Carolyn Summer Quinn’s Not A Shovel In Sight is a vibrant, endearingly humorous thriller that takes readers through a secret-filled nonprofit workplace, a developing financial scandal, and a missing woman whose whereabouts everyone is curious about. This book is a great mix of tension and warmth, with a protagonist who strikes a balance between her amateur detective work and her deep devotion to her former coworkers.
Table of Contents
Review
Not A Shovel In Sight feels like an echo of Agatha Christie’s penchant for wrapping dark deeds in a cozy setting, but with Quinn’s distinct voice that dances through the pages with infectious energy. Much like how researchers uncover ancient artifacts buried beneath layers of history, the book’s heroine, Alana, peels back the layers of a beloved charity to expose what lies beneath its polished surface. The narrative reminds readers that even the most altruistic spaces can harbor shadows, making it a compelling exploration of human nature.
Alana, a bestselling author, returns to her former summer job at a nonprofit foundation, only this time her task isn’t just stuffing envelopes — it’s sniffing out a million-dollar embezzlement scheme. As she reconnects with quirky old friends and encounters suspicious new hires, the missing employee who first noticed the financial discrepancies lingers like a ghost over the office. The plot unfolds like a treasure hunt, each discovery a new puzzle piece that tightens the tension while never losing the story’s infectious charm.
The book shines with its vibrant dialogue, each character’s personality popping from the page, whether it’s the irrepressible Sherry, the endearing Steve, or the insufferable Hans Holtzapple. Alana’s inner monologue is a delightful companion throughout the investigation, laced with humor and sharp observations. The pacing keeps readers glued, with just enough breathing room between revelations to savor the world Quinn has built. It’s impressive how well the narrative balances lighthearted office antics with the weight of a missing woman and a massive financial crime.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its accessibility — it’s a mystery that invites rather than intimidates, perfect for fans of cozy mysteries who crave complex, well-spun narratives without gratuitous violence or darkness. The prose flows smoothly, and though there are minor areas where dialogue tags could be polished, these moments barely register against the book’s overall readability. The theme of trust and betrayal is artfully handled, especially as Alana must tackle the blurred lines between friendship and suspicion. My favorite part? The reunion scene where Alana returns to the office and is embraced by old colleagues — it’s a nostalgic breath of fresh air that makes her undercover mission even more personal.
Readers seeking gritty true crime or high-stakes psychological thrillers might not find this book to their taste, but fans of authors like M.C. Beaton or Jenn McKinlay will feel right at home. It’s a love letter to the cozy mystery genre, with just enough contemporary flair to stand out. The way Quinn captures the camaraderie and chaos of a small office — the peculiar rhythm of shared coffee breaks and inside jokes — adds authenticity and heart.
Ultimately, Not A Shovel In Sight isn’t just a whodunit; it’s a celebration of human connection. It reminds readers that even in the face of deceit and danger, kindness and friendship persist like flowers stubbornly blooming through cracks in the pavement. The book leaves readers satisfied but still longing to linger a little longer in Alana’s world — a sign of a mystery truly well done. If literary works could sing, this one would be a melody of laughter and intrigue, echoing long after the final page is turned.
About the Author
About the Author: Carolyn Summer Quinn, an award-winning author and photographer, grew up in Roselle and Scotch Plains, NJ. She earned a B.A. in English and Theater/Media from Kean University. Now based in New York City, she has written 18 books and counting, accumulating numerous literary awards throughout her career.
Book Details
- Title: Not a Shovel in Sight
- Author: Carolyn Summer Quinn
- Genre(s): Fiction
- Sub-genre(s): Mystery, Crime
- Theme(s): Corruption, Disappearance, Investigation
- Minimum Audience Age: Likely 14+ (based on content themes and complexity)
- Main Language: English
Book Themes
(Note: 0=none, 1=a few, 2=considerable, 3=pronounced, 4=excessive)
- Sexual themes: 0, None present in narrative or character interactions.
- Religious themes: 0, No explicit or underlying religious elements included.
- Violence, self-harm, etc.: 1, Mild suspense, no graphic or distressing content.
- Crude language, expletives, swearing, etc.: 1, Rare mild language, nothing overtly offensive.
- Other adult themes: 2, Embezzlement, theft, and disappearance drive the mystery.
Rating
- Content: 5
- Writing Style: 5
- Appeal to Target Audience: 5
- Uniqueness: 4
- Editing: 5
- Other Factors: 5
- Overall Average Rating: 4.83 out of 5 stars
Links
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[…] 🔹 Not a Shovel in Sight by Carolyn Summer QuinnA laugh-out-loud literary escape with heart, humour, and unexpected twists.Read the review […]