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The Worst Detective Ever #11
Not on My Botch
She never thought she’d have to fight for the leading role in her own life . . .
Actress Joey Darling enjoys playing the part of Detective Raven Remington on her TV show Relentless. But for now, she’s enjoying some downtime with her new husband, Jackson Sullivan.
Joey’s peace is shattered when a woman comes into town, who not only looks and sounds like Joey, but who claims to actually be Joey. The resemblance is uncanny, but Joey has blundered her way through too many real-life episodes to let some impersonator ruin her life. She sets out to unmask this imposter and put an end to the woman’s charade.
But the real-life plot isn’t wrapped up in a nice, tidy bow like on TV. The case of her stolen identity soon turns into a dangerous fight for survival.
Will Joey have the chance to write the script for her own life? Or will her plans be botched one final time?
Actress Joey Darling enjoys playing the part of Detective Raven Remington on her TV show Relentless. But for now, she’s enjoying some downtime with her new husband, Jackson Sullivan.
Joey’s peace is shattered when a woman comes into town, who not only looks and sounds like Joey, but who claims to actually be Joey. The resemblance is uncanny, but Joey has blundered her way through too many real-life episodes to let some impersonator ruin her life. She sets out to unmask this imposter and put an end to the woman’s charade.
But the real-life plot isn’t wrapped up in a nice, tidy bow like on TV. The case of her stolen identity soon turns into a dangerous fight for survival.
Will Joey have the chance to write the script for her own life? Or will her plans be botched one final time?
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
134 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Christy Barritt
405 books1,632 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
February 17, 2023
“I knew what it was like to botch things.”
“It’s come to my attention that there’s a woman in the Outer Banks who’s impersonating me.”
“It’s never too late to turn things around.”
Another great addition to the Worst Detective Ever series. Joey is back to her usual antics, getting way too involved in an Outer Banks’ crime. But this one is very personal, as someone is impersonating her. I liked how this story had a lot of plots going on at the same time and how Christy Barritt pulled it all together. I was hooked immediately and had no clue what any of the reveals were going to be. Even though the ending was a little far-fetched, I still loved the book. And I will continue reading this funny mystery series.
“It’s come to my attention that there’s a woman in the Outer Banks who’s impersonating me.”
“It’s never too late to turn things around.”
Another great addition to the Worst Detective Ever series. Joey is back to her usual antics, getting way too involved in an Outer Banks’ crime. But this one is very personal, as someone is impersonating her. I liked how this story had a lot of plots going on at the same time and how Christy Barritt pulled it all together. I was hooked immediately and had no clue what any of the reveals were going to be. Even though the ending was a little far-fetched, I still loved the book. And I will continue reading this funny mystery series.
February 13, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! This is my favorite Christy Barritt series, so I was excited to see what kind of trouble Joey would find herself in this time.
Someone's wreaking havoc for Joey as they impersonate her, drawing attention wherever they go, all around town. I was just as curious as Joey to find out why they were doing it. What was their endgame? I couldn't read fast enough and finished it in record time.
I don't want to say too much, but there was also a bombshell revelation that, if true, has the potential to turn Joey's life upside down. If you're looking for fun and fast-paced mysteries that you can't put down, check out this series. You won't be disappointed.
Someone's wreaking havoc for Joey as they impersonate her, drawing attention wherever they go, all around town. I was just as curious as Joey to find out why they were doing it. What was their endgame? I couldn't read fast enough and finished it in record time.
I don't want to say too much, but there was also a bombshell revelation that, if true, has the potential to turn Joey's life upside down. If you're looking for fun and fast-paced mysteries that you can't put down, check out this series. You won't be disappointed.
February 10, 2023
If you have ever read any of The Worst Detective Ever mystery series, you will know Joey Darling manages to get mixed up in all sorts of situations, often dangerous to herself and others. She is not actually a private detective; however, she has played one for five years on the hit TV show, Relentless.
This book is #11 in this series, and whether you have read the others or not, each one can be read as a standalone. Christy always provides enough backstory on Joey that the reader knows exactly who she is. I suggest reading them all, however.
Another Joey Darling is too much to imagine, but there is in fact, a fake Joey in town pretending to be the real Joey Darling. She is appearing in public places around town, such as a grocery store and a coffee shop, videotaping herself and posting on social media. Strangely, the imposter looks and sounds very much like the real Joey.
Police Detective Jackson, Joey’s new husband gets involved in the case, when gun shots are fired at their house, and suddenly there is also a stranger claiming to be Joey’s Dad. Now there is not only a Fake Joey, but a Fake Joey’s Dad.
Christy’s characters are always well developed and most often have a sense of humor as they get into some sticky situations. This story is intriguing with many twists and turns as well as unexpected surprises. When I read a book by Christy Barritt, I often do so on the edge of my seat and sometimes never even put it down until the last page is turned. It is easy to get totally immersed in her captivating stories.
This book is #11 in this series, and whether you have read the others or not, each one can be read as a standalone. Christy always provides enough backstory on Joey that the reader knows exactly who she is. I suggest reading them all, however.
Another Joey Darling is too much to imagine, but there is in fact, a fake Joey in town pretending to be the real Joey Darling. She is appearing in public places around town, such as a grocery store and a coffee shop, videotaping herself and posting on social media. Strangely, the imposter looks and sounds very much like the real Joey.
Police Detective Jackson, Joey’s new husband gets involved in the case, when gun shots are fired at their house, and suddenly there is also a stranger claiming to be Joey’s Dad. Now there is not only a Fake Joey, but a Fake Joey’s Dad.
Christy’s characters are always well developed and most often have a sense of humor as they get into some sticky situations. This story is intriguing with many twists and turns as well as unexpected surprises. When I read a book by Christy Barritt, I often do so on the edge of my seat and sometimes never even put it down until the last page is turned. It is easy to get totally immersed in her captivating stories.
February 8, 2023
Not on My Botch by Christy Barritt returns to the world of Joey Darling. Fans of Barritt will be happy to return to Joey’s world as a married woman. With this edition, a woman is trying to take over her life and pretend to be her. With plenty of sightings in the same town, what could possibly go wrong? Barritt does a wonderful job at upping the mystery element with Joey and the impersonator. There are bullets flying, stolen artwork, and a mistaken identity. Barritt keeps readers guessing on what this impersonator really wants from Joey. Joey, of course, wants to figure this out while trying to navigate being a new wife. Jackson, her husband, makes a number of appearance, but it does not read more like a husband than the previous additions to Joey’s stories. Overall, a nice, cozy mystery that will reunite fans with Joey and her new world as a married woman. Barritt does leave a cliff-hanger at the end of this novel, so I hope this means there are more stories coming.
I received a complimentary copy of Not on My Botch by Christy Barritt, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of Not on My Botch by Christy Barritt, but the opinions stated are all my own.
February 20, 2023
Finally!
I had been impatiently waiting for another Joey Darling book and this was worth the wait! We catch up with Joey a couple months after the last book ended. Gunshots, a doppelganger, and a mystery man (or two) interrupt Joey 's first chance at some downtime with Jackson. Of course her nosey tendencies get her into trouble figuring it all out, much to his chagrin. We also get to see Dizzy, Phoebe, Zane, and other friendly faces. At the end there are a couple interesting parts that leave me guessing at a next book, but hopefully the wait won't be as long this time!
If you've missed Joey Darling as much as I have you, will enjoy this new installment. It reminds me more of the first 6 books than the last four, and I appreciate the story line continuing. The first 6 are definitely favorites of mine and this new one does not disappoint!
I had been impatiently waiting for another Joey Darling book and this was worth the wait! We catch up with Joey a couple months after the last book ended. Gunshots, a doppelganger, and a mystery man (or two) interrupt Joey 's first chance at some downtime with Jackson. Of course her nosey tendencies get her into trouble figuring it all out, much to his chagrin. We also get to see Dizzy, Phoebe, Zane, and other friendly faces. At the end there are a couple interesting parts that leave me guessing at a next book, but hopefully the wait won't be as long this time!
If you've missed Joey Darling as much as I have you, will enjoy this new installment. It reminds me more of the first 6 books than the last four, and I appreciate the story line continuing. The first 6 are definitely favorites of mine and this new one does not disappoint!
April 25, 2023
Now that Joey and Jackson have been happily married for 2 months, they are starting to settle into a routine. With her current filming hiatus, Joey is at home with Jackson, and while he's hard at work as a police detective, she's preparing herself for whatever her next role may be. When Joey discovers someone is pretending to be her, and doing it so convincingly even her closest friends are fooled, she wants to know why. Then when a man shows up claiming to be her biological father, and the police department receives word there's a hit out on somebody in town, Joey starts to think that all 3 things at the same time can't be a coincidence.
I have really enjoyed this series so far. They are funny and down to earth, although I feel like this was probably the least funny. I like everything I've read about this author so far and would highly recommend any of her books
I have really enjoyed this series so far. They are funny and down to earth, although I feel like this was probably the least funny. I like everything I've read about this author so far and would highly recommend any of her books
March 1, 2023
It was good to see Joey again but now she's married to Jackson and life looks great.
Until she discovers a woman who looks like her, sounds like her and is pretending to be her.
Joey is up to her old tricks that gets her into trouble more than once. But she is also loveable and fun to watch.
I loved where Barritt took Joey's story because it leaves me with the impression there is more to come!
If you've enjoyed other books in this series you'll love this one! You could jump into the serious now, but you get the fullest impact if you read the previous books.
Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the author but was under no obligation to provide a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Until she discovers a woman who looks like her, sounds like her and is pretending to be her.
Joey is up to her old tricks that gets her into trouble more than once. But she is also loveable and fun to watch.
I loved where Barritt took Joey's story because it leaves me with the impression there is more to come!
If you've enjoyed other books in this series you'll love this one! You could jump into the serious now, but you get the fullest impact if you read the previous books.
Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the author but was under no obligation to provide a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 4, 2025
This was possibly my favorite of the series. Joey and Jackson are married now, which cleared up the irritating angst. Some psycho tries to take over Joey's life and ruin everything for her. The spoilers for the who and why were pretty good. I saw it coming, but it didn't make it less entertaining. As usual, never enough Zane.
Quotes
“It’s never too late to turn things around.” I wasn’t sure where those words came from. Except that I knew I lived them myself. I was constantly in the process of trying to turn my life around. To let go of the old me and to improve the new me.
And sometimes I failed.
MaryAnn was a sweet, gentle soul . . . but sweet, gentle souls could still want revenge.
Quotes
“It’s never too late to turn things around.” I wasn’t sure where those words came from. Except that I knew I lived them myself. I was constantly in the process of trying to turn my life around. To let go of the old me and to improve the new me.
And sometimes I failed.
MaryAnn was a sweet, gentle soul . . . but sweet, gentle souls could still want revenge.
March 17, 2023
Joey never disappoints
I really enjoy the Worst Detective series. Joey is funny and goofy and very human. She struggles with trying to do the right thing - even when it gets her in trouble.
Joey's curiosity usually gets her in trouble and I love how Jackson balances things out with his serious, common sense, side. There were, as usual, several plot twists and enough distractions from Fake Joey, Fake Dad, Russians, a theft, mysterious messages and random shootings to keep Joey and Jackson on their toes. The good thing is... this book left a few doors open for another book, and I eagerly look forward to reading it!
I really enjoy the Worst Detective series. Joey is funny and goofy and very human. She struggles with trying to do the right thing - even when it gets her in trouble.
Joey's curiosity usually gets her in trouble and I love how Jackson balances things out with his serious, common sense, side. There were, as usual, several plot twists and enough distractions from Fake Joey, Fake Dad, Russians, a theft, mysterious messages and random shootings to keep Joey and Jackson on their toes. The good thing is... this book left a few doors open for another book, and I eagerly look forward to reading it!
February 8, 2023
I always enjoy reading a Joey Darling story, and this latest installment in The Worst Catch Detective Ever certainly didn't disappoint me. Someone is impersonating Joey Darling and is doing a great job at it. Joey is now married to her husband Detective
Jackson Sullivan who does his best to protect Joey. This was a great read with twists and turns as well as surprises and suspense. Not on My Botch kept me turning the pages as I was figuring out who the impersonator was and wanting to see how Joey navigate this predicament.
Jackson Sullivan who does his best to protect Joey. This was a great read with twists and turns as well as surprises and suspense. Not on My Botch kept me turning the pages as I was figuring out who the impersonator was and wanting to see how Joey navigate this predicament.
February 8, 2023
An afternoon or evening with Joey Darling is always worth the reading time. She's accidentally the center of several bizarre and deadly events. Thankfully, Joey has a cast of colorful characters to help, if not duped by her impersonator. Not on My Botch is an excellent addition to the Worst Detective collection.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
February 9, 2023
So fun to see Joey Darling back in action. Marriage hasn’t changed her except that she works well with Jackson all the time. Now some woman has come to town and pretends she’s Joey. This leads to conflict and crimes. The mystery surrounding her parents continues, making me long for the next book to come out soon. This suspenseful and intriguing addition to the series offers a great read. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
July 11, 2023
My thoughts: Not on My Botch is the latest in a long row of Joey Darling cozy mysteries. It is fun trying to figure this one out... I never did so it did keep me guessing. There were some untied strings so there could be another book in this collection. If you like cozies, police, movie stars, and trying to figure out puzzles, grab a copy of this book today. I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.
December 22, 2023
Love this cover, especially the purple :) :) :)
Can't get enough Joey stories and now she is married to Jackson and less selfish, wanting to be a better person and a better wife. Hated the culprit in this one and had no idea what her problem was. Immediately ordered Book 12 when I finished, such a great series! Also loved how Joey was concerned for her dog when bad guys were on the scene, love that Ripley.
Can't get enough Joey stories and now she is married to Jackson and less selfish, wanting to be a better person and a better wife. Hated the culprit in this one and had no idea what her problem was. Immediately ordered Book 12 when I finished, such a great series! Also loved how Joey was concerned for her dog when bad guys were on the scene, love that Ripley.
February 7, 2023
I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Joey Darling is being impersonated by a look alike and isn’t able to find her. Her new husband policeman Jackson Sullivan is kept busy keeping her safe and investigating clues. A fast paced book with many twists and turns to keep it interesting.
February 10, 2023
Immensely enjoy this could not put down mystery. I thought number 10 was the last of the series so I was surprised to see this new one. In this book you have a fake Joey who is very successful at faking who she is and you have a possible fake dad. Not all mysteries are resolved in this book so it is set up for possible new books in the future to resolve the unanswered question.
February 11, 2023
Poor Joey Darling!
Oh my goodness! Joey's life became dangerous and frustrating all at once. Someone is impersonating her, another claims to be her father, and there are shootings, kidnapping, and a slew of other happenings. I so look forward to books in this series that I finished it one day! Another winner!
Oh my goodness! Joey's life became dangerous and frustrating all at once. Someone is impersonating her, another claims to be her father, and there are shootings, kidnapping, and a slew of other happenings. I so look forward to books in this series that I finished it one day! Another winner!
February 27, 2023
What a refreshing series
I don't know when I have enjoyed a book series as much as I have with The Worst Detective. I laughed out loud, cried and had choice words for some of the antagonists. Once one ended I couldn't wait to get caught in another installment. I have just finished Book 11 and am hoping there is another on the horizon.
I don't know when I have enjoyed a book series as much as I have with The Worst Detective. I laughed out loud, cried and had choice words for some of the antagonists. Once one ended I couldn't wait to get caught in another installment. I have just finished Book 11 and am hoping there is another on the horizon.
March 20, 2023
What awaits around the corner
I always like Christ's books. Suspenseful and entertaining. This series is always fun and you wonder how one person can get into so many Chaotic situations. Jackson tries to keep her grounded and loves her in spite of her Curiosity and can't stay out of trouble.
I always like Christ's books. Suspenseful and entertaining. This series is always fun and you wonder how one person can get into so many Chaotic situations. Jackson tries to keep her grounded and loves her in spite of her Curiosity and can't stay out of trouble.
June 2, 2023
Joey just wants some time with her new husband, Jackson, but that doesn't seem to be in her immediate future when another "Joey" makes an appearance. All kind of confusion and conflict ensues as Joey and Jackson try to get to the bottom of the imposter's appearance. Failure could mean the end of Joey's career.
February 9, 2023
Joey is back!
With the loveable Joey Darling there is always sure to be a mystery with a good dose of humor. When Joey's reputation is on the line, she will turn to her new husband, Detective Jackson Sullivan for help.
This is definitely a favorite among Christy Barritt's book series!
With the loveable Joey Darling there is always sure to be a mystery with a good dose of humor. When Joey's reputation is on the line, she will turn to her new husband, Detective Jackson Sullivan for help.
This is definitely a favorite among Christy Barritt's book series!
February 10, 2023
Lots of characters
Loved the book. It was filled with compassion for the ones who messed up, a well thought out mystery that kept me guessing, and a town full of loving people. Did get a bit confused with so many characters though or it would be a 5*.
Loved the book. It was filled with compassion for the ones who messed up, a well thought out mystery that kept me guessing, and a town full of loving people. Did get a bit confused with so many characters though or it would be a 5*.
February 11, 2023
Awesome, amazing and great
Great book in this series and really hope there are going to be more. Christy Barritt is absolutely one of my favorite authors. Can't wait to read some more books by Christy Barritt.
Great book in this series and really hope there are going to be more. Christy Barritt is absolutely one of my favorite authors. Can't wait to read some more books by Christy Barritt.
February 13, 2023
Not on My Botch
A wonderful story featuring Joey Darling and her new detective husband, Jackson. This action packed story includes suspense, mystery, and intrigue with some slapstick comedy thrown in for good measure. It doesn’t disappoint.
A wonderful story featuring Joey Darling and her new detective husband, Jackson. This action packed story includes suspense, mystery, and intrigue with some slapstick comedy thrown in for good measure. It doesn’t disappoint.
February 17, 2023
I have enjoyed every single one of Christy Barritt’s books and this one did not disappoint! I enjoy the humor, the characters, the mysteries, all of it! I highly recommend this book, along with all her other books!
February 21, 2023
Cute story
This was a cute cozy mystery and addition to the worst detective ever series. It is a little unbelievable that this could actually happen but good story to pass the time.
This was a cute cozy mystery and addition to the worst detective ever series. It is a little unbelievable that this could actually happen but good story to pass the time.
February 24, 2023
Joey’s back!
Joey has a lot going on in this story, perhaps it’s good that she had a bit of a break before having to face it all! Personally, I’m glad Joey is back even if she has to fight for her career, her identity - her life. Get ready for a thrilling adventure.
Joey has a lot going on in this story, perhaps it’s good that she had a bit of a break before having to face it all! Personally, I’m glad Joey is back even if she has to fight for her career, her identity - her life. Get ready for a thrilling adventure.
February 24, 2023
Great characters
Another great book by Christy Barritt. I love the witty characters and storytelling. I never get tired of the crazy predicaments that Joey finds herself in. Highly recommend.
Another great book by Christy Barritt. I love the witty characters and storytelling. I never get tired of the crazy predicaments that Joey finds herself in. Highly recommend.
September 4, 2023
Great story!
Fast paced and a lot going on kept me interested! There were some twists in this story that I did not see coming, but were so good! I always enjoy a good Joey Darling story!
Fast paced and a lot going on kept me interested! There were some twists in this story that I did not see coming, but were so good! I always enjoy a good Joey Darling story!
January 9, 2024
not in my botch
This book was another good read by Christy Barritt. It was full of twists and turns that you couldn’t see coming. It’s definitely a must read if you enjoy Christy Barritt books.
This book was another good read by Christy Barritt. It was full of twists and turns that you couldn’t see coming. It’s definitely a must read if you enjoy Christy Barritt books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews