Jodie Leigh Murray brings us suspenseful romance in The Gangster’s Mistake. Twenty-four-year-old Riley Parker is a junior private investigator currently living in Seattle with her grandmother, sister, and best friend. On the side, she steals back stolen dogs to return them to their owners. Riley grew up in Las Vegas with her junkie mom and adopted brother, David. Only, David wants Riley all for himself. With her shadowy past, David has leverage and he is using it now. When Riley gets her first big case for the agency regarding a pop star's abducted dog, she finds herself feeling more than she should for one of the suspected kidnappers. Ty appears to be dangerous on more than one level. Can she crack this case and navigate her heart at the same time?

Author Jodie Leigh Murray will have you glued to the pages from the very start with amazing sensory stimulation. Written in the first-person narrative from the perspective of a strong female lead, this allows the reader access to her personal thoughts and feelings. The characters are relatable and likable and are described with great visuals. With an exceptional plot and a great pace, expect some well-planned twists in The Gangster’s Mistake. Due to some explicit language and a few sexual situations, this book is not recommended for younger readers. I found the writing style easy and relaxed, which made this book so fantastic. For me, the underlying theme of family ran through the entire story, whether by blood or by choice. I look forward to reading more from this author.

The Gangster's Mistake is a work of fiction in the romantic suspense, interpersonal drama, and thriller subgenres. The work is best suited to mature adult readers owing to the presence of graphic violence, scenes of a sexual nature, and strong language throughout. Penned by author Jodie Leigh Murray, the plot follows Riley Parker, a former criminal turned private investigator, who is determined to leave her past behind. When she's assigned to investigate the missing dog of a famous pop star, Riley sees it as an opportunity to prove herself. However, her past catches up with her as her former associate, David, resurfaces, intertwining her current case with her previous life of crime. As Riley navigates dangerous situations and unexpected twists, she finds herself drawn to Ty Cavanaugh, a gang member involved in the case. Despite the risks, Riley must decide whether to trust Ty and allow him into her life.

Author Jodie Leigh Murray has crafted a compelling tale of redemption, second chances, and the power of love amidst adversity, with a central pair that will no doubt keep romance readers engaged from start to finish. The suspenseful plot is well-paced to offer twists at the right moments so that the story never has time to become stagnant, with Riley caught by both past and present dangers in realistic and enjoyable tension. The narrative flow is filled with slick, witty moments and great characterization to showcase the attitudes and power dynamics of the game at play, and the well-developed cast of ensemble characters populates Riley’s world with realism and charm. Overall, The Gangster's Mistake is a must-read for fans of dynamic dramas and romantic suspense novels everywhere.