First Book Review of 2025: One for the Money (Stephanie Plum #1) by Janet Evanovich

One for the Money (Stephanie Plum #1) by Janet Evanovich

Rating: ★★★☆☆☆ (3.5/5)

Synopsis:

Stephanie Plum is a down-on-her-luck lingerie buyer turned bounty hunter. When she takes on her first job to catch a fugitive, she quickly finds herself in over her head. With the help of an eccentric cast of characters—her grandmother, her quirky friend, and two very different men—Stephanie embarks on a chaotic, dangerous, and often hilarious journey in the world of bounty hunting.

Review:

One for the Money is an enjoyable, fast-paced cozy mystery that combines humor, suspense, and a touch of romance. The story follows Stephanie Plum, whose transition from a lingerie buyer to a bounty hunter is anything but smooth. Her awkwardness and lack of experience make for some laugh-out-loud moments, and the situations she finds herself in are both absurd and entertaining.

What really shines in this book is the humor. Stephanie’s witty internal monologue and the quirky cast of side characters, like her grandmother and her bumbling yet lovable colleagues, add a lighthearted and fun atmosphere to the story. The charm of the book lies not only in the mystery but in the comedic situations and the unpredictable, often ridiculous scenarios Stephanie gets herself tangled in.

The romantic subplot adds an interesting layer to the story. Stephanie is caught between two very different men: Joe Morelli, a brooding ex-cop with a troubled past, and Ranger, a mysterious, suave bounty hunter who exudes confidence and danger. While the love triangle keeps things intriguing, it doesn’t fully develop in this first installment, and the tension between Stephanie and Joe feels more like a “will-they-won’t-they” situation rather than a full-fledged romance.

Though the plot is engaging, it can feel a bit predictable at times. The suspense doesn’t always match the intensity you might expect from a thriller, and the mystery elements sometimes take a backseat to the humor and romance. Still, the book’s pacing is quick, and it’s a light, easy read for those looking for an escape into a quirky, action-filled world.

Stephanie Plum herself is a likable protagonist, but at times, her naivety in the dangerous world she’s entered can be a bit frustrating. While she grows throughout the book, her character development feels more gradual, leaving plenty of room for her to mature in future books in the series.

Conclusion:

One for the Money is a delightful introduction to the Stephanie Plum series. It’s a light, enjoyable read that balances mystery, humor, and romance, making it a great pick for fans of cozy mysteries or those looking for an easy, fun escape. While it may not have the depth or edge of some thrillers, it sets up a promising series, and I’m looking forward to seeing how Stephanie’s journey unfolds in the next books.