10.12.2026 - Luna, Phoenix, Queen

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Knopf for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful novel by Julie Orringer.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Dava and Barr Pennington are both professors at a Midwestern university - his specialty is fiction writing and hers is English literature.  Dava is experiencing the ill effects of early-onset Alzheimer's disease and has to move to a memory care facility.  In the house alone, Barr discovers that Dava had been writing a novel, and he learns of her affair in the novel's pages.  Over the next two years, he rewrites the novel and publishes it as his own work.  

I loved this novel and the way it plays out.  Over decades, in eight parts, the story is gradually told in different voices, all in second person as though they were talking to the reader.  This way, we see how their marriage played out, the secrets and betrayals, the guilt, and yes, love in different forms. Dava's world was personally so impactful to me, as it will be to anyone who has dealt with memory issues in a loved one, and the author was so respectful of this world.  Get ready to be emotionally invested in this novel and especially with the dog, and all those who love and take care of her.  Plus, it will make you really think about the moral and ethical questions involved.  This is an absolute must read and is highly recommended!

10.12.2026 - Look What the Cat Dragged In

Many thanks to NetGalley, Flatiron Books, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me an audio ARC of the latest book by Jason Rekulak, narrated by the wonderful Stephanie Németh-Parker.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.25 stars!

Penny Padgett is a cartoonist who has written a series of books called Penny and Popcorn, based on her cat.  But one stormy night, Popcorn disappears.  Despite all her efforts, the cat can't be found, throwing Penny into a funk.  She agrees to go to a work party with her boyfriend, Dean, and he talks her into pet sitting for a cat named Godfrey.  But she soon realizes that Godfrey may not be an ordinary cat.

What a creepy story - by the last part, I was listening with a lump in my throat!  The wonderful narration made it even better, with the cat noises giving me chills along with the story.  The physical book is fully illustrated and I will have to get my hands on that when it comes out.  This is a creepy, eerie book that makes for perfect reading and listening during this spooky season.  

10.11.2026 - The Spirits

Many thanks to NetGalley, WW Norton & Co., and Recorded Books Media for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this contemporary Christmas Carol by Bonnie Jo Campbell, with the audiobook narrated by Christina Delaine.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.25 stars!

It is the night before Christmas, and a family has gathered at an isolated farmhouse in Michigan.  Sister is haunted by her father's death and has estranged herself from everyone, taking refuge in the plants and trees she tends.  A surprise guest appears for dinner, and the family begins to open up and talk about the event that changed all their lives.

This is a dark tale of a family haunted by the secrets and lies they each have kept.  It moves slowly as we learn what happened nine years ago, as well as all the trauma the family has endured.  It's very character driven and the atmosphere is dripping with foreboding, as each of the family members eventually shares their version of events.  While quite different from Dickens' version, it's still a tale of redemption and compassion for others, with a nod to the past, present and future.  The narration of this story added to the haunting feel of the narrative.

10.11.2026 - It Ends Here

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press who granted my wish to read the latest book from Heidi Perks.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

In a quiet seaside town, a shot rings out early in the morning from a small cafe.  A witness is able to describe the people inside but not all of the people are able to be identified quickly.  There are no demands and no word from inside.  Nothing about the scene makes sense and it's up to the detectives to figure it all out.

I thoroughly enjoyed this creative thriller.  Five people inside, one the shooter.  The story is told from the points of view of the detective, the gunman, and the loved ones waiting outside.  We learn each of their stories and secrets while they wait, each convinced that their loved one couldn't be the gunman.  But one of them is wrong.  It was fast-paced and tense, while also maintaining an emotional punch throughout.  It's a totally different twist on a typical locked-room type thriller, being privy to some private thoughts of the gunman, but not knowing the identity.  I raced through it and thought that the ending was satisfying as well.  

10.11.2026 - Killer in the Family

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Recorded Books Media for gifting me an audio ARC of this true crime collection by Melissa Moore and Michele Matrisciani, narrated by Libby McKnight.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Melissa Moore is the daughter of the notorious Happy Face Killer, and she has made it her life work to investigate and report on true crime stories, but with a focus on the victims.  There are 8 cases presented here, with a short synopsis of the crimes, the media coverage, and those left behind.  I appreciated the fact that the perpetrators of these crimes were not the focus, instead it was on the family members.  It was a dive into how parents, siblings, children came to grips with the fact that they love someone who could commit such heinous crimes.  It was a different side to true crime, and I listened to it in one sitting.  The narration was well done and kept me listening.

10.10.2026 - Every Story is a Love Story

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House for gifting me a digital ARC of the new book by Imbolo Mbue.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Three years ago, Wolo’s wife was killed in a tragic car accident, along with any hope of their future.  Now living a quiet life, he receives a letter from Victoria, the woman behind the wheel of the car involved in his wife's accident, asking to meet with him.  His family begs him to ignore it, but he eventually meets with her.  He begins to wonder if the road to healing can be shared.

This was a beautifully-written story about grief, loss, and forgiveness that will make you think about those important themes in a different way.  It's also about family, and the narrative goes back and forth in time as we learn the story of Wolo and Yoma.  It was a bit of a slow book, but one I was glad to have spent time with.

10.9.2026 - The Paris Files

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Viking Penguin | Pamela Dorman Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful book by Eva Jurczyk.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Genie doesn't have a great track record with romance, but that doesn't stop her from falling hard when she meets Jacob.  They agree to meet in Paris and rent a wonderful apartment and begin planning their life.  Everything is wonderful, until Jacob disappears.  Genie knows Jacob would never leave her, but her story doesn't quite hold up when talking to police.  Just what happened?

I love the creative way this story plays out, completely through police interviews, records, and audio transcripts from all the people involved.  Of course, everyone's got a different take and the reader is left wondering who or what to believe.  I kept changing my mind as to just what was happening and couldn't have been more wrong!  I couldn't read this one fast enough, plus I loved the Parisian setting and food descriptions.

10.9.2026 - Where There's Smoke

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the second book in the Coldren County series by Rachel Louise Adams.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Dolores is recently divorced and relocates to rural Wisconsin to work as a medical examiner and to be closer to family.  She's quickly pulled into a case when a body is found at the local slaughterhouse, and the case brings her FBI friends to town.  Someone is willing to go to extremes to stop them from finding the truth about the slaughterhouse murder.

I loved the first book in this series, No Rest for the Wicked, and this one was just as fabulous.  While I'd highly recommend starting with that one, you don't need to have read it to enjoy the follow-up.  The story is definitely gross and dark, but the characters shine brightly.  Both Dolores and Kate, a new FBI agent, are strong women who also have issues they are dealing with.  It's a tense and gripping police procedural, full of small town secrets and family drama.  Can't wait to see what's next for these characters!

10.7.2026 - Home for the Homicides

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press | Minotaur Books, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this first in a series novel by the wonderful duo of Elle Cosimano and Hannah Morrissey, with the audiobook perfectly narrated by the cast of Angela Dawe, Colin Donnell, and Patti Murin.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Welcome to Christmas, a town so cozy and charming it could be the backdrop of a Hallmark movie, where crime is never in season and it’s the holidays all year round. So when a tourist is found stabbed to death by an icicle in the middle of the town nativity scene, the local police are out of their depth—after all, how do you find a criminal in a town where crime doesn't exist?  Holly and Mark must solve the crime before the annual Jingle Bell Jubilee festival plus, whichever of them cracks the case will receive a promotion to Major Crimes—and there's only one spot.

This was just plain fun and I loved it - just the Christmas-themed names are worth the price of admission!  I found myself laughing out loud throughout the book, and the audiobook narration just made it all the better.  It's definitely a mystery, but on the lighter side due to all the Christmas shenanigans.  It's a bit bawdy and I can only imagine how much fun these two authors had writing this one.  It's the first in a series, so I'm waiting for the next for sure!

10.7.2026 - Counting Down to You

Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine | Dell for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by Emily Stone, always a must read for me.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Christmas was always the favorite time for Ali and her best friend, Robyn.  They would exchange Advent calendars filled with challenges the other had to complete.  But this Christmas, Robyn is gone.  She left Ali one last calendar with a promise to open in December.  The first challenge sends her to the Alps, taking a sabbatical from her job, and agreeing to work as a guest relations manager for a hotel for one month.  An inadvertent selfie with a stranger at the airport leads her coworkers to think she's dating her boss.  It gets complicated from there.

It's never too early for Christmas books, right?  Not when they are written by Emily Stone.  I loved the challenges that Robyn left for Ali, knowing her well enough to get her out of her comfort zone and moving towards a life without her best friend.  There's also some family drama here, as Ali hasn't spoken to her brother in a long while.  The romance angle was perfect, and was a good contrast to the themes of loss and grief.  I loved that the author included some challenges at the end for the reader to possibly undertake this holiday season.

10.7.2026 - Bad Words

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for gifting me a digital ARC of the debut novel by Rioghnach Robinson, this month's Good Morning America book club pick.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Parker Navarro’s debut novel sold at auction for $1.2M and was set to cement his career as an actor.  Then City Magazine book critic Selina Chan’s scathing review made it the flop of the decade.  Four years later, his new book is his shot at redemption;;for Selina, reviewing him again is a professional risk she can’t refuse. When her second takedown ignites a viral feud, both their fortunes shift overnight. But as the literary world feeds on their public sparring, a quieter dialogue begins - one that challenges everything they thought they knew about success, sincerity, and each other.

This is a novel that hits on a lot of points.  As a book lover and reviewer, you can see how easy it could be to get caught up in book blurbs, celebrity book picks, bestseller lists, and let them guide your opinion of a book.  This book explores both sides of that part of the literary world - author and critic - as well as the unfortunate issues of social media weighing in without the full story.  In addition, this is a wonderful romance as well, feeling real and nuanced, and I was rooting for both these characters.  There's also a discussion of family expectations and discourse, mental health, race, and culture.  This would be a perfect book club pick as there is so much to talk about!

10.6.2026 - The Memory of Borrowed Books

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for gifting me a digital ARC of the debut novel by Meg Anderson.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Claire is the librarian in the coastal town of Foxhollow Bay.  When the town announces the plan to shut it down, her life begins to crumble.  One night, while wandering the stacks after hours, she discovers a door that shouldn't exist, and a secret room lies beyond filled with books no one else can see.  Each book pulls her into memories of those who have passed through the doors of the library, and she knows she must do all she can to save the library.

This is a love story to the power of books and libraries in particular.  It's a reminder that every book can be special to someone at a moment in their life, and the library holds the power of more than just books alone.  It's also a story of the power of community and friends to help us when we need them the most.  A wonderful debut and I'm anxious for more from this author!

10.6.2026 - Newbourne Park

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Putnam Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by Jennifer Thorne.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.25 stars!

Martha is ready for a break after years of caring for her dying mother.  When her brother invites her to spend the weekend at the fabulous country estate where his friend works, Martha agrees to go.  She's been assured that security cameras will be off and staff gone.  Martha finally begins to relax.  Until nightfall, when the owner returns and she's not alone.  

This is hard to review without giving anything away, and trust me, it's way more fun to go in with no spoilers.  So don't read the reviews and just read the book!  It's quietly tense and foreboding until it goes way beyond that and veers into horrific!  It's written so well, and I loved Martha's character growth.  This is the perfect October read!

10.6.2026 - Do You See What I See?

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for gifting me a digital ARC of this novella by Peter Swanson.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.25 stars!

Nicholas Child's first book had modest success but he was just dumped by his publisher.  Then, his agent approaches him with an offer - spend Christmas with Marco Tavares, a best-selling author, and his family.  Marco has writer's block and his agent wants Nicholas to get him moving on the right path again.  But a feeling of dread hangs over the seaside house, and each guest has a reason to want their host dead.

A perfect novella that you can finish in one sitting to get you in a bit of Christmas spirit while it's not even Halloween!  I liked the creative way the story was told, with Nicholas narrating, complete with different versions, as he writes his version of events to a police detective.  Plus, there's a wonderful literary theme.  Add this to your Christmas list!

10.6.2026 - Birds of Prey

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Penzler Publishers | The Mysterious Press for gifting me a digital ARC of this short story collaboration, edited by CJ Box.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Harlan Coben put out a challenge to a group of highly-successful thriller articles - to pick a bird of prey and write a short story about it.  Trust me - they all stepped up and I loved them all.  Of course, in any short story collection you will like some more than others, but they are all unique and compelling.  Some even have ties to the authors' other books or series, which is fun.  There's an intro by each of the authors before their story, which was also interesting.  Pick this one up for sure!

10.5.2026 - Death of an Ordinary Man

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Mariner Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this quietly beautiful book by Sarah Perry.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

The author's father-in-law, David, is diagnosed with cancer and dies only 9 days later.  This story is the account of her and her husband tending to his father in his last days.  

Having lost my mother this year, this book rang so true and was so touching on many levels.  The author goes through each of David's end days, describing the factual parts of his care as well as the emotional and spiritual.  I loved how she went from not being able to imagine performing intimate care to feeling all the women carers before her, extending an arm to help her do what needed to be done.  Then, counting that as a gift to be performed for someone, also knowing that someone will someday be doing it for her.  It was interesting seeing the difference between the Hospice care David received and what I personally experienced in the US.  I felt bad that the family had to be the ones to make certain calls and decisions, and even had to go out and get the morphine prescriptions.  But at its heart, it shows that there is no ordinary man.  Everyone is important and we all go down the same paths, but we can help others with love, dignity, and respect.  

10.3.2026 - Dive Bar at the End of the Road

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this wonderfully creepy novel by Kelley Armstrong, with the audiobook perfectly narrated by the talented trio of Helen Laser, Sean Patrick Hopkins, and Shane Ghostkeeper.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

It's a dark, stormy night when a car swerves to avoid something, or someone, standing in the road, only to hit a fallen tree.  Four more cars will follow in a pileup no one can seem to avoid.  These strangers find themselves in a backwoods dive bar, waiting for daybreak and hoping for cell service.  But they soon notice that not everything is as it seems and going outside is a very bad idea.

I cannot believe this is a new-to-me author, but this is the perfect book to read for spooky season.  I listened to it on audiobook and would highly recommend that format because of the wonderful narration, which just added to the story for me.  It's such an atmospheric read, with the creepy woods around the bar and just everything feeling wrong - kind of like an old Twilight Zone episode.  There's also some good themes here to ponder but I don't want to reveal them in case I would inadvertently spoil anything.  It's a non-stop thrill ride that you won't be able to look away from.  

10.3.2026 - The Back Bedroom

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing | Amazon Original Stories, and Brilliance Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of this true crime story by Gregg Olsen, with the audiobook narrated by Karen Peakes. All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

In 1976, police found the decomposing body of Davey Weilbacher, just 3 years old, who had been beaten by those who should have loved him. The adults in the home claimed that Davey was possessed and that they were trying to rid him of the Devil.

Such a sad story, and another chapter in the unbelievable saga of people falling under the spell of one man, whether it be a family or a cult. It's heartbreaking that these people just went along with whatever the patriarch of this family said to do, and could inflict such trauma onto a toddler in the name of religion. The story is short and you can read it in one sitting, but poor Davey's plight will stay with you.  The audiobook narration was very well done - the narrator's voice added to the creepy feeling of the story.

10.1.2026 - A Field Guide to Death and Deceit

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful book by Michelle L. Cullen, the second in the Harry & Emma series.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Harry's long-ago girlfriend gets in touch after 50 years, begging him for his help, asking him to meet her at a farm on the outskirts of their town.  Emma, Harry's one-time caretaker and now partner, is suspicious and insists on joining him.  When they show up, Willow is nowhere to be found, but they discover the farm owner is dead.  When they return to Harry's home after being interviewed by the police, Willow is there with a story of a real estate scam involving the farm.  Harry decides to help her, even recruiting his brother and a neighbor in the investigation.  

I had to first go and read A Field Guide to Murder, and I recommend that one before this book so that you fully understand these two main characters.  I love books with smart, older characters who won't let a little physical ailment stop them from living their best life.  Harry and Emma such a good team and the investigation is taut and will leave you guessing.  Plus, there's a bit of humor and romance to keep things interesting.  I'm here anxiously awaiting the next book in this series!

10.1.2026 - The French Illusion

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by a long-time favorite, John Grisham.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Paul and Chelsea have the perfect fairytale wedding, and then head to Paris for a dream honeymoon.  But the dream turns to a nightmare when they are kidnapped while on a day trip.  Who would kidnap them and why?  It turns out they aren't the first couple this has happened to.  The search for clues stretches across borders, with the FBI, CIA and French Intelligence trying to work out what's happening.

A departure from his normal legal thrillers, this book lends more to a spy/espionage thriller, with cat-and-mouse covert operations, and Grisham nails this genre as well.  Still here is the tense, gripping plot line leaving you glued to the pages, with characters you will relate to and feel for.   I especially liked both Stuart Nash, an attorney, and Rae Claire, a CIA officer, who get pulled in for a rescue effort.   I also felt for the parents in this book, giving up everything for their children.  A great new read from a wonderful author!

10.1.2026 - Unreliable Narrator

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Putnam Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the new book by Araminta Hall.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Hope arrives at the isolated Shadowlands estate, excited to spend her summer assisting the writer Ambrose "Rosie" Glencourt.  Hope is swept up into an unfamiliar world, captivated by their brilliance, especially Tom, who resides on the property.  Ten years later, she is living in self-imposed exile when she opens Rosie's new bestseller and discovers it's a retelling of her time at Shadowlands and all she swore to keep hidden.  

This was an intriguing story and was true to its title - you didn't know who or what to believe.  It's a story of obsession, revenge, and people who take advantage of others for their own gain.  I was kept interested throughout, feeling for Hope, and enjoyed the twisting plot.

9.30.2026 - The Radiance

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Summit Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this novel by Ayad Akhtar.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 3 stars.

The synopsis...When a hit-and-run shatters more than his body, a writer is caught between revelation and madness as an uncanny pull toward a brilliant campus colleague ensnares him in a scandal that threatens to destroy them both. What begins as a provocative portrait of academic and cultural warfare deepens into erotic entanglement, the exposure of a family secret, and the mystery surrounding the narrator’s accident—both the violence and its aftermath.

This one is getting good reviews, but it's one that I felt I wasn't smart enough to understand from the beginning.  It's supposed to be auto fiction, but I don't know anything about the author so not sure how much is based in reality.  I just never connected to the story.  There is a lot going on but yet there's not a solid plot that I could follow.  I almost DNF'd it but I just can't do that so I soldiered on.  

9.27.2026 - Trad Wife

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Atria Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the new book by Sarah Langan.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Nothing is going right for journalist Jenny Kaplan.  When she gets the opportunity to go behind the curtain of the wildly-successful Mia Wright, the perfect trad wife of Black Swan Farm, she jumps at it.  She just needs to live with Mia and her family on the farm for one week, then submit a story about what she experiences.  But things are very different behind the online videos.

I have loved both of Langan's previous books, and they are all different.  This one is a slow burn horror that sneaks up on you until you can't look away.  It's dark, suspenseful, scary, and best gone in to cold.  It's not your typical trad wife book and it will have you reading late into the night - with the lights on. 

9.26.2026 - This is What Happens When Women Read

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Spiegel & Grau for gifting me a digital and audio ARC of this memoir by Julianna Glasse, with the author also narrating the audiobook.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 3.5 stars!

Julianna Glasse was an influential Christian pop star and author who sang at President Trump’s first national prayer breakfast, as well as an exemplary Christian wife of a professional baseball player.  But when she began reading and exploring other viewpoints, her own changed.  She eventually left her marriage and the church and began to educate herself and reach other women.

I have mixed feelings about this book.  The beginning was intriguing - raised in an evangelical household where men ruled, reading other books expanded her mind and changed her life.  But then we go on a somewhat confusing journey with her where she has an affair and later explores tantric sex (with plenty of descriptions).  I loved the title and the author did talk about books that were important to her conversion, but it just never quite hit the right note for me.  Glasse did a great job of narrating, definitely due to her musical background.  

9.26.2026 - Nightjars

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest horror novel by Michael Wehunt, with the audiobook brilliantly narrated by Matt Godfrey and Zura Johnson.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

On a first date, Luke Oshel's new crush never comes back from the restroom, but she leaves an old photograph under her napkin.  It's a photo of Luke as a child, a dead body in the shadows of his bedroom, and a masked man.  Luke has no memory of this event.  More photos appear with Luke posing with murder victims, and he falls back into paranoia.  But is it paranoia when all the evidence points to Luke?  

Oh my goodness - first, I would highly recommend listening to this one on audiobook.  The narration was great and the entire production extremely well done.  I would be engrossed in the story and then - boom - that haunting voice would be in my ears, scaring me half to death.  This is the perfect vampire story for heading into spooky reading season.  But it's more than that, and that's where this book shines.  There's such a strong emotional element here, with Luke's pregnant ex-wife and his daughter involved.   Full of dark family secrets, unreliable memories, creepy atmosphere, and vampires - definitely give this one a go!

9.25.2026 - Zenith Man

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing | Citadel for gifting me a digital ARC of this fascinating true crime story by McCracken Poston, Jr.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Alvin Ridley had been considered “different” his entire life in Ringgold, Georgia. One day in October 1997, Alvin called 911 to report the death of his wife. No one knew he was married or that anyone was even living with him. Alvin tried to tell the authorities he found his wife dead in her bed with her face in her pillow after an epileptic seizure, but the coroner believes it is a murder, and he is arrested.  McCracken Poston, Jr. was returning to his law career after losing a Congressional election and getting divorced.  He just can't believe Alvin is capable of murder, so agrees to represent him.

This is one of those stories that's almost hard to believe, and if it was anyone other than Poston representing him, Alvin would most probably have been found guilty.  Alvin is a difficult client, found later to be on the autism spectrum.  Mr. Poston was so incredibly compassionate to his client as well as skilled in the courtroom, and this is a fascinating read.  It's also a cautionary tale - it's easy to point the finger at those who are different than what society believes to be normal.  This story shows the other side of Alvin that people didn't see.  Very well written - like a John Grisham novel brought to real life.

9.24.2026 - The Vanishing Family

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday Books for gifting me a physical and digital ARC of the new book by Robert Kolker, author of Hidden Valley Road.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

In the town of Pleasant Hills, PA, Ollie and Jean have 9 children.  As the youngest, Barb was home to witness their bright and beautiful mother change into a neglectful, uncaring person.  Many years later, the family will learn they have a gene mutation for dementia.  This mutation hits people as young as in their 40s and changes them into people that their families barely recognize.  If they are positive, there is also a 50/50 chance that their children will inherit the gene as well.

What an incredibly heartbreaking story, told in such an amazing fashion that makes it impossible to look away.  Kolker follows this family over years, as they understand what is happening with their family.  Readers become witnesses as siblings and their offspring make the unimaginable decision on whether or not to get tested or have children.  This family is amazing as they take care of each other and fight for the possibility of a cure.  The author explains the scientific history of dementia in its varying forms, and even those tales are riveting.  It's so moving and beautiful and a testimony to the human spirit.  A must read.

9.24.2026 - A Double Life

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Highbridge Audio for gifting me an audio ARC of the latest true crime story by Mikita Brottman, narrated by Evan Sibley.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Teresa and Mark Sievers seemingly led a perfect life in Bonita Springs, Florida. Teresa ran a thriving medical practice specializing in anti-aging and holistic care. Mark, a former nurse, managed the business while home-schooling their two daughters. Then, in June 2015, the unimaginable Teresa was found bludgeoned to death in their kitchen.  

This is my third true crime tale by Mikita Brottman and all of them have been so well done.  I had not heard of this sad story before listening to this book.  The author writes a gripping story of a complex crime, where the evidence and facts are laid out succinctly.  The audio narration just added to the reporting, and kept me engaged from the very beginning.  Very well done.

9.24.2026 - Ahead of All Parting

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Spiegel & Grau for gifting me a digital ARC of this memoir by Barry Michels.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 3.5 stars!

Barry Michels was a psychotherapist who treated Hollywood’s creative and power elite. Along with his colleague Phil Stutz, he went on to write The Tools, a NYT bestseller.  Then he was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, a degenerative disease that also took his father's life.  This is the story of how Michels used the tools he helped create to find ways to continue living his life with joy.

I appreciated the author sharing his journey of finding meaning in his suffering.  It was interesting to see how a former self-described atheist turned to the comfort of God.  It's a good reminder to all of us that we aren't guaranteed an easy or long life, and we need to appreciate every day for the gift that it is.  

9.24.2026 - Cross My Heart, I Hope You Die

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful novel by Mallory Arnold.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Ruby, Nora, and Cham are strangers, until they realize that they are all dating the same man, Jason, and each have been swindled out of money.  They decide to teach him a lesson he'll never forget.  They decide to lure him to a secluded cabin in the mountains, but when he's found dead, things take a very wrong turn.  They have no idea who to trust now.

What dark fun this was!  If you like slasher movies, you're going to love this.  It's full of dark humor, a creepy atmosphere, even a cult!  And sure, it may be a bit over the top, but aren't all the best slasher movies?  I liked each of the strong female characters, each with their own secrets.  Told from multiple POV, with short chapters, I kept flipping the pages to see how it all turned out.  I had a lot of fun with this one - read this one during spooky season for sure!

9.23.2026 - Murder at the Grand Alpine Hotel

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful mystery by Lucy Foley, with characters by Agatha Christie.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Alpine Hotel is situated high in the Swiss Alps, accessible only by railway.  Meet our characters, not all of whom are here for a winter holiday - the notorious actress, the high-flying politician and his wife, the reckless friend, and the doctor.  And Miss Marple.  When a body is found and a blizzard traps them inside the hotel, only Miss Marple can figure out just what happened.

I'm a big fan of Agatha Christie's locked-room mysteries, and in Lucy Foley's capable hands, this is another winner.  The atmosphere is appropriately winter, with an interesting cast of characters, each with their own secrets.  With the list of suspects large, only Miss Marple could figure it all out.  Bravo to Foley for this wonderful story.  Agatha Christie would be proud.  Dare we hope for more?  Meanwhile, I'll be watching more of Miss Marple on tv.  

9.22.2026 - A Neighbor's Guide to Murder

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest novel by Louise Candlish.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 3.5 stars!

London's storied Columbia Mansions doesn't see much new life, so Gwen is thrilled when a new submitter, Pixie, moves in.  She brings a bright spot to Gwen's lonely existence, but as they relate more, she begins wondering about the relationship Pixie has with her live-in landlord, Alex.  She decides to investigate, opening up a big can of worms.

Don't let the cover fool you, this isn't quite a cozy mystery.  It's more of a slow-burn thriller with some darker themes.  I typically love books with older characters, but I never quite connected to Gwen because she kept making such bad decisions.  I did feel sad for her though, because she was treated badly by her children.  I typically love Candlish's books, so I'll be happily reading whatever she writes next!

9.22.2026 - A Thousand Monstrous Forms

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest horror novel by Saratoga Schaefer.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Artist Poppy Reed married Celia Marie Fox, after just a short period, and even though Celia has a track record of broken relationships.  Poppy was excited to move across the country to Celia's isolated manor, called Busirane.  But Busirane doesn't seem very welcoming to Poppe, with strange noises and happenings.  Plus, Celia seems oddly controlling, insisting that Poppy avoid the basement and not allowing her access to a car or keys to the locked rooms.  Then Celia leaves for a work trip, a storm hits, and Poppy is scared.  Even so, she ventures into the basement and is shocked at what she finds.

This is a retelling of Bluebeard, but since I know nothing about that, I can say that I wasn't influenced in the least!  I got to enjoy this one all on its own merit - and enjoy it I did.  This is such a creepy book and I never knew what was really happening and if Poppy was a reliable narrator.  The gothic feel, the isolated mansion, the storm, the gaslighting, the controlling - and that ending!  Read this one with the lights on!  Saratoga Schaefer is always a must read for me.

9.21.2026 - Love You More

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest romance by Emily Giffin.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Billy and Mick were high school sweethearts in Wisconsin until their paths took them different places after graduation.  Ten years later, Billy is a doctor in NYC, engaged to another doctor, when a call from Billy changes everything.  Billy heads back to Wisconsin and is faced with all she left behind, and a decision about where she wants to go in the future.

I always enjoy Emily Giffin's books and this was an easy read.  Without giving away any spoilers, some of the characters' emotions did seem a bit flat and unrealistic in their reactions.  But I still happily sat with this story until I was finished, anxious to know just what Billy would do.  I liked how the story went back in time to learn of Billy and Mack's relationship story.  Plus, Giffin incorporated characters with Down Syndrome and dementia very compassionately and realistically.  Always looking forward to her next book!

9.21.2026 - Call Off the Dark

Many thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow and HarperAudio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the debut novel by Hallie Shepherd, with the audiobook narrated by the fabulous Brittany Pressley.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Helen marries Wade just months after meeting him, when she was still in the throes of grief for her husband, Tyler, who was killed in a home invasion.  Wade takes her to his farmhouse in rural Washington where he lives off-grid.  She tries to do the trad-wife life that Wade expects, but she can't sleep and is obsessed with poems about death.  Then a stranger shows up at their door, Isaac, who claims to be Wade's brother.  But Wade insists that Isaac is dead.  Helen isn't sure who or what to believe.

This was a slow-burn psychological thriller, with the tension ramping up throughout.  From the creepy setting, to Wade's controlling nature, to the strange animal behavior, just like Helen, I wasn't sure what was real.  I liked the way the story spooled out, going back in time to learn about Helen's past with Tyler.  A story centered on grief and longing, all wrapped up in a horror-like thriller, this was such a strong debut that left me thinking after I finished.  I listened to the audiobook and would highly recommend that format because of the fabulous narration work by Pressley.  Looking forward to more from this author!

9.20.2026 - It's Not What You Think

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Clare Mackintosh.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Nadeeka is certain Jamie is having an affair. She knows the tell-tale signs. She's been here before.  When Jamie claims to be at work late, she knows he's lying. He's with another woman, and she's determined to catch him in the act.  But when Nadeeka arrives home to confront him, Jamie can't explain himself. The house has become a crime scene…Jamie is dead.

This book just happens to be dedicated to me...For everyone who tells me that I Let You Go is your favorite book.  Mackintosh's debut book is always the book I recommend for a jaw-dropping twist.  Now I have this one to recommend as well!  Go into this one as blind as possible, knowing that nothing will be what you think.  What you will find is a timely, twisty crime/police procedural  with two strong women characters, told from different POV.  I sailed through this one, with my mouth gaping half the time.  Mackintosh always delivers but this one could be my new favorite!  Highly recommended - don't miss it!

9.19.2026 - The Little Monk and the Significance of Silence

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Morehouse Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of this quiet, meditative book by Zacharias Heyes.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

I have sat with this book for a long time, reading it slowly, trying to absorb and integrate some of these thoughts into my life.  It's a beautifully illustrated story of a curious monk who sets out on a journey to understand the silence within the Benedictine tradition.  Along the way, there is much for all of us to learn and think about.  There are quotes, questions, and exercises for us to begin to value silence in a world that is anything but.  I'll be continuing to learn from this.

9.19.2026 - Mr. and Mrs. Dixon Hide a Body

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for gifting me a digital ARC of this dark comedy book by Jennifer Holdich.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Daisy spends her days trying to figure out how to escape her abusive marriage to her controlling husband, James.  On the night before she plans to leave, they attend a local fundraiser and on the way home, Daisy accidentally strikes a pedestrian.  James insists they take the man home and hide the body.  Things get even worse from there.

I love a good dark comedy book, and this one had that in spades.  Daisy is such a fun character, even when she makes crazy decisions.  I love how she fights back with James in small but powerful ways.  Their housekeeper, Mrs. Billings, is a hoot too.  She's a kleptomaniac and Daisy leaves things out for her to steal.  This is very much a cat-and-mouse game as both Daisy and James grapple with the police and press.  A very entertaining read!

9.18.2026 - Falling for Peachtree Bluff

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest in the Peachtree Bluff series by Kristy Woodson Harvey.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Sisters Caroline, Sloane and Emerson seem settled in their lives, but nothing is quite as simple as it seems.  Caroline's almost ex-husband wants a second chance; meanwhile, she's besotted with Emerson's handsome younger costar.  Matriarch Ansley and her husband, Jack, are so happy, but is Jack keeping secrets?

How have I missed this series?  I'm sure it is even better if you started at the beginning, but I'm proof that you can read and enjoy this one as a standalone.  I loved the southern atmosphere, with family always at the forefront.  Plus, these are strong women characters and they certainly have their sisters' backs no matter what drama ensues.  I was thoroughly invested in these characters and their relationships - I'll definitely be reading the rest in this series and hoping for more!

9.17.2026 - Queenie is Working on It

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Gallery/Scout Press for gifting me the sequel to Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 3.5 stars rounded up!

Queenie is now 33, the editorial director for a media network promoting the voices of Black women.  A research appointment goes wrong and shows that her fertility may be compromised, even while she's not sure she even wants kids.  Everyone around her seems to have found their person and can start a family with ease, and Queenie feels out of sorts and that time is running out on all parts of her life.

It was fun reconnecting with Queenie, although in some ways she hasn't changed too much - like the title says, she's working on it.  I loved the family connection here because even when they can drive us crazy, they will want the best for us.  And sometimes, we just need to get out of the way.  

9.17.2026 - Hollow Bones

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest novel by one of my all-time favorites, Jodi Picoult.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

I anxiously await a new book from Jodi Picoult and this one is amazing.  As always, she completely researches her topics and gives the reader multiple viewpoints to make you think about both sides of an issue.  This one is best gone into blind, without any risk of spoilers, but know that it is ripped from the headlines in more ways than one.  I loved seeing Jesse from My Sister's Keeper all grown up (and there are spoilers embedded in this book in case you haven't read that one).  Be sure and read the author's note at the end for more insight into how this book was born.  This is an emotional, important read and I highly recommend it!

9.16.2026 - Never Say Die

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of this moving memoir by Ke Huy Quan.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Ke Huy Quan was a Vietnamese refugee who found himself a child actor in iconic 1980s movies - The Temple of Doom and The Goonies.  This is his story and it's so well-written and honest that it was hard to put down.  You would think that life would be smooth sailing, but roles dried up and it was decades later before he stepped back on camera to star in a film that would win him multiple awards, including an Oscar.  It's a story of believing in your dreams and doing whatever it takes, of resilience, and having people around you that will always be on your side.

9.15.2026 - Our Noble Selves

Many thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the new book by Kate Atkinson.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

It's post-war 1951 in Britain, and the government decides to put on The Festival of Britain to celebrate the country.  War reporter Harry Flynn needs a job and he joins a team of misfits getting the festival ready.  When one of Flynn's dates goes missing and he is determined to be the lat person to have seen her alive, he wonders if he could have somehow been responsible, since he can't quite remember the night.  In the midst of all the chaos, his ex-wife drops off Veronica, his 13-year-old stepdaughter and her dog, Mrs. Betty.  Let the fun begin.

I loved the humor amidst everything going on in this book, and it was a twisty tale filled with such intriguing characters.  It's a fascinating look at a piece of history I certainly knew nothing about, as well as the characters' recollections of their war experiences.  It's also a nod to class differences, and "boy" is a prime example of that theme.  Veronica was such a good character - strong, feisty, determined.  A great read!

9.15.2026 - I Am the Monster Under the Bed

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this debut thriller by Emily Zinnikas with the audio narration by Jenn Lee.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Willa always had a monster under the bed, one that taught her to read and was there for her.  Until the one night that a group of teens went into the woods behind her house, and Willa was the only survivor.  Years later, Willa comes back to town to attend the funeral of her mentor and teacher.  Staying in her old home, she hears noises from the basement and feels called back into the woods.  

What a strong debut - I loved the creepy feel to it with monsters under the bed and noises from the basement.  Willa is a strong character whose life has been changed by the tragedy when she was a teen, and the townspeople's opinions of her.  This book has the perfect combination of mystery, tension, supernatural vibes, and small town gossips and it kept me glued to the pages.  The audiobook production and narration was wonderful too, just amping up the creep factor.  Can't wait to read more from this author! 

9.15.2026 - One Split Second

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing | Thomas and Mercer, and Brilliance Publishing for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest book in the Tracy Crosswhite series by Robert Dugoni, with the audiobook perfectly narrated by Emily Sutton-Smith.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Detective Tracy Crosswhite is determined to help an old friend, Sheriff Jenny Almond, who has been charged with murder for shooting an unarmed veteran.  Tracy's husband, Dan, has stepped up to defend Jenny in court.  Meanwhile, Tracy's investigation draws her back to a cold case of a missing teenager that still haunts the community.  Could these two crimes be connected?

One of my absolute favorite series by a favorite writer, it's so nice to just slide back into this world with its familiar characters and see what's happening.  This book is the perfect combination of legal thriller, police procedural, and mystery.  It shows how a crime can have such long-reaching effects on a community and its residents.   It will work well as a stand alone, but getting to follow along with these characters has been a privilege, so I would highly recommend starting at the beginning!  I mostly listened to this one and the narration and production were top notch as well.  I'm here anxiously awaiting for more.

9.14.2026 - Dead Happy

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and Brilliance Publishing for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest book by Nick Spalding, with a cast narration of Maxim Reston, Eilidh Beaton, and Simon Mattacks.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Alex believes that taking risks adds to life, even though his daughter, Hannah, is concerned about him.  He's also determined to show Hannah that she needs to take risks too.  But then Alex takes things too far and the past comes to the surface.

The first part of this book was funny, but it did get a bit repetitive, with Alex taking more and more crazy risks.  But a shift in the story gives it a whole different feel.  It's a moving story about family, guilt, and trying to move forward.  Always look forward to this author's next book!

9.14.2026 - Something of a Calling

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest book by Zoje Stage, with the audiobook perfectly narrated by Jenn Lee.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Detective Andy Cooper is days away from retirement, not quite sure what her plans are after that.  After losing her daughter and getting divorced, her job is all she has.  Then bodies begin to turn up.  Murdered, but not by any obvious means.  A chance encounter with a stranger in town leads to an unexpected friendship, even though the two women are very different.  But Fiona has a secret too.

I listened to the audiobook for this one, and the narrator's voice was perfect for this story.  This one will make you think about our world in a very different way.  It's horror light, more quiet and thoughtful.  Always anxious to read anything from this author!

9.14.2026 - The Me I Used to Be

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing | Lake Union Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by a favorite, Kristan Higgins.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

In high school, Audrey, Micah, Jasmine and Beck were known as the Core Four, and they promised to be best friends forever. But the night after graduation, they’re in a devastating accident, and the friendship that seemed unbreakable is shattered.  Twenty-five years later, the four women agree to reunite for their high school reunion. None of them is where they hoped to be way back when, and all have scars and secrets. 

I'm not a crier, so when a book has me in ugly sobs, it's an automatic 5 star for me.  But because it's a Kristan Higgins book, there is plenty of humor and lightness to counteract the hard parts.  Told from the POV of the four friends in different timelines, we learn what happened to break up their friendship and what life was like for them afterwards.  This would be a great book club pick as well, with themes of friendship, parenthood, forgiveness, and making peace with the past.  Fabulous - highly recommended!

9.13.2026 - The Wonder of One

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing | Lake Union Publishing, and Brilliance Publishing for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest novel by Suzanne Redfearn, with the audio wonderfully narrated by Natalie Naudus and JD Jackson.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Vivien Kendall was born with a birthmark covering much of her face, and has been the target of much bullying and mistreatment, even by her own mother.  Thankfully, she was shown love from her Somalian nanny and her early teacher.  A chance encounter with an ice skating coach sets her dreams to skate in the Olympics.  Along the way, she'll discover the wonder of one - the power within each of us to change things.

This was another inspirational book by Redfearn, and a glorious coming-of-age story.  It's filled with themes of childhood trauma, parental neglect, prejudice, bullying, but also strength and determination, and a found family that will always have your back.  Told in varying timelines and from the POV of both Vivien and the local sheriff, there's also a murder to be solved..  The narration was beautiful although I always startled a bit when the deep voice of Jackson appeared!  A great read.  

9.12.2026 - The Witches of Cambridge

Many thanks to NetGalley and Scribner for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by Alice Hoffman, the first in a new series, and this month's Read with Jenna book club pick.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

In 1950's Cambridge, Massachusetts, Ava and Lauren meet at Radcliffe College.  Both are recruited to join the Lilith Society, a secret organization of witches dating back to colonial times.  As they learn more about their legacy, they form a close bond that will be put to the test.  They also realize that the witch trials of the past may not be as deeply buried as they once believed.

Alice Hoffman is the master of creating magical worlds where witches move among us, and I always look forward to immersing myself in her latest work.   This book certainly explores witches, but also the dark side of academia, friendship, love, and those outside the societal norms.  It's also a strong nod to strong female friendships, even as they ebb and flow.  Plus there are crows that just add to the atmospheric feel of this novel.  I'm excited that this is the start of a new series, and will be anxiously awaiting the next chapter.