IT’S ELEMENTARY is perfect for lovers of the FINLAY DONOVAN series. it has the same clever, fast-paced vibe, but with a bit more of the day-to-day chaos of being a single mother. i loved how pearl had such a big personality. she added so much to the book.

the side characters definitely seemed like caricatures at times, but it didn't bother me because of the silly and unserious tone of the book. additionally, as someone who has worked with some of these personalities in an elementary school, i thought it was hilarious that things were played on and amped up.

there’s mystery and twists, but also school politics and PTA drama. and the draaaaammmaaa y'all. this group of moms provided all the nosey tea.

bryant nails the dynamics of privilege, micro-aggressions, and the not-so-subtle power plays between the moms. the caucasity in this one is real y'all... i cringed a few times.

i reallyyyy hope we get more books set in this world. i would love to see more of the relationship bloom, the father-daughter dynamic, papa's podcast, and jasmine because she's a real one!