It might be Halloween, but that doesn’t mean it’s all fun and games for Detective Kate Rosetti. First, a man arrives at the precinct, willing to speak to nobody but Kate. When this curious stranger confesses to a very unique murder, Kate is prepared to arrest him except for one problem…
There is no body. There are no witnesses. In fact, there’s no evidence a crime has been committed at all. Is this the start to a deadly disaster…or one man’s attempt to play a disturbing game?
As Kate works to unravel the mystery behind one man’s curious confession, she’s drawn into a funeral that quickly turns suspicious. With two cases heating up, and her love life not far behind, can the detective manage to balance it all—or is a happy ending for Kate forever out of reach?
Originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, Gina LaManna has also called Italy and Los Angeles home. After studying numbers and equations in college, she realized multiple choice tests were “just not for her” and began writing books instead. She loves cappuccino foam and whipped cream and would subsist solely on sprinkles if possible. She currently lives in St. Paul with her wonderful husband and family.
In this latest installment (which for some reason I thought was the last one-cue dramatic gasp), Kate finds herself knee-deep in not one, but two mysteries tangled tighter than my second graders’ shoelaces. But intriguing plot aside, what really gave me the fuzzies was Kate herself. After a history of relationship avoidance and emotional landmines, she’s finally settling in with someone that doesn’t just love her, but sees her. Ms. LaManna can weave a happily ever after with crime scenes and clever banter. Just like there was two crimes, this reader got a double happy ending…the books (which you need to read for yourself) and the Author’s Note mentioned more Kate Rosetti to come!
If the Shoe Fits by Gina LaManna is the best Kate Rosetti book yet! It’s chock full of mystery and murders to be investigated and love. It’s a book you’ll definitely want to read.
The story begins when Melinda calls Kate after her weekend at Gem’s and asks her to go with her to the funeral of a man she’d been dating. It seems he’d told his mother that Melinda was his girlfriend.
When Melinda looks at Calvin in the coffin, she sees that his nose is broken and it’s inconsistent with a fall from the roof. She persuades his mother Diane to get an autopsy done and the finding is murder.
So Kate and Jimmy and Jack begin an investigation into the case. Meanwhile a second case is started when a strange old man named Atticus asks for Kate, tells her a murder has been committed with a gold nail pushed into a man’s forehead, then leaves the precinct, jumps into a car and is driven away.
The next evening Kate and Gem have dinner with her sister Jane and her husband Wes who are having a baby and Jane uses cupcakes for a gender reveal. She is having a daughter. Everyone is thrilled.
Kate and Jimmy and Jack continued to work on the two cases. They discovered that Calvin had been taking turns living in his house, which really belonged to his mother, with his wife, Linda.They hadn’t been together in two years, but couldn’t afford a divorce. He worked odd jobs rather than construction as he’d told Melinda.
On the other case, Atticus went to Kate’s mother’s coffee shop and bought her a coffee. Her mother called her and when she got there he accused her of not playing his game and drove off in his truck. Asha tracked down the owner of the truck. Kate and Jack found him and discovered he’d rented it to Atticus that morning for a suitcase of case and didn’t care if it was returned. He said the man was headed to a cabin.
Later at home while watching tv Gem discovered that his favorite mystery author whose series he’d been reading was missing. Kate looked at the tv and realized he was Atticus. Gem said the name of the main character in the series was Atticus and the man had spoken at a nearby bookstore a few days ago. They went to the bookstore and Kate got his daughter’s number.
Kate set up a meeting with the daughter and explained the Atticus behavior when they met. The daughter revealed that her father had the beginnings of dementia and where the cabin of his editor was. Kate called the local police and they found him. They agreed to stay with him until his daughter could get there. She was thankful.
One case resolved. Kate and Jack went to interview Calvin’s nosy neighbor Wilson Jeremiah and found out he didn’t know much about Calvin’s death but he was really crazy. They checked again with Linda and Diane with no luck.
The next day Kate and Jimmy went back to interview Wilson again and found him dead. Murder number 2. And unpredictably he had a gold nail in his forehead. They go to talk to the author and his daughter to rule them out but they were still out of town at the time of the murder. Then to the ghostwriter who they are also able to rule out.
Kate goes back to the neighborhood to look for Wilson’s cat that had gotten loose. She finds the cat and catches it with Linda’s help and Linda agrees to watch Snitch. She also tells Kate about Calvin’s other new girlfriend who came to the house and left crying because she didn’t know he was dead.
Kate and Jack track Danica down and learn that she met Calvin through gaming and they played Dungeons and Dragons together and fell in love.
Through her they find out that he got in an online fight with a guy named Eddie who lives in the neighborhood. His user name is Big Taco. They decide he may have murdered the two men. But Asha has to find him first on Calvin’s computer.
Kate and Jack go home for the night.
Will they catch the killer tomorrow?
What will happen with Kate and Gem? They have recently taken a wonderful trip to Italy and Kate hardly thought about work or home or even looking at her phone. Kate always stays with Gem now, not at home. He’s been ready to marry her. She’s the love of his life. Will she ever say yes?
All I can say is this book has the most beautiful and amazing ending you can ever imagine.
Another interesting case for the detective. A few surprises pop up for her in her investigation. The list of suspects isn't too wide range, and most everything takes place within a small neighborhood. She has a body that her friend, the off duty Medical Examiner, believes to be more than an accident. A person confessing to a murder where there is no body or crime scene. A few people with alias's. A mistaken identity. And no clues, evidence or leads to go on. There is a little romance happening behind the scenes (with both Kate and the side characters.) There is an emotional ending. In this book, Kate's perspective on things are changing and she's changing/growing as a person. Her character is a slightly altered version of the Kate we got at the beginning of the series. I don't want to say she's a better version of herself, because I thought she was great to begin with, but all the changes she's making/feeling are good. Of course our favorite man, Gem is there, though in this book, he doesn't need to do anything to help her with her case. She doesn't need him to come to her rescue. In fact there's no big stand off, nor are any guns drawn in threat. There is a scene with the big reveal, but it doesn't have any threat towards Kate's or her partner's lives. While there is a death or two, this particular case/book is a little more light than some of the previous cases. (Not that any of them are dark.) I think it's because some of the scenarios that come up are a bit on the wacky side. Almost humorous, if it weren't for the crime. The book is taken from Kate's POV only. It's safe for teens and up. No sexual content, other than kissing. No violence on the pages. Very mild language. This is part of a series, though can be read as a stand alone. If you are planning on reading the entire series, I would suggest to start with book one, just so you can watch the characters relationships grown and evolve. They are good, easy and quick to read stories.
A stranger walks into the precinct and asks to speak to Detective Kate Rosetti. When she meets with him, he confesses to a murder, but there is a problem..... there is no body, no witnesses, and no evidence a crime has even been commited. Convinced he is toying with her for some strange reason, she files it in the back of her mind. She has an actual murder to solve. Her friend Melinda had dated a guy a few times and he was found dead. At first it looked like he had just fallen off his roof, where he was removing snow, but upon closer examination, it turns out he was murdered. Kate & Jimmy are busy trying to solve that murder, the stranger keeps popping up with cryptic messages, and Kate & Gem's romance is on a fast track towards something permanent, which scares the heck out of her.
I love this series. Although each book could potentially be read as a standalone, I feel like you would get the most enjoyment out of them if you read them in order. This book may be my new favorite out of the series. It had a great mystery that kept me guessing, and I have been waiting for 13 books for Kate to choose a man and settle down. Did I get my wish? Well, you will just have to read the book to find out!
I really enjoyed this series and am so happy more books will be coming out. What I really enjoyed in this one was not only everything that went into solving the murder but the character developments and the bringing to light the devastation of dementia. A great story, more info on some of the other characters and social awareness - how could you.go wrong??
Kate has a lot on her plate—multiple cases, each with its own twists and challenges. But one thing’s clear: she’s happy.
It’s been so rewarding to see how far she’s come, especially in her relationship with Gem. The character growth throughout this series has been incredible, and this installment is no exception. Fast-paced, emotional, and full of mystery, it’s another page-turner that kept me hooked from start to finish.
Another fantastic Kate Rosetti mystery that hooks you from the beginning and never lets you go! Detective Kate Rosetti and her partner, Jimmy are busy trying to solve a murder that was originally called an accident. Kates, friend Melinda had dated a guy a few times and now he's dead. While going over things a strange man walks into the precinct and only wants to speak to Kate. When she meets with him, he tells her he murdered someone. The only problem is there is no body, no evidence and no witnesses. Is he playing Kate? She stores it away, but the stranger keeps popping up with cryptic clues. This gets Kate to start looking into things while still investigating the murder in front of them. Wow what is going on? Why do things not sit right at the funeral. Are the cases related in some strange way? Who is this stranger? We are taken on a real roller coaster ride trying to put the pieces together and figure out what is going on. At the same time, Kate is starting to look within herself and her relationship with Gem. Can she really go the next step? This book is a fantastic addition to the series and I highly recommend it all! I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
13th book of the series, and probably my favorite! Why? Kate has finally figured out what's important in her life! She is making time to be with Gem instead of working round the clock as she's been known to do. She's being a better friend. She's being the greatest sister anyone could wish for. She's protecting her family (mother) without sarcasm or hurt feelings. But best of all, she's finally realizing what a perfect life she has with Gem. [Even better?! The author has assured us there are more Kate Rosetti books yet to come! Thanks Gina!!] Fast paced as always, but with a totally different feel. I loved the subtle ways the cases included more family involvement and an extended age range of characters. No flashy tricks. No supremely evil persons. It felt like a more realistic version of Kate-her work-her life-her friends-her family-her love of Gem. I have no doubt the "old" version of Kate will surface again-she's amazing. But sometimes it's nice to get to know the softer side of a person! Terrific book!
This is the latest instalment in the detective Kate Rosetti series, and I must say I love this series. This is a less intense mystery in some ways, but so much intrigue… trying to figure out if there even was a bad guy, let alone who he was! We were introduced to a new set of fabulous characters, an unending set of twists and turns, and a truly surprising whodunnit. I love how the main characters have developed and the depth of their relationships, and the fact that love interests don’t need to be played against each other to increase the angst. The storyline stands strong by itself and the characters have just grown and deliver such satisfaction… this mystery was fabulous. I highly recommend this series and can’t wait for the next instalment. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
4.5* Really great addition to this ongoing story. I was happy to visit with all the familiar characters and see them involved in two intertwined mysteries.
Kate Rosetti is still with her billionaire Gem, partner Jimmy and working with agent Jack. She has a few cases going one of which is very weird. An old guy who comes in and confesses to a murder with no proof. He then starts showing up in her life sort of daring her to catch him. She is a bit creeped out as she is not sure if he is a real murderer or a nut?
As she investigates her other case a guy who fell off a roof trying to determine it was an accident or murder. It is shaping up to be a murder and her coroner buddy Melinda actually had two dates with the guy which is again totally weird.
Love this series as it is mystery, somewhat cozy but with humor and romance.
This is an amazing series, but this book is beyond amazing! I couldn’t put it down. The characters all come alive with Ms. LaManna’a descriptive writing. There were so many twists and turns with so many people involved, that I didn’t want it to end. (And I came no where near figuring out who the “bad guy” was, until it was written there in black and white! The ending is just a perfect ending. I read it twice! If you haven’t started this series, then I would suggest that you start with #1, “Shoot the Breeze”. Kate’s story is well worth your time to start at the beginning and find out what has happened in her life to make her the person she is now. I am so looking forward to the next one!!’
It's Halloween and the entire book feels like we are being pranked. It is also a lot more emotional than her usual books- making Kate more touchy feely and it feels forced.
Her coroner friend asks her to attend a funeral for her 3 date boyfriend and of course it turns into a murder investigation. Then Kate is called to the precinct lobby to meet an 80 something named Atticus who tells her he's killed someone with a golden nail in the head and he wants to make a game out of her finding him and his kill. The investigations into both seem secondary to the Kate/Gem romance.
It's more chick-lit than mystery and a bit disappointing for me.
I loved this book It was fufilling, an absolute joy I’m glad that you finally got Gem and Kate front and center in this book the mystery was also good Very balanced , Kate and Gem are adults and glad that they are not in middle school romance or soap opera love affair I as a reader want them to have each other as a rock in their crazy lives. I was about to stop reading this series but now I’ll keep reading. We will keep reading to see them together. If they end up apart after this then I’m done. So thank you for this book . Glad Jack found someone.
Another murder solved by Detective Kate Rosetti and her precinct! A mysterious man requesting to talk to Kate and confessing a crime with no evidence, then taking off, is only one mystery Kate needs to solve. The comedic moments, finding leads and chasing them down. I love every book, and reading these characters develop and grow. Especially Kate and her relationship with Gem. It’s always a pleasure to get another book from Gina Lamanna, but Kate, Gem and the others hold a special place in my heart.
Enjoyed this latest addition to the Detective Kate Rosetti series, actually, it is my favorite. The storyline for the murder was very interesting and I enjoyed the dual cases. I'm so glad that the love triangle that is so common in cozy style mystery series stopped. Its nice to see that Kate can be friends with her former love interest. Can't wait to see how Kate handles being an aunt to Jane's baby. Look forward to more books in this series.
I'm not sure I have the words to say just how much I enjoyed this series. Each and every one of the characters became real to me. As I sit here writing this review I have tears of happiness pouring down my face for Kate and Gem. When you experience emotions like this from reading a story then you know you've found an awesome author. Thank you Ms Gina Lamanna for writing a wonderful series!
This story had me from the start, separate cases became one and with out a doubt always a twist to the end of a case , whether it be funny , love or broken hearts, this addition to the series definitely keeps you on your toes. The blooming relationship of Gem and Kate and how she comes term with how lucky she is in life and in the end, sometimes shoe truly does fit.
I’m so excited to read what comes next for Detective Rosetti and the whole team! Up until now I had listened to her stories on audiobooks and now that I’ve read this one I am even more excited to listen to it. The storyline definitely took a turn I wasn’t expecting and I can’t wait to read what the next steps for Detective Rosetti and Gem!
This is truly Kate Rosetta at her best. Solving crimes. Saving cats. Helping friends and family And finding peace with Gem. I !I've these books and the scene at the end is probably my favorite proposal scene ever. Please Gina...never stop writing about Kate. Never stop writing period. You are truly one of the best.
I love this series. Gina LaManna is great at bringing the reader into her character’s lives and getting everyone invested in the outcome. This is book 13, and I think it’s a very lucky number. Read the series in order and check out everything she has written. I don’t think you will be disappointed.
this is the 15th book in the series about a female homicide detective in Minneapolis . the stories are always fast paced, entertaining and a good blend of mystery and glimpses into her personal life . I am glad I started this series many years ago and will continue to read them as long as the author writes them
Should your work partner be eating baby sized burritos? But the partner is Jimmy. Should the dead man that fell of a roof have a questionable nose? It’s all in a days works but now Kate sometimes/mostly goes home to Gem. Great to catch up with the Detectives
This series of books, set in Minnesota’s twin cities nonetheless captures your mind, your thoughts and ultimately takes you on a surprisingly human journey. It is not your usual mystery series. It is, at least for me a journey that expands your mind, lifts your spirits and brings back the true and honest joy one can feel when they give life their all.
I love the way Gina blends a true murder mystery with all things Kate and Gem. The balance of crime, chaos, and heart always hits the mark. I get caught up in the murder and the love story, wanting more of each.
I don’t want to give anything away, but if you’re a fan of the series, this moment is so satisfying.
I waited until the very last book currently in the series before I wrote a review. I throughly enjoyed this series and the author. I loved the way every book was about a different exciting case. You never knew what kind of crime would be committed or what to expect. I hope there will be more installments in this series in the near future.
I started this series in March right after our baby was born and have officially finished all of them that are out. I’ve never read a series this long but these truly just kept getting better and never became too predictable. I’m going to miss Rosetti and the team during all of our late night nursing sessions while we wait in #14!
I put off reading this book because I was afraid it would be the last one. It is such a great read I finished in one day. I never know what to say in reviews because I don' t know how to say why I liked 1 and not another but this series is worth reading - can't wait for the next book.
This book deserves more than five stars. I’ve read all the books in this series & this one is my favorite so far. I love the characters and the story. The ending was awesome, I can’t wait to see what happens next!
What an awesome story. A Halloween murder mystery with out a body and interesting suspects. A very good mystery suspense,twists and oh the romance ,that had me tearing up. Love all the characters especially Kate and Gem. Voluntarily reviewed.
Recommend this series to anyone who loves "who done its" and a love story woven in!!! I get so excited when I see a new book in this series!! Highly recommend this author, she knows how to weave a story!