12.31.2023 - The Heiress

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest thriller by Rachel Hawkins, with the audio perfectly narrated by Dan Bittner; Eliza Foss; John Pirhalla; Patti Murin - 5 stars!

Toddler Ruby McTavish was lost as a child and returned back from another family.  Her life has continued to be quite an adventure ever since.  She writes letters telling about those adventures and all her husbands before she dies at an elderly age.  Her adopted son, Cam, and his wife, Jules, leave their home in CO to go back to NC after being summoned by a cousin.  Cam is the rightful heir to Ashby House, a decision that has made the rest of the family upset.  Cam never wanted anything to do with his greedy family, but Jules convinced him to go back.  

Told from the viewpoints of Cam, Jules and Ruby (through her letters), this is such a wild and twisty ride.  Hawkins takes so many different events and time periods and seamlessly weaves them together into such a tale of family, greed, jealousy, power.  You will love to hate these characters!  And just when I thought the last twist was over, the ending blew me away.  Highly recommended!

12.29.2023 - The Weekend Retreat

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing Graydon House for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by Tara Laskowski - 4 stars!

The matriarch of the Van Ness family died, and the children haven't been back to the winery estate home since.  But they all gather to celebrate the birthday of the twins, Harper and Richard.  Harper brings husband, Lucas; Richard his wife, Elle; and their youngest brother, Zach, brings his girlfriend, Lauren., who is meeting the family for the first time.  The three couples are all looking for some relaxation time, but with everyone keeping secrets and old tensions coming to the surface, it's anything but relaxing.  

This was an atmospheric thriller, complete with brewing storm and mansion with loads of secret passageways and tunnels.  Told in multiple POV, we learn all the secrets and even hear from a mysterious party guest, who definitely has ulterior motives.  I liked the short chapters and kept telling myself, just one more.  Loved the twist ending!  Another intriguing read by this author!

12.28.2023 - Dying to be Her

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for gifting me an audio ARC of the latest rerelease of this book by Gregg Olsen and narrated by Karen Peakes - 4 stars!

Identical twins Hayley and Taylor once again feature prominently as their best friend, Beth, has an exchange student living with her and she is found dead at a party where all three girls were in attendance.  The teenage host of the party, Brianna, doesn't seem bothered by the fact that a girl died in her home.  In addition, the twins find out more about the bus accident they were badly injured in ten years ago 

While I don't always read YA fiction, I do always love to read Gregg Olsen's books.  I would definitely recommend reading the first in this series, although it would work as a standalone.  But it features very similar threads and I enjoyed getting the complete picture.  A good mystery that I again didn't figure out.  The narrator did a great job as well!

12.28.2023 - Beneath Her Skin

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for gifting me an audio ARC of the latest rerelease of this book by Gregg Olsen and narrated by Karen Peakes - 4 stars!

Identical twins Hayley and Taylor were in a horrific bus accident ten years ago when they were 5.  They were among the few survivors.  Another survivor, Katelyn, was just found dead in her bathtub.  The officials are ruling it suicide, but there are still questions.  Especially because the twins have a secret - they can communicate with the dead.  

While I don't always read YA fiction, I do always love to read Gregg Olsen's books.  I thought this was a good mystery and I liked the supernatural parts and the twin connection.  There are lots of secrets and twists here, and I didn't see them coming.

12.27.2023 - In a Quiet Town

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing MIRA for gifting me an ARC of the latest thriller by Amber Garza - 4.5 stars!

Tatum is struggling - her husband is the pastor in town, but his controlling and disapproving ways made their daughter leave the family home.  He's also very dismissive of Tatum's health issues.  Slowly, Tatum starts to rebuild a relationship with Adrienne by secret visits with her at the bar where she works.  But when Tatum shows up on one of her usual nights, she finds out Adrienne didn't show up for work and no one has heard from her.  Despite what her husband says, she begins investigating.  

This was a good mystery, complete with lots of twists and turns.  But I really liked going along on this mother's journey as she begins to stand up for herself, her daughter, her health and her feelings.  Told from multiple POV - The Mother, The Daughter and The Fiancé - and timelines, we get the backstories that lead up the present day happenings.  Short chapters and tense writing kept me glued to the pages!

12.26.2023 - No One Needs to Know

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Random House Ballantine Bantam for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Lindsay Cameron - 4.5 stars!

Manhattan is a dog eat dog world, full of secrets, especially for three mothers who will stop at nothing to ensure their children get into the top schools - but does that include murder?  Enter a neighborhood internet message board - UrbanMyth - that groups users by zip code and promises to be totally anonymous.  So Heather, Norah, and Poppy feel comfortable sharing and reading about each other's secret lives.  Until the website gets hacked.

I always like a good domestic thriller and this one definitely fit the bill.  It was just a fun, juicy look into how the other half (or top 1%?) live.  The story was told from the viewpoints of these three women, along with website posts and emails to the investigators.  It's definitely a cautionary tale of social media for both children and adults as well.  I raced through this one!

12.25.2023 - Two Dead Wives

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/MIRA for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Adele Parks, and the sequel to Woman Last Seen - 4 stars!

Kylie has gone missing, is presumed dead, and the secret she kept - being married to two different men - is now out.  It's all been too much and has devastated her husband Mark, along with her stepsons Oli and Seb, and her younger, rich husband, Daan.  It's Daan who is the main suspect in the case, but DCI Clements isn't convinced.  Meanwhile, on the Dorset coast, Stacie is back home with her father after having brain cancer surgery.  She's recovering but has lost her memories.  

While this is a sequel, it definitely works as a standalone.  I read the first, and although the details kind of escaped me, it was interesting to see how it all turned out.  I thought this was another well-written, roller coaster thriller from Parks and I enjoyed it, even though some of the storyline was a bit over the top.  Told from many different viewpoints, it was good to see how all the pieces came together.  Plus, Covid was used as a very effective plot point in the story.  Loved the stepsons and the ending was perfect.

12.20.2023 - The Last Caretaker

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by a favorite, Jessica Strasser - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Fresh out of her divorce, Katie needs a new start.  Her best friend, Bess, offers her a caretaking job at the nature preserve where she works.  It comes with housing, quiet, and nature - all things that will hopefully sooth Katie's soul.  But something is a bit wrong - the previous caretaker seemingly left without taking any of her belongings and no one has heard from her.  Then, on her first night there, she learns that her home is also an underground safe house for domestic violence victims.  Suddenly, Katie's world turns upside down once again, and she's not sure who she can trust.

I loved this book and the strong women characters inside.  The tension and fear echoed through the pages and I felt like I was along with Katie on her journey.   Just like Katie, I wasn't sure who I could trust, but I admired how so many of these women lived the mantra that it's always better to do the right thing, no matter what.  But will the cost be too high?  Another wonderful book by Jessica Strasser!

12.19.2023 - Miss Wrong and Mr. Right

  

Many thanks to NetGalley and Raven Street Publishing for gifting me an audio ARC of this romantic comedy by Robert Bryndza - 4 stars!

Natalie Love left her first love, Jamie, at the altar, just not ready to commit.  She went on a trip to London with her grandmother and never came back home to Devon.  She went on to start and run a successful theater company and has a new boyfriend, Benjamin.  Plus, there appears to be chemistry with the star of her new show, Ryan. Then her gran shows up at her doorstop, luggage in hand, and Jamie is in town, also running a new theater.  Whew!

.If you know and love Robert Bryndza from his crime novels like I do, this was a fun departure!  This book was full of good and crazy characters, and the audio narration made it even better.  Natalie's Hungarian gran stole every scene - she was delightful!  Certainly lots of life lessons amid the lightness too, about friendship, loyalty, second chances.  

12.18.2023 - When We Were Enemies

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing Amazon Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest novel by Emily Bleeker - 4.5 stars!

Elise Branson is somewhat of an anomaly in her family.  Both her mother and grandmother were famous actors in their time, but Elise prefers to be more anonymous and definitely not in front of the camera.  But when her mother's latest boyfriend wants to do a documentary about her grandmother's time working at a POW camp in Indiana, she gets forced into having her wedding there at a small chapel on the base.  But secrets may come out that no one wants made public.

This book is set in two different time periods.  Vivian is Elise's grandmother, and we learn of her time working at the camp where Italian prisoners are being held.  She ends up being an interpreter and also singing and hostessing at the local USO club.  I had no clue that there was a POW camp in Indiana, so this was very interesting.  Both timelines had similar threads and were both intriguing - I also liked the Catholic ties going throughout the family in different ways.  Great book!  

12.14.2023 - I Know What You Did

Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful debut novel by Cayce Osborne - 5 stars!  I also listened to this on audiobook and adored the narration by Hillary Huber and I highly recommend listening to her voice Petta!

A bestselling novel is suddenly everywhere in Petal's world - and when she finally takes a look at it, it's a fictionalized story of the death of her high school friend, blaming her for the murder.  Only one other person knows the truth about what happened that night, Jenny, the other friend in their circle.  Jenny hasn't been heard of since, so Petta heads from NYC to Madison WI to see if she can find out who the mysterious author is and why they wrote this book.  But the investigation just opens more questions and now Petta herself could be in danger.

Petta was such an amazing character - I loved her snarky attitude and running commentary.  She was just so much fun.  She had been surrounded by death since her childhood and developed a thick skin and not letting anyone get too close.  This was a good mystery too, tense and suspenseful and I had no idea who the culprit was.  This was a fabulous debut and I can't wait to read more from this author!

12.12.2023 - A Different Kind of Gone

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by a favorite, Catherine Ryan Hyde - 5 stars!

Nineteen-year-old Jill Moss goes on a camping/hiking trip with her boyfriend, Jake, in a small town on the border of Arizona and Utah.  Witnesses see Jake grab Jill and pull her back to their campsite after a fight.  Then she disappears and everyone fears the worst.  Norma lives by herself, with only her dogs and horse as companions.  She is a member of the search and rescue team called in to search for Jill.  She finds her alive, scared that if she goes back, Jake will kill her.  Against her better judgment, she finds a way to get Jill back to her parents.  Then five years later, history repeats itself with another young girl.  And Norma is left with an even bigger decision.

Catherine Ryan Hyde is an automatic read for me ever since Pay it Forward.  While the dialogue is too good to be true, part of that is why I love her books.  You want to be able to think like Norma, to have her wisdom, her compassion, her heart.  Having dealt with domestic abuse personally, this book rang true in how it affects the entire family.  There's so much truth in this book, along with really tough decisions that will make you think long and hard about how you would make them.

12.11.2023 - For the Last Time

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the new thriller by Heidi Perks - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Erin, mother to young Sadie, is married to Will, and they are seeing a therapist, Maggie, to help get their relationship back on track.  Erin suddenly seems afraid of Will and is accusing him of terrible things.  Maggie can't quite figure how what's going on either, but finds herself becoming too closely involved when it seems that Erin knows something about the death of Maggie's teenage sister years ago.  Told from both their POV and interspersed with the present timeline where Erin .is in the hospital in a coma after a hit-and-run accident.  

This book pulled me in from the beginning because you're never sure who you can trust.  Is Will behaving badly or is Erin imagining things?  Both seem believable but both can't be right.  What connection do they have to Maggie's sister?  I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to see how it was all going to play out, and the ending was a real surprise!

12.11.2023 - After the Sleepover

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest thriller by Kerry Wilkinson, with the audio narrated by Olivia Darnely - 4 stars!

Twenty-five years ago, Leah had a sleepover with 3 friends.  By the time morning rolled around, Leah was the only one left.  Now history appears to be repeating itself.  Three boys decide to camp out near one of their homes; when morning dawns, they're gone.  

This is the second book in this series, which I didn't realize, but it definitely works as a stand alone too.  It's tense and as a parent, you can only imagine the heartbreak of both of these situations.  This one had an open ending, so I'm definitely hoping there is another book in this series!  

12.10.2023 - The Engagement Party

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Darby Kane - 4 stars!

On graduation weekend, Emily Hunt went missing.  Her body was found floating in a river.  The suspect was a loner who committed suicide, so the case was closed.  But not everyone was happy with that and someone wants revenge.  When the rest of their group of school friends gathers on a remote island to celebrate one of their engagements, bad things start happening.  They'll need to stop a killer - but who can they trust?

I'm a sucker for a locked-room mystery, and this was a good one.  Everyone was keeping secrets from each other and no one was above suspicion.  The atmosphere was tense and while most of the characters weren't likable, I couldn't wait to see how it all turned out.

12.5.2023 - Manner of Death

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest medical thriller by a favorite, Robin Cook - 5 stars!

Dr. Ryan Sullivan is a pathology resident, assigned to the Medical Examiner's Office for a month-long rotation.  However, he hates doing autopsies and does everything in his power to get out of them.  Chief Medical Examiner, Dr, Laurie Montgomery, has Ryan assist her on a suicide case in hopes of getting him intrigued.  It didn't work quite as planned - Ryan still abhors autopsies, but is now engrossed in a research project.  There have been a string of suicides with red flags pointing to possible homicides, but not enough evidence to definitively classify them as such.  But his research project may put all of them in danger.

This series featuring Laurie Montgomery and her husband, Dr Jack Stapleton, also an ME, have long been one of my favorites.  I somehow missed the last few, so definitely have to go back and rectify that.  These books can certainly be read as stand alones, but are much better with all the history between the characters.  This topic was so intriguing and topical, and I also learned a lot about medical legal investigators.  I can't wait for the next book in this series - always highly recommended if you love a medical thriller like I do!

12.5.2023 - The Year of Goodbyes and Hellos

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Harper Collins Christian and Thomas Nelson for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this wonderful book by Kelly Irvin and perfectly narrated by Jessica Holtan and Jeremy Childs - 5 stars!

Sisters Kristen and Sherri processed their childhood trauma differently.  Their mom passed away and their dad left.  Kristen became an oncologist and was all focused on her career, to the detriment of her husband and daughters.  Sherri led a much more balanced life until her diagnosis of ovarian cancer threw her world off orbit.  Kristen swooped in to manage and control every aspect of Sherri's care, moving her into the home she shares with her husband, Daniel.  While Sherri is doing her best to mend relationships and live her remaining days with grace and happiness, Kristen's focus on her work implodes her marriage and family.

While this is certainly a serious subject, this book was just so wonderful that I couldn't put it down.  I started reading it but quickly switched to the audio so that I could listen more.  You can't help but feel for the sisters, and while Daniel could have been a bit more understanding, he was certainly at his wit's end as well.  It's not a depressing story; it's instead filled with hope and faith bringing light into such darkness.  The author's note with her own cancer experience makes it all more real.

12.4.2023 - The Lies You Wrote

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer Amazon Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the new book by Brianna Labuskes - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Raisa Susanto, an FBI forensic linguist, is in Everly, Washington, partnered with psychologist Callum Kilkenny, to investigate whether a double murder is related to a decades-old crime.  Twenty-five years ago to the day, Alex Parker murdered his parents, then killed himself, leaving behind a confession note.  Also in town is a podcaster and a website moderator who are searching through all the conspiracy threads.  

Okay - I'm already so anxious for the next book in this series.  I was fascinated by the forensic linguistics, searching for clues in the way people talk and write.  It was a strong police procedural as well, and I never saw some of those twists coming.  I'm a big fan of this author and highly recommend this book!

12.3.2023 - Her Hidden Genius

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful historical fiction book by Marie Benedict - 4.5 stars!

Dr. Rosalind Franklin defied expectations all her life - born into a wealthy family, she was expected to marry well and spend her life giving back to the community.  But she was a scientist through and through, and became a pioneer in DNA research.  She had to fight not only her family expectations, but her male colleagues who never gave her fair due, and instead tried to take credit for her work.  Her work ended up taking her life at the age of 37 from cancer due to radiation exposure.

This was a fascinating look into the science of what makes us us, discovered by a woman mostly forgotten by history..  Dr Franklin literally devoted her life to her work.  It's sad to read how she little was known of radiation effects at that time, and any possible worries easily dismissed.  It's also a look into how Jewish people were treated after the end of WWII.  Every time I read historical fiction, I just pray that we can do better going forward.

11.28.2023 - The Mystery Guest

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Ballantine for gifting me a digital ARC of the follow-up book to one of my favorites, The Maid, by Nita Prose - 5 sparkling stars!

Molly  is now Head Maid at the Regency Grand Hotel, now training Lily, to be a new maid.  When a famous author, JD Grimthorpe, drops dead on the floor of the hotel's tea room right before making a big announcement, Molly is once again being looked at as a suspect by Detective Stark.  While there are plenty of other suspects, Molly feels certain that she holds the key to this mystery, because long ago Molly knew the author and her beloved Gran was his maid.

This was one of my most anticipated reads, because I love this character so much.  Molly is pure innocence and lives out the life lessons that Gran taught her.  This book takes the reader back to Molly's childhood, giving even more depth to her character.  I enjoyed those "before" times with Molly and Gran as they worked together at the Grimthorpe mansion.  I flew through this book and then was sad it was over.  But I'm hoping we will hear more from Molly in the future!

11.27.2023 - The Other Half

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Vintage Anchor for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful book by Charlotte Vassell - 4 stars!

Rupert is the perfect example of "the other half" - he lives with no rules, , no job, no budget, no worries, no thoughts to his boorish behavior.  He decides to hold his 30th birthday party at the local McDonald's - but burgers aren't really on the menu.  Instead, it's champaign and cocaine.  When his girlfriend, Clemmie, is found dead the next day, who could have killed her?  Detective Caius Beauchamp just happened to be the one who found Clemmie, so he's in charge of her case, for now.  Because the other half extend into every part of life.  Can Caius find her killer before her case is turned over or forgotten?

I adored Caius and can't wait to read more of his story - because this is the first of hopefully more to come.  He's pining for a woman who left him and moved to France, so he has decided to change.  He tries to eat right, exercise, read the right books, but you know, life interferes. This was a good "who-dun-it" made even better by Caius and his coworkers.

11.26.2023 - The Islanders

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer Amazon Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest stand-alone thriller by Caroline Mitchell - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Claire and her husband, Daniel, and their daughter, Kitty, take refuge in Daniel's boyhood home located on remote Selkie Island off the Ireland coast.  Claire, a doctor, is devastated by guilt over the loss of a child in her care and Daniel hopes the island can provide her with time to heal.  But Claire can't escape the secrets that the house and Daniel's family hold tight - Daniel's parents were lost at sea and the history of the goings-on at the house linger.  When Kitty goes missing, Claire's world crumbles even farther.

Wow - this was such a creepy, atmospheric novel and the setting was a huge part of the plot.  The house is full of past ghosts and the family has kept so many secrets.  Told in two different timelines, we learn about Daniel's family and what was really going on inside their home.  But the twists - wow - they kept coming and I was shocked.  You've got to add this to your reading list!

11.24.2023 - The Christmas Party

 

Many thanks to the author for gifting me a digital ARC of the first book (of two, I believe) in the Bailey Family saga.

Erin and her husband Aaron are hosting their annual blowout Christmas party at the hotel they own and operate.  But this year, Erin is inviting her estranged mother and two sisters that she hasn't seen in over a decade.  Can they resolve their differences and move on?  Or are there way too many secrets going on for that to happen?

This was a light read and I enjoyed the sibling dynamic and trying to figure out what was going on.  I will definitely be up for reading the next in the series to find out what else is in store for this family!

11.22.2023 - There Should Have Been Eight

Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for gifting me a digital ARC of this novel by Nalini Singh and allowing me to take part in the book tour - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Seven friends gather at a crumbling mansion in New Zealand for a reunion of sorts.  They were all the best of friends years ago but much has happened in the interim.  They are still mourning the loss of Bea, and being back together and at the mansion where Bea and her sister Darcie spent time just brings everything to the forefront.  Then strange things start happening and no one knows who is responsible or who they can trust.

I love a locked room mystery and this one hit all the right notes - creepy mansion, half burned, remote location, a snowstorm that keeps them locked in.   There was even a creepy doll and hidden passages!   I also really liked Luna's character - a photographer who is losing her vision.  You could sympathize with her and feel her fear about her prognosis.  There's a lot going on here and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit!

11.21.23 - The Premonition

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and HighBridge Audio for gifting me an audio ARC of this newly-translated work of Banana Yoshimoto, beautifully narrated by Kathleen Li - 4 stars!

Yayoi is 19 years old, from a happy home, and a brother she's close to.  But she's always felt like there were things that she knew that she shouldn't, and things she thought she remembered.  She eventually decides to move in with her aunt, Yukino, who has always lived a very unusual life, not caring what anyone else thinks.  Slowly, Yayoi comes into new revelations about herself and her life.

This is a very quiet book, with quirky characters who march to the beat of their own drums.  But it's a story of family secrets, feelings that go deeper than what we've been told, and gaining confidence in believing our own thoughts.  It's a quick read and I loved the narrator's voice - it added to the quietness and thoughtfulness of the book.

11.17.2023 - Day

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House for gifting me a digital ARC of the new book by Pulitzer-prize winning author, Michael Cunningham - 4.5 stars rounded up!

On the same day, April 5th, on three consecutive years, 2019, 2020, and 2021, we get a glimpse into the days of a family.  Dan and Isabel live in Brooklyn with their two children, Nathan and Violet.  Isabel's brother, Robbie, lives in the attic.  Robbie is looking for a place he can afford on his teacher's salary while he contemplates going back to medical school.  We also meet Dan's brother, his friend, and son.

I loved this book - from the quiet cover to the quiet, beautiful prose inside.  While it takes place during Covid, that word is never mentioned.  It takes us back to that time, the fear, the anxiety, what it means to be family, and how everyone can fit together.  It takes us on a journey, familiar yet new, and I enjoyed every bit.

11.14.2023 - After Dark

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer Amazon Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest psychological thriller by Minka Kent - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Afton Teachout is trying to move on with her life, after being accused of killing her mom's boyfriend.  While she never had to go to jail, she was in a different type of prison.  Still living in the same small town where she is an outcast, she's trying hard to work and take care of her grandma.  When a sudden windfall comes into her life, she does all she can to help out her best friend, Sydney.  Sydney's family were always there for her when her mom wasn't.  But things soon spin out of Afton's control.

Best go into this one as blind as possible so that you can fully enjoy the ride!  I raced through this book and loved the alternate timelines so that we could get the whole picture of Afton and Sydney's past as well as the present events.  I really felt for these characters and wasn't sure how it was all going to end up.  Lots of possibly unreliable narrators and viewpoints to add to the mix!  Grab this one for sure!

11.12.2023 - The Good Part

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Group Putnam, GP Putnam Sons, for gifting me a digital ARC of the new book by Sophie Cousens - 5 stars!

Lucy Young is 26 and tired.  She's tired of her job, where she seems relegated to being the runner instead of an idea person, she's tired of her lousy apartment, she's tired of horrible dates, she's tired of being broke.  When she comes across a wishing machine one night after a particularly horrible date, she wishes that she could just get to the good part of life.  Then she wakes up the next morning in a completely new life.

I really loved the premise of this book - it seems we are always waiting for the good part to come and don't focus on the good parts right in front of us.  When Lucy wakes up after her wish is granted, she's happily married, the mother of two children, has a great job, no money worries.  But what did she miss to get there?  This book had me laughing - Lucy's son Felix is amazing - and really thinking about all that goes into making up the good parts of life.  The old adage is certainly true - be careful what you wish for!  Highly recommended! 

11.10.2023 - Husband and Wife

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest psychological thriller by a favorite, KL Slater - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Husbands and wives and the secrets they keep from each other.  Patrick and Luna head out to an overnight dinner event, leaving their son with his parents, Nicola and Cal.  They have a bad car accident and both end up in the hospital in serious condition.  A single mother was found murdered and now Nicola believes that Patrick or Luna may know something about it.  

I loved this twisty tale of both husband and wife relationships as well as those between parent and adult children.  Nicola is mourning the close relationship she once had with Patrick, and her and Cal worry that they won't be able to see their grandson.  I really felt for her and could feel the emotional roller coaster she was on, wanting to do the right thing but fearful of the repercussions to her family.  The story is told from multiple POVs and timelines, but each chapter is titled so there's no confusion.  I raced through this one!

11.8.2023 - Ravening

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group for gifting me a digital ARC of the second book in the Green Creek series by TJ Klune - 4 stars!

This is the story of Gordo whom we first met in Wolfsong, as witch of the Bennett pack.  Gordo struggles with his relationship with Mark, and with the pack in general after being left behind.  

I loved Gordo in Wolfsong, and how he stood up for Ox when he was so sorely needed.  This book explores Gordo's past while continuing the story and struggles of the Bennett wolf pack.  No one immerses you in a fantasy world quite like TJ Klune and I'm here for whatever he writes.  

11.8.2023 - The Day After the Party

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest psychological thriller by Nicole Trope - 4 stars!

Katelyn and Leah have been best friends since they were 6.  Leah's family basically took Katelyn under their wings, since her mom was neglectful and an alcoholic.  Decades later, Katelyn is throwing a big party to celebrate her 36th birthday and Leah is by her side as always.  But now the tables have turned a bit - Katelyn is happily married with a young daughter and Leah is divorced and struggling.  Katelyn wakes up the day after the party in the hospital with temporary amnesia and doesn't remember anything about the night.  But others do and it could cause huge problems for everyone.

This was a quick read - mostly because I kept turning the pages to see what exactly happened at the party!  I thought the relationship between Katelyn was so interesting and added much depth to the story.  While once Katelyn wanted Leah's life, now Leah wants Katelyn's.  I liked the flashbacks into their past that really explored the friendship dynamic.  Then there are those husbands!  Another good read by Nicole Trope!

11.6.2023 - When I'm Dead

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press Minotaur Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by Hannah Morrissey - 4.5 stars!

Black Harbor is a bleak, dying industrial town.  The job becomes personal when medical examiner Rowen discovers that her teenage daughter's friend has been killed.  Then things turn worse when her daughter, Chloe, is missing.  Together with her husband, Axel, a Black Harbor detective, they search for Chloe but their differing opinions may tear the family further apart.  

I love this Black Harbor series and it's getting better as it goes!  But each book focuses on a different group of people in town, with just a few mentions carrying over, so it's a great stand-alone read as well.  The atmosphere of the town adds to all the mystery, and the author keeps the tension high throughout.  I did feel for the parents - they are both devoted to their jobs, which takes them away from family at the most inconvenient of times.  Morrissey also captured the teenage viewpoint and the mean girl attitude that can devastate their targets.  I can't wait to read more in this series!

11.3.2023 - West Heart Kill

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor for gifting me a digital ARC of this debut novel by Dann McDorman - 4 stars!

Upstate NY at a private, isolated hunting club.  Add a raging storm and a cast full of rich, unfaithful, scheming characters.  End up with three corpses within four days.

Wow - this has to be hands-down the most unique murder mystery I remember reading!  Taking place during the Bicentennial weekend, this book reads sort of like a screenplay, where the reader is part of the production.  I loved all the side bits about the history of the genre and more.  It was a tad confusing to me for some reason, but that may just have been where my head was at when reading.  Because there's nothing better to me than discovering a new, creative way to tell a story - and this author nailed that!  Can't wait to see what he comes up with next.

11.3.2023 - My Daughter's Husband

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for gifting me the audio ARC of the sequel to My Daughter's Boyfriend, by Daniel Hurst.  The audio cast narration by Harrie Dobby, Adam Sims, and Tamsin Kennard was pitch perfect.  4 stars!

Years have passed since the events in My Daughter's Boyfriend, and Ellie is madly in love with Kyle.  They are getting married in Turkey and mom, Dawn, couldn't be happier.  Until she finds a letter that lets her believe that Kyle is lying.  Dawn will once again do whatever she has to in order to protect her daughter.

While it's more enjoyable to have read the first book before this one, the author provides all the necessary background.  Told from multiple POV, this is another fast-paced, tense thriller made better by the narration.  Pure entertainment!

11.3.2023 - The Gift

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Hollywood Upstairs Publishing and Dreamscape Select for gifting me an audio ARC of this short story by Freida McFadden and perfectly narrated by Alyson Krawchuk - 4.5 stars!

Stella is broke, even though she's working two jobs while her husband is in school.  It's Christmas Eve and it will be their first Christmas together.  She's desperate to find a memorable gift for him.  So when a pawn store owner offers her a trade, she can't refuse.

Inspired by the class O. Henry tale, The Gift of the Magi, this is a creepy story that McFadden fans will love.  I thought I knew where this would go, but the end left me shivering!  Behind the thriller, some good messages in here as well.

11.2.2023 - Christmas Presents

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Penzler Publishing Mysterious Press for gifting me a digital ARC of this novella by Lisa Unger - 4.5 stars!

Madeline is the survivor of a horrible night in her small town, that left her disfigured, one of her friends dead, and two others missing.  Her boyfriend at the time, Evan Handy, was convicted and is in jail.  Madeline now runs a bookstore in town and takes care of her father, the sheriff, who is recovering from a stroke.  A true crime podcaster, Harley, comes into town wanting to investigate those crimes and also more missing girls, most recently a young girl named Lolly.  But opening up the past is hard on everyone.

This is marketed as a novella, but it is a fully-fleshed thriller.  While it takes place at Christmastime, don't look for this to be a Hallmark story!  But it's definitely a suspenseful book with characters you will be rooting for, even when you may also be yelling at them to make different decisions!  Put this one on your Christmas thriller list!

11.1.2023 - The Exchange

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday for gifting me a digital ARC of the sequel to The Firm by John Grisham - 4 stars!

In the years after Mitch exposed all the corruption happening in his Memphis law firm, he and his wife, Abby, now have a new life in NYC with their twin boys.  A colleague and friend from Rome summons him to ask for his help on a huge construction project lawsuit, and asks that his daughter, Giovanna, a law associate, help Mitch.  They head to Libya but Mitch gets sick and Giovanna is forced to go on her own.  Then the worst happens and she is kidnapped.  Mitch and Abby are suddenly in the midst of a terrorist negotiation.

I love John Grisham's books but this is not a legal thriller as you might expect.  It's certainly a compelling thriller but more in the vein of terrorists and international politics.  I kept trying to figure out how Abby got so involved, and I never quite felt the connection to any of the characters.  But it's still a new John Grisham book and a must read!

10.31.2023 - The Christmas Appeal

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the Christmas follow-up to The Appeal by Janice Hallett - 5 stars once again!

Two lawyers are once again tasked by their retired professor to investigate an incident involving a local community theater group, The Fairway Players, as they prepare their Christmas production of Jack & the Beanstalk to raise money for the church roof.

I absolutely adored both of these books and am anxiously hoping there will be more to come!  The story once again unfolds strictly through texts, social media posts, letters, and police transcripts - and not all in chronological order.  The lawyers and readers are tasked with figuring out what's going on.  And there's a lot going on!  New cochairs of the theater group are quite controlling and the previous people in charge definitely aren't happy.  There's plenty of gossip, shenanigans, and possibly a dead body in the mix!  So creative and fun - highly recommended!

10.31.2023 - The Berry Pickers

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Catapult, and Recorded Books Media for gifting me an audio ARC of this wonderful debut novel by Amanda Peters, narrated by Aaliya Warbus and Jordan Waunch - 5 stars!

Every summer, a Mi’kmaq family from Nova Scotia travel down to Maine to pick blueberries.  One fateful summer, 4-year-old Ruthie disappears.  Her brother, Joe, was the last to see her and never gets over his guilt and angst.  In Maine, Norma grows up in a wealthy family, but her father is distant and her mother extremely over protective.  She often has dreams that feel more like memories.  

I loved this debut and felt so much for all the characters.  Told from the viewpoints of both Joe and Norma, we also learn about the Indigenous culture.  There is an overwhelming feeling of loss throughout, as well as how trauma carries forward in our lives.  But it's also hopeful, a story full of connection and found family.  I couldn't put it down and can't wait to read more from this author.

10.30.2023 - The Better Mother

Many thanks to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Emily Shiner - 4.5 stars!

Zoe is happily married to Ethan and a stay-at-home mother to toddler Anna.  Life is good.  Until teenaged Micah shows up at the door, saying his mom is gone and Ethan is his dad.  Zoe wants to do the right thing so she invites Micah in and tries to make him feel part of the family.  But things just seem off.

The story spools out between the perspectives of both Zoe and Micah.  There's a tense feeling of things just not being right - Micah seems too needy, is fascinated with Anna, and is lying.  I really felt for Zoe - she tried so hard to do the right thing for Ethan, as well as for Micah and Anna.  You could feel her inner turmoil.  It's a quick, well-written read with that twist at the end that I didn't see coming!  

10.30.2023 - Five Gold Rings

Many thanks to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Dreamscape Select for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the new book by Kristen Bailey, perfectly narrated by Harrie Dobby, and for allowing me to take part in the book tour - 5 stars!

Right before Christmas, Eve finds her boyfriend in the shower - with another woman.  So while her perfectly wrapped presents for his family sit under the tree awaiting their arrival at his big family party, Eve reacts by throwing all his things out their window.  She also finds a surprise present for her in the mix - a ring bought at the jewelry store where she works.  She flees there looking for comfort from the owners.  But the owners have their own issues - some mixups and 5 rings left to deliver before Christmas.  They enlist another coworker, Joe, who has secretly been in love with Eve, to help deliver the rings.

Even though it's almost Halloween and I should be reading scary books, it's never to early for Christmas stories, right?  Especially when they are filled with laughs, heartfelt moments, and lots of crazy situations.  You'll travel along in Joe's old Mini while the pair deliver the rings and make Christmas magic.  The characters are wonderful and you'll be rooting for all of them.  The narration was pitch perfect too - including the singing!  A must read going into Christmas from the author of the hilarious and sweet Sex Ed!

10.27.2023 - The Professor

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Flatiron Books and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest book by Lauren Nossett and wonderfully narrated by Saskia Maarleveld - 4.5 stars!

Ethan Haddock is found dead in his apartment, an apparent suicide, and everything points to a failed romance with one of his professors, Dr. Verena Sobek.  She is investigated and put on leave, pending results of the investigation, and social media is ruining what's left of her reputation.  Marlitt Kaplan, an ex-detective now a research assistant, is asked by her mother, another professor and colleague of Sobek's to investigate Ethan's death.  But Marlitt doesn't have the police force credentials to help her investigate, so she has to get creative.

This book follows Marlitt's story that started in Nossett's book The Resemblance, but it is certainly a stand alone.  I always enjoy books set in academia and this one doesn't disappoint.  Marlitt definitely makes questionable decisions in her investigation, but she has the best of intentions.  She's still missing her life on the police force, especially the relationship with her partner, Teddy.  The book was skillfully set in different POV - Marlitt, Verena and Him.  I never guessed the culprit - looking forward to more books by this author!

10.27.2023 - American Girl

Many thanks to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by a favorite, Wendy Walker - 5 stars!

Charlie is 17 years old, autistic, and desperate to leave small town Sawyer PA.  Her mom got pregnant with her in high school and has never stopped letting Charlie know that she doesn't want her to repeat that mistake.  Her stepfather has never been in her corner and now that they have 2 boys of their own, Charlie always feels left out.  So her family is the people that work with her at the sandwich shop in town.  When the shop owner, Clay Cooper, a man both feared and revered in town, is found dead, Charlie is going to keep her family safe at all costs.

Charlie is an absolutely amazing character, and I have my fingers crossed that Walker will give us an update into her life at some point!  She has developed a set of rules to live by, that keep her focused on her goals.  She has fierce loyalty to her friends, even when her own safety is at stake.  She takes the investigation of Coop's murder into her own hands, coming up with a new rule - don't trust anyone.  I've read fabulous reviews of the audiobook of this one, so I'm going to have to listen to that.  But the book is highly recommended!

10.24.2023 - Ruthless

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the third book in the wonderful Scandinavian police procedural series by Anne Mette Hancock - 5 stars!

Journalist Heloise Kaldan befriends a dying elderly man, Jan Frischof, who gives her what seems to be a deathbed confession that she just can't let go.  Her gut tells her that there is a bigger story here, but then he just as suddenly takes back what he said and warns Heloise to not look into anything for both their sakes.  Heloise begins investigating anyway, with the help of Detective Schafer, and it leads her to the possible murder and disappearance of young women.  Just how is Jan involved?  And is Heloise over her head?

This series keeps getting better.  I love the unique perspective of a journalist working with and befriending a police detective - their roles typically put them at odds, but their friendship helps them both.  Heloise is also involved with a group called Vigil, whose goal it is that no one should die alone.  The friendship that developed because of this was heartwarming, and such a noble cause.  This was tense, atmospheric, and a twisty end that I was not expecting.  You could certainly read this as a stand alone, but it's a wonderful series and I'm anxiously awaiting the next book!

10.24.2023 - The Lodge

Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture & Bookouture Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest thriller by a favorite, Sue Watson, beautifully narrated by both Alison Campbell and Tamsin Kenner, and for including me on the blog tour for this book - 5 stars!

Fiona is invited to a birthday party at a lodge in Cornwall by her mother-in-law.  Fiona is still recovering from her divorce from Scott, and his subsequent remarriage to Danni and their new daughter.  But Angela intimates that this might be the last birthday they celebrate together, so for her and the sake of their two teenagers, Fiona agrees to go.  As everyone gathers, including a chef Angela hired who is actually known to the group in other ways, snow begins to fall.  Then the police show up at the door with news that there was a hit and run and someone in their group may be guilty.  They are told they have to stay put.  Tensions mount between everyone, and then someone goes missing.

I love locked-room, atmospheric mysteries and love Sue Watson's books, so this is an absolute winner for me.  There are a lot of characters and everyone is not exactly they seem to be.  One of the best parts?  The last sentence of the novel is a question to the reader - love that!  Grab a cozy blanket, curl up in your favorite chair and don't miss this one!

10.22.2023 - Ana Turns

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Keylight Books, and Dreamscape Media for gifting me an audio ARC of this book by Lisa Gornick and wonderfully narrated by Petrea Burchard - 4.5 stars!

Today Ana turns 60.  Her mother's card stated that she had calculated how much it cost to raise Ana ($85,000); her son is going through a transition; her husband is a doctor addicted to pot since an injury; and she's been having a long-time affair with a married journalist.  We hear from all the important people in Ana's life on her birthday, filling in her past, as the evening celebration looms.

I loved the fact that this book featured a 60-year-old, still active and still figuring out her life.  Ana was consistently let down by her family, but is finally realizing that she has power over her own happiness and path in life.  While she may not have made the best choices along the way, she takes responsibility over them.  In doing so, she also lets other have responsibility over their lives and choices.  It's relatable, funny, poignant, and I loved the ending!

10.21.2023 - Dreaming of Water

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing, Amazon Publishing, for gifting me a digital ARC of the new book by a favorite, AJ Banner - 4.5 stars!

Astrid vowed never to return to Heron Bay, WA, after the tragedy of her little sister's drowning years ago.  Reeling from her divorce and the news that her best friend is now with her ex, she also gets a call from her beloved Aunt Maude, saying that Astrid needed to come right away to look at a letter she found.  When she gets there, she finds Maude on the floor, unconscious, and police fear at attack.  Now Astrid is desperate to find the letters that Maude told her about and to try and understand why someone would hurt Maude.  And is Astrid next?

This was an intriguing mystery, forcing Astrid to confront her past and all her family secrets.  Astrid never got over feeling guilty about her sister's death and her mom didn't help.  With Maude unable to speak, Astrid is left to try and figure things out on her own.  I also thought Astrid's job of document and handwriting analyzing was fascinating.  Another great read by this author!

10.20.2023 - The Museum of Failures

I really loved Honor, Thrity Umrigar's last novel, and this was another immersive story - 5 stars!

Remy left India for school in the US, but brought with him his bad feelings about his relationship with his mother.  He entrusted her care to others and hadn't returned in years.  He finally returns to India with plans to adopt a baby from a young pregnant girl.  His mother is in the hospital and has stopped talking.  Remy tries to help his mother recover and return home.  He finds a picture in her home that he doesn't understand - and his whole world is turned upside down when his mother finally uncovers a long-held family secret.  

This was another beautifully-written story and one that underlines the thought that we never know what someone's story is, even when that someone is a family member.  Remy is forced to reevaluate his entire relationship with his parents and the sacrifices that they made in his best interest, right or wrong.  I loved how Remy's wife, who stayed behind in Columbus, OH, supported Remy by saying that he needed to come home with no regrets - a real lesson to all of us.

10.18.2023 - Absolution

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Farrar, Straus & Giroux and Macmillan Audio for gifting me an audio ARC of the latest masterpiece by Alice McDermott, beautifully narrated by Jesse Vilinsky and Rachel Kenney - 5 stars!

In Saigon in 1963, two American wives meet and form a friendship of sorts.  Tricia is a newlywed, married to an engineer working for the US Navy Intelligence.  Charlene is a corporate spouse and mother of three, the obvious leader of all the American women.  She is on a mission to help relieve the horrible conditions she sees around here, collecting and distributing toys and food to hospitals, orphanages and even a leper colony.  Decades later, Charlene's daughter reaches out to Tricia, widowed and living in Washington, and the two share their experiences.  

Wow - what gorgeous writing.  I loved the epistolary manner the story was told - in the form of a long letter from Tricia to Charlene's now adult child, Rainey.  In this way, Tricia was able to emphasize the differences between now and then, which I thoroughly enjoyed, as well as talk about her past growing up in NY.  You will be transported to Vietnam early in the war and to a different era, when women were definitely second class citizens, especially in the military.  They didn't ask questions of their husbands, just packed up and moved to wherever they were sent, and even doctors chalked issues to women's emotions.  It's a look at how things were so different for different classes and peoples - parties for officers, while children begged in the streets.  Charlene wasn't always successful and was definitely controlling, but she did try to do what she could for others.  I adored the character of Dom and his wonderful big heart.  Highly recommended!

10.18.2023 - Sisters Under the Rising Sun

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest historical fiction novel by Heather Morris and wonderfully narrated by Laura Carmichael - 4.5 stars rounded up!

In the midst of WWII, English musician, Norah Chambers, places her young daughter Sally on a ship leaving Singapore, desperate to keep her safe from the Japanese army  Norah remains to care for her husband and elderly parents, knowing she may never see her child again.  Sister Nesta James, an Australian nurse, has enlisted to help Allied troops.  But as Singapore falls to the Japanese, she joins a group of people, including Norah, on a merchant ship.  Only days later, they are bombarded and the ship is sunk.  After surviving a day in the sea, Nesta and Norah reach a remote island, and are immediately captured by the Japanese and held in a POW camp.  They are starved and abused, but Norah and Nesta fight to help whoever they can.

This is another one of those heartbreaking stories that open your eyes to war atrocities, but also highlights the resiliency of people; in this case, incredibly strong women putting others first at all costs.  This is a book that is made much better by listening to the audiobook - the voice orchestra is not to be missed.  I love how these women found such a unique way to brighten all of their days and stand up for themselves.  This is powerful, especially when you read the afterword and gain further information about the real women in this story.  Highly recommended!