books in the series, but this one absolutely works as a standalone. I enjoyed the characters and the added cat point of view chapters, though I will admit I did not love them quite as much as Bridget from Paw Enforcement.
Overall, this is a solid cozy mystery and a great pick whether you are reading on the beach, curled up by a roaring fire, or stretched out in a hayloft. Cozy vibes all around.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
I have not read the previous books in the series, but this one absolutely works as a standalone. I enjoyed the characters and the added cat point of view chapters, though I will admit I did not love them quite as much as Bridget from Paw Enforcement.
Overall, this is a solid cozy mystery and a great pick whether you are reading on the beach, curled up by a roaring fire, or stretched out in a hayloft. Cozy vibes all around.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the eight book in the series, and I think it was my least favorite. Possibly because Whitney is now pregnant, it seems that she really does not do much in this book besides eat and attend meetings that the suspect also went to. Just seems there is less about the remodeling than in other books.
Whitney and Buck are contacted about an old horse barn that used to be part of the Underground Railroad. The owner does not want to sell it, but wants them to remodel it into apartments. A reporter that is interested in writing about the story is found murdered by a pitchfork and Whitney is all about solving the case.
Thanks, Net Galley and publisher for the ARC.
Whitney and Buck are contacted about an old horse barn that used to be part of the Underground Railroad. The owner does not want to sell it, but wants them to remodel it into apartments. A reporter that is interested in writing about the story is found murdered by a pitchfork and Whitney is all about solving the case.
Thanks, Net Galley and publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is book number 8 in the House Flipper series. I have not read any of the previous books but had not trouble keeping up with the characters. I enjoyed the story about the barn being used in the Underground Railroad. I also liked the chapters from the cat's point of view, as a pet owner I always wonder what is going on in my dog's mind.
I don't know how Whitney usually looks into the murders she comes across but it didn't seem like she did much in this book. Of course she's pregnant so that makes sense, there just didn't seem to be a lot going on investigation wise. Overall I enjoyed The Barn Identity.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press and Minotaur Books for the ARC
I don't know how Whitney usually looks into the murders she comes across but it didn't seem like she did much in this book. Of course she's pregnant so that makes sense, there just didn't seem to be a lot going on investigation wise. Overall I enjoyed The Barn Identity.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press and Minotaur Books for the ARC
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January 18, 2026Kindle Copy for Review from NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Minotaur Books.
I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Whitney finds a barn that she will use as her next renovation project. She’ll discover that it once was used by slaves as an underground railway. She thinks it would make a good cinema,
A local journalist who is doing a feature on the barn s soon found dead. Seems the barn holds more secrets that they want to keep that way but Whitney has other plans. It is one house-flipper mystery you do not want to miss.
I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Whitney finds a barn that she will use as her next renovation project. She’ll discover that it once was used by slaves as an underground railway. She thinks it would make a good cinema,
A local journalist who is doing a feature on the barn s soon found dead. Seems the barn holds more secrets that they want to keep that way but Whitney has other plans. It is one house-flipper mystery you do not want to miss.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this addition to the house flipper series. I haven’t read any of the other books in the series. I liked the main character. She was fun and relatable. Unfortunately for me it was so far fetched (no police personnel would allow her to do the things she had done) that I couldn’t support it. While the cat angle was interesting, the text devoted to the cat written chapters didn’t add anything to the plot. I’ve read multiple cozy mysteries but this didnt do it for me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a good story in the House Flipper Mystery -- I have enjoyed all the books in the series.
Whitney is looking for a new project and is contacted by the owner of a barn with rich history. It was rumored to be a stop on the underground railroad.
She meets Tyler, a reporter, researching the story. When Whitney goes back to the barn a week later she finds Tyler dead.
As usual she helps with the investigation.
I really like the cat Sawdust . The story is good and the people interesting. Recommended. thank you Net Galley
Whitney is looking for a new project and is contacted by the owner of a barn with rich history. It was rumored to be a stop on the underground railroad.
She meets Tyler, a reporter, researching the story. When Whitney goes back to the barn a week later she finds Tyler dead.
As usual she helps with the investigation.
I really like the cat Sawdust . The story is good and the people interesting. Recommended. thank you Net Galley
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What a fun book. This was my first time reading a book in this series and it was a delight! Combining my love of home renovations with a thriller solved by female characters was a win-win for me. The characters were authentic, the plot was fast paced and the mystery was solved. What else could you want in a book? I enjoy light reading with the goal of pure entertainment and this was it. I will be reading other books in this series and recommending them to my reading friends. Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing this advanced reading copy.
February 5, 2026
I went in having never read any other books in the series, and enjoyed it. The MC was likeable. Of course you have to suspend your disbelief when reading books in this vein; I have to assume all the other books in the series just happen to have her stumbling across dead bodies and the cops really welcome her help. But a fun read is a fun read, and I’d read more of the series!
Thanks to Minotaur and NetGalley for the ARC!
Thanks to Minotaur and NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I found the chapters from the perspective of Sawdust the cat amusing. The story itself was enjoyable - a good cozy mystery with an engaging main character. There are multiple plausible motives and suspects. I liked the tidbits of historical or technological facts sprinkled throughout the story — designs in quilts to convey messages, easements by necessity, dry stack foundations, etc.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This may be a wonderful book for those who have been following this series. However, for me, it was just one lecture after another (slavery, vegetarianism), and though it may have picked up later, I didn't want to waste my precious reading time to find out.
I am not saying this was a horrible book; I AM saying it just wasn't my cup of tea. Please read the other reviews for differing opinions.
*ARC supplied by the publisher Minotaur Books, the author, and NetGalley.
I am not saying this was a horrible book; I AM saying it just wasn't my cup of tea. Please read the other reviews for differing opinions.
*ARC supplied by the publisher Minotaur Books, the author, and NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Although I didn't realize this was part of a series, I enjoyed it immensely! Gail is hired to do a rehab on a livery stable but she happens on a murder instead! Lots of suspects that. point in every direction! It's a fascinating read that I raced through!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
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