Flirting with Murder written by Amanda Sellet and reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Flirting with Murder is a unique YA mystery-romance that blends amateur sleuthing with romantic tension. High school junior Virginia Tillis spends her summer at her grandmother's quirky Florida condo, Castle Claude, where a group of retired theater actors stage elaborate murder mystery games called "Killing Me Softly." When a real death disrupts their community and a body is discovered, Virginia teams up with Felix, grandson to one of the other condo residents, to solve the mystery. As they investigate, their competitive banter evolves into genuine chemistry. The story balances humor, heart, and intrigue, featuring witty dialogue, endearing secondary characters, and a unique setting that grounds the mystery in warmth and personality. 

Straight Talk for Librarians:  Readers will connect with the authentic romantic tension between Virginia and Felix, whose banter captures the awkwardness and humor of first crushes. The story explores relatable teen themes, navigating family dynamics, aging grandparents, and fitting in, all while celebrating intergenerational friendships. The premise is genuinely fun: a retirement community that stages murder mysteries provides endless humor and personality. Virginia's voice is playful and self-aware, making readers feel like they're in on the joke. The mystery keeps pages turning without requiring dark or complex plotting, making it perfect for readers who enjoy lighter, character-driven stories over high-stakes suspense. This title could work well for reluctant readers and those bridging juvenile and adult fiction, offering an accessible entry point into mystery and romance genres. It pairs naturally with Thursday Murder Club for book clubs or genre studies. It is appropriate for diverse age groups within a high school setting. Librarians can recommend it to students seeking cozy mysteries, romantic comedies, or stories celebrating found family and community. Its humor and charm make it an excellent choice for summer reading programs and for promoting genre diversity in YA fiction.