Killer Vibes by Jack Friday ~ a Review

by MK French

Peter Key never apologized for being a lazy bisexual stoner. He inherits a dilapidated house in Austin from an uncle he barely knew, and everyone is pressuring him to sell. He's contrary by nature, but when he finds a bag of cash, he's sure his uncle didn't die of natural causes. People aren't playing by the rules, but he doesn't either.

Amazon affiliate links are used on this site. A free book was provided for an honest review.

July 2026; Minotaur Books; 978-1250428615
audio, ebook, print (352 pages); cozy mystery

Killer Vibes is the first Peter Key novel, and it is full of quirky characters. Most people wouldn't necessarily think of Austin, Texas, as a place where cozy mystery novels could take place, but it's a town full of niche locations and different groups of people that give it a small-town feel. Death and spousal abuse are mentioned, but generally off-page, adding to the cozier feel to the story.

The Set-Up

Peter is from a relatively dysfunctional family, but they care about him and his well-being. He has no real education or job prospects, and had spent his time prior to the start of the book as a short-term weed dealer who literally has hours to find a place to stay when he finds out about his uncle's death and his inheritance.

Creepy Characters & Death Threats

From the start, people are creepy and know too much about his circumstances, and he gets multiple warnings to sell the house and be done with it. It makes him more contrary, especially with nowhere else he can go. As threats begin rolling in and there are attempts on his life, Peter understands that there is a much larger picture to his uncle's death, and it involves the bag of cash he finds. Everyone wants it and is desperate for money. Peter makes a few new friends in Austin, including a private detective who hires him to keep him safe.

A Morally-Gray Leading Man

Peter is a fun character, a bisexual hipster who doesn't act ironic or better than others. He generally has low motivation, but wants to do the right thing in response to his uncle's death and the abusive quality powerful people hold over others. As off as his moral compass seems at first, it's definitely better than several other characters in the book. 

The Verdict

The story drew me in, and I had to know what happened to Uncle Forrest and what was going on with all of the people involved. It's a fun mystery, and I look forward to seeing Peter in more adventures. 

Buy Killer Vibes at Amazon

Born and raised in New York City, M.K. French started writing stories when very young, dreaming of different worlds and places to visit. She always had an interest in folklore, fairy tales, and the macabre, which has definitely influenced her work. She currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, three young children, and a golden retriever.

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