8.31.2025 - Shadow Play

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Sara Driscoll.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Chicago physical therapist Krista is recovering from her own personal trauma, but along with helping her clients recover physically, she and her best friend, Hailey, have started an online advice show, streaming on the Twitch platform.  Called A Word from the Wise, the friends take questions and offer real-world advice, and the chat becomes very popular.  But not all that popularity is good, because a troll named Chase547 becomes unhappy with the advice he's given about his pursuit of a woman.  He soon throws the chats into chaos.  Then chaos becomes reality.

Although I've never heard of Twitch, this book was great about combining real world platforms and jobs into a story that felt so incredibly real it gave me shivers.  You could feel the tension ratchet up as the troll keeps gaining more and more power to disrupt, not only on the chat but in their lives.  This story will make you think twice about how easy it is for someone to gain real world information from an online presence.  I enjoyed the police procedural aspect as well, as the case ramped up and the stalking increased.  A great thriller!

8.29.2025 - The Mysterious Case of the Missing Crime Writer

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press | Minotaur Books, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this crime novel by Ragnar Jónasson, with the audiobook narrated by the cast of Cicely Whitehead; Jane Slavin; Rufus Wright.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Detective Helgi is on the case of a missing popular crime writer.  There are no clues and he needs to crack the case before it's leaked to the press.  He interviews the people close to her and realizes that Elin's life was different than it seemed.  Helgi must uncover the secrets to find the writer.

After reading and enjoying Death at the Sanatorium, also featuring Detective Helgi, I was anxious to read this book.  I quickly switched over to the audio production because it was fantastic, complete with sound effects and a cast.  I really felt involved in the story.  There is also a mystery of a missing colleague, and we get more of a peek into Helgi's private life.  I liked the way the story played out with interviews, but that ending - I need more quickly!  

8.29.2025 - The Break-in

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books | Scout Press for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Katherine Faulkner.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Alice, a professional mother of one, is hosting a playdate with friends at her upscale London home when a disturbed man breaks in. With her child in the next room, Alice panics and kills him.  While it's ruled self-defense and everyone tries to encourage Alice to move on with therapy life, she can't help but to become obsessed with the killer and his family.  Only to discover that everyone seems to be lying and keeping secrets, including her.

I have enjoyed Faulkner's previous novels and this one was wonderful as well.  It's so well written and twisty, leaving the reader questioning every event and every person.  Told from multiple POV and both before and after the break in, these characters and their emotions felt real - guilt, revenge, jealousy, betrayal, obsession, fear.  The storyline kept twisting up until that final ending - perfection!  

8.28.2025 - I Become Her

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing | Thomas & Mercer, and Megan Beatie Communications for gifting me a physical and digital ARC of the latest thriller by Joe Hart.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Imogen and Lev are on their honeymoon cruise in the Mediterranean when Imogen suspects that Lev is being unfaithful.  An argument later and Lev falls from the ship into the sea.  He's found but has total amnesia over the event.  At home, Imogen is terrified that his memories will return, but also can't let go the fact that she suspects he was cheating, or worse.

Go into this one blind - I was literally blown away by the twist!  Imogen is a classic unreliable character - is her mind inventing problems with her relationship with Lev?  Is she becoming obsessed - again?  You could feel all of her emotions and the sense of dread that enveloped her.  Just who could she trust?  Or you can you as the reader trust?  Told from dual POV, the plot was so well done and the tension palpable.  This is a wonderful psychological thriller that will keep you glued - don't miss it!

8.25.2025 - Forget Me Not

 

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 southern thriller by a favorite, Stacy Willingham, with the audiobook narrated by the star duo of Karissa Vacker and Helen Laser - 4.5 stars!

Twenty-two years ago, Claire Campbell’s older sister, Natalie, disappeared shortly after her eighteenth birthday. Days later, her blood was found in a car, a man was arrested, and the case was swiftly closed. In the decades since, Claire has attempted to forget her traumatic past by moving to the city and climbing the ranks as an investigative journalist... until an unexpected call from her father forces her to come back home and face it all anew.  Claire has been estranged with her mother and finds moving back in with her impossible, so she takes on a seasonal job at Galloway Farm, a vineyard close by where her sister last seemed happy.  Like a place out of time, Claire settles in but then she stumbles across an old diary written by one of the vineyard's owners.  Claire finds herself becoming obsessed over the diary's contents and the feeling that her sister's disappearance may be related.

Somewhat of a slow burn, this book is told from two different perspectives, Claire in the present as well as from Marcia's diary in the past.  It's the perfect way to start to uncover all the past secrets and their possible relationship to Natalie.  The second half really ramped up and the twists kept coming.  It was atmospheric, with the isolated vineyard, touch of cult vibes, and some creepy characters.  The audiobook really made the story shine, with the alternating narration by two of the industry's best.  Add this to your summer reading list!

8.25.2025 - The Marigold Cottages Murder Detective

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful book by Jo Nichols.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Mrs. B is the landlady of The Marigold Cottages, a collection of bungalows in Santa Barbara.  She will only rent to people that she cares about - Sophie, a young woman with a traumatic past; Hamilton, an agoraphobe who likes to overshare; Ocean, a single mom raising two kids; perfectionist Lily-Ann; and Nicholas, a finance bro who keeps to himself.  When she allows Anthony, an ex-con, to move in, things change.  Three weeks later, a dead body is found in the neighborhood.

What a perfect summer read - grab some lemonade (or Diet Coke) and sit on the porch to enjoy this cozy mystery about a group of eccentric people who have formed a tribe to look after each other, no matter what.  Told from the POV of each of the residents, along with the detective on the case, as well as with a version of a play being written about the happenings.   This book is full of humor, likable characters, and an ending that had me so surprised - just delightful!

8.23.2025 - The Devil's Advocate

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Atria Books for gifting me a digital ARC of #6 in the Eddie Flynn series by Steve Cavanagh.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Ambitious District Attorney Randal Korn lives to watch prisoners executed. Even if they are not guilty.  He has won every trial - because he's behind every murder.  Now, Andy Dubois, innocent for killing a young girl, is in jail facing the death penalty.  But Korn didn't count on Eddie Flynn.  The clock is ticking for Flynn - he has only 7 days to save Andy and find the real killer.

I love legal thrillers, and this is one of the best series.  You don't have to read them in order, but you need to read them.  This one will leave you feeling dirty and disgusted, with the corrupted, racist attitudes of so many in this book.  There are very few "good" characters except for Eddie and his team.  But this is a fabulous legal thriller that will make you think.  Can't wait for more from Eddie!

8.22.2025 - One Dark Night

 

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

On Halloween, a group of teenage students meet in the woods near Sally in the Wood, a road steeped in local lore and rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a murdered girl. By the end of the night, one student will be dead.  Rachel, the guidance counselor at the school, and her ex-husband, Ben, a detective in the town, have concerns about their daughter, Ellie, who is keeping many secrets.

Halloween night, creepy ghost stories, and urban legends?  Check.  Creepy dark woods?  Check.  Teenagers keeping secrets and family drama?  Check.  So you know that this one hit all the marks for me and I loved it.  Told from multiple POV, I thought I knew where it was going but was so wrong.  A great mystery with realistic characters that kept me turning the pages.  Go into it blind and enjoy - maybe with the lights on?

8.20.2025 - Circle of Strangers

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing | Thomas & Mercer, and Brilliance Publishing for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the second book in the Dangerous Strangers Thrillers Series by Minka Kent, with the audiobook narrated by Renata Friedman and Chris Ciulla.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Camille and Will Prescott have relocated from San Diego to Phoenix for a fresh start in a quiet gated community.  Her new neighbors seem nice, but things begin to get quite weird.  And while she's intrigued about her neighbors' lives, she realizes her own relationship is in trouble.  Then there's the fact that there is a dead body in her garage.

How fun it was to get back in Camille's world again, after the first book in this series, Imaginary Strangers.  I would definitely recommend reading that one first - it's a quick read, but so good and it will introduce you to all the characters and their stories.  And there are lots of stories!  I liked the added tension of neighborhood drama into this book and by the end of it, I was holding my breath!  It ended with another cliffhanger, so hopefully we won't have to wait too long to find out what happens!  I alternated reading and listening to the audiobook and both are recommended!

8.20.2025 - Imaginary Strangers

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing | Thomas & Mercer for gifting me a digital ARC of the first book in a new series by Minka Kent.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Camille has it all - a loving physician husband and two young children.  But she's keeping a big secret - she had a traumatic childhood and has been diagnosed as a sociopath.   She has to hide the truth, because she knows that if her mother finds her, she'll kill her.  But when 6-year-old Georgie comes home from school talking about a new imaginary friend who knows way too much, Camille is terrified.

This was a gripping psychological thriller that had me turning the pages as fast as possible.  Because just what was happening here?  Told in the present as well as in the past via therapy sessions, you can feel the fear that Camille is experiencing for the safety of her family.  I was shocked at the ending and never saw that coming.  I'm on to read the next book because I have to see what happens!

8.19.2025 - Joy Moody is Out of Time

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the new book by Kerryn Mayne, with the audiobook perfectly narrated by Annie Maynard.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Joy Moody runs the laundromat, Joyful Suds, along with her twin daughters, Cassie and Andie.  But Joy has been lying to her daughters forever, telling them a colorful origin tale.   She always thought she had time to make things right, but she's out of time.  The girls have always believed Joy and her story that they are vital to the future and must stay safe and hidden until their impending 21st birthday.  But when that day comes, everything has changed.

I loved this author's debut book, Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder, with that audiobook also narrated by Annie Maynard, who has such a lovely accent and voiced these characters perfectly.  Mayne's sophomore book just as wonderful, so she's now a must-read author for me.  This book was so original in its plot and execution, and I loved everything from the description of the laundromat to wondering just exactly what and who to believe.  I'd suggest going into it mostly blind so that you can really enjoy the spooling out of the story, complete with its hazy-feeling truthfulness.  The characters are quirky, and the story is told from the POV of all three women, plus a few others.  It's a good mystery with plenty of family dynamics thrown in the mix.  Bravo!  

8.18.2025 - The Once and Future Me

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Henry Holt and Company for gifting me a digital ARC of this debut novel by Melissa Pace.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

It's 1954 when a woman wakes on a bus arriving at a psychiatric hospital, remembering nothing of her life.  Doctors tell her that her name is Dorothy and she's a paranoid schizophrenic, committed for her violent delusions.  She knows they're wrong, but how can she explain the visions of a future she sees?  

Wow - this one will blow your mind.  It's a combination of historical fiction, sci-fi, dystopia, and definitely a psychological thriller.  Just like the main character, you won't know what to believe and who you can trust.  Is she suffering delusions?  Is she from the future?  It's hard to review this one without giving things away, but I thought the themes of treating mental illness in the 1950s to viruses in the future were so chilling.  I had a grandmother die in an institution like Hanover in the 1950s, so this one rang true.  And that ending - more please!

8.18.2025 - Break Me Down

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for gifting me an audio ARC of the latest work by Anna Downes, and fabulously narrated by an entire cast.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Once-celebrated child star Georgia Lane moves to LA to make a comeback.  She soon realizes that it's going to be much more difficult than she imagined, and she finds herself broke and discouraged.  Then she meets Henry, also an aspiring actor, who sweeps in and connects her with the acting studio he attends, The Studio.  Marianna is the head teacher and she takes a special interest in Georgia.  The more Georgia gets involved, the more The Studio becomes volatile. 

First - this audio production was absolutely amazing!  I loved the first person narration, along with sound effects, phone calls, podcasts to completely immerse you in the story.  The theme of what you would sacrifice for your dream is at the crux of this novel, and when that obsession gets exploited by someone in power, trouble results.  The Studio was basically a cult and I'm sure this story would be relatable to many in the acting business, especially child actors who were exploited by those they trusted.  This was thought-provoking but also so very entertaining!

8.17.2025 - The Witch's Orchard

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this atmospheric debut novel by Archer Sullivan, perfectly narrated by Emily Pike Stewart.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Former AF special investigator Annie Gore joined the military after graduation to escape her home life.  Now working as a private investigator, her latest case takes her to an Appalachian holler similar to where she grew up.  Ten years ago, three little girls went missing.  One was returned and the others were never seen again.  The brother of one of the girls wants an outsider to look into the case and hires Annie.  But not everyone in town welcomes Annie stirring up old secrets.

What a wonderful debut - this story was so well written, full of creepiness without gore, with lots of folk stories of witches and crows, passed down through generations, that took on a life of their own.  And creepy apple faced dolls!  I wasn't sure what was going on and who to trust, but Annie was a fabulous character, full of grit and passion, and I can foresee more to come with her investigating cases (that's a pretty please out to the publication universe).  The audiobook was perfectly narrated, amping up the creep factor.  Perfect book as we head into spooky season!

8.16.2025 - The Incredible Kindness of Paper

 

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

Chloe and Oliver were best of friends in elementary school, blossoming into something more as they grew older.  But then Oliver left with no word.  Twenty years later, Chloe's feeling lost and having too many negative changes in her life.  She gives herself an encouraging word written on yellow origami paper that she folds into roses.  When it finds its way to a neighbor in need, Chloe decides to spread kindness across NYC.  Meanwhile, Oliver has worked hard to recover from his upbringing after leaving Chloe, but is still haunted by the past.  One of Chloe's roses finds its way into his life.

Sometimes you just need a book that fills you with positivity, hope and happiness, and this book will do it.  Plus, I learned my new favorite way to think about reactions when someone comes to you with an issue - you can fix, listen, or hug.  Isn't that the best?  I loved this book filled with magical realism and the magic of connection.  Highly recommended!

8.16.2025 - The Frequency of Living Things

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Atria Books for gifting me a physical and digital ARC of the latest book by Nick Fuller Googins, author of The Great Transition, which I loved.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Four women - Bertie, the single mom of twins, Ara and Emma, and youngest daughter, Josie.  Emma and Ara found short-lived fame as the band Jojo and the Twins, but Ara's addictions put an end to that.  While Josie is the youngest, she's the one who takes care of everyone and everything while still trying to have her career as a scientist.  When Ara lands in jail, she must finally face her demons and her family. 

Just what will or won't we do for the survival of our family?  I got pulled into this story right away about the messy lives of these siblings, and their absent mom.  The story goes back in time to learn more about Bertie and her passion for social justice that left her to basically neglect her girls.  The sibling dynamic felt so realistic, even though all families are different in their own ways.  I liked the scientific aspects of Josie's work, and thought the Butterfly & Reptile World was a fascinating place.  But it's the emotional pull between all the characters that makes this book a winner.

8.14.2025 - Kiss Her Goodbye

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Grand Central Publishing and Hachette Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest in the Frankie Elkin series by Lisa Gardner, with the audiobook perfectly narrated by the wonderful Hillary Huber.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Missing person expert Frankie Elkin takes on a case of finding a missing Afghan refugee, Sabera, that no one seems to be looking very hard for.  Then a video surfaces with the young mother walking away from the scene of a brutal double murder.  When her husband also disappears and an attempt is made on their child's life, Frankie needs to act quickly.

Frankie is back!  She is such a good character, full of flaws, dark humor, and the absolute dedication to find those missing.  Frankie lands a swanky place to live for the month, with the job of pet sitting - for some very exotic pets.  But she also meets the owner's workers/friends, who become lifelines for her.  Told in two timelines, we hear Sabera's complex story in the past.  While the book also shines light on important issues such as the challenges of refugees and the affordable housing crisis, it's also a fun, twisty thriller that kept me gripped.  It can certainly be read as a stand alone (I missed the first couple) and I'm anxiously awaiting the next adventure for Frankie.  As always, Hillary Huber's narration was amazing, voicing all of the characters in the cast perfectly.  Be sure to read the author's note at the end.

8.14.2025 - Gone in the Night

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by a favorite, Joanna Schaffhausen.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Former detective Annalisa Vega, now pregnant and a floundering PI,  hasn’t forgiven her brother for his role in a murder, and he hasn’t forgiven her for turning him in, so she’s surprised when he asks her to visit him in prison. Turns out, he has a possible case for her: one of his fellow inmates, Joe Green, may be innocent of the murder that landed him behind bars.  Annalisa begins investigating and finds some issues with the original case; unfortunately, his arresting officer was her husband, Nick.  This case tests the bounds of her marriage, her family, and her sense of justice.

This is one of my favorite series, but if you haven't read it, the author gives plenty of background so that it can be enjoyed as a stand alone.  But if you've read from the beginning, you get the treat of knowing and reuniting with these characters.  These books are so well written and expertly plotted, with lots of twists and turns that I didn't see coming.  Plus, the family relationships and dynamics keep the storyline feeling personal.  Great police procedural and I can't wait to see what happens next in this series!

8.13.2025 - High Season

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the new book by Katie Bishop, with the audiobook perfectly narrated by Alix Dunmore.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

At a birthday party 20 years ago, Tamara was found floating facedown in the pool of her family's mansion in the south of France, leaving her twin brother, Blake, and younger sister, Nina, behind.  Nina, at age 6 became the youngest person ever to testify in a murder trial, saying she saw her babysitter, Josie, push Tamara under the water.  Or did she?  Now Nina's memories have faded.  When a new true crime documentary about her sister's murder is announced, maybe the truth will finally come out.

Told in dual timelines of before the party and 20 years later, we get to meet all the key characters and see how they have changed in that time period.  This is a fascinating look at memory, trauma, classism, family relationships wrapped up in a gripping, suspenseful tale.  It was atmospheric and the characters felt so real - all their flaws well on display, both intentional and otherwise.  Plus there was the true crime story aspect.  I was shocked at the ending and never saw it coming.  Great read for the summer!  The narration was wonderful, and I enjoyed listening and reading.  This was my second audiobook in a row by this narrator and both were excellent!

8.12.2025 - Bless Your Heart

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books and Megan Beatie Communications for gifting me a physical and digital ARC of the debut novel by Leigh Dunlap.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Anderson Tupper, a member of one of Atlanta’s richest families, has been murdered in the dugout of the Little League field where he was a volunteer coach, and it’s up to Detective Shay Claypool, a single mother from the other side of town, to find his killer.  But to do that, she has to deal with the Buckhead Betties, the entitled women of Georgia's most affluent zip code.  One of them may be a murdered, but which one?  Because everyone has secrets and lies.

I love domestic suspense/thrillers and this one was entertaining from the first page to that shocking ending.  While there are plenty of themes of entitled people, classism, and racism, this is just some downright fun.  Plus, the southern setting was so real, you can tell that the author used to live there.  Detectives Shay and Dub are great characters too.  There's still plenty of summer time left to enjoy this juicy book!  Can't wait to see what this author will come up with next, but sign me up now!

8.12.2025 - Down Cemetery Road

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Recorded Books Media for gifting me an audio ARC of this crime fiction novel by Mick Herron, narrated by Alix Dunmore.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

When a house explodes in a quiet suburb and a young girl disappears, Sarah, married and bored with her life, becomes obsessed with finding her. But the more she investigates, the muddier things become, and Sarah finds herself in danger.

I'm a huge Slow Horses fan and when I had the opportunity to read Herron's debut book, which is also about to become an Apple TV series, I jumped at it.  It was a little confusing and jumbled for me, but that may have just been my mindset while reading.  The parts I liked were the snarky characters, especially Sarah, and the dark humor.  You're always kept on your toes because you just never know with Herron.  And that's a good thing!  We are introduced here to Zoe, who is a detective featured in subsequent books.

8.11.2025 - Hemlock & Silver

Many thanks to NetGalley, Tor Publishing and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest by T, Kingfisher, with the audiobook amazingly narrated by Jennifer Pickens.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Healer Anja regularly drinks poison, seeking cures for those that other have given up on.  Her quiet life is upended when she is summoned by the King.  His daughter, Snow, is dying, and no one can figure out why.  He's hoping Anja can save her.  Nothing works, until she finds a hidden world inside a magic mirror.

I will read anything that T. Kingfisher writes, and this retelling of Snow White was fabulous - especially the audiobook, which I would highly recommend.  I loved Anja's character - an older woman who says what she thinks no matter what, understands her own social awkwardness, and is so relatable.  Plus, there are so many wonderful characters here - including a talking cat!  This was just the perfect, dark fairy tale that really came to life with the author's skill and the wonderful narration.  

8.11.2025 - For the Record

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest novel by Emma Lord, with the audiobook wonderfully narrated by Andrew Eiden and Jesse Vilinsky.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Once rivals in the music scene, pop princess Mackenzie Waters and punk rockstar Sam Blaze electrified audiences as their bands clashed on stage. But behind the scenes, their simmering tension grew into something more until both bands fell apart, and the idea of Mackenzie and Sam did, too.  Two years later, Sam has given up the music world to raise a son he didn't know about, and Mackenzie lost the voice she was known for and is adjusting to the new one.  With their futures on the line, Sam and Mackenzie face their biggest challenge yet: giving up the old rivalry and learning to work together. 

Emma Lord always writes a good rom com, and the narration made the audiobook sing (sorry, bad pun intended).  I liked this story being set in the music world, and liked both these main characters, and enjoyed having the story from both of their POV.  I found myself rooting for them and hoping for second chances.  It definitely leaned toward YA, but I enjoyed it!

8.10.2025 - The Cover Girl

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing | Mira Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the debut novel by Amy Rossi.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Birdie Rhodes was only 13 when legendary modeling agent Harriet Goldman discovered her and transformed her into one of Harriet's Girls.  But two years later, she meets a 31-year-old rock star and begins a whole new life, despite Harriet's warnings.  Then it's over and Birdie has to try and pick up the pieces of her life.  Decades later, she lives a quiet life and is as content as possible.  Until a letter arrives inviting Birdie to celebrate Harriet's career.  The two haven't spoken in nearly 30 years.

This is a wonderful debut, a chilling look into the exploitation of children and young girls for the sake of a photo.  Set in two timelines, this book takes you back into the 1970s and 1980s and beyond, with glittering settings of NY, LA, Paris.  My heart broke for 13-year-old Birdie, with no one looking out just for her, not even her parents.  I'm not sure I've read a book strictly about modeling during this time period and it was fascinating.  If you liked Daisy Jones and the Six, you'll devour this one.  I was rooting for Birdie throughout the book and her journey into self-acceptance.  Looking forward to more from this author!

8.9.2025 - Tantrum

Many thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam for gifting me a digital ARC of this novel by Rachel Eve Moulton.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Lucia didn't have a good relationship with her own mother, so she was worried and stressed throughout her first two pregnancies.  But everything went well and she has two wonderful little boys.  Her third pregnancy was easy and she had none of the same fears.  Until she was born and she just knew her baby girl was a monster.  

This is a wild ride and certainly won't be for everyone.  But if you love dark humor with a side of horror, this look at motherhood, mother/daughter relationships, and generational trauma just might be for you.  I'm not sure I've read anything else like this before and I read a lot!  It's short and unhinged in a good way, and I couldn't look away.  

8.8.2025 - Full Bloom

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House | Ballantine Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the sophomore book by Francesca Serritella.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Iris is feeling a bit loss after a recent breakup and being overlooked at her job as a lighting designer.  Then a mysterious neighbor, an older Frenchwoman, makes her a special personal perfume.  One spritz and she is a different person.  Suddenly, men are interested and she's dazzling a new client at work,   But she also finds herself in the sordid side of the cutthroat NY real estate world.  

Serritella, daughter of and coauthor with Lisa Scottoline, proves that her debut novel, Ghosts of Harvard, wasn't a one off, and we can expect more fabulous books!  From the beginning, I got caught up in this story, its beautiful writing, the mystery, and the romance - because it really has it all.  At its core, it's a story of coming to terms with your past and into your best self.  There were lots of fascinating subplots too, and I learned about scents, environmental lighting, glass blowing, and even egg retrieval,   I loved the ending too - can't say more without ruining anything but it was perfect.  Plus, that gorgeous cover.  

8.7.2025 - The Wrong Sister

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Perennial for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Claire Douglas.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Tasha and Aaron live a very different lifestyle than her sister, Alice, does with her husband, Kyle.  Alice offers to "life swap" with them, letting Tasha and Aaron stay at their Venice house while Alice and Kyle stay in Bristol with their twin girls.  But while Tasha and Aaron are enjoying a romantic night, they get a call that there's been an attack at their home.  Later, Tasha finds a note saying, It was supposed to be you.

As you would expect from this author, this was a fast-paced thriller with lots of twists and turns and plenty of people to suspect.  Plus, there is a secondary mystery as to what happened to Tasha and Alice's younger sister decades ago.  Told from the POV of both Alice and Tasha, with some chapters from their mother and a few other characters, this one had me guessing until the end.  Pick this one up!

8.7.2025 - Jenny Cooper Has a Secret

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House | Ballantine for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by a favorite, Joy Fielding.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Linda Davidson's life is not going well.  She's still reeling from her husband's death and her best friend's dementia diagnosis and move into a care facility.  Her daughter, Kleo, and her husband, Mick, have moved in with Linda, but their constant fighting just causes more stress.  Linda goes to visit her friend at the care facility and meets Jenny Cooper, a 92-year-old patient.  She tells Linda her secret - she kills people.  Is it her dementia talking or is it true?

I have been a huge fan of Fielding's books for decades and loved this one.  It's filled with sharp, dark humor and characters that you will love and those you will love to hate.  The story plays out in short chapters that keep you reading just one more to find out if you are dealing with unreliable narrators or not.  It's got tough themes of abuse and dementia, but it's also a look into aging well and moving on after grief.  I loved spending time with Linda and Jenny - this is a must read!

8.6.2025 - L.A. Women

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by Ella Berman.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Two women, Lane and Gala, became friends during the 1960s party scene in LA.  Both writers, they were drawn to each other, until Gala's star began to rise.  Ten years later, Lane is back on top with a new book deal based on Gala's life.  However, Gala has been missing for months and no one can find her.

Ella Berman is great at writing female characters and their complicated relationships, with each other and with the men in their lives.  This book is no exception.  It's a bit of a slow burn, but I liked learning more about these women in a time when they were still viewed as less than men.  There are some heavy topics here too - addiction, grief, struggles with motherhood - but it's the characters that shine.  Charlie, Lane's friend, is another intriguing character.  I liked the dual timelines of Then and Now to flesh out the backstories.  Good read!

8.5.2025 - The Man No One Believed

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and WW Norton & Company for gifting me a digital ARC of this true crime story by Joshua Sharpe.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

In 1985, a white man walked into a southern Georgia church and brutally murdered Harold and Thelma Swain, both pillars of the area's Black community.  The killer vanished into the night and the case went cold until another officer was assigned and quickly zeroed in on Dennis Perry.  Despite no real evidence, he was convicted and received a double life sentence.  The author retraced the case and discovered grave injustices and was diligent in pursuing the truth.

This was such a well-written book, covering the crime and victims, but also the deeper corruption, greed, racism, and hate involved.  Sharpe was a bulldog to investigate this case even when he was in danger, and tried so hard to get justice for Perry and the Swain's.  Not only that, but to find the real murderer.  This book shines light on how powerful journalism can be, to overtake evil.  

8.4.2025 - Fine Young People

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Algonquin Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this novel by Anna Bruno.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Frankie and her best friend, Shiv, are working on a senior journalism project at their elite Catholic prep school in Pittsburgh, focusing on the presumed suicide of a student years earlier, after a current classmate just died by suicide.  The young women start probing into the earlier death of Woolf Whiting, a hockey star student, and begin conversations with his sister, his best friend, his girlfriend, and his mother.  Along the way, Frankie discovers much more than she expected.

I really enjoyed this novel and the way the story was presented.  From the viewpoint of her college years, Frankie narrates the story of their high school project as they are interviewing those involved.  Those interviews give us insight into the back story of all the involved people in Woolf's life.  While the mystery into what really happened to Woolf is intriguing, I also really enjoyed the coming-of-age exploration and the Catholic and religious themes throughout.  Plus, it definitely shines an eye on the importance of sports in such institutions and the issues that can present.  Wonderful book!

8.2.2025 - The Last Letter of Rachel Ellsworth

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing | Lake Union Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of the new novel by Barbara O'Neal.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Veronica is recently divorced and struggling with both a purpose and money woes when she answers a listing for a travel companion.  It's from Mariah, a young skier adjusting to an injury that ended her Olympic career.  Mariah is also grieving the loss of her mother, Rachel, a famous food writer.  Mariah plans to trace the steps of her mom's final, unfinished project as a way to help her heal.  The two are accompanied by a former war photographer, Henry, a father figure to Mariah.  The trio follow Rachel's last letters to solve a mystery and hopefully heal in the process.

This is a beautifully-written story with travel and food descriptions that will totally immerse you into the trio's trip through London, Paris, Morocco, and India.  While both women had some characteristics that drove me crazy (Veronica is totally obsessed with how many calories she's eating and Mariah is not always kind), I loved the healing journey they all took as they forged new lives out of trauma.  There's also a theme of mother/daughter relationships throughout.  Plus, the mystery of the letters unfolds slowly to keep you turning the pages.  Great read!

8.1.2025 - That Missing Piece is Killing Me

Many thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for gifting me the new book by Roz Noonan, the second in this series.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Librarian Alice Pepper has found her tribe in small town West Hazel, women who enjoy making puzzles and maybe solving a mystery or two.  When a local lady goes missing, Alice and her friends are determined to find out what happened.  Those investigations lead to a look into the art world in their town and they may have put themselves into danger as well.   

This is such a fun, cozy mystery series that I would highly recommend, especially because it showcases older women who are strong, resilient, and determined, plus they are there for each other no matter what.  This was a good mystery with multiple suspects and I liked the thread of Alice's fractured family as well.  I hope there are more books to come in this series!