Carrie Schmidt's Reviews > Two Heads Are Deader Than One

After really enjoying the tone and characters in One Dead, Two to Go, I eagerly dove into Two Heads are Deader Than One by Elena Hartwell. All the things I loved in book one are still just as lovable in book two, especially Eddie’s delightful dry wit and snark – and the banter between her and her eclectic (and polar opposite) mother, Chava. Eddie’s first person narration keeps the story moving right along, with fun commentary and wry asides. And don’t get me started on how much I love Franklin, her newly acquired giant mop of a dog. The author has captured his quirky canine personality so well, enabling the loyal companion to fit in well with the story’s sense of humor.

Once again, poor Eddie manages to get herself right in the middle of a murder investigation through (mostly) no fault of her own, not to mention the odd reappearance of her childhood best friend and maybe a ghost from her past too. This of course puts her in close proximity with her first love – and local detective – Chance Parker, who I am still depending on for eventual romantic swooniness. I enjoyed the slow shuffle they did toward the maybe-possibility of more-at-some-point, and I’m holding onto that thread of hope like the KissingBooks fan that I am. As for the mystery aspect of Two Heads are Deader Than One, the author smoothly juggles several different elements from murder to break-ins, theft, and missing persons, and most of it seems to keep coming back to that childhood friend that might not be 100% on the up-and-up. Eddie has her work cut out for her, and I had a blast tagging along with her and Chava and Franklin.

Bottom Line: Two Heads are Deader Than One by Elena Hartwell showcases the author’s impeccable skill in combining smart prose, snappy dialogue, layered mysteries, and character growth with steady pacing to deliver an entertaining read that grabs your attention and holds on tight. Eddie continues to be a compelling and delightful protagonist that you can’t help but love immediately, flaws and all, and her inner circle – including her quirky mother and endearing dog – are just as engaging. My mind is already whirring with possibilities for book three, so I’m glad it’s on my TBR pile to read soon!

Reviewer’s Note: Followers of my reviews may want to be aware that there is some occasional cursing in this book – really scattered, not prevalent – most of it mild except for a few stronger ones.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower