This story has great potential -- I loved the setting and how the the main character, Sadie, discussed her intersectionality as a biracial and bisexual woman ... and I am always here for middle-aged characters who need to be a bit careful with their knees.

However, the writing itself I felt needs more editing. The first few chapters are a bit clunky before they settle into their tone. The time of the day jumped back and forth in places. Early in the story, Sadie is oddly surprised that her 'black sheep' cousins know anything at all about her life, as if no family members would ever swap info. She's also jarringly judgemental in her thinking in a few places. The book's love interest, Olivia, gets a bit deep given they've only met twice in a week, and especially given later plot reveals.

The plot overall is interesting in how it loops into San Francisco's history, and it ties itself up neatly. It wasn't really for me, for all that it ticked so many of my reader-boxes, but may well appeal to readers looking for a pacy mystery and a strong sense of place in a story.

I was hooked from the start! Sadie is such a gritty, funny, and flawed character, and I loved following her through this bizarre, magical San Francisco mystery. The mix of history, queerness, romance, and noir made the book feel fresh and unforgettable. Earthquake Shack is a love letter to the city and a page-turner all at once.

From the very beginning I was so intrigued with the characters! The intersectionality and all of the trials and tribulations that come with that was so beautifully written. The twists, turns, and possible romantic interests kept me reading for hours! So glad I was able to read this early!