Fortune Funhouse

I went into Fortune Funhouse expecting a light, fluffy cozy mystery, but DeLeon and Campbell delivered something far more satisfying: a mystery that’s as smart as it is slick, with a setting that’s equal parts whimsical and sinister. Campbell’s performance is the reason this audiobook shines—she nails Emmaline’s no-nonsense attitude, the snarky side-eye of her sister’s barbs, and the sheer unhinged energy of Sinful’s resident drama queens. The pacing is tight, with enough red herrings to keep you guessing, but never so dense that you’ll lose the plot (or your mind) between bites of fried Oreos. The production is top-notch, with clear audio that makes the carnival’s eerie backstage areas feel like you’re right there with Emmaline, dodging shadows and half-chewed popcorn. That said, the resolution of the murder mystery is a bit too tidy for my taste—everything ties up just a little too neatly, and the killer’s motive feels rushed, as if DeLeon was more focused on keeping the tone playful than delivering a deeply satisfying whodunit. And while Campbell’s narration is stellar, I could’ve done with fewer drawn-out Southern drawls in the exposition-heavy scenes; sometimes, a little editorial brevity would’ve gone a long way. Still, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise delightful listen. If you’re craving a mystery that’s as fun as it is twisted, Fortune Funhouse is your ticket—just don’t blame me if you start eyeing the funhouse mirrors a little too suspiciously after.