Earthquake Shack is a sharp, inventive mystery that blends noir grit with something much more personal and heartfelt. I really liked Sadie. She’s flawed, funny, and tough, yet vulnerable in ways that sneak up on you. The San Francisco setting was vivid, with layers of history and atmosphere that gave the story real texture. The mix of mystery, family secrets, romance, and loss worked well overall, even if the pacing felt uneven at times. Still, I found myself pulled along by Sadie’s voice and her messy, complicated journey. A smart, engaging read.

I enjoyed this book so much! It pulled me in within 10 pages, and I couldn't get enough. The pace was fast enough to keep me holding on and reading. Sadie Garcia Miller is NOT a private investigator; she is a finder of lost objects. Set in San Francisco, the author vividly captured the environment and painted a clear picture of what was happening. Sadie lost her mother (Mexican) when she was still a child, raised by her father (culturally Jewish) until he died tragically in an auto accident when she was a young teen. Sadie is contacted by cousins on her father's side because they want to hire her to find an object for them. The cousins have a dark history. They're from New York and have historical ties to the mafia. Sadie has been warned her entire life to never ever engage with them. What the cousins offer Sadie (monetarily AND otherwise) is too valuable for Sadie to pass up. So begins the rollercoaster ride of her life.

I really enjoyed reading this book, it had that coming-of-age element and worked with the mystery going on in this book. I was engaged from the first page and thought the overall storyline worked together to tell the story that it needed to. The characters felt like they were real people and enjoyed the overall feel of this. Susie Hara has a strong writing style and am excited for more.

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!