Dirty Thirty by Janet Evanovich

*** Review ***

Janet Evanovich’s latest installment in the Stephanie Plum series, Dirty Thirty, is a breath of fresh air for loyal fans and an exciting introduction for newcomers. As the thirtieth book in the series, it’s clear that Evanovich knows her characters inside and out, and in this installment, she brings them to life with a level of authenticity and humor that was sorely missed in the previous book.

Dirty Thirty delves into the life of Stephanie Plum, Trenton’s most unconventional bounty hunter, as she embarks on a new assignment that seems deceptively straightforward but quickly spirals into chaos. Martin Rabner, a local jeweler, recruits Stephanie to track down his former security guard, Andy Manley, or “Nutsy,” whom he believes pilfered a stash of valuable diamonds from his safe. In the same breath, Stephanie is also on the hunt for Duncan Dugan, a fugitive accused of robbing the very same jewelry store on the same fateful day.

The story kicks off with Stephanie’s boyfriend, Joe Morelli, away on police business in Miami, leaving her to care for Morelli’s rambunctious dog, Bob. Bob’s antics add a delightful layer of chaos to Stephanie’s already turbulent life. Furthermore, the enigmatic and irresistible Ranger steps into the spotlight, creating a love triangle that keeps readers eagerly turning pages.

But that’s not all. Evanovich skillfully weaves a supernatural subplot into the narrative as Stephanie’s best friend, Lula, becomes convinced that a mythological demon is out to raid her wardrobe. This leads to an unforgettable overnight stakeout with Stephanie’s mother and the infamous Grandma Mazur, revealing a trio of women with nerves of steel and driving skills to rival NASCAR champions.

Janet Evanovich’s writing is at its best in Dirty Thirty. The character development and humor are reminiscent of the earlier books in the series, and readers will find themselves laughing out loud at Stephanie and Lula’s outrageous antics. Evanovich expertly balances humor, suspense, and a touch of romance to keep the story engaging.

One of the highlights of this installment is the depth of the mystery. The plot is more intricate than in some previous books, keeping readers guessing and engaged from start to finish. While the Stephanie Plum novels are known for their silliness, this one manages to blend humor and a compelling storyline seamlessly.

The supporting characters in this series have always been a strong suit, and Dirty Thirty is no exception. Lula’s larger-than-life personality and fearless attitude make her a fan favorite, while Grandma Mazur’s unpredictable behavior adds a wild card element to the story. Even Bob, the mischievous dog, manages to steal the show in a memorable scene involving a baptismal font.

What sets Evanovich’s series apart is not just the humor and mystery but also the complex relationships that have developed over the years. In this book, the romantic tension between Stephanie, Morelli, and Ranger reaches new heights, leaving readers on the edge of their seats and eagerly anticipating the next installment.

As a long-time fan of the Stephanie Plum series, I can’t help but marvel at how it has maintained its charm and entertainment value over the years. Dirty Thirty is a testament to Janet Evanovich’s skill as a writer and her ability to breathe life into beloved characters, even after thirty books. While this novel can be enjoyed as a standalone, I recommend newcomers to start from the beginning to fully appreciate the evolution of these classic characters.

In conclusion, Dirty Thirty is a triumphant return to the Stephanie Plum series, filled with humor, mystery, and a touch of romance. Janet Evanovich has recaptured the magic that made this series so beloved, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the next adventure in Stephanie Plum’s chaotic world. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for a lighthearted and entertaining escape into the quirky world of bounty hunting, fast cars, and unforgettable characters.