After the butcher and blackbird series, I had to wait at least until the first two books were out in this series because I knew I’d want the second one immediately. I have the second one, but I’m scared to read it after seeing all the reactions online lol

First off, LOVE the tie in to the original series. It’s subtle, but I’m glad to see it and see that character doing okay… ish. Nolan’s story is powerful and relatable and I totally understand how that could make a person make those choices. Harper as well. Harper watching Arthur and her “pretty murderbird” absolutely had me howling at parts, both lifted the tone as needed and provided thought provoking questions. What does happen IRL to serial killers as they age and aren’t caught? They aren’t all as civically minded as Arthur, the sweetheart.

The plot twist at the end has me chomping at the bit to keep reading, but my ARC mountain and grad school day it will be at least a month or three. Would recommend, esp with spooky season starting.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advance reader copy! All opinions expressed are my own 🖤

I’ve been following this since the original horrible AI picture and LOVE that the author took AI slop and turned it into this sweet, goofy, emotional treasure that is absolutely worth reading!

While I expected (and thoroughly enjoyed) the silliness of the story, I wasn’t emotionally prepared for the anxiety rep and self deprecating poor Kal brought. I just want to give him a hug, he tries so hard at everything! The fact that he wins over a teenage boy should tell you everything about him.

The found family and reminders of the power of being part of a supportive community absolutely hit hard. While it’s easy for Lola to get so wrapped up in everyday stresses and think she should do it all herself, the warmth and coziness from the latter half of the book was such a comforting read.

Cozy, silly, and a tiny bit heartbreaking, I can’t recommend this more to anyone who loves an unserious found family read!