Hugo by Jennifer Millikin – Audiobook Review

Synopsis:

Retired fencing Olympian Hugo De la Vega enjoys a quiet life in Olive Township. His routine is disrupted when Mallory, a true crime podcaster, arrives to investigate his father’s unsolved murder. Mallory’s inquiry not only reopens old wounds but also sparks unexpected feelings between them. Complicating matters, Mallory is pregnant with someone else’s child. As they delve deeper into the mystery, danger looms, forcing Hugo to protect Mallory and confront his past.

My Thoughts:

From the moment I read the premise, a true crime podcaster investigating Hugo’s father’s cold case, I was hooked. The blend of mystery and romance kept me turning pages late into the night.

Hugo is the epitome of a golden retriever hero: loyal, protective, and utterly endearing. His interactions with Mallory are filled with tension, tenderness, and a touch of humor. Mallory, on the other hand, is determined, intelligent, and refreshingly real. Her pregnancy adds depth to her character and raises the stakes in their budding relationship.

The small-town setting of Olive Township provides a cozy backdrop, while the cold case adds an element of suspense that keeps the story engaging. The chemistry between Hugo and Mallory is palpable, and their journey from strangers to something more is both believable and heartwarming.

The Vibes It Brings:

🎙️ True Crime Enthusiast Meets Small-Town Hero
🕵️ Cold Case Investigation
🐶 Golden Retriever Energy
❤️ He Falls First
🤰 Pregnant—but Not His Baby
🏡 Forced Proximity in a Quaint Town
😢 Emotional Healing and Growth
🔥 Slow-Burn Romance with a Touch of Spice

Narration:

The audiobook narration by Marissa Clay, Aaron Donahue, and Hannah Chiclana brings the story to life. Each narrator captures their character’s essence, making the listening experience immersive. Their performances enhance the emotional depth and tension of the story, making it a compelling listen.

Final Thoughts:

Hugo is a captivating blend of romance and mystery that will appeal to fans of both genres. Jennifer Millikin delivers a story that’s heartfelt, suspenseful, and utterly satisfying. If you’re looking for a book that offers emotional depth, engaging characters, and a touch of intrigue, this one’s for you. Thank you to Jennifer Millikin and Valentine PR for the copy of Hugo. The opinions are my own.

Releases on May 29, 2025 – Preorder now!