Dead Man on Campus is the third - and without a doubt, my favorite - installment in the snarky Josie Tucker mystery series by EM Kaplan, one of my new favorite authors.
There were so many things I enjoyed about this book! It's well-written and cleverly paced - while I read the book quickly, it also felt substantial. This is a book that book clubs won't have a problem discussing over brunch, but will also be a dear companion on a road trip with family, when you want to dive into a world far away from your family (or so I would imagine). Another playful paradox was Josie's prickly independence - she does what she needs to do to get the job done - and her vulnerability, when faced with questions about her boyfriend, Dr. Drew, and when she finds herself heading up - and caring f0r! - an impromptu Scooby squad of college kids.
This novel could stand on its own, but I felt like reading Dead Man on Campus was a richer experience having read the first two books in the series. Not only did I get to see Josie grow and change from prickly reluctant bridesmaid to less-prickly dorm mom, I also got to anticipate familiar themes. Will Josie incur a life-threatening injury? Will she harness the power of technology for good? Will she have tummy troubles?
Do yourself a favor and read this book! It's the perfect blend of humor and mystery for the oh-my-God-it's-August-where-did-summer-go blues. I'm excited for Josie's next adventure!