Wicked Appetite (Lizzy & Diesel, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Janet Evanovich's "Wicked Appetite," the first book in the Lizzy & Diesel series, introduces us to Elizabeth "Lizzy" Tucker, a former FBI profiler with a penchant for trouble, and Diesel, a charming but dangerous ex-con with a checkered past. The novel centers around their unlikely partnership forged through a shared adversary and a hefty sum of money.

The story begins with Lizzy being hired by the notoriously wealthy and eccentric Mr. Pickford to track down his missing niece, the alluring and secretive Tessa. Pickford, convinced Tessa's disappearance is linked to the infamous – and extremely dangerous – crime syndicate known as "The Family," offers Lizzy a substantial reward, a proposition she can't refuse given her own financial struggles.

Lizzy's investigation quickly leads her to Diesel, a man with a deep understanding of The Family's operations and a personal vendetta against them. Their initial interactions are tense, showcasing their contrasting personalities and approaches to crime-solving. Lizzy is methodical and analytical, relying on her profiling skills, while Diesel is impulsive, relying on his street smarts and physical prowess. Despite their differences, a grudging respect, and eventually a simmering attraction, begins to develop between them.

Their joint pursuit of Tessa takes them through the seedy underbelly of New Jersey, exposing them to various dangerous characters within The Family's network. They face numerous challenges, navigating treacherous encounters with ruthless gangsters and uncovering a complex web of deceit and betrayal. As Lizzy and Diesel delve deeper into the case, they discover Tessa isn't just a missing heiress; she’s deeply embroiled in The Family's operations, and her disappearance might be more of a strategic maneuver than a kidnapping.

Throughout the investigation, the narrative reveals more about Lizzy and Diesel's pasts. Lizzy grapples with lingering trauma from her time in the FBI, struggling to balance her professional skills with her personal demons. Diesel, meanwhile, struggles to reconcile his criminal past with his desire for a clean break. Their shared experiences and vulnerabilities slowly chip away at their initial mistrust, strengthening their bond.

The climax sees Lizzy and Diesel confronting The Family in a dramatic showdown, where their combined skills are essential to their survival and the resolution of the case. They ultimately expose a conspiracy that goes far beyond Tessa's disappearance, revealing shocking truths about The Family's inner workings and the true extent of their influence. While the case is resolved, the ending hints at the ongoing challenges Lizzy and Diesel will face, leaving the reader anticipating their future collaborations and the development of their complicated relationship.

The overarching themes of "Wicked Appetite" include redemption, the blurry line between good and evil, and the unpredictable nature of love and trust. The novel seamlessly blends action, suspense, romance, and humor, establishing a solid foundation for the ongoing Lizzy & Diesel series.