This was another great addition to the Diversion series. Just when you think Lucky has reached the pinnacle of personal development, he surprises the reader with more self introspection.

I am looking forward to the next book, but also dreading the reality that it is probably the last one.

As always, Darcy Stark does a wonderful job of capturing the voices and emotions of the Diversion cast.

The 8th installment in the Diversion series is like a comfy pair of slippers. It’s “just right”. A nice mix of story, comedy and family drama. The cast has grown into an ensemble, and Lucky and Bo are now surrounded by well-rounded, likable family and friends. They’re supposed to be settling into their new, safer, 9 to 5 roles. Bo is in training with Walter to be his successor; and Lucky is focusing on his new role as the department trainer. Then wouldn’t you know it; a case gets dumped in Lucky’s lap; and it’s personal. . Someone’s pushing fake aderalls at his nephew Ty’s school. The jocks are being targeted and since Ty made the soccer team he’s gotten caught up in the storm. Lucky’s more determined than ever to solve this case; especially when he discovers that it isn’t just his nephew and the high school kids getting messed with; there’s human trafficking involved.

Unfortunately, this case turns out to be wide reaching; and dangerous. But it also plays a pivotal role in bringing Lucky and Bo closer to their goal of becoming parents. And then, rinse and repeat – thank goodness Grandfathers N, and V. are in the wings. Decision wraps up in a good place if the series is over; however, it doesn’t feel like it is. Lucky and crew still have a lot more stories to tell. Personally, I don’t think the series can end before Lucky finds out that his sister Charlotte is totally dating his training recruit Salters (aka creepy stalker Nurse Jimmy).

Lucky and Bo are solid, No relationship drama. Plenty of life drama. Many heartwarming moments.

Audiobook - 4 stars

Story - 4.5 stars

- Freaking Amazing.

- Lucky and Bo, GAAAAHH!!

Bo and Lucky are a favorite couple, and the mysteries in this series are always satisfying. It's fun to watch Lucky moving (with some kicking and screaming just for the look of it) toward being a total family man. Lucky's sister, her kids, and every small person they encounter are already under Bo's protective orbit at once, but Lucky feels the same way, he just likes to hide it for the sake of his reputation. This sometimes leads them to misinterpret each other, and communication is still not the guys' strong point.

Lucky's distrust of authority is also a problem, now that Bo is authority, on his way to taking over Walter's job. Lucky's conflicts between trusting Bo but not his job, and knowing that Bo would be torn between his innately honest approach and Lucky's rule-bending, are tough to navigate. Add in an upcoming birthday, and the feeling that somehow time and the world are changing around Lucky and within him, and he's more than a bit unsettled.

The plot, as usual, held together well, with a crime that had some emotional resonance. We also got a brief visit from an old friend, and some time with our favorite secondary characters. A couple of the twists didn't come as much of a surprise, but the guys are quintessentially themselves, and I don't get tired of hanging out with these two man. Looking forward to the next one.