Tara Sivec's Shame on You, the first installment in the Fool Me Once series, is a rollicking romantic comedy that deftly combines elements of mystery, humor, and romance. The novel introduces readers to Kennedy O’Brien, a war veteran who has turned her personal betrayal into a professional mission. After catching her husband in a compromising situation with the nanny, Kennedy channels her anger and disappointment into creating Fool Me Once Investigations, a detective agency dedicated to helping women who have been wronged by men. This premise sets the stage for a story that is as much about personal empowerment as it is about solving a mystery.

The novel's central theme revolves around trust and betrayal, both in personal relationships and professional partnerships. Kennedy's journey is one of rediscovery and healing, as she navigates the complexities of trust after being deeply hurt. Her character is a refreshing take on the strong female protagonist—she is tough, resourceful, and unapologetically herself. Sivec does an excellent job of portraying Kennedy as a multi-dimensional character who is not only defined by her past but also by her resilience and determination to move forward.

Griffin Crawford, Kennedy's unexpected partner in crime-solving, adds an intriguing dynamic to the story. As the best friend of Kennedy's ex-husband, Griffin is initially an unwelcome presence in her life. However, his genuine desire to make amends and his unwavering support for Kennedy gradually break down her defenses. Griffin's character is well-developed, and his interactions with Kennedy are filled with witty banter and palpable chemistry. Sivec skillfully uses their relationship to explore themes of forgiveness and second chances, making it a central pillar of the narrative.

The plot of Shame on You is engaging and fast-paced, with enough twists and turns to keep readers hooked. The case of the bail jumper turned dog-napper serves as a humorous backdrop to the evolving relationship between Kennedy and Griffin. Sivec's writing is sharp and witty, and she has a knack for creating laugh-out-loud moments that balance the more serious undertones of the story. The humor is never forced, and it complements the narrative rather than detracting from it.

One of the standout aspects of the novel is its portrayal of female friendship. Kennedy's bond with her two best friends, who are also her business partners, is a testament to the strength and support that women can provide for each other. Their camaraderie and loyalty are heartwarming, and Sivec captures the essence of true friendship with authenticity and warmth. This aspect of the story adds depth and richness to the narrative, making it more than just a romance or a mystery.

In terms of character development, Sivec excels at creating relatable and realistic characters. Kennedy's evolution from a scorned woman to a confident and empowered individual is portrayed with nuance and sensitivity. Griffin's journey is equally compelling, as he grapples with his past mistakes and strives to prove himself worthy of Kennedy's trust. The secondary characters, including Kennedy's friends and the quirky individuals they encounter during their investigation, are well-drawn and add color to the story.

Comparatively, Shame on You shares thematic similarities with Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series, where a strong female protagonist is at the center of a humorous mystery. However, Sivec's novel stands out for its focus on personal growth and the exploration of romantic relationships. While Evanovich's series leans heavily on slapstick comedy, Sivec strikes a balance between humor and heartfelt moments, making her story more emotionally resonant.

Overall, Shame on You is a delightful read that offers a perfect blend of humor, romance, and mystery. Tara Sivec has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that readers will root for and relate to. The novel's exploration of trust, betrayal, and forgiveness is handled with care and insight, making it a standout in the romantic comedy genre. Whether you're a fan of mysteries, romance, or simply enjoy a good laugh, Shame on You is a book that should not be missed.

For those interested in exploring more of Tara Sivec's work, Shame on You is a promising start to the Fool Me Once series, and it sets the stage for what promises to be an engaging and entertaining journey with Kennedy O’Brien and her friends. As the series progresses, readers can look forward to more adventures, more laughs, and more heartwarming moments.