Finlay Donovan Is Killing It

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of sexual violence and physical abuse

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Cosimano opens Finlay Donovan Is Killing It with a chaotic scene of a struggling single mother trying to manage her children while preparing for an important meeting. How did this introduction shape your expectations for the rest of the novel? What aspects of Finn’s character were established in these early pages?

2. The novel blends elements of thriller, comedy, and domestic drama. Which genre elements did Cosimano execute most effectively? How does this book compare to other crime comedies like Janet Evanovich’s One for the Money or Carl Hiaasen’s Bad Monkey?

3. Throughout the novel, Finn gradually transitions from horrified reluctance to calculated participation in criminal activities. Was there a specific moment when you felt her actions crossed the line from justifiable to morally questionable? Were there things that made you sympathize with her despite these choices?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Finn finds herself juggling multiple roles and responsibilities: mother, writer, ex-wife, and reluctant criminal.