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Finlay Donovan #6

Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line

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Life hasn’t been easy for Finlay Donovan lately, but it just got a whole lot harder. Her nanny and partner-in-crime, Vero, has been extradited from Virginia to Maryland, where she’s facing criminal charges for a theft she swears she didn’t commit. A prisoner to an ankle bracelet as she awaits her trial, Vero is forced to live with her overbearing mother and nosy aunt. Threatening messages keep arriving on her mother’s door, demanding Vero “turn over the money . . . or else.” And if she doesn’t figure out who really stole her former sorority’s treasury funds, her next home might be a prison cell.

But proving her innocence might be an impossible feat. Vero was the treasurer of her sorority when the money went missing—one of the only people who had access to the cash. And her alibi is a date who ghosted her. With her court date quickly approaching, and her mysterious stalker on her tail, Vero needs to clear her name fast.

Finlay decides a trip to Maryland is in order. After all, Vero stood by her through her darkest moments, and Finlay will be damned if she lets her best friend and children’s nanny be convicted for something she didn’t do. She sets off on a mission to sus out the real thief and bring Vero home.

Audible Audio

First published March 17, 2026

1720 people are currently reading
35067 people want to read

About the author

Elle Cosimano

20 books8,348 followers
USA TODAY and New York Times bestselling author, Edgar® Nominee, Bram Stoker® Nominee, & ITW Thriller Award winner.

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5 stars
593 (34%)
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884 (50%)
3 stars
239 (13%)
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20 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 583 reviews
Profile Image for Mandy White (mandylovestoread).
2,841 reviews883 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 18, 2026
I always really look forward to a new Finlay Donovan book, and Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line did not disappoint. These books are always full of complete chaos and humour, making them so fun and quick to read.

These books absolutely must be read in order, as each one picks up where the previous one left off. This time we have Vero under house arrest and Finlay determined to clear her nanny and best friend’s name. Of course it is full of misunderstandings and crazy situations. All the usual suspects are there, with Nick the hot cop playing babysitter to Finlay’s kids which really did make me laugh.

These characters are so fun to read about and it is hard to wait for the next year for the next book. There are emotional scenes as these characters are so familiar to us all now.

Such a great series and one that I recommend if you haven’t picked it up yet.

Thank you so much to Headline for allowing me to read this early. Out on March 17th.
Profile Image for Anita.
2,697 reviews227 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 22, 2026
I received an ARC for the first 12 chapters and I Love It! Seeing where the plot finally ended up is a real adventure, as is a given with a Finlay Donovan book! Vero, Finlay's nanny, has always been a crafty character. She has shady friends and family and connections that have saved Finley's bacon on more than one occasion. Now, Vero is in trouble, and it is Finley to the rescue. At least I hope she is the rescuer and doesn't end up in a jail cell next to Vero. There is also a little something, something that Finlay is up to . . . To Be Continued . . .

Now for the rest of the story . . . While Finlay is off trying to keep Vero out of jail for the theft of $200k from her sorority, Stacey, Finlay's nemesis neighbor, has started a social media site: #hotcopcrotchwatch, featuring all things Nick, which is blowing up the internet. Finlay so doesn't need this distraction right now as she is on the trail of the actual thief of the sorority's ill-gotten gambling money with Vero, who has slipped her ankle monitor with help from Cam. Yeah, what could possibly go wrong?

For the first 12 chapters, my thanks to the Publisher, and Author, for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. For the rest of the book, I have to credit Libby for A Skip The Line Loan. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Profile Image for Maddie.
538 reviews579 followers
March 15, 2026
still as fun as it was for the sampler! i also love the direction that the series seems to be going in :)

**thank you to St. Martin's Press for the gifted copy**
Profile Image for Iris.
142 reviews
Want to read
July 2, 2025
More? Finlay plz stay out of illegal shenanigans 🙏
Change your name, your kids' names, and your nanny's name and move to the Netherlands or something, and get a very safe boring job. Like an accountant.* Be a law-abiding accountant.

*No offense to accountants
Profile Image for Sunny Lu.
1,022 reviews6,783 followers
January 29, 2026
Funny silly nonsense copaganda as usual
Profile Image for lauren‎♡₊˚ &#x1f9a2;・₊✧ (ia).
294 reviews728 followers
Read
March 6, 2026
thank you Minotaur and Elle Cosimano for the first 12 chapters!!

I absolutely binged these chapters and am eager to get my hands on this book!!! Typical Finlay getting herself into crazy situations, but im so anxious to see how Vero gets out of this one and claims her innocence.

No rating right now since I haven't read the entire book, but this one seems like it's playing out to be one of my favorites!

Very fast paced, humorous, and engaging! I love this series and I cant wait to read the rest in a few weeks!

Out 3/17🤍
Profile Image for Christa.
286 reviews24 followers
March 18, 2026
now i’ll be depressed until next march :(
Profile Image for Rian *fire and books*.
642 reviews221 followers
January 8, 2026
This series remains entirely unserious, entertaining, and full of the love of a found family. Do all of the hijinks make the most sense? No and I’m sure some tech gurus have some comments about signal hacking. But sometimes you just gotta suspend a little disbelief and go along for a hydraulic fueled ride in an Eggplant. Handcuffs not included.
Profile Image for bean.
507 reviews2,228 followers
March 22, 2026
Um hello, I think this might be my favorite Finlay book yet??? I would read 1638930 more of the chaotic adventures of Finlay & Vero.
Profile Image for Linda.
55 reviews
February 15, 2026
I received an advanced reader copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway - thank you Minotaur. I love the Finlay Donovan series so I was really excited to read this one. Sometimes series get repetitive, but I feel like this book was refreshingly different from previous ones but still had the mystery and humour that make the series so fun to read.
Profile Image for Shantha (ShanthasBookEra).
516 reviews92 followers
March 18, 2026
UPDATE 3/17: Listened to the remaining 70% on Libby and found Finlay & Vero's antics as entertaining as the rest of the series.
Long live Finlay Donovan!

🎧First 12 chapter sampler only🎧
Finlay Donovan's life has been complicated lately. Her nanny and partner in crime, Vero, has been extradited to Maryland for a crime she didn't commit. Vero is forced to wear an ankle monitor and live with her mother and aunt.

While things are heating up with her detective boyfriend Nick, Finlay decides to race to Vero's rescue and figure out who from Vero's sorority days committed this crime.

It is difficult to review a book when you are only given the first 30%. While I appreciate this, I can't give a full review or recommendation currently. It is very reminiscent of the rest of the series with Finlay and Vero having complicated lives and getting into all sorts of shenanigans.

The audiobook performance by Angela Dawe brings Finlay, Vero and the gang to life with humor and tension when required.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio and Elle Cosimono for a gifted advance listening sampler copy. All opinions are my own. 🎧
Profile Image for skhye ♡.
356 reviews7 followers
November 27, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the teaser ARC 📖💫

I was so excited to get my hands on the next installment of Finlay Donovan, only to realize it was just the first twelve chapters. Despite that, I found it so easy to dive back into the world containing Finlay Donovan and Vero’s antics. Reading this series is like continuing a conversation with an old friend and feeling like no time has passed.
It’s a fast paced, easy read that’s full of fun. I’m so eager to get my hands on the rest of the book when it releases March 17 because I have questions that need answers!
Profile Image for Judy Collins.
3,342 reviews453 followers
March 17, 2026
In "Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line," the sharp-witted, zany sixth installment of Elle Cosimano's thrilling mystery series/rom-com, the narrative centers around a compelling mission: exonerating Vero, Finlay's devoted nanny and partner-in-crime. As the plot unfolds, readers are drawn into a web of intrigue as Finlay embarks on a quest to clear Vero’s name, navigating unexpected challenges and uncovering secrets along the way.

Highlights...

Vero's Legal Trouble:
Vero is extradited from Virginia to Maryland to face criminal charges for allegedly stealing her former sorority's treasury funds years ago.

House Arrest:
While awaiting trial, Vero is confined to her overbearing mother's house in Maryland with a state-issued ankle monitor.

The Threat:
Anonymous threatening messages appear at Vero's mother's door, demanding she "turn over the money... or else," indicating a mysterious stalker is on her tail.

Missing Witness:
Vero’s only alibi is a date who ghosted her on the night the money went missing, making it nearly impossible to prove her innocence.

The Mission:
Finlay leaves her children with Nick (hot cop) and travels to Maryland to help Vero try to find the real thief before the trial begins.

The Investigation:
Finlay and Javi work together to unravel the truth, questioning former sorority sisters and flings from Vero's past.


Will they uncover the truth about the college scandal, clear Vero's name, and return home?

My thoughts...

Get ready for plenty of action, wit, suspense, and lots of laughs with some new fun characters. The dynamics between Finlay, Nick, and their extended "found family" are central to the plot as they manage the fallout of Vero's arrest, which will keep you laughing and on the edge of your seat to solve the mystery.

Much of the search focuses on tracking down a specific man who ghosted Vero the night the money went missing, as he is her only viable alibi.

The audiobook...

The audiobook experience of a Finlay Donovan novel is significantly enhanced by the extraordinary talent of the narrator, Angela Dawe, (a personal favorite). Listening to her bring the story to life adds an entirely new dimension to the narrative, creating an immersive experience that fully engages the listener. Her dynamic voice and skillful delivery make each character and scene memorable, transforming an already captivating story into something even more enchanting. This perfect pairing truly enhances the overall enjoyment of the book!


Characters...

The "Hot Cop" Babysitter:
While Finlay is in Maryland helping Vero, Detective Nick Anthony steps up as the primary caregiver for Finlay’s children, Zach and Delia, back in Virginia. (Hilarious)

Deepening Bond:
Despite the secrets Finlay often keeps from him due to her "accidental" criminal activities, Nick remains her "hero" and a major redeeming factor in her chaotic life.

A Growing Commitment:
Nick's role has shifted from a romantic interest to a permanent fixture in the household.

Vero's Support System:
The "Fantastic Four" in this installment refers to Vero’s elderly neighbors who assist in the investigation.

The Maryland Crew:
Javi: Vero’s boyfriend (husband) and mechanic, who accompanies Finlay to Maryland to check on Vero.

Norma and Gloria:
Vero’s overbearing mother and nosy aunt, who provide both comic relief and tension while Vero is under house arrest.

Ramón:
Vero's brother, who grew up with her and Javi in the D.C. suburbs.

The "Misfit" Team:
The group works together to circumvent Vero's ankle monitor and track down her missing alibi, showcasing the "found family" theme where everyone pitches in to clear Vero's Day name.

True to the series' longstanding tradition, the book reaches a gripping climax that leaves readers on the edge of their seats, culminating in a significant cliffhanger.

This unpredictable ending expertly weaves together an escalating tension that introduces a formidable new threat, challenging Finlay's already delicate equilibrium between her budding writing career and the chaotic entanglements of her "accidental" life as a criminal. As the final pages turn, the stakes are higher than ever, setting the stage for an exhilarating Book 7.

Recs...

If you're a fan of Janet Evanovich's engaging Stephanie Plum series or the charmingly quirky Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto, you'll undoubtedly be captivated by the Finlay Donovan Series.

This delightful collection weaves humor with mystery, inviting you to accompany its clever protagonist on thrilling escapades. It’s best to enjoy these books in order, starting with the first installment, to fully immerse yourself in the unfolding drama and character development. Trust me, you won't want to miss a single moment of this fun journey!

Special thanks to Minotaur Books, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for an advanced reading and listening teaser copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustRead Books
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Mar 17, 2026
March Newsletter
Profile Image for Jill.
47 reviews13 followers
Want to read
December 29, 2025
I’ve only read the first twelve chapters of Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line, but I already know I’m going to love this one. Elle Cosimano delivers the same hilarious, fast-paced charm that has made this series such a standout for me.

From the very beginning, the banter is sharp, the situations are delightfully absurd, and Finlay’s inner narration is as entertaining as ever. Vero’s predicament immediately raises the stakes, and I was completely hooked by the mystery surrounding the stolen sorority funds and the increasingly ominous threats. The dynamic between Finlay and Vero remains the heart of the story—funny, loyal, and deeply endearing.

Even in these early chapters, the plot feels layered and well-paced, balancing humor with genuine tension. The setup is compelling, the characters feel as lovable and chaotic as always, and the story already has that “just one more chapter” pull. Based on this strong start, I expect this will easily land as a 4–5 star read once I’ve finished the full book.

Fans of the Finlay Donovan series will feel right at home here, and anyone looking for a cozy mystery with laugh-out-loud moments and heart will want to pick this up.
Profile Image for Carlee Edwards.
102 reviews
March 21, 2026
Not my favourite of the Finlay Donovan books but still amazing.
Wish there were more dead bodies lol.
Profile Image for Christina C.
117 reviews4 followers
February 7, 2026
I absolutely loved both reading and listening to every book in this series so far. Even within the first 12 chapters in book 6, this book reminded me why Finlay and Vero are such a winning duo. Their dynamic is just as sharp, funny, and chaotic as ever, and I loved seeing the new situation they find themselves tangled in this time.

This sample left me wanting more in the best way possible. The pacing is strong, the humor is on point, and the story already hints at another wild ride ahead. While this was only a preview provided by the publisher and NetGalley, it did exactly what it was supposed to do and hooked me completely.

I’m counting down the days until the full book is released in March and can’t wait to see how everything unfolds!!!
Profile Image for Lauren Kotrys.
512 reviews9 followers
March 20, 2026
This series truly gets better and better!

I had the privilege of seeing Elle speak again this week and it’s been so fun to dive back in to this world. You do have to read the books in order but they have a little something for everyone: friendship, mystery, romance and zany antics. I look forward to each new release.
And this week’s news of the new Tina Fey led show? Crazy excited!
Profile Image for January.
3,000 reviews127 followers
March 17, 2026
Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line by Elle Cosimano (2026)
Finlay Donovan #6
10h 12m narrated by Angela Dawe, 320 pages

Genre: Mystery Thriller, Cozy Mystery, Adult Fiction, Contemporary, Humor, Suspense, Women's Fiction > Chick Lit; Romance

Featuring: Maryland, Washington D. C. Suburb in Virginia, Family Drama, Divorcée, Relationship Issues, Humorous Stupidity, Suspense Romance Author, Nanny, Hijinks, Detectives, Sex - Off-Camera, Imposter Syndrome, Police, Neighbors, Kids, Minivan, Sorority, Investigation, Harassment, Police, Setup For Next Book

Rating as a movie: R For adult language

Books and Authors mentioned: Colleen Hoover, Nora Roberts, Gillian Flynn, E. L. James

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟✍️📚🏛💸🚔

My thoughts: 📘 So NetGalley gave me the first 12 Chapters of the new book. I wasn't going to read it as I don't like previews, but I decided it was an opportunity to discuss the bait and switch and I don’t want my percentage dropped.
📱30% 3:03:34 Chapter 13 - This was good. I'll have to wait over 2 weeks to finish the story. This is an improvement over Books 3 & 4 so I'm glad the smarter choices from Book 5 have continued.

This was good! I'm not sure it's because of the break I took, but I enjoyed this one more than the previous books. I loved the end.

Recommend to others: Yes. This series got a bit repetitive with books 3 & 4 but it's found it's footing and has become one of the best cozy series.

Finlay Donovan
1. Finlay Donovan Is Killing It (2021)
2. Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead (2022)
3. Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun (2023)
3.5 Veronica Ruiz Breaks the Bank (2023)
4. Finlay Donovan Rolls the Dice (2024)
5. Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave (2025)
6. Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line (2026)
Profile Image for Susan Z (webreakforbooks) .
1,167 reviews121 followers
March 19, 2026
Finlay Donovan is always crossing the line, there could not be a more perfect title.

Finlay Donovan Crosses The Line is classic Finlay and I'll never tire of her. I'm not sure how Elle Cosimano keeps it fresh but I am here for all of it. I was so thrilled to be back with her and Vero.

The audio really brings the characters to life although I think Vero sounds a bit too old
Profile Image for Chapters with Trisha &#x1f352;.
105 reviews3 followers
March 18, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“Mrs D., I should preface this by saying that the badass in me sees and recognizes the badass in you but I’m compelled to tell you that what you’re doing is NUTS!”
🤣🤣
That could sum up every book in this series so far.

Dang it, ELLE!
You cannot leave us like this 😩
I’m dying inside!
Profile Image for Sarah.
1 review
January 26, 2026
I received an advanced reader copy and let me tell you, you’re in for a ride! Once again Finlay and her crew find themselves ensnared in a crime with so many layers. Elle Cosimano expertly peels them back, slowly revealing all the details you need to solve the crimes. I really enjoyed getting to dive deeper into Vero’s story again. You won’t be able to put this down. The cliffhangers already have me desperate for book 7!
Profile Image for Bethany.
783 reviews72 followers
March 17, 2026
After Vero is extradited to her mother’s home in Maryland where she’s facing criminal charges for a theft she didn’t commit, Finlay leaves her kids with Nick and travels to Vero’s to help clear her name. Vero was accused of stealing money from her former sorority, and now stuck on house arrest she hopes she and Finlay can investigate to find out who really stole the money and prove Vero’s innocence.

I read the first Finlay book back in 2021, and have loved every book in the series, with this 6th book being no exception! I adore the banter between Finlay and Vero and all the shenanigans they get themselves into, and I love how this book focuses on Vero and her story. These books are just pure chaotic fun! With a cliffhanger at the end, I already can’t wait for book 7! I can’t recommend this series enough; if you haven’t read it yet definitely get your hands on the first book, FINLAY DONOVAN IS KILLING IT, as soon as possible!

Thank you to Elle Cosimano for my gifted copy from your giveaway, as well as to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the initial 12-chapter digital sample of the book!
Profile Image for Afsha (caffeineandcrime).
193 reviews13 followers
March 18, 2026
Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line - Elle Cosimano
Pub Date - 3/17/26 ; Macmillan Audio
Medium - Audiobook
Rating - ☕️☕️☕️☕️/5
Thoughts - Thank you to Netgalley, the author, and Macmillan Audio for this audio sample in exchange for my honest review. To clarify, I decided to write this review based on the full book. I LOVE this series and the narrator is my absolute favorite! I will only listen to this series since Angela Dawe brings so much character to the story. While it wasn't my favorite installation in the series, I enjoyed being back with Finlay and Vero in this new mystery. It's the perfect combination of murder, mystery, and mayhem. I felt like the big mystery reveal fell a little flat, but I had such a good time, i rounded my rating up to 4.

Really well done! I can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Miles.
255 reviews
March 21, 2026
This one is not the best one but at the end of the day I don’t really care cause I’m a Finlay Donofan (Elle Cosimano call me if you need more bad puns for merch).

Vero grated on my nerves the whole time and I really felt the lack of Nick (:/). Otherwise this one was filled with the usual antics and pure chaos and a cliffhanger which tells me I’m going to get another as per usual. I think Elle Cosimano must have sold her soul to the devil cause it seems like she’s got the perfect set up for a fun series that will just keep coming out until the dawn of time.

It’s nice to have some plot lines tied up but I also can’t wait to see where we go next (too bad I rushed to read this so soon and it’s gonna be a while before I get the next one). We’re in for some ✨drama✨
Profile Image for Katy Kontopodias.
83 reviews
December 19, 2025
A big thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for an ARC of the first 12 chapters of Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line.

If you have been following Finlay and Vero since the beginning, you will love finding answers to all of the unresolved questions we have about Vero’s backstory. The sixth books of the series picks up right where we left off in Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave. I felt like I was catching up with friends I haven’t talked to in a while. I cannot wait to read the rest of this book and figure out who stole the money!!
Profile Image for Weronika.
622 reviews27 followers
March 19, 2026
I knew I could count on Finlay to deliver a fun book! I really enjoyed this installment, finally getting to the bottom of Vero’s mysterious debacle.

Fin, Vero, Cam, and all the gang make an appearance. It had laughs, crime solving, and a healthy side of shenanigans none other than Fin and Vero can get into.

Adding a curve ball and a new disappearance to the end will make the next book very interesting, can’t wait for more!

I highly recommend the audiobook performed by Angela Dawe, her voice delivery has great comedic timing and I like all the personalities for our characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 583 reviews

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