Before becoming proud new moms, Alice and her friends bonded more than a group of prenatal moms usually would, becoming accidental amateur sleuths and solving a crime together. Alice's son Jack is now already a year old, and Alice is keen to catch up on some sleep. When the opportunity presents itself to participate in an eco-protest, Alice and her friends chain themselves to trees and settle in for some overdue rest. The next morning, one of their fellow protestors is found strangled, leaving Alice and her friends entangled in a new crime that they can't help but want to get to the bottom of.

DEAD TIRED hits just the right spot. I ended up liking this one more than its predecessor, THE EXPECTANT DETECTIVES. I had so much fun revisiting the cozy town of Penton, as well as Alice, her group of friends, and their dogs. Honestly, Helen and the other dogs steal the show yet again, but I think that's to be expected. Helen is always up to no good and getting herself into some sticky messes. Alice is still a hot mess, although seemingly amplified in her postpartum state. She's still getting things done though, so I'd call that a win.

I really enjoyed the complex mystery with its many moving parts in DEAD TIRED. I had absolutely no clue who could be responsible for this whodunnit and ended up being quite surprised by the ending! Lastly, I love Ailes' writing style and sense of humour; I can't wait to see what's next for Alice and her friends.

I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher, Minotaur Books, of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions shared are my own.