Friday, July 25, 2025

7.25.2025 - The Confessions

The Confessions by Paul Bradley Carr 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Atria Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Paul Bradley Carr.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

LLIAM is the world's most powerful supercomputer and it makes tough decisions for its users.  People have gotten used to not having to make any decisions on their own, until the day that LLIAM goes offline with no warning or explanation and the world is thrust into chaos.  Then letters start arriving, exposing people's secrets and crimes, all starting with "We must confess."  CEO Kaitlan Goss must track down the only person who can help - an ex-nun who taught LLIAM what it means to be human.  But Maud receives a letter to, revealing Caitlin's sin.

Written by a Silicon Valley journalist and owner of a bookstore, Paul Bradley Carr has written another intriguing story of the perils of technology (have you read 1414° yet?).  With all of our internet searches now answered by AI, this book tells of a not-so-distant future when we turn over all our decisions to a computer.  What about all the ethics involved in that?  This book is filled with characters crossing all kinds of lines to get what they want and what they think is best.  Full of non-stop thrills and action, this one will definitely make you think.

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

7.23.2025 - You Shouldn't Have Done That

You Shouldn't Have Done That by Liz Alterman 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Inkubator Books and Dreamscape Media for gifting me an audio ARC of the latest domestic thriller by Liz Alterman, with the audiobook narrated by Cat Protano.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Jane Whitaker and Ivy Chapman have been best friends for twenty years - ever since their sons Cal and Brad attended the same preschool.  Just as the two families are set to go to Wyoming for a ski vacation and to see their two sons who are rooming together, they get word that Cal is missing.  Brad's behavior is suspect - he has Cal's phone and didn't report him missing.  Cal's sister, Emerson, fuels the rumors by her social media posts.  How far will these mothers go to protect their children?

Buckle up for this ride!  There is not a likable character in the bunch and all of them have secrets and ulterior. motives.  But I was glued to listening to this audiobook, with the story playing out from multiple POVs, revealing differing sides of the story.  I'm always up for family messy dramas and these families had them in spades.  Friendships are tested and there's a nod to the dangers of social media as well.  I thought the audiobook production was spot on, even with all the different voices.  

Tuesday, July 22, 2025

7.22.2025 - Guess Again

Guess Again by Charlie Donlea 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing and Recorded Books Media for gifting me a physical, digital and audio ARC of the latest thriller by a favorite, Charlie Donlea, with the audiobook perfectly narrated by Vivienne Leheny.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Ten years ago, 17-year-old high school volleyball star Callie Jones vanished from her quiet Wisconsin lake community. A highly publicized search followed but her body was never found. The case went cold but the original investigator, Pete Kramer, never let it go.  Pete turns to Ethan Hall, his former partner who left law enforcement to become an ER doctor, to help him solve the case.  Ethan turns to his nemesis, currently in a maximum-security prison, for some assistance, but he may get more than he bargains for.

Wow!  As typical with Donlea's books, this one had me flipping the pages as fast as I could, and when I couldn't read, I was listening to the audiobook.  Told from multiple POV and timelines, we learn of multiple cases - from Callie's disappearance, to a serial killer's conquests, to Ethan's father's murder, to another missing girl  The plotting is perfection and I was blown away with how all these multiple plot lines came together in such a twisty fashion to keep me totally on my toes.  The best part?  The open ending that leaves hope that this isn't the last we will hear from Ethan.  The audiobook production was great - the narrator voiced all the characters so well and I appreciated the way her voice took on the qualities of different effects, to really immerse the reader in the experience.  Don't miss this one!

Sunday, July 20, 2025

7.20.2025 - Dead of Summer

Dead of Summer by Jessa Maxwell

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Atria Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Jessa Maxwell.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Orla and her best friend grew up on Hadley Island, and Orla was enamored with rich boy David who summered there.  But when Alice disappeared, everything changed.  Years later, Orla is back on the island to get her family home ready to sell.  David is also back at his family mansion along with his girlfriend, Faith. But things aren't going the way anyone planned this summer.

Told from dual timelines and from the POV of Orla, Faith, and Henry, who is a loner living on a private island who was always blamed for Alice's death.  This is a very atmospheric story with remote island settings from both the very rich to the very neglected.  Plus, there are multiple mysteries, not only what happened to Alice in the past but a young girl goes missing in the present.  This is a quick read that kept me interested from the beginning, with some unexpected twists along the way.  I'm a fan of Maxwell's and look forward to her next book as well.


Saturday, July 19, 2025

7.19.2025 - Ink Ribbon Red

Ink Ribbon Red by Alex Pavesi 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Henry Holt & Company, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the sophomore book by Alex Pavesi, author of The Eighth Detective, which I loved.  The audiobook was narrated by Dino Fetscher, who did a fabulous job with all the different voices.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Anatol recently lost his father and has invited five of his oldest friends to his family home in the countryside to celebrate his 30th birthday.  He asks them to play a game he invented called Motive Method Death.  Everyone chooses two players at random, then writes a short story in which one kills the other.  But the game brings out the worst in the players.  

Just as in The Eighth Detective, buckle up for this one!  Fact and fiction swirl in and out of reality as we read the stories - or are they real?  None of the characters are likable, non are trustworthy, and everyone has a motive to kill.  It's an extremely smart locked room mystery that you have to give up solving and just go along for the ride, because it's meant to be confusing.  I thought the audiobook was very well done, but my mind tended to run more while listening and I ended up reading quite a bit of it.  Love Pavesi's mind and can't wait to see what he comes up with next!

7.19.2025 - Maggie; Or a Man and a Woman Walk Into a Bar

Maggie; or, A Man and a Woman Walk Into a Bar by Katie Yee 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Summit Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the debut novel by Katie Yee.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

A man and a woman walk into a restaurant.  The woman expects a lovely night with her husband.  Instead, he tells her he's having an affair with a woman named Maggie.  Then she finds out she has breast cancer and decides to name the tumor Maggie.  

First, how could you not want to read a book with this title?  And that cover?  I really loved this quiet, introspective novel as the narrator (unnamed) walks through her new life as a single mom and breast cancer patient.  But the best part is it never goes into the blaming, hating, nasty way it easily could, but instead she deals with her feelings internally, with humor and sadness, and with only one close friend she relies on.  She even goes so far to make a list for Maggie (the woman) of things she should know about her husband.  She acknowledges the good in her husband, his abilities as a father, even while she is hurting.  She talks to Maggie (her tumor) as she learns to live with her.  And there are beautiful Chinese folk stories told to her children at night, passed down from her own mother.  All the stars for this book - highly recommended!

Friday, July 18, 2025

7.18.2025 - Our Last Resort

Our Last Resort by Clémence Michallon 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Elliott & Thompson for gifting me a digital ARC of the sophomore book by Clemence Michallon, after her wonderful debut, A Quiet Tenant.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Frida and Gabriel grew up together in a cult, barely surviving together after their escape.  Years later, they meet at an upscale hotel in the Utah dessert to try and get their relationship back on track.  But then a dead body is discovered and suspicion quickly falls on Gabriel.

Told from Frida's POV from both the past and present, I couldn't put this book down.  Cults are fascinating to read about, with a leader's complete control over the members.  Especially difficult to think about are the children forced to grow up like this.  Michallon does a fabulous job of showing the effects of the cult during their time there, as well as long afterwards, as they try to have a more normal life.  Each of the timelines was gripping and tense, and that suspense just kept rolling until the shocking reveals at the end.  Don't miss this one!

Thursday, July 17, 2025

7.17.2025 - Greenwich

Greenwich by Kate   Broad 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this debut book by Kate Broad, with the audiobook wonderfully narrated by Imani Jade Powers.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Rachel Fiske is a young woman who has just graduated from high school and needs a summer escape plan.  She heads to Greenwich CT to help her aunt recover from an injury and to help care for her young daughter.  Her aunt and uncle are distant though, and Rachel still feels lost until she gets to know Claudia, her young cousin's nanny, better.  But when a tragedy occurs, Rachel must make a choice.

This is a slow, character study novel, a coming of age book taking place in 1999.  Rachel is portrayed as a naive young woman and seems to let life happen to her, as opposed to taking charge of it.  Her home life is messy, with a sick younger sister, her high school friends turned their back on her, and she's just not feeling comfortable anywhere.  Claudia gives her a glimpse of a different kind of life for a bit.  None of these characters are really likable, but you'll still feel for them and feel the nostalgic pull of just not knowing how to fit into life.  I liked how there was some foreshadowing of a tragedy throughout the book, with hints about a trial to add some tension into the narrative.  Definitely a discussion of wealth and privilege, status, and racism.  The audiobook production was immersive, and I enjoyed going back and forth between the two formats.  Can't wait to see what will be next from this author.

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

7.15.2025 - A Beginner's Guide to Dying

A Beginner's Guide to Dying by Simon Boas 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor | Vintage for gifting me a digital ARC of this memoir by Simon Boas.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Simon Boas was diagnosed with terminal throat cancer in his mid-40s.  Having lived what he will say is a fortunate and blessed life, having privilege and experience, he shares his death journey with readers.  I completely appreciated his blunt, dark humor approach and admire his viewpoints.  To me, this is more of a book on how best to live than how to die, as well as how best for the rest of us to deal with those in our circle that are dying.  I loved the book analogy about grief, and feel that this book contained so many good reminders about priorities in life. 


7.15.2025 - Death of an Ex

Death of an Ex by Delia C. Pitts 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press | Minotaur Books, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the second book in the Vandy Myrick Mystery series by Delia Pitts, with the audiobook narrated by Bahni Turpin.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Vandy is a private investigator in Queenstown, NJ.  She's still coping with the grief of losing her only daughter when her ex-husband, Phil, comes back into her life.  But just as quick as he enters, he is murdered and Vandy decides to investigate.

I enjoyed the first book in this series, Trouble in Queenstown, but the author gives plenty of background so that this one works perfectly well on its own.  I like Vandy's grit and determination to uncover the truth, even when it hits close to home.  Pitts creates multi-faceted characters and there are plenty of suspects to consider for Phil's murder, as well as other plot lines.  I enjoyed the audiobook production and ended up mostly listening to it.  Will be looking forward to the next in this series!


Monday, July 14, 2025

7.14.2025 - The Silent Woman

The Silent Woman by Minka Kent 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing | Thomas & Mercer for gifting me a digital ARC of this thriller by Minka Kent.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Newlywed Jade Westmore is completely happy in her new life with Wells.  There's just the fact that his first wife, Sylvie, lives in a gatehouse behind their home, silent since a terrible accident years ago.  Jade isn't supposed to interact with her, but one day when Wells is away and the caretaker is called away, the two meet.  

This was a quick, suspenseful read that kept me guessing to the end.  There were plenty of intriguing characters - Portia would be a fun neighbor friend!  Interesting past family drama as well with Wells' mother and the fact that they are living in his grandmother's home.  You're never quite sure who you can believe, which of course makes it all the more fun!


7.14.2025 - The Lake Escape

The Lake Escape by Jamie Day 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for gifting me a digital and audio ARC of the latest domestic thriller by Jamie Day, with the audiobook wonderfully narrated by Lisa Larsen and Phoebe Strole.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Three friends grew up together, spending summers at their Vermont lake homes with their families.  Now adults, with marriages and kids, they look forward to getting together every year.  But this year starts off with resentment, as David has remodeled his home to block the lake views from the others, plus he brought with him a new girlfriend and a nanny.  And everyone has secrets.

I've enjoyed all of Jamie Day's books and this was no exception.  Give me a messy family drama any day and then throw a mystery in the mix and you have the perfect book for your own lake or beach escape (hopefully with no bodies!).  I felt the audiobook was very well done, with different narrators for the two points of view, making it easy to follow along.  I liked the different family dramas and storylines and was always anxious to get back to the lake!  The ending wrapped up all the plots very well.

Sunday, July 13, 2025

7.13.2025 - The Unraveling of Julia

The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Grand Central Publishing, and Hachette Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest thriller by a favorite, Lisa Scottoline, with the audio wonderfully narrated by Maria Marquis.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Julia is mourning the murder of her husband when she receives notice that she has inherited a Tuscan villa and vineyard.  But Julia doesn't know her benefactor, a stranger named Emilia Rossi.  Because Julia is adopted, she thinks this could be a link to her past and heads to Italy.  But the villa is in shambles and Rossi apparently was a paranoid recluse, although they both apparently shared a fascination with astrology.  Before long, Julia also feels paranoid and suspects she's being followed.  Is she in danger or is she losing her mind?

I'm a huge fan of Scottoline, although this book seems a bit of a departure from her normal books.  It had slight gothic and supernatural vibes in addition to all the astrology mentions,  There are multiple mysteries involved and while it seemed like it might veer off, I appreciated how the ending tied up the plots.  There's a touch of romance as well and the Italian setting and food descriptions were definitely on point.  I alternated between reading and listening for an immersive experience and enjoyed them both!


Saturday, July 12, 2025

7.12.2025 - This Stays Between Us

This Stays Between Us by Sara Ochs 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for gifting me a digital ARC of the new thriller by Sara Ochs, author of The Resort.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Ten years ago, six college students meet in an Australian summer study abroad program meant to introduce them to the beauty of the country and immerse them in the culture.  In reality, it's a long, alcohol-fueled party, with hook ups and friendships turned wrong.  When Phoebe disappears, the group decides to pack up and leave the past behind along with their secrets.  Until they all receive a call that Phoebe's body has been found and they must return.

I love a good destination thriller, and this one highlighted Australia beautifully.  Plus, every one of the students is holding secrets in both the past and present timelines and it's fun to see them peel back slowly.  The story unfolds with two distinct voices and timelines - Phoebe in the past and Claire in the present.  The plotting and pacing were great and I liked how little truths kept revealing themselves along with some twists and turns.  A great vacation read without leaving home!

Friday, July 11, 2025

7.11.2025 - Fox

Fox by Joyce Carol Oates 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House | Hogarth for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest offering by Joyce Carol Oates.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Francis Fox is a charming English teacher at the private Langhorne Academy. boarding school.  His students love him as do their parents and his colleagues.  But when two brothers discover Fox's car half-submerged in a pond, the entire community begins to ask questions.

Oh my goodness.  This book will gut you.  But it's masterful in its execution, as to be expected from Joyce Carol Oates.  It's dark, disturbing, frightening in its evil reality.  What I loved most was how this story was told from the viewpoint of so many people in Fox's orbit, from a janitor, a child, even a dog!  Your mind will wrap around all these people and the tentacles that can result from one person's actions.  There are many suspects that I questioned along the way.   It's a long, immersive book and I started reading the digital copy when my audiobook hold came in from the library.  And I never went back to the digital.  The audiobook is done with a cast and it was perfection.  It truly brought these characters to life.  Do not miss this one.


Thursday, July 10, 2025

7.10.2025 - If You Love It, Let It Kill You

If You Love It, Let It Kill You by Hannah Pittard 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Henry Holt & Company for gifting me a digital ARC of this auto fiction book by Hannah Pittard.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 3.5 stars rounded up!

Hana P is living in Lexington, KY, teaching at the university and living with her boyfriend and his daughter.  Hana's family has all migrated to live in close proximity to her as well.  Hana learns that her ex-husband's novel features a version of her and she is not happy.  

I had never heard of auto fiction before and once I realized that's what this book was, I did a quick look to see how close it was to real life.  Apparently very.  This is Hana's (and Hannah's?) way of working through her life and emotions and the rest of us get to tag along.  It's almost a stream of consciousness-type book, and parts were hilarious even when some were sad as well.  We get to watch as Hana is questioning all her life choices and feelings.  It's quirky (talking cats!) and messy and an interesting read.  


7.10.2025 - Mrs. Plansky Goes Rogue

Mrs. Plansky Goes Rogue by Spencer Quinn

Many thanks to NetGalley, Tor Publishing | Forge Books, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the second book in the Mrs. Plansky series by Spencer Quinn, with the audiobook perfectly narrated by Petrea Burchard, who really brings Mrs. Plansky alive.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Mrs. Plansky is fresh off of winning a thrilling senior tennis championship with her doubles partner, Kev Dinardo, and is gearing up to celebrate with him on his yacht. That is, until the yacht is destroyed in a fire. Kev claims the fire was caused by a lightning strike, pure bad luck, but there's one small problem—Mrs. Plansky didn't see any lightning.  Then Kev goes missing, as does her son, Jack.  Does her 98-year-old dad know anything about all this?

Once again, it's fun to inhabit Mrs. Plansky's world for a while, and it's nice to see an older woman portrayed as vibrant and capable.    Mrs. Plansky excels at tennis, takes care of her dad, and still has time to solve a mystery or two - what's not to love?  I would definitely recommend reading the first in this series, but this one would work as a standalone as well.  The audiobook narration was perfect, and I ended up mostly listening to it.  Quite entertaining and I'm looking forward to more escapades from Mrs. Plansky!

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

7.9.2025 - The Game is Afoot

The Game Is Afoot by Elise Bryant 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the second book in the Mavis Miller series by Elise Bryant.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Mavis quit her job in a rash moment, and now she finally has the time to do all the things she has been putting off.  Or at least theoretically she does.  Because now she feels like she needs to be supermom and spend all her time getting roped into being in charge of activities at Pearl's school.  Then when a beloved coach drops dead during a soccer game, Mavis is once again determined to find out exactly what happened.  Then she can put off making life decisions for a little bit longer too.

Mavis is back!  The first book in this series, It's Elementary, was so fun and this one was as well.  Mavis always tries to do the right things and seems to dig herself deeper and deeper.  These books will make you smile and even laugh out loud, as Mavis tries to do it all, even investigate another murder.  These are cozy mysteries with a touch of romance, and I'm anxiously awaiting more in the life of Mavis!


Tuesday, July 8, 2025

7.8.2025 - Remote The Five

Remote by Eric Rickstad 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the second in The Remote series by Eric Rickstad.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

FBI Agent Lukas Stark is now partnering with Agent Jayla King, both working with Gilles Garnier, a remote viewer who is able to see things that are distant and hidden.  They are still on the search for Q, another remote viewer charged with killing families, who is on a mission to learn what the Stargazer program did to him and his 5 peers.  The race is on once again.

You really need to read Remote: The Six before reading this one, but count me in for Remote: The Four!  The first book in this series was non-stop tension; this one not as much but an intriguing look into the Stargazer program as Q discovers some important facts.  I like these characters and feel for them and their families.  This is part crime fiction and part sci-fi and I'm anxious for more!

Monday, July 7, 2025

7.7.2025 - Rage

Rage by Linda  Castillo 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press | Minotaur Books, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest book by a favorite, Linda Castillo, with the audiobook perfectly narrated by Kathleen McInerney.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Three Amish children make a gruesome discovery in Painters Mill, and Police Chief Kate Burkholder is on the case to discover who would dismember a young Amish man.  It's not long before another body is discovered.  Just what is happening in her community?  Will she be the next victim?

I have been reading the loving this series since the first book, and now that we are on #17, it just keeps getting better.  It's a wonderful police procedural set in Amish country, and while each book could be read as a stand alone, they are much better read in order.  That way, you get to see the progression of the characters' personal lives as well.  This is the second book that I have mostly listened to on audiobook, and enjoy hearing the Amish language spoken aloud.  This latest chapter has everything you've come to expect from this series, so don't miss it!

Sunday, July 6, 2025

7.6.2025 - The Woman in Suite 11

The Woman in Suite 11 by Ruth Ware 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Gallery Books | Scout Press for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Ruth Ware, a follow-up to The Woman in Cabin 10.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Lo Blacklock receives an invitation to attend the press opening of a luxury Swiss hotel owned by a reclusive billionaire.  The timing is perfect, as Lo is ready to get back to her journalism career after staying home with Covid and her two children.  Lo is hoping to get an interview with the owner and resurrect her career.  However, she soon finds herself once again in a cat-and-mouse pursuit and she may not make it back home.

The timeline in the book and real life are the same - it's been 10 years since The Woman in Cabin 10 was published.  I will admit to not remembering book details even a month after I read them, let alone 10 years, but things did come back to me as I read this follow-up.  Ruth Ware always writes compelling thrillers, and I was never sure who to trust in this book.  I did think that Lo was naive in who she put her trust in after barely surviving her last adventure, but I felt her anxiety and stress.  The luxury hotel settings were perfect and the chase across Europe was tense - this was a twisty thriller that kept my interest throughout.

Saturday, July 5, 2025

7.6.2025 - Finding Grace

Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me a physical, digital and audio ARC of the debut novel by Loretta Rothschild, with the audio perfectly narrated by the wonderful Fiona Button.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Go into this one as blind as possible - so here's a very short synopsis.  Honor seems to have everything. She adores her daughter Chloe and her husband Tom.  But her longing for another baby threatens to eclipse all of it.  Years later, Tom makes a decision that causes ripples in their lives..

This was a fabulous debut novel and the audiobook was wonderful as well.  If you don't gasp at the end of the first chapter, check your pulse!  Saying much of anything about the plot of this book would ruin it, but it is a creative, beautiful, quiet and contemplative novel about grief, loss, second chances, and moral dilemmas.  I loved the characters in this book and felt all the emotions.  Don't miss this one!

Friday, July 4, 2025

7.4.2025 - These Summer Storms

These Summer Storms by Sarah MacLean 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House | Ballantine for gifting me a digital ARC of this contemporary family drama by Sarah MacLean.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Alice has been estranged from her family but returns to their private island off Rhode Island after the sudden death of her father.  Unlike her, the rest of the Storm siblings - Greta, Sam, and Emily - had stayed and revolved their lives around their father, vying for attention, approval, and billions of dollars.  Alice just wants to survive the funeral and go back to her life in Brooklyn.  But her father had other plans.  Always one to make his children compete against each other, he has one final game for them from the grave - and all that money is on the line.

I have never read Sarah MacLean's historical fiction novels, but I really enjoyed this contemporary one!  I'm always up for some messy family drama and the Storm family had that in spades!  Plus, it's a look into the uber-rich family lifestyle with all the luxuries and issues that go along with that.  But all families, regardless of wealth, deal with similar issues, just not quite in the way that the patriarch of this family dealt with them.  There's a lot of emotions between these siblings as they deal with their grief and moving forward that felt real, and the ending was perfect.  

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

7.2.2025 - Sunburned

Sunburned by Katherine      Wood 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House | Ballantine | Bantam for gifting me a digital ARC of the sophomore book by Katherine Wood, following her debut Ladykiller, which I enjoyed.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Audrey Collet's ex-boyfriend, Tyson, calls after over a decade absence, threatening to expose the secrets in her past unless she helps him figure out who is blackmailing him.  Tyson is now a billionaire and lives on St. Barth's in the Caribbean, and has invited all his suspects there for Audrey to help him figure out who's extorting him.  Once there, Audrey realizes that everyone has a reason to wish him harm.

I love a good locked room mystery and one set in the Caribbean with private beaches and yachts involved?  Sign me up!  This book was very well-executed, with glimpses into the past and secrets that Audrey and Tyson share that are threatening to come to the surface.  I suspected everyone but was rooting for Audrey throughout the book, although there are plenty of morally-ambiguous threads here.  The story was tense from the beginning when a foot shows up in the Everglades to that twisty end I didn't see coming.  Perfect for summer reading!

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

7.1.2025 - The White Crow

The White Crow by Michael Robotham 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Scribner for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Michael Robotham, and second in the Philomena McCarthy series.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Philomena McCarthy has defied the odds to become a young officer with the Metropolitan Police because her father and her uncles are notorious London gangsters.  On patrol one night, Phil finds a small child hiding in a bush, covered in blood, saying she can't wake up her mother.  Close by, a jeweler has a bomb strapped to his chest in his store and millions of dollars in jewelry is gone.  These two events collide, along with her family and personal life.

While this book would work as a standalone, I would recommend reading When You Are Mine first to get the full background of the characters.  But this second one is fabulous and I was glued to the pages.  Robotham is the master of suspense, and the moral dilemma that Phil faces between her job and family just add to the tension.  Her character is fantastic because she stands up for what is right no matter the personal cost.  There are a whole slew of good characters here and you'll be feeling all the emotions and fear right alongside them.  Can't wait for more in this series!


Sunday, June 29, 2025

6.29.2025 - A Change of Habit

A Change of Habit by Sister Monica Clare 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Crown Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of this memoir by Sister Monica Clare.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Claudette Powell's childhood was tough, filled with abuse, addiction, and neglect by those charged with caring for her.  But even from an early age, she felt a religious calling to be a nun.  She went out into the secular world, was married and divorced, worked in advertising and comedy, and still felt that pull.  She found the Episcopalian church and a group of nuns living in a religious order that she longed to join.  It took much perseverance to clear all her debts and be accepted, and still her childhood issues and low self-esteem threatened.  

This is a powerful and inspiring book of a strong woman who stuck to her calling and found the perfect home.  She even pushed to get training to become a priest as well as mother superior in her order.  It's a fascinating look into both religious life and personal fortitude.  Loved the pictures as well.

Saturday, June 28, 2025

6.28.2025 - Our Last Vineyard Summer

Our Last Vineyard Summer by Brooke Lea Foster 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Gallery Books for gifting me the sophomore novel by Brooke Lea Foster, author of Summer Darlings, which I also loved.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Set in dual timelines of 1964 and 1978, we follow a family of women at their family summer house on Martha's Vineyard.  In 1965, the story is mostly focused on Virgie and her relationship and marriage to Charlie, and their 3 daughters.  In 1978, the youngest daughter, Betsy, is struggling with grad school and has come back to the summer house along with her sisters after Virgie announces they must sell the house to pay off their father's debts.  What they find are family secrets, strained relationships, and facing the complicated legacy of both parents.

Well, no sophomore slump here.  I liked this one even more than her debut.  The setting is once again on the Cape Cod islands, and focuses on the strength of these women within their family and in the larger context of the times.  I really enjoyed the look back at women's rights and feminism in both of these timelines - some of it is eye-opening!  But where the book really shines is in its characters.  I so enjoyed getting to spend time with these women, as they held secrets within so as not to hurt the others.  One line really spoke to me about family relationships - "...my story is not your story.  You could write a different version of the same exact events, and they would still be true."  It was nostalgic, atmospheric, emotional and I thought it was wonderful.  It's the perfect book to pack along on your beach vacation!

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

6.25.2025 - El Dorado Drive

El Dorado Drive by Megan Abbott 

Many thanks to NetGalley, and Penguin Random House | Putnam Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Megan Abbott.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Harper is forced to move back in with her sister, Pam, because of financial issues.  Once there, she's surprised to see that Pam seems to be doing so well financially after a nasty divorce and her husband cleaning out their bank accounts and even the kids' money.  Pam shares her secret - a women's group called the Wheel, whose function is to lift each other up.  But when Harper and their other sister join, the sisters unleash a darkness within the group.

This is a slow burn thriller that leads up to quite the ending!  I liked the timeframe - in the 70s and 80s in Detroit after the crash of the car industry there.  It had a gritty, desperate feeling throughout when opportunities were few and people suddenly had to do without.  And just what would some people do to get money?  It was the perfect setup for groups such as Mary Kay, Amway, and the Wheel to come in and promise the world.  I liked the interaction between the sisters and Pam's daughter Vivian's storyline as well.  


6.25.2025 - All the Words We Know

All the Words We Know by Bruce  Nash 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Atria Books for gifting me a digital ARC of All the Words We Know by Bruch Nash.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Rose is in her 80s, living in an assisted living facility, but she is still full of life.  She just can't always remember it.  When her friend is found dead after an apparent fall from a window, Rose is determined to uncover the truth.

Don't go into this thinking it's going to be a cozy mystery, because that's a small part of the book.  This is more a look at dementia from the inside, when someone just can't come up with the right word, so tries quite a few.  It will make you smile as Rose tries to understand the world around her, including her somewhat detached children and grandchildren.  She remembers love but not all the details.  As someone dealing with a parent with Alzheimer's, it seemed familiar in many ways, bringing some dignity to this illness, making the patient feel real and valued.  There were times when I was reading when I thought, Oh, I need to be mindful of saying things a certain way.  Creative and thoughtful.


6.25.2025 - Party of Liars

Party of Liars by Kelsey  Cox 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin’s Press | Minotaur Books, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the debut novel by Kelsey Cox.  The audiobook was fantastic because of the perfect narration by the full cast of Dan Bittner, Kate Handford, Pearl Hewitt, Saskia Maarleveld, and Suzy Jackson.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own – 4.5 stars rounded up!

Today is Sophie Matthews’s sixteenth birthday party, an exclusive black-tie bash in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.  Sophie’s dad has spared no expense, and his renovated cliffside mansion—once thought haunted—is now hosting the event of the season. Then, just before the candles on the three-tiered red velvet cake are blown out, a body falls from the balcony onto the starlit dance floor below.

Bravo for a wonderful debut novel and fabulous audiobook production!  I was instantly intrigued by this story, told in different POV from Sophie’s mother, stepmother, her best friend, and the nanny for Sophie’s new stepsister, as well as in an 11-hour timeline of before, during, and after the party.  These women are all keeping secrets from each other and themselves, and none is a reliable narrator.  It’s a locked-room mystery that left me questioning so many and I never saw the ending coming.  There’s even a touch of superstition and folklore, as the house has the reputation of being haunted.  I can’t wait to read more from this author!

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

6.24.2025 - I'll Be Right Here

I'll Be Right Here by Amy Bloom 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest novel by Amy Bloom.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 3.5 stars!

In 1942 Gazala, seventeen, works for  Colette, a writer.  She immigrates alone from Paris to New York after WWII, and becomes friends with sisters Anne and Alma Cohen. Gazala’s adopted brother, Samir, later joins her and the two become lovers. These four characters become life long friends and a family to each other.

I have really liked all of the books by Amy Bloom that I have read, so I was very anxious to read her latest.  As expected, the writing was gorgeous but I struggled a bit to keep up with so many characters and many different timelines and locations.  At its heart, it's a beautiful story of found family and love in all forms.  There was a bit of a feeling though that there was a checklist nearby to include all forms that love may appear, which seemed a bit forced.  It was a short book, but felt longer because I struggled some.  It's getting good reviews, so be sure and read them as well.


6.24.2025 - The Homemade God

The Homemade God by Rachel Joyce 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House | The Dial Press for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest novel by Rachel Joyce.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Famous artist Vic Kemp has relied on his four children since their mother died when they were young.  Netta, the oldest, is a lawyer and pseudo-parent to her siblings; Susan, married with two stepchildren who cooks and cleans for both her husband and father; Goose, a wanna-be artist who is relegated to working a menial job in Vic's studio; and Iris, the baby, who will do whatever Vic asks.  When Vic calls to announce he's getting remarried to a mysterious younger woman, Bella-Mae, things don't go well and he is soon found dead.  The siblings gather at the house on Lake Orta to figure out what happened.

This is a multi-layered family saga that is touching, emotional, and familiar to anyone with siblings.  It's a dysfunctional family, for sure, but I believe all families are dysfunctional in their own way.  It explores the notion that are parents are always right and we are always destined to fit neatly in the slots allotted to us in childhood.  It's a look at grief, in all its forms, and how we are always looking for answers when someone dies.  The writing is wonderful and atmospheric, and draws the reader in to another world, with characters that began to feel like family.

Monday, June 23, 2025

6.23.2025 - The Accidental Favorite

 The Accidental Favorite by Fran Littlewood

Many thanks to NetGalley, Henry Holt & Company and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the sophomore novel by Fran Littlewood, author of Amazing Grace Adams.  The audiobook was perfectly narrated by Fiona Button, especially when considering there were a lot of characters in this book!  All opinions expressed in this review are my own – 4.5 stars!

 

Vivienne and Patrick Fisher have done an excellent job raising their three daughters, Alex, Nancy, and Eva. They’re well-adjusted women with impressive careers, caring partners, exciting hobbies, and sweet children.   The three generations gather at a beautiful glass rental home for a weeklong celebration of Vivienne’s 70th birthday.  But when Patrick’s reaction to a freak accident on the first day of the trip inadvertently reveals that he has a favorite daughter, no one is prepared for the shockwaves it sends through the family.

This book really made me wish I had sisters (although I do have lots of sisters-in-law!) because these three women had such a complicated but unbreakable bond to each other.  I like books with a domestic/family theme, because it’s a good reminder that all families are messy in their own ways.  That was certainly the case here with everyone having secrets and issues.  I also liked the theme of family birth order and how that affects personalities.  This is definitely a character-driven story and I loved this look into the Fisher family.

Sunday, June 22, 2025

6.22.2025 - Down to the Bone

Down to the Bone by Caitlin Rother

Many thanks to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing | Citadel, and Tantor Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this true crime book by Caitlin Rother, with the audiobook wonderfully narrated by Christina Delaine.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

A Southern California family of four seemed to just disappear without a trace in 2010.  Everything at home looked normal with no signs of a crime, but the family was just gone.  Almost four years later, a motorcyclist found the McStays' remains in the desert, showing signs of murder.  A suspect was found, put on trial, and sentenced to death.  But is that the end of the story?

This was a very well-researched account of this crime, with questionable actions by the investigators, and a controversial trial.  The author did a great job of walking through the suspects, the crime scene and investigation, and trial.  It's such a sad story and leaves you questioning the system.  Pick this one up if you like a true crime mystery ripped out of the headlines.


6.22.2025 - Don't Let Him In

Don't Let Him In by Lisa Jewell 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Atria Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by a favorite, Lisa Jewell.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

A very quick synopsis because you need to go into this one as blind as possible.  Nina and her two adult children, Ash and Arlo, are grieving the sudden death of her husband, Paddy.  Ash had been living back at home after a psychological breakdown and is having an especially difficult time when Nina takes up with a new man.  She has doubts about him right away, but can her doubts be trusted?

Lisa Jewell never fails to write a book that I have a hard time putting down, and this was definitely no exception.  Told in short chapters from multiple POVs (watch for the different font styles to keep people straight!), I was so involved with this story.  You'll be rooting for some characters, while despising others.  The plot just keeps getting more and more twisted until the end and I was on pins and needles.  Don't miss this one!

Friday, June 20, 2025

6.20.2025 - Free

Free by Amanda   Knox 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the new memoir by Amanda Knox.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Amanda Knox spent almost 4 years in prison and many more on trial for a murder she didn't commit.  Even when she was completely exonerated, she was still in a prison of a different kind - a tabloid story afraid to live her life.  This book looks into how she regained her life and her freedom, as well as a relationship she built with the man who sent her to prison.  It's a story of afterwards, and should bring hope to anyone trying to move past a life crisis of any kind.  I enjoyed hearing about her new family and life after the headlines.  


Thursday, June 19, 2025

6.19.2025 - The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau

The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Simon & Schuster | Gallery Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the new historical fiction novel by Kristin Harmel.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own – 4.5 stars rounded up!

As a direct descendent of Robin Hood, Colette Marceau has been stealing jewels as long as she can remember, abiding by the code of honor to take only from the cruel and unkind and give to those in need.  Colette and her mother, Annabel, worked together in Paris to help fund the French Resistance.  But one night in 1942, Annabel was arrested by the Germans and Colette’s young sister disappeared, along with a diamond bracelet sewn into the hem of her nightgown. Seventy years later, Colette has done her best to move on, but when the long-missing bracelet turns up in a museum exhibit, she’s desperate to find out where it’s been and hopefully find answers about her sister.


Told in these two distinct timelines, this is another wonderful book by Harmel.  While the atrocities of WWII are on every page, the focus is on doing what’s right, a mystery, and the bonds of family.  While events may have unspooled a bit too perfectly, it takes nothing away from the beautiful story.  The descriptions of both the beautiful jewels and the stealing of them, was fascinating as well.  Be sure and read the author’s notes.

6.19.2025 - The Ghost Woods

The Ghost Woods by C.J.  Cooke 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by C.J. Cooke.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

In the midst of the woods stands a house called Lichen Hall.  This place is shrouded in folklore—old stories of ghosts, of witches, of a child who was not quite a child.  Now the woods are creeping closer, and something has been unleashed.  Pearl Gorham arrives in 1965, one of a string of young women sent to Lichen Hall to give birth. And she soon suspects the proprietors are hiding something.  Then she meets the mysterious mother and young boy who live in the grounds—and together they begin to unpick the secrets of this place.  As the truth comes to the surface and the darkness moves in, Pearl must rethink everything she knew—and risk what she holds most dear.

This is the final book in a trilogy of gothic novels, although they are definitely all stand alones.  This one centered around Lichen House, a home for unwed mothers in Scotland, surrounded by woods.  It perfectly melds horror, the supernatural, and the all too real horrors that have occurred in places like this.  It looks at motherhood, both the joys and the shame and abuse that many have endured.  It’s creepy, tense, and the atmosphere is dark and feels alive.  Another great book by C.J. Cooke!

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

6.18.2025 - Murder Takes a Vacation

Murder Takes a Vacation by Laura Lippman 

Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for gifting me a digital ARC of this charming story by Laura Lippman.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Mrs. Blossom finds a winning lottery ticket that changes her life.  She books a cruise through France with a friend, but soon finds herself meeting handsome strangers and finding herself embroiled in a theft and murder plot.  

This was just lots of fun, owing mostly to Mrs. Blossom.  It's so lovely to read about a character who is older, but still is energetic and open to life and all it has to offer.  I honestly got a bit confused with the mystery part of this book, but that's minor because it was just a fun read.  Mrs. Blossom was a character in Lippman's popular Tess Monaghan series and she is certainly worthy of her own book and even - dare I wish? - her own series.  Be sure to read the author's note at the end.


Tuesday, June 17, 2025

6.17.2025 - Next to Heaven

Next to Heaven by James Frey 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Authors Equity for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by James Frey.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

New Bethlehem, Connecticut is a picture perfect town where only the one percenters can live.  From the outside, they have it all.  But look a little closer, and everything is a mess.  It takes a key party - a swing party - carefully curated for a small group of couples to really stir things up.  And then there's a murder.

I'm going to get the controversy out of the way first - yes, James Frey has said he has used AI for research and maybe some of his writing.  While I'm not a proponent, I can't google something without AI giving me an answer, so I'm not sure how anyone can say they research without it.  And yes, James Frey's books are controversial but I've still enjoyed them all.  This one drew me in from the beginning.  There are not many likable characters and their behaviors are crude and atrocious, but it's written in a style that completely pulled me in to the story.  He gives us little bits and pieces about each of the characters' lives and actions, all barreling down to a conclusion that I loved.  


6.17.2025 - The Poppy Fields

The Poppy Fields by Nikki Erlick 

Many thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow and Harper Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this wonderful novel by Nikki Erlick, with the audiobook narrated by a fabulous cast.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

The Poppy Fields is a place of hope for battered hearts to heal.  In the CA desert, it's an experimental and controversial treatment center that allows those devastated by grief to sleep through the pain for a prolonged period of time.  But there are some side effects.  Four different strangers and a dog find themselves on a journey to the Poppy Fields for different reasons.

What a concept to ponder - in the woes of staggering grief, would we take the chance of alleviating some of that pain and waking up feeling healed and hopeful?  I really liked the way this book focused on these 4 different individuals, letting us in on their private grief paths and stories.  While a speculative fiction book, it felt real because all of us have experienced grief, and everyone processes loss in such vastly different ways.  Just as she did with her wonderful debut novel, The Measure, the author explores experiences and feelings that are very personal yet universal.  I alternated reading and listening to the audiobook, but the narration cast is spectacular and I felt more immersed in the story listening to individual voices.  Both are highly recommended - just like The Measure, this would be a great book club pick.


6.17.2025 - Someone Knows

Someone Knows by Vi Keeland 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Atria Books | Emily Bestler Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the new thriller by Vi Keeland.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own – 4.5 stars!

Elizabeth is a college English professor and enjoys her creative writing seminar.  Until she reads the first chapter of a story about a high school senior who has an affair with her teacher.  Elizabeth knows this story because she lived it.  Someone knows what Elizabeth did twenty years ago and is about to expose her, but just who is this mystery student?

 

This was lots of fun, even though the subject of abuse isn’t.  But it was a book-in-a-book format, as we periodically read chapters of the mystery student’s work that is way too familiar to Elizabeth.  There are plenty of suspects in this one, as well as a past that Elizabeth can’t escape.  There were a couple of shocking moments that I never saw coming – bravo!

 

Monday, June 16, 2025

6.16.2025 - Don't Open Your Eyes

Don't Open Your Eyes by Liv Constantine

Many thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House | Ballantine | Bantam for gifting me a digital and physical copy of the latest thriller of the sister writing team known as Liv Constantine.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own – 4.5 stars rounded up!

Annabelle has everything she’s ever wanted. A devoted husband, two wonderful daughters, and a career she loves. But she keeps having terrible dreams that suddenly seem to materialize in real life.  Her present life soon becomes a nightmare of trying to keep herself and her family ahead of the trouble she sees.  Can she control the future?

I’m a big fan of the authors’ books, and this is the perfect summer thriller.  Told in different timelines and POV, I raced through this book, especially rooting for both Annabelle and her daughter, Scarlett.   Annabelle is haunted not only by her past but now also of the future.  The story was tense throughout, pulling from today’s headlines of the scary parts of social media.  Don’t miss this one!


6.16.2025 - Good Neighbors

Good Neighbors by Chad Zunker 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Original Stories, and Brilliance Publishing for gifting me an audio ARC of #5 of the Alibis Short Story Collection by Chad Zunker. All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Kara is just trying to help out her neighbor, Mandy, who suspects her husband of having an affair.  So when she sees something suspicious, she goes over to investigate.  This was another good short story in this collection, and will definitely have you thinking that you should just mind your own business!



6.16.2025 - Small Things

Small Things by Wanda M. Morris 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Original Stories, and Brilliance Publishing for gifting me an audio ARC of #6 of the Alibi Short Story Collection by Wanda M. Morris.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Hannah's only refuge from her life is her little shed in the yard where she makes jewelry.  But her husband resents every minute she spends there.  What's a girl to do?  I'm working my way through these short stories, and so far, this is my favorite!  Even in a short story, Morris is able to make you feel all the emotions.


Sunday, June 15, 2025

6.15.2025 - Far and Away

Far and Away by Amy Poeppel 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books | Emily Bestler Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful book by Amy Poeppel.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Lucy lives in Dallas with her family, and her world is upended when her son makes a mistake that goes viral.  In Berlin, Greta's husband takes a dream job in Texas without even telling her.  She puts her flat online for a house swap, and the two women, complete strangers, make a deal.  But they get a lot more than they bargained for in the process!

This was such a fun and charming book!  It made me smile all the way through, as these two totally different women try to take back some control over their lives.  They each get plopped into a culture and home that they are totally unfamiliar with, and still try to keep their home and work lives going.  I loved both Lucy and Greta, but there is a cast of characters with sparkling personalities to fill out the book, and two completely different settings and experiences.  I laughed out loud more times than I can count - this is the perfect summer road trip book!


Saturday, June 14, 2025

6.14.2025 - Death at the White Hart

Death at the White Hart by Chris Chibnall 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Group Viking | Pamela Dorman Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful novel by Chris Chibnall, creator of Broadchurch.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Detective Nicola Bridge moved back to Fleetcombe with her husband and son, to try and salvage their marriage.  Her new partner, Harry, is anxious to please and the match seems strong.  It needs to be because a man is found dead, tied to a chair in the middle of the road, with a stag's antlers on his head.  The dead man knew all the villager's secrets, so the suspect list is long.  

This was a wonderful, twisty novel and I had no clue who the perpetrator was and was completely shocked at the end.  But along the way, brace yourself for an intriguing mystery, set in a small town where everyone knows everyone, but there are still lots of secrets around.  It was atmospheric, and I loved the characters, especially Nicola and Harry, but there were plenty of other interesting folk.   It was dark, but not too dark, and the investigation kept me interested and guessing.  Would love for this to be a series!

6.14.2025 - His First Wife

His First Wife by Sue Watson 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing | Thomas & Mercer for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Sue Watson.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Sophie fled to Sicily for an escape, wanting nothing more than a fresh start.  But then she meets Emilio, a professor working at the university where she has a summer job.  He seems perfect - too perfect?  What happened to his first wife, and is someone stalking her?  Just what has she gotten herself into?

I'm a big fan of Sue Watson's books.  She always comes up with a unique thriller that keeps me turning the pages, and I never quite figure things out completely.  This one had lots of interesting, though not always likable, characters, including her stalkerish friend/neighbor.  Everyone has secrets and you'll be wondering who you can trust until the last page.  The volcano storyline was apt, because you didn't know what was going to happen next!


Thursday, June 12, 2025

6.12.2025 - Slow Burn Summer

Slow Burn Summer by Josie Silver 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Random House | Ballantine | Dell for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest rom-com by Josie Silver.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Kate is a former soap opera actress whose life is falling apart.  She lands a job playing the part of a novelist for her former agent's son, Charlie, who has taken over for his dad.  The book is sure to be a hit, but the writer doesn't want to be known for writing a romance novel.  Kate gets to be the face of the book for interviews, social media, and signings - until things go wrong.  There's also sparks of romance between Kate and Charlie, but will the book come between them?

As you would expect from Josie Silver, this is a fun book that would be perfect for your summer reading list.  I liked the peek into the book publishing and promoting world, as well as the relationship between Kate and her sister.  Kate was a fun character, and her exploits will have you laughing along with her while also rooting for her.  Pack this in your beach bag!

6.13.2025 - Tell Them You Lied

Tell Them You Lied by Laura Leffler 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Hyperion Avenue for gifting me a digital ARC of the debut novel by Laura Leffler.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Anna and Willow met at art school, and Willow quickly became the most important thing in Anna's world.  But 5 years later, both living in NYC, the cracks in their relationship have become too big to ignore.  A prank is supposed to send Willow running back to Anna, evening out the power between the two.  But that morning is 9/11 and Willow never returns home, leaving Anna to worry whether the prank went badly wrong.

This is a fascinating book, looking at a friendship that becomes fraught with envy and ambition, as well as how the art world views women.  Told from alternating timelines between their art school years and their lives in NYC, the story is told in both 1st and 3rd person format, which was interesting and pulled you into the current mystery a little bit deeper.  This book explores women's friendships at such a vulnerable time in their lives, when they are pulling away from home, wanting to be more, scared about the future, keeping secrets.  Add in the events of 9/11, with cell phones down and Willow missing, and it became a taut thriller with multiple twists.  Great debut and can't wait to read more from this author!