9.2.2026 - Why You Should Read Children's Books, Even Though You are So Old and Wise

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children's Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this short essay book by Katerine Rundell.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

How could you not love a book that celebrates how important children's books are no matter how old you are?  Plus, it celebrates libraries, which can't get enough love.  I adored the history of some of the popular fairy tales - I hadn't heard of many of the versions.  Just lovely to spend a little time with an important subject.

9.2.2026 - The Truth About Ruby Cooper

 

Many thanks to NetGallery and Simon & Schuster | Gallery Books | Scout Press for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Liz Nugent.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Ruby and her older sister, Erin, live a comfortable life in their Boston home with their pastor father and Irish mother, until "the incident."  Afterwards, the family is never the same.  

Go into this one as blind as possible, knowing that you are going to be reading an uncomfortable book, but one that will grip you until that last line.  The story alternates between Erin and Ruby's perspectives over two decades, highlighting how their lives diverged.  I'm a big fan of Liz Nugent but do I dare say that this is my favorite of her books?  I would gush more but I don't want to give even a hint of a spoiler.  Just know that this is a must read book and very highly recommended!

9.1.2026 - Paper Ghosts

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest book by Sarah Addison Allen, with the audiobook narrated by the fabulous Marin Ireland.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

For decades, the women of Wester House have been the source of talk in their small North Carolina town.  Told in two timelines, we first meet Willamena in 1976, when she's desperate to escape the Wester legacy and have some freedom.  In the present day, her granddaughter, Bailey, returns to Wester House.  As she reconnects with Wills, she begins to understand the choices that shaped the women in her family.

I love generational books and was equally fascinated with both timelines.  It's both a coming-of-age story and one of generational trauma, as Wills repeats the pattern of isolation impressed on her.  I really liked the magical realism part of this story, and the those that haunt us for various reasons. Between that and the small-town isolation, you could feel the past settling over the characters.   Marin Ireland's narration just added to that gothic atmospheric tone.  Wonderful!

8.31.2026 - The Treasure House

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine | Dell for gifting me a digital ARC of the new book by Amy Matthews.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Zoe and her daughter, Flo, need a new start but they can't afford one, until she finds a listing for a cottage in Maine.  It's in their price range but it's a treasure house - filled to the brim with junk and sold as is.  We go back in time to read about Marly, the woman who lived in the cottage before.  Can Zoe and Flo find a new forever home or have they made a big mistake?

I loved this author's previous book, Someone Else's Bucket List, and this is just as heartwarming and sweet, with no hint of sappiness.  I had certainly heard of hoarder homes, but love the term "treasure house."  Both timelines were so good and I was equally intrigued with both.  I could picture the small coastal town, where everyone becomes family.  There's some romance, plenty of cats and even a dog, and wonderful characters.  Put this one on your TBR now!

8.30.2026 - Mother Daughter Sister Stranger

 

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 thriller by a favorite, Hank Phillippi Ryan, with the audiobook wonderfully narrated by Stevi Incremona​.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Eliza and her sister, Bea, were the sole survivors of the plane crash that killed their parents.  Now, 11 years later on the exact anniversary of the crash, Bea fails to pick up her daughter, Piper, from a sleepover at Eliza's.  Eliza knows that she would never leave her behind and fears the worst.  

This story had me glued trying to figure out just what happened to Bea, and the suspense just kept building until the end.  I thought I had things figured out but I didn't, which is always fun.  It's fast paced, with plenty of twists and turns, and complicated family dynamics.  Piper is a star for sure and I loved her spunky character.  The narrator did a fabulous job and let me listen when I couldn't read because I just had to know what happened - highly recommended for a gripping thriller!

8.27.2026 - Before You Were Anne

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful book by Emiko Jean.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Things are finally going well for Detective Chelsey Calhoun in her job and personally, and she's expecting her first child.  Then she gets a case that blows all that up.  A mother is found dead and her teenage daughter is missing.  Chelsey is desperate to find Naomi before she becomes the next victim.

I absolutely adored the first book in this series, The Return of Ellie Black, where we were introduced to Detective Calhoun.  She is such a strong woman, not able to rest until she can figure out the latest puzzle.  This story is told in three distinct voices - the detective, the victim now known as Anne, and her daughter, Naomi.  Each voice was so powerful and I was completely invested in their story.  It's a story about family, heritage, and belonging.  A fabulous police procedural and more, beautifully written, compelling, heartbreaking, and powerful.  You wouldn't have to read the first book, but you definitely should.  Highly recommended and I've got my fingers crossed for more in this series.

8.27.2026 - Ideal Life

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Atria | Emily Bestler Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest novel by Evelyn Skye.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Talia has built her neuroscience startup and it's now poised for a $100M acquisition to make her dream come true of making the world a better place through technology.  But a glitch in the app leads to a catastrophe and she's about to lose everything.  Then she wakes up with a mysterious watch that allows her to rewind the last 24 hours.  Suddenly, she can make everything in her life perfect?  Or can she?

I'm a big fan of Evelyn Skye's books - quiet, thoughtful, with a touch of magic, that will make you think about doing and being better.  This book is no different - Talia will learn that trying to achieve perfection not even possible and comes at a price.  Plus, it's the butterfly effect, where minute changes can have giant ripple consequences.  It's also a nod that technology, for all the good it can do, is not the answer.  I enjoyed my time with this book!

8.27.2026 - Counting the Days

 

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

Rhea is 38, single, and desperate for a baby.  She's been told that her fertility will plummet at age 39, so she resolves to find the perfect man before her date.  Cue the countdown.  Then she meets Danny and he is perfect - expect he doesn't want children.  

This was a funny, sweet novel that will make you think about life choices.  Do you make the choices because that's what everyone else is doing?  Because it's what is expected of you?  Because of what others think?  Rhea started creating vision boards in high school and continued on, creating what she felt would be a perfect life.  But we all know that there is no perfect life and no vision board perfection will bring happiness.  I liked that both Rhea and Danny were open to communicating their issues and not playing games, and the ending was sweet.  A nice summer romance to make you think about life!

8.26.2026 - They Say a Girl Died Here

Many thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for gifting me an audio ARC of the latest thriller by Sarah Pinborough, with the audiobook narrated by the amazing Saskia Maarleveld.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Anna is living with her family in a small town in Nebraska, hoping for a fresh start.  But there’s a cloud hanging over the town, and it’s not rain.  Two young women have been murdered exactly three years apart, and the anniversary is coming up.  Even though the murders were supposedly solved, people are still talking.  Anna’s young sister is scared, and her elderly grandmother with dementia is having strange episodes.  Something strange is happening.

I listened to the audiobook and Saskia Maarleveld once again nailed the narration of this novel, making it feel like there’s an entire cast.  This is a creepy, intense story where you’re never exactly sure who or what to believe.  Anna has her own demons and secrets and struggles to take care of her sister and grandmother as well as make peace with her mother.  The small-town atmosphere is a character as well, with an ominous feeling throughout.  A slow-burn, creepy novel leading to an explosive ending.  

8.25.2026 - The Opposite of Murder

Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller and police procedural by Sophie Hannah.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Jemma walks into a police station confessing a desire to kill her stepmother, Marianne.  She's hoping that confessing will mean that she will never follow through with her plan, because then the police would know who did it.  But at the same time as Jemma is confessing, Marianne is murdered. 

This was a wild ride, completely original, and I love a book that makes me think.  This one has you looking at every event from a different angle, letting you see what you were missing.  Sure, some things were a bit over the top, but that just made for a good read.  I'm actually surprised that this book isn't getting better ratings.  If you like mysteries that will make you think and you'll still never figure it all out, this one is for you!

8.25.2026 - Make Nice

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Knopf for gifting me a digital ARC of the debut novel by Ryan Effgen.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

The three Pickford siblings - Pete, Viv (along with her daughter Ash), Corey - are summoned by their widowed father to meet at The Grand Hotel on the island where they had a summer house decades ago.  The siblings couldn't be more different and old hurts and resentments among all of them reemerge.

I love a good, messy family drama story and found myself invested in all of these characters.  Each one is going through a battle, and being together doesn't help.  There is plenty of humor to dull the sharp edges, and encouraging to know how strong those family bonds really are.  I loved the relationship between Pete and the young neighbor boy, plus you'll learn lots about snails to boot!  Wonderful debut - anxious to read more from this author!

8.24.2026 - Wicked Wanted Widows

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for gifting me a digital ARC of the third book in The Widows series by Vanessa Lillie, Kimberly Belle, and Cate Holahan.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

The Widows once again find themselves in danger and chaos, as one of their own gets kidnapped.  Each of them are also carrying their own troubles along the race for finding Meredith, and things aren't looking good for any of them.

It's always fun to go along with the Widows on their latest adventures, and this book had some wild ones along with plenty of references from The Goonies - what's not to love?  As typical, we hear from each of the ladies, but not as much from Meredith obviously.  Each of their voices are so distinct, and they kept me laughing and in suspense throughout the book.  

8.24.2026 - Heart of Glass

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press | Minotaur Books, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC, as well as an audio bonus chapter, of the latest thriller by Jennifer Hillier.  The audiobook was narrated by the amazing cast of Brittany Pressley, Chris Brinkley, Eunice Wong, Ferdelle Capistrano, and January LaVoy.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Twenty-five years ago in Seaside, Washington, a drifter named Samuel Figg met three teenage girls at the local amusement park, Wonderland.  Days later, one of them was found dead.   After he's arrested for the murders of five young women – one of whom was their best friend, Lorelei – Nicolette and Barb tried to move on, until the Carnival Killer recants his confession and a new body washes ashore.

I'm a big fan of Hillier's books, and listened to Wonderland when it came out in audio a few years ago, but you can easily read this one as a stand alone.  This story plays out in five parts, each part opening with an episode from Season Seven of Criminal Confessions, where we get an unedited version of a jailhouse interview with Sam. There's a lot going on here - a long-ago murder, missing reality tv stars, personal dramas, all as Wonderland is preparing to reopen to hopefully save the town.  It all came together in a heart-stopping fashion, and I couldn't put it down.  I listened to the audio because I love a full cast, especially one with all these talented narrators, and there were wonderful sound effects as well.  The bonus chapter just added the proverbial cherry on top!  Highly recommended for your summer thrill read!

8.23.2026 - To All the Men I've Killed Before

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper360 for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest in the Kitty Collins series by Katy Brent.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

Kitty has tracked the lowlife who hurt her best friend to Los Angeles, and she's brought her sister, Antoinette, along.  Kitty has rules for murder - no one innocent, no one vulnerable, and don't get caught.  Antoinette has much to learn.

If you love dark humor and bad men getting their dues, this series is for you and it keeps getting better.  I'd recommend reading the others (they are too good to miss!) so that you understand Kitty's motivations and back story.  There's plenty of suspense as well, and I put life aside until I finished.  Supposedly this is the last book in the series which makes me sad, but it sure was a great ride!

8.22.2026 - Daggerbound

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for gifting me an audio ARC of the latest novel by T. Kingfisher, narrated so perfectly by Jesse Vilinsky.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Learned Edmund, a disillusioned scholar, is transporting a precious relic from one temple to a different temple.  But when Edmund is set upon by bandits, he breaks the cardinal rule and grabs for the relic, an ancient sword. To his surprise, instead of unsheathing a rusty, ancient weapon, an alarmingly handsome man appears, wielding daggers of blue steel and cutting the thieves down.  This man is the Dervish, an immortal warrior who has been trapped for centuries in the sword, and he's mad.  

T. Kingfisher is the master at creating worlds and creatures that feel so real and immersive.  Then, the stellar narration by Jesse Vilinsky really brings that world to life.  While listening, the real world just faded away.  I loved all these creatures - especially Large Francis, and Dog Violet - and their personalities just shine.  I would go from laughing to feeling emotional time after time.  Somehow I missed the first book, Swordheart, but it obviously didn't affect my enjoyment of this book.  Wonderful!

8.21.2026 - The Silent Appeal

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Atria Books for gifting me a digital and physical ARC of the latest book by the wonderful Janice Hallett.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

The Fairway Players amateur drama group are back, this time staging Agatha Christie's The Hollow.  But much is happening off stage as well - Nicky-Rose, committee cochair Sarah-Jane's sister, is back from Barbados under mysterious circumstances.  Then a murder occurs on opening night.

I'm absolutely enthralled with anything that Janice Hallett writes, and adore the way this series.  Told in the epistolary style of writing, the story plays out through emails, text messages, transcripts, and interviews.  In addition, Femi and Charlotte are back - two lawyers tasked with figuring out just what happened, if the correct person has taken the blame, or if an appeal should be filed.  The lawyers get the same information as the reader, in the same time period, so we see their deductions as we read.  In addition, we get all the gossip, pettiness, and arguing going on backstage.  It's brilliant.   I would highly recommend starting with The Appeal because these books are so good and there is some character retention, but it's set up to read as a stand-alone as well.  Bravo!

8.20.2026 - That Night

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow, and HarperAudio for gifting me both an audio and digital ARC of this republished book by a favorite, Gillian McAllister, with the audiobook wonderfully narrated by Amrita Acharia.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Three siblings - Joe, Cathy, and Frannie - are on vacation together in Italy. One night, Frannie makes two phone calls - one to each sibling. The siblings come running and find Frannie covered in blood, kneeling over an unmoving body. They make a promise. They’ll never tell anyone. But then the lies start piling up.

Before I watched the Netflix series, I was anxious to read the book (because the book is always better, right?). What a wild, twisty ride with so many moral and ethical thoughts - just what would you do to protect your family? Told from the POV of the three siblings along with Lydia, Joe's wife, the tension just keeps building as time passes. The siblings are extremely close, bonding after a traumatic event in their childhood, and they live next to each other and work together, causing Lydia to feel like an outsider.  The audiobook narrator did a great job with the voices.  This is a wonderful book and I can't wait to see if the series does it justice!  

8.19.2026 - The Shadow Friends

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing | Thomas & Mercer, MBCommunications, and Brilliance Publishing for gifting me a physical, digital, and audio ARC of the latest book in the Martini Club series by Tess Gerritsen, with the audiobook brilliantly narrated by Hillary Huber.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

When a renowned disease expert is found dead during a conference in Purity, Maine, the group of former spies known as the Martini Club are once again pulled into investigating an international crisis.  This time, Ingrid sees chilling links back to a disastrous mission from decades ago.  Soon, the club members are investigating even each other as they try to solve the mystery.

What a dynamic duo - Tess Gerritsen and Hillary Huber have combined once again to make this series so good.  I love how this group of retired spies never feel they are too old to get involved, and instead know that they are strong and capable whatever their age.  Plus, they love a good cocktail with friends at the end of a day - what's not to love?  This book focuses on Ingrid and her past and involves a former lover, international intrigue, and danger.  I highly recommend this series - and it's fabulous on audiobook.  While you could enjoy this as a stand alone, this is a series to start at the beginning to fully enjoy the backstories.  Can't wait for more!

8.18.2026 - My Sister is Going to Kill Me

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for gifting me a digital ARC of the new book by Nina Simon, author of Mother-Daughter Book Club, which I enjoyed.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 3.5 stars rounded up!

Liv and Mandy take a yearly sister trip, alternating who chooses their location.  The two sisters couldn't be any more different - Liv is responsible, practical, organized, while Mandy lives life spontaneously, and on the edge.  This year, Mandy picks a rafting adventure through the depths of the Grand Canyon, but when one of their group is found dead, the rafting trip turns beyond frightening.  They don't know who they can trust, maybe not even each other.

This was definitely more of a slow burn than her first book, with most of the action taking place in the second half.  I really liked the sisterhood angle of this book, although both women seemed to be a bit too typecast in their role, as did the influencer.  Plus, and maybe this was just me, but every time I read the name of the beauty product/company involved, CareFree, I would get distracted and think of the sanitary product instead!  The description of the rafting adventure was frightening to me, but I am sure that it is beyond beautiful.  

8.17.2026 - If Books Could Kill

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Viking Penguin for gifting me a digital ARC of the debut novel by Kate Eberle.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Roxie makes a wish with a stranger on the street to live out the plot of her favorite author's next novel.  Anna Matthews is known for her sweet, rom coms and just the kind of happily-ever-after Roxie dreams of.  So when her wish is granted and she finds herself swept into a first date with a handsome stranger, she's ecstatic.  Until it doesn't appear that the handsome stranger is in a rom com.  Desperate for help, she finds herself in the path of Grant, an anxious English professor.  Let the fun begin.

And fun it was!  This book encompasses and just maybe pokes a little fun at these book genres, giving us lots of twists along the way.  It's a madcap race to make the world right, with characters you will love and root for.  I loved Roxie's snark and confidence as well as Grant's anxiety and courage.  I can't wait to read what's next from this author!

8.16.2026 - Promise Me Never

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine | Bantam for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by the writing duo known as Liv Constantine.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

After a whirlwind romance, aspiring writer Savannah is married to superstar horror novelist Bennett Bryson.  They settle into Bennett's secluded upstate home.  But soon, cracks appear in Bennett's behavior and he becomes secretive and controlling.  She's also surrounded by reminders of Bennett's first wife who died in a tragic accident.  Then she gets a warning that Bennett may not be who he appears.

Go into this one as blind as possible to fully enjoy it!  This was another wonderful book from this duo and I was flipping the pages as quickly as possible to see where it would all end up.  There are plenty of twists along the way, characters who aren't who they appear to be, and even a dog - what's not to love?  You may have to suspend your disbelief a bit, but the twists and reveals just make it more fun.  Pick this one up for a great summer thriller!  

8.15.2026 - Get Lost

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing | Cardinal for gifting me the fiction debut novel by Justin Halpern.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Lila Dixon gets a call that her mom has gone missing, but it wouldn't be the first time so she doesn't panic.  Except that this time, her estranged dad is the prime suspect.  As much as he has disappointed her, she doesn't believe he has anything to do with her mom's disappearance, so the two begin investigating.

Well, that was fun!  Halpern's trademark humor is on full display here and I thoroughly enjoyed going along for the ride.  Lila had to grow up tough and mostly on her own, so she won't take gruff from anyone - and there are quite a few nefarious characters here.  This is a fast-paced mystery with the theme about repairing relationships.  

8.14.2026 - Murder on Charity Lane

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press | Minotaur Press, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both an audio and digital ARC of the second book in the Marigold Cottages Murders series by Jo Nichols, with the audiobook wonderfully narrated by Jim Meskimen and Meg Price.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

The residents of Marigold Cottages, owned by the lovable and interesting Mrs. B, have returned to a new normal after the recent events on the properties.  Mrs B invites a friend she met at the YMCA, CJ, to live in the cottages.  But when CJ's employer dies at a party where some of the Marigold residents are also attending, the gang is back!

This is such a fun series and I enjoyed more time with these characters, especially Mrs. B who is a hoot.  While it's mostly a cozy mystery, there's still a good mystery or two involved with lots of suspects to pick from.  While you could certainly read this as a stand-alone, the author doesn't spend a lot of time on the characters' back stories, so I'd recommend starting with the Marigold Cottages Murder Collective for extra fun.  I liked how this book moved the characters' relationships further along.  The narration was great and I mostly listened to this one.  Looking forward to more in this series!

8.14.2026 - A Killer Plot

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Knopf for gifting me a digital ARC of the second book in the Jane Hepburn Mystery series by E.C. Nevin.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

After solving the murder of her literary agent at last season's crime book festival, Jane has received an invite to a coveted book party in London.  She'll get to reconnect with her friends, Daniel and Natasha, whose debut novel was to be the star of the night.  Instead, Jane once again finds a dead body.  And then another.  The trio must work together to see if they can solve these crimes.

This is a fun, cozy mystery series set in the world of authors, books, publishing so of course I love it!  While you could read this as a stand alone, it's much more fun to start at the beginning, especially since another book will be coming.  While it may be cozy mystery, it's not one that I had any clue to the perpetrator, so it was fun from beginning to end.  The three main characters are of different ages and backgrounds, but are there for each other no matter what.  Carve some time out and read this one - I'm anxious for book 3, please!

8.12.2026 - Stay Buried

 Many thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest horror/thriller by Jennifer McMahon.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

In 1919, Frankie is working with her uncle, the town doctor, when a mysterious illness strikes the town.  The community suspects supernatural forces and blame the town's knackerman, a recluse who collects dead and dying farm animals to make use of their parts.  In 2016, Siblings Ashley and Malcolm lost their mother suddenly two years ago.  When their grandmother dies, she leaves them with many questions as well as a property in Boone's Ferry, Vermont.  The two set out to investigate the town.

Jennifer McMahon has once again gifted us with such a creepy story and intriguing characters.  I was so involved in both timelines, whose chapters always seemed to end with a cliffhanger, and I was desperate to get back to each setting.  The Knackerman was such a creepy character in both timelines.  What I truly loved was the strong women in this book, women who stuck to their guns, even when they knew it wasn't going to end well for them.  Even little Mini was a superstar.  But that ending - mind blown.  If you love a dark, historical twist to your scary reads, this one is definitely for you!

8.12.2026 - A Thousand Little Goodbyes

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by Lucy Gilmore.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Chrissie and Scarlett have been best friends since they met at a hospital when they were both young.  Their friendship has endured throughout the years, and they finally get the chance to take the cross-country road trip they've been wanting to do for a long time.  They plan on stopping at only small hotels and at every weird roadside attraction along the way.  But life is always there to throw a curve.

I'm a fan of Gilmore's books and this was another emotional read.  The friendship between the two women was strong, even with very different personalities.  There was a bit of melodrama in it and I saw the plot twists coming, but I still thoroughly enjoyed being a quiet passenger along for this road trip.

8.10.2026 - Under the Falls

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Knopf for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Richard Russo.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Tyler Sinclair left Stone Mountain at 18 with no plans of returning.  Now, he's the famous frontman of a band called Stone Mountain, and he's returning to his hometown for the first time for a benefit to support his friend, Doc.  The concert doesn't go as planned and things go terribly wrong afterwards.  

After I read the prologue of this book describing Upstate NY, I was sold.  Okay, I think the internet folks have said that this book has some questionable events and might well have been better suited to the TV series it was first imagined for.  But I still thoroughly enjoyed it and could easily overlook the supposed flaws.  Because it was still an interesting story, with morally gray characters and behaviors, in a setting that doesn't always allow for more.  I'd bet it would make a really good TV series too.

8.10.2026 - Brimstone Hollow

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the 2nd book in the Annie Gore series, with the audiobook perfectly narrated by Emily Pike Stewart.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Katie May's estranged father is one of Appalachia's last snake-handling preachers, but when she learns that he has been fatally bitten and a funeral held within 24 hours, she is rightly questioning just what happened.  She hires PI Annie Gore to take the case.  When Annie arrives in the small Eastern Kentucky town, she realizes that this won't be a quick trip and that someone is looking to stop her investigation.

Another wonderful book following her debut, The Witch's Orchard.   I loved heading back to the Appalachian Mountains with Annie in her beloved Datsun 260Z named Honey (BTW, my husband has a 280Z!).  Annie is the perfect PI - a tough, ex-Air Force investigator, with her own past to reckon with.  The small town atmosphere keeps the plot swirling with secrets and tension, and the characters all feel realistic.  I highly recommend the audiobook for both of these books - the narrator is wonderful and I will forever get chills thinking about her snake noises!  

8.9.2026 - Most Ardently Yours

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by Freya Sampson.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Zoe dreams of being a romance writer, but her ex-boyfriend convinced her she wasn't good enough.  Now she's sworn off men except for fictional ones, and of course her favorite is Austen's Mr. Darcy.  She stumbles across a bookshop in London and the owner, Nick, refuses to sell romance novels.  When she finds a copy of Pride & Prejudice on a top shelf, she takes it.  But after reading from it, she realizes she has summoned Mr. Darcy to the present day.  Can he ever be as good as he is in the novel?  

I'm surprised that this one is not getting better reviews, because even as someone like me who is not an Austen superfan enjoyed it!  Yes, it's filled with magical realism but it's also filled with all those things that Freya Sampson does so well - found family, charming characters, and just a fun storyline.  Pick this up when you need an escape from reality that will surely bring a smile to your face.

8.9.2026 - When Lemons Give You Life

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for gifting me a digital ARC of the sophomore book by Anna Johnston.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite for life.  He's living in an aged care facility and decides to make himself one last meal - a lemon tart.  But the act of cooking brings a spark back to his life, and he's soon sneaking in the kitchen regularly, while trying to maintain a big secret from the staff and his sister, Lisa.  Lisa has her own troubles but feels brighter with a new man in her life.  Can these siblings make things right before it's too late?

I was a huge fan of Johnston's debut, The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife, and this book was similarly wonderful.  Johnston has a gift of writing about older characters that will steal your heart, while at the same time imparting wisdom into their care.  I fell in love with these flawed characters as they try to deal with many complex issues in the best way they can.  Of course. you have to suspend some belief, but that's the magic of fiction.  The story spools out between Griff and Lisa's POV over various time periods, giving the reader needed background into just how they ended up where they are.  I loved the compassion Griff showed to the residents and how he stressed their worth, no matter what.  Definitely something we all need to remember.  Be sure and read the author's note at the end.  

8.8.2026 - Sex on Murder Island

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine | Bantam for gifting me a digital ARC of the second in the Luella van Horn series by Jo Firestone.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 3.5 stars!

Marie Jones (aka PI Luella van Horn) finds herself on the verge of eviction when she gets a call that changes everything.  She's asked to find evidence of a woman having an extramarital affair.  The job requires her to go to Murder Island, a private island for the very rich just outside of NYC.  Then the suspected lover is found murdered and she soon finds herself in the midst of another crazy investigation.

This series is crass and crazy, but there's something about the snarky voice of Luella that has me laughing out loud.  These books are not for the delicate among us, but they are a riot and do leave me wanting more.  I liked that Luella gathered a few friends in this investigation as well.

8.8.2026 - Getting Away With Murder

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Viking Penguin | Pamela Dorman Books for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by a favorite, Shari Lapena.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Jill and Ted are happily married, love their renovated NY brownstone, and have money to spare.  Well...not really.  Unbeknownst to Jill, Ted's inheritance is almost gone and his sure-fire investment tanked.  How can they maintain their home and lifestyle?  If Ted's brother was gone, Ted would inherit all his money which would solve all their problems.  But can they get away with murder?

This was a fun, fast-paced thriller where you know from the start who did it.  The only question is if they can get away with it.  There aren't any likable characters here and you may find yourself resenting the rich person privilege most of these people have.  But watching them try to stay out of trouble is lots of fun.  There were a few jaw-dropping scenes that I wasn't expecting, but no spoilers here.  Pack this along in your beach bag for some summer thriller fun!

8.7.2026 - Time to Burn

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by the writing duo known as Ellery Lloyd.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Controversial tech entrepreneur Inigo Frank offers the very wealthy a chance to go back in time to witness pivotal moments in history through his company Tempus Tours.  To showcase his achievement, Frank hires filmmaker Phoebe Hunt to create a documentary.  On her first day, she is set to witness the return of a property developer and his family from their trip to the past.  But instead, she sees the group arriving bloodied and traumatized, with one of their party missing.  Phoebe also recognizes the missing woman and realizes she's not who she claims to be.  

I have a love/hate relationship with time travel, going back decades to watching Star Trek spinoff episodes that left my head spinning.  Thankfully for my brain, this book is more of a mystery with time travel elements, although the end had my head spinning a bit.   It's more about the consequences of time travel than the possible science that would make it possible.  That said, I felt that the 1940s time period was done really well and I almost did feel like I was back in time.  There's also a cult theme, which I always like.  Very intriguing read!

8.6.2026 - The Vampire's Cult

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for gifting me a digital ARC of this true crime story by Chet Hardin.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

After a Tinder date, 24-year-old Sydney Loofe disappeared without a trace from Wilber, Nebraska.  Days later, her dismembered body was found scattered across nearby fields.  This is the story of the perpetrators of that horrendous crime and how they lured vulnerable young women into their world, with deadly consequences.

I had not heard of any part of this story before, but it's a wild one.  I felt the investigation, reporting and writing of this book were all very well done.  It does focus almost solely on Aubrey Trail, an aging con man, that somehow convinced women that he was all-knowing and all-being, the head of a coven of witches; and Bailey Boswell, the woman who worked by his side.  It's truly amazing how horrible people like this are able to convince others to go along with what they did, that people are willing to override common sense, especially when this was not a charming, charismatic man as so many cult leaders are but the polar opposite who showed no signs of his apparent wealth.  A sad story indeed and definitely yet another cautionary tale to social media!

8.6.2026 - Homewrecker

Many thanks to NetGalley and Spiegel & Grau for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful book by Becky Mandelbaum - my pick for Camp NetGalley and it was a great choice!  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

When your ex-boyfriend offers to pay you to move in with him and his fiancée, you should definitely say no. Piper says yes.  She picks up her sad life in Kansas and moves to Washington to help his fiancée illustrate her book, putting her own book dreams in the past, along with the rest of her troubles.  But will it all come crashing down?  

I’m sometimes annoyed with characters that cheat on their partners and then wonder why their lives are a mess.  But I absolutely loved this book!  It was written in a light tone, with supernatural elements and deeper themes of grief, loss, and betrayal.  This book pulled me in, and I was so invested in Piper’s story that I couldn’t put it down until I knew the ending.  Which of course I loved.  I’m trying to gush without saying too much to ruin the experience for anyone else.  Just read this book!

8.6.2026 - Sunlight Finds You

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Riverhead Books for gifting me a digital ARC of this wonderful book by Laura Moriarty, this month's Read With Jenna Book Club pick.  All opinions expressed in this book are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

It's 1949 in Florida, when 17-year-old Nora meets Leonard, shy and brilliant, at school.  One incident causes his parents to force Nora to not see Leonard, setting off a chain of secrets and lies that will follow them into adulthood.  

What a beautifully written story set in a time period where women really had so few options on so many fronts.  It was both heartbreaking and beautiful to watch the power of first love between Nora and Leonard, as well as follow them through the years.  It's a story of loss, class differences, and how decisions cause ripple effects throughout our lives, but it's also a story of long-lasting love, forgiveness, and second chances.  The characters felt so real, their journey so emotional, that I didn't want this book to end.  Highly recommended!

8.5.2026 - One of the Family

 

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

It's the first time that Patrick will meet Holly's family as they head to her family home in Scotland.  Patrick is a true crime documentary filmmaker and becomes intrigued by the case of a man found frozen to death the previous year.  But there's plenty of intrigue going around in the family, as the patriarch brings home a new woman who just happens to look like his deceased first wife, as well as everyone acting very strange indeed.

Mark Edwards always gives his readers a twisty thriller full of secrets and lies.  I liked the remote, small town setting with the family castle on a cliff.  Small towns always have hidden secrets and knowledge that outsiders just aren't privy to.  I always like a dysfunctional family story and this one kept me guessing until the end.

8.4.2026 - The Nightingales

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Avid Reader Press for gifting me a digital ARC of this debut graphic novel by Emil Wilson.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

A gorgeously rendered story of the friendship between a man dying of AIDS in the 1980s and a teenage girl, based on real events.  The beautiful illustrations and unique graphic concept allowed the reader to be transported back to this fraught time period to see the impact that this disease had on just one family, yet also see the far-reaching ripple effects it had on the characters.  Some of my favorite spots were the mother talking to the Virgin Mary, and the dogs brought some comic relief into a heartbreaking yet hopeful story.  Stunning debut.

8.4.2026 - The Amateur

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by a favorite, Chris Bohjalian.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

One moment is all it takes to ruin lives.  In 1978, a young woman golf prodigy, accidentally kills a caddy with a stray ball at the country club.  The investigation of this freak accident reveals a dark and shocking tale of secret affairs, predatory men, and a teenager on trial.

I’m a big fan of Chris Bohjalian, and this one ranks as one of his best in my mind.  I was mesmerized by not only the story but the way it was told.  He was able to inhabit the soul of both a young woman and an older one looking back on the experience and writing it as a memoir.  Our attitudes in the 1970s versus today were made so powerful in this manner.   The story is just so emotional, suspenseful, and gripping that I couldn’t stop reading and you'll feel for these characters.  Long-time readers will also find Easter eggs geared toward his own books and biography.  Bravo! 

8.3.2026 - Breathing Under Water

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Muse for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of this wonderful book by Jacqueline Friedland with Cassandra Campbell and Annalee Scott narrating the audiobook.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

We follow two women - Berry, a school vice principal, and mother to an older son as well as 16-year-old autistic Leo.  McKenna is a college student on scholarship for swimming, with a tough past, who is trying to care for her beloved grandmother with dementia.  These women's paths converge in an unexpected way.

The story opens with Leo missing, then takes us back to alternate POV between Berry and McKenna, each voice so compelling.  McKenna's story is heartbreaking, having lost her mother early, and now dealing with the world on her shoulders.  She's trying so hard but also has a breaking point.  Berry has worked so hard to give Leo all he needs, but she knows he needs more social skills to survive in the real world.  Watching both these women face real struggles while trying to keep all the other balls in their life in the air is both difficult and encouraging.  Leo is the star, of course, and has the biggest heart.  I loved every minute spent with these characters and was sad it was over, and would highly recommend it to everyone.  It would make a great book club pick with so many themes to discuss.  The audiobook was fabulous and I ended up listening to it most of the time.  Reading this treasure is why I so appreciate NetGalley and the publishers who offer these ARCs - this is a new to me author and I'm now desperate to go and read her backlist.  

8.3.2026 - How to Ruin a Wedding

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing | Mindy's Book Studio, and MB Communications for gifting me both a digital and physical ARC of this adorable book by Elba Luz.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Lucy has turned her desperation for money into a business as a professional wedding wrecker.  But she'll only do it for the right reasons - she wants to prevent others from making the same mistakes she's made.   Then she crashes the wrong ceremony, only to meet Anders.  He offers her the kind of money she can't refuse to get his sister to cancel her upcoming wedding.  They come up with a scheme to fake-date so Lucy can infiltrate the family enough to make the scheme work.  But sometimes love has other plans.

This was such a fun read - there are absolutely laugh-out-loud moments, sweet moments with both human and fur people, as well as lots of life lessons in between.  You can't help but root for Lucy in all her craziness, because her heart is always in the right place.  Anders may be a bit too good to be true, but isn't that what we want in our rom coms?  There's also lots of sister love here and staying true to following your dreams.  Perfect for a summer read!

8.2.2026 - The Women in White

 

Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for gifting me both a digital and audio ARC of the latest thriller by Sarah Pekkanen., with the audiobook narrated by the brilliant Saskia Maarleveld.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Riley is recently divorced, looking for a job and a place to live.  She is hired to be a caretaker for Betty, an elderly widow.  It’s strange, because both Betty and her home seem frozen in time.  Riley begins investigating into just what happened to Betty and her three college friends who all disappeared in the 1960s.

Told from Betty’s POV in the past and Riley’s in the present, this is a sad but fascinating peek into a real event – women subjects forced to take part in parapsychology experiments.  Of course, this book can’t help but delve into women’s standings during that period, but also into their resilience.  The mystery of what happened to these women is creepy and frightening, and the tension will keep you glued.  As always, Sarah Pekkanen has written another wonderful thriller!

7.31.2026 - Meet Me in Paris

 

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

Nine Americans in Paris and seven interlocking love stories, with fresh starts, second chances, and enduring love.  With a step away from her normal historical fiction, this is also a love story to Paris, and I felt like I traveled along for the ride.  These stories are full of self-discovery and the knowledge that it's never too late for true love.  While there are a number of characters, you won't have any trouble keeping them straight.  Just be sure and have your tissues handy!  Be sure and read the author's note for a personal look into the writing of this story.

7.31.2026 - Cruise to Nowhere

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing | Citadel for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest true crime book by James Renner.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!

Most of us are familiar with the Amy Bradley case - the young woman who was on a cruise with her family in 1998 and just disappeared.  The author delves completely into this mystery, beyond even what was portrayed in the Netflix documentary.  What I like about Renner's books is the personal aspect.  He not only gives you his research, but you feel like you are along for the ride as he tells you what's going on in his life and just how he investigated.  I liked that he went for a cruise on the same ship, took trips to sometimes scary locations, all to find out more.  While we still don't know what happened to Amy, this is a comprehensive look into the case.  Since I lived in the Cleveland/Akron area for decades, his books always have a nostalgic feel for me.  Another intriguing read from this author!

7.30.2026 - Helpless

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Scribner for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest thriller by Jessica Knoll.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 3.5 stars!

Faye and Henry have history, and even though both are married, when they find themselves in the same location after many years, things spark once again.  But soon things turn very dark and someone is out for revenge.

I love Jessica Knoll's books but know that this one is a bit different.  I appreciated the dark, twisty thriller and really liked the ending, but it seemed a bit too Fifty Shades of Gray to get there.  But get there it did.  Loved the Adirondack setting and it added to the dark feel of the book.

7.29.2026 - Buyer Beware

 

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

Ellie just moved into a cottage only to find out that someone had come in and made a huge mess.  That's just the beginning of the break-ins and issues.  Ellie just wants to be left alone, but that doesn't seem to happen with such curious neighbors.  We also hear from Erin in the past as well as Hannah, both involved with Jason.  What do these women have in common with 1 Delaney Row?

This was more of a slow-burn mystery but Catherine Ryan Howard is one of my favorites, so of course it kept me glued.  The different timelines and perspectives kept me guessing, along with nosy neighbors and interesting characters.  The house, of course, is its own personality and character, always feeling just this side of creepy.  The ending pulled everything together in a perfect way.

7.29.2026 - Dad, Love, Me

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | Avid Reader Press for gifting me a digital ARC of the memoir by Matthew Quick, author of The Silver Linings Playbook.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars rounded up!

Memoirs can be tricky, but Quick has nailed this one.  I believe, just as he hoped, that it will have ripple effects on those who read it.  After a traumatic childhood and a difficult relationship with his father, with a successful career, life should be good.  But the one thing we can't run away from his ourselves.  Quick tried alcohol, which numbed things, but didn't help.  Once sober, he struggled with depression and writer's block.  Then his dad's dementia diagnosis forced a whole new life and perspective.  So many kudos to Quick and his wife, for stepping up in a major way when others would have just turned away, with good reason.  This one will make you think that it's never too late to forgive and to repair relationships.

7.27.2026 - The Weight of Sunshine

 

Many thanks to NetGalley and High Frequency Press for gifting me a digital ARC of the debut novel by Robin Maguire.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!

We follow along life's trajectories of Nina and Jackson for 5 decades, starting in college.  As the timeline progresses, we meet some of the important people in their lives at that time, for better or worse.  

This is a fabulous debut and it was a privilege to discover a new writer, one that I'm sure we will be hearing more from.  I got lost in this story and these characters, and loved the way it was told.  We hear from the perspectives of many different people, showing the impact others have on our lives.  It shows how decisions made can have ripple effects on future generations.  Just like all our lives, there are difficult relationships, bad decisions, but hopefully in the end love wins out, even in the most unlikely of ways.  There's both humor and sadness, set in atmospheric locations.  Do yourself a favor if you love character-driven novels and pick this one up when it is published tomorrow!

7.25.2026 - Guilty Creatures

  

Many thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books | One Signal Publishing for gifting me a digital ARC of this true crime book by Mikita Brottman.  All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4 stars!

Denise & Mike Williams had been best couple friends with Brian & Kathy Winchester forever, all growing up in the same Southern Baptist community.   Then Mike disappeared while duck hunting and his body never found.  Things got complicated when Brian divorced Kathy and married Denise.  Just what happened decades earlier?

I knew of this story from various documentaries, and I recently read that it will be a new streaming series on Apple TV.  All of that reminded me that I had somehow missed reading this book and it was languishing in my TBR pile.  Even though I knew most of this story, I felt the research and writing of the book was top-notch and I appreciated the sensitivity given to the victim and his mother.  Anxious to watch the series now!

7.25.2026 - Hidden Strangers

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

With no where else to go, Camille escapes her husband and her life and flees with her two young children to her estranged mother's home in Chicago.  There, Camille meets Lucinda's new husband, Rob, their daughter Zoey, and even a mysterious tenant living above the garage.  But it doesn't take long before everyone's behavior is suspect and Camille realizes that Zoey is right when she said - everyone lies.  

This has been such an entertaining series - I would definitely recommend reading from the beginning to learn everyone's backstory and the reason for Camille's behavior.  This one took a slow turn in the middle, but the ending more than made up for that.  I wouldn't be sad if there were more to come, but it all came to a very satisfying ending.  Great series!