The well-dressed social worker could have been sleeping – but the single stab wound to her abdomen told the police otherwise. Alone in her car with noThe well-dressed social worker could have been sleeping – but the single stab wound to her abdomen told the police otherwise. Alone in her car with no evidence and nothing to show what or why, the mystery of her death was only the beginning for Detective Kim Stone and her team. Within days of the investigation, another body was found; her death was caused by the same single stab wound. Kim’s unease was heightened – no obvious links between the victims; they couldn’t have been more different, but Kim was sure they were linked.
The letter Kim received at her home sent chills down her spine – how could Alex Thorne, incarcerated for her psychotic crimes – have managed to contact her? But it was what the words said that threatened her peace of mind. Immediately Kim’s past rose up and enveloped her – but she needed to put it aside to concentrate on the investigation at hand…
Kim’s unease continued – she was sure she was being watched. But she kept the pressure going; gradually lies and deceit began to unfold. But was it enough? The danger was intense; Kim knew she was in a race against time – would they catch the killer before it was too late? And would Kim crack in the face of her nemesis?
Angela Marsons has a brilliant character in Detective Kim Stone – her unique toughness is laced with a softness which often makes her vulnerable. But the re-entry of Kim’s nemesis, Dr Alex Thorne, was a masterful stroke in the latest D.I. Kim Stone thriller. Blood Lines has a gripping and intense plot which grabbed me from the first page – the pace is relentless; the twists are chilling. Another brilliant episode in this series, and one I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
Merged review:
The well-dressed social worker could have been sleeping – but the single stab wound to her abdomen told the police otherwise. Alone in her car with no evidence and nothing to show what or why, the mystery of her death was only the beginning for Detective Kim Stone and her team. Within days of the investigation, another body was found; her death was caused by the same single stab wound. Kim’s unease was heightened – no obvious links between the victims; they couldn’t have been more different, but Kim was sure they were linked.
The letter Kim received at her home sent chills down her spine – how could Alex Thorne, incarcerated for her psychotic crimes – have managed to contact her? But it was what the words said that threatened her peace of mind. Immediately Kim’s past rose up and enveloped her – but she needed to put it aside to concentrate on the investigation at hand…
Kim’s unease continued – she was sure she was being watched. But she kept the pressure going; gradually lies and deceit began to unfold. But was it enough? The danger was intense; Kim knew she was in a race against time – would they catch the killer before it was too late? And would Kim crack in the face of her nemesis?
Angela Marsons has a brilliant character in Detective Kim Stone – her unique toughness is laced with a softness which often makes her vulnerable. But the re-entry of Kim’s nemesis, Dr Alex Thorne, was a masterful stroke in the latest D.I. Kim Stone thriller. Blood Lines has a gripping and intense plot which grabbed me from the first page – the pace is relentless; the twists are chilling. Another brilliant episode in this series, and one I have no hesitation in recommending highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review....more
Sweet little Annie was twelve years old when she began doubting her identity. She and her family were living in New York and had been since she was onSweet little Annie was twelve years old when she began doubting her identity. She and her family were living in New York and had been since she was only a baby, but the discovery of fragmented information, which she overheard as her mother was unwilling to share anything about their past, caused her heartache and the knowledge that she didn’t fit in. She was twenty when she finally went back to Prague, telling her sister Clara, but not her mother or father as she was sure they would forbid her to go.
Annie had been communicating with Fisher in Prague, who was a support person for missing children from the war years. Their letter writing had been going on for almost two years and finally Annie would get to meet him. She would go to Theresienstadt concentration camp where she’d been born and where she’d escaped with her life when she was around one year old. Annie would also try to find out what her birth name was, and who her birth parents were…
Annie’s beloved mother, Amelia, had suffered a stroke. Now in her nineties, Annie and Clara were terrified they’d lose her, but Annie also realized she needed the answers she’d shelved all those years ago. When she and Fisher decided to head back to Prague, she wasn’t sure what to expect. But she wondered – would she find her birth father?
The Prison Child (previously published as The Other Blue Sky) is the 2nd in Last Words series by Shari J. Ryan and it’s an excellent follow on from The Girl with the Diary. I thoroughly enjoyed Annie’s story and am looking forward to The Soldier's Letters, #3 in the series, and Charlie’s story. I must say, the butterfly on the cover has great significance. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Sweet little Annie was twelve years old when she began doubting her identity. She and her family were living in New York and had been since she was only a baby, but the discovery of fragmented information, which she overheard as her mother was unwilling to share anything about their past, caused her heartache and the knowledge that she didn’t fit in. She was twenty when she finally went back to Prague, telling her sister Clara, but not her mother or father as she was sure they would forbid her to go.
Annie had been communicating with Fisher in Prague, who was a support person for missing children from the war years. Their letter writing had been going on for almost two years and finally Annie would get to meet him. She would go to Theresienstadt concentration camp where she’d been born and where she’d escaped with her life when she was around one year old. Annie would also try to find out what her birth name was, and who her birth parents were…
Annie’s beloved mother, Amelia, had suffered a stroke. Now in her nineties, Annie and Clara were terrified they’d lose her, but Annie also realized she needed the answers she’d shelved all those years ago. When she and Fisher decided to head back to Prague, she wasn’t sure what to expect. But she wondered – would she find her birth father?
The Prison Child (previously published as The Other Blue Sky) is the 2nd in Last Words series by Shari J. Ryan and it’s an excellent follow on from The Girl with the Diary. I thoroughly enjoyed Annie’s story and am looking forward to The Soldier's Letters, #3 in the series, and Charlie’s story. I must say, the butterfly on the cover has great significance. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Alex Carter moved from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast after a relationship went badly wrong and soon settled into her position at the nearby universitAlex Carter moved from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast after a relationship went badly wrong and soon settled into her position at the nearby university. While Jack Russo moved from Sydney to the Sunshine coast after a wake up call made him take stock of his life. Working as a handyman while spending his early mornings surfing and running with his dog Steed, Jack was content.
Alex and Jack were destined to meet in that small coastal town – but what would be the outcome for them both?
A Brahminy Sunrise is a short but sweet novella by Aussie author Maggie Christensen, and it was great to catch up with Alex again from Champagne for Breakfast. I loved the character of Flo; a dear, sweet elderly lady who lived next door to Alex. I thoroughly enjoy this author’s writing and can’t wait for her next a little later this year (2019) Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Alex Carter moved from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast after a relationship went badly wrong and soon settled into her position at the nearby university. While Jack Russo moved from Sydney to the Sunshine coast after a wake up call made him take stock of his life. Working as a handyman while spending his early mornings surfing and running with his dog Steed, Jack was content.
Alex and Jack were destined to meet in that small coastal town – but what would be the outcome for them both?
A Brahminy Sunrise is a short but sweet novella by Aussie author Maggie Christensen, and it was great to catch up with Alex again from Champagne for Breakfast. I loved the character of Flo; a dear, sweet elderly lady who lived next door to Alex. I thoroughly enjoy this author’s writing and can’t wait for her next a little later this year (2019) Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
It was 1939 when eleven-year-old Frieda and her brother Kurt were boarding a ship bound for England from Germany, where they would be fostered until tIt was 1939 when eleven-year-old Frieda and her brother Kurt were boarding a ship bound for England from Germany, where they would be fostered until their family could join them. But Kurt was determined to stay and look after their mother and grandmother, as their father had been arrested. To Frieda’s shock, Kurt ran from the ship as the ramp was about to be raised – would she ever see him or her family again?
Sandra and her brother Alf had spent their years in the Blakely Hall Orphanage after their mother had passed away and when Sandra turned fifteen, she was released while Alf remained. Her work as a housemaid was never ending, with the mistress making things twice as difficult for her. On learning that Alf had enlisted to fight in the war, Sandra wanted to do her bit as well and joined the Land Girls, so in 1943 she found herself living in a hostel in a small country town outside London. Working on a nearby farm, Sandra met Frieda who lived with her Aunt Doris nearby and the two girls became friends. They both had a common background; their lives seemed a mirror of each other’s.
While Sandra worried for Alf, Frieda was the same about Kurt – what would the end of the war bring?
The Outcast Girls is the third book by Shirley Dickson that I’ve read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it once again. Frieda and Sandra were wonderful characters while their work on the farm – hard though it was – helped them through the days of uncertainty. Friendly with all the Land Girls in the hostel, Sandra felt herself become more outgoing after her life in the orphanage, while Frieda’s confidence grew through having a friend. The Outcast Girls was an excellent read, and one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
It was 1939 when eleven-year-old Frieda and her brother Kurt were boarding a ship bound for England from Germany, where they would be fostered until their family could join them. But Kurt was determined to stay and look after their mother and grandmother, as their father had been arrested. To Frieda’s shock, Kurt ran from the ship as the ramp was about to be raised – would she ever see him or her family again?
Sandra and her brother Alf had spent their years in the Blakely Hall Orphanage after their mother had passed away and when Sandra turned fifteen, she was released while Alf remained. Her work as a housemaid was never ending, with the mistress making things twice as difficult for her. On learning that Alf had enlisted to fight in the war, Sandra wanted to do her bit as well and joined the Land Girls, so in 1943 she found herself living in a hostel in a small country town outside London. Working on a nearby farm, Sandra met Frieda who lived with her Aunt Doris nearby and the two girls became friends. They both had a common background; their lives seemed a mirror of each other’s.
While Sandra worried for Alf, Frieda was the same about Kurt – what would the end of the war bring?
The Outcast Girls is the third book by Shirley Dickson that I’ve read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it once again. Frieda and Sandra were wonderful characters while their work on the farm – hard though it was – helped them through the days of uncertainty. Friendly with all the Land Girls in the hostel, Sandra felt herself become more outgoing after her life in the orphanage, while Frieda’s confidence grew through having a friend. The Outcast Girls was an excellent read, and one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
It was 1929 London, and Clara Vale, a scientist after her studies, was working in a library in London. No one would employ a woman scientist, no matteIt was 1929 London, and Clara Vale, a scientist after her studies, was working in a library in London. No one would employ a woman scientist, no matter the qualifications she had, and while the library was a mundane, boring job, at least she had work. When Clara suddenly discovered her Uncle Bob had died some weeks prior, and her mother, Lady Vale, had made excuses not to go to the funeral, not even telling Clara, she was livid. Travelling by train to Newcastle, she saw her uncle's solicitors and learned he'd left her his house, which included a laboratory, plus his detective agency from which he'd enjoyed great success and respect.
Clara had only been in Newcastle a day when she was approached by one of Uncle Bob's clients, and so it saw Clara helping Alice, following the work her uncle had been doing to determine whether her picture house fire was deliberate. The police had closed the case, which meant there was no insurance pay out. But Alice knew it was arson; proving it was another matter. When Clara accompanied Alice to a picture, intending to discuss where to go with the investigation after the viewing, the sudden fire inside the theatre, which saw disastrous consequences, made Clara's mind up. She was sure there was evil afoot and would do everything in her power to prove it. But in doing so, was she putting herself in danger?
The Picture House Murders is the 1st in the Miss Clara Vale Mysteries by Fiona Veitch Smith and it was fun and entertaining. Clara is a great character, far ahead of her time, and her obvious enjoyment in the science of her endeavours makes her a good detective. I had worked out the perpetrator well before the reveal, but getting to the conclusion was well done. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
It was 1929 London, and Clara Vale, a scientist after her studies, was working in a library in London. No one would employ a woman scientist, no matter the qualifications she had, and while the library was a mundane, boring job, at least she had work. When Clara suddenly discovered her Uncle Bob had died some weeks prior, and her mother, Lady Vale, had made excuses not to go to the funeral, not even telling Clara, she was livid. Travelling by train to Newcastle, she saw her uncle's solicitors and learned he'd left her his house, which included a laboratory, plus his detective agency from which he'd enjoyed great success and respect.
Clara had only been in Newcastle a day when she was approached by one of Uncle Bob's clients, and so it saw Clara helping Alice, following the work her uncle had been doing to determine whether her picture house fire was deliberate. The police had closed the case, which meant there was no insurance pay out. But Alice knew it was arson; proving it was another matter. When Clara accompanied Alice to a picture, intending to discuss where to go with the investigation after the viewing, the sudden fire inside the theatre, which saw disastrous consequences, made Clara's mind up. She was sure there was evil afoot and would do everything in her power to prove it. But in doing so, was she putting herself in danger?
The Picture House Murders is the 1st in the Miss Clara Vale Mysteries by Fiona Veitch Smith and it was fun and entertaining. Clara is a great character, far ahead of her time, and her obvious enjoyment in the science of her endeavours makes her a good detective. I had worked out the perpetrator well before the reveal, but getting to the conclusion was well done. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
It was 1944 and Juliette was back in Paris, preparing to foil a dreadful plot by Nazi followers and traitors, alongside Captain Daniel Diaz, while in It was 1944 and Juliette was back in Paris, preparing to foil a dreadful plot by Nazi followers and traitors, alongside Captain Daniel Diaz, while in London her fellow resistance members, Suzanne, Marianne and Christine, prepared to foil a similar plot. It would undoubtedly be highly dangerous, but they were all prepared. It was knowing who they could trust as the high-ups had been infiltrated by the worst imaginable. Clever, talented, these men would inevitably make mistakes, and they'd be waiting.
When Juliette learned her mother and two beloved children, eight year old Nicholas and six year old Natalie, had been spirited away from their safe house in England, she just knew who was to blame, and that they'd be brought to Paris. It was designed to make her vulnerable - which of course she was - but she vowed she would rescue them as well as help stop the dreadful plot. She couldn't bear to see her beloved France back in the hands of the Nazis...
Paris at First Light is the 2nd in the WW2 Resistance series by Amanda Lees and I loved it. First in the series, The Silence Before Dawn, was exceptional and this one is no different. The grit and determination of all the resistence members, but particularly Juliette, Suzanne, Marianne and Christine, gave the story its strength, and even when down, they would never give up. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
It was 1944 and Juliette was back in Paris, preparing to foil a dreadful plot by Nazi followers and traitors, alongside Captain Daniel Diaz, while in London her fellow resistance members, Suzanne, Marianne and Christine, prepared to foil a similar plot. It would undoubtedly be highly dangerous, but they were all prepared. It was knowing who they could trust as the high-ups had been infiltrated by the worst imaginable. Clever, talented, these men would inevitably make mistakes, and they'd be waiting.
When Juliette learned her mother and two beloved children, eight year old Nicholas and six year old Natalie, had been spirited away from their safe house in England, she just knew who was to blame, and that they'd be brought to Paris. It was designed to make her vulnerable - which of course she was - but she vowed she would rescue them as well as help stop the dreadful plot. She couldn't bear to see her beloved France back in the hands of the Nazis...
Paris at First Light is the 2nd in the WW2 Resistance series by Amanda Lees and I loved it. First in the series, The Silence Before Dawn, was exceptional and this one is no different. The grit and determination of all the resistence members, but particularly Juliette, Suzanne, Marianne and Christine, gave the story its strength, and even when down, they would never give up. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Beautiful and independent, Lily Rose worked hard in the basement kitchen at New York’s upmarket restaurant, Valentino’s. She loved her job – loved to Beautiful and independent, Lily Rose worked hard in the basement kitchen at New York’s upmarket restaurant, Valentino’s. She loved her job – loved to cook – her aim was to eventually be head chef. Her gram, Josie, was her idol. Lily continually clashed with her mother as she manipulated her daughter, demanding she marry the man she – her mother – had chosen for Lily. Childhood friends, Nathaniel was nothing more to Lily. When friction between mother and daughter was at its height, Lily made for the security and love of her grandmother where they would cook together, laugh together and where Lily was her happiest.
With war taking the young men away, many women were working in men’s positions. But when chef Tom Morelli was called to fight, Lily’s devastation was as great as his mother, Gia’s. Working was their salvation – and Lily’s determination to have a menu unrivalled in war time, with rations biting hard, saw her concocting delicious recipes to feed the hungry, much to the delight of Lily’s boss. But with the war ongoing, more soldiers dying and grief surrounding most people, what would happen to Lily and her family?
A New York Secret is the first in the Daughters of New York series by Aussie author Ella Carey, and I loved it! I’m thrilled I’ve found this author as this is my first by her, and it won’t be my last. The glitter and glamour of New York was easy to see in my mind’s eye as Carey painted verbal pictures. Some of the elite of the city seemed almost oblivious to the war going on at their doorstep. A New York Secret was a thoroughly enjoyable read which I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Beautiful and independent, Lily Rose worked hard in the basement kitchen at New York’s upmarket restaurant, Valentino’s. She loved her job – loved to cook – her aim was to eventually be head chef. Her gram, Josie, was her idol. Lily continually clashed with her mother as she manipulated her daughter, demanding she marry the man she – her mother – had chosen for Lily. Childhood friends, Nathaniel was nothing more to Lily. When friction between mother and daughter was at its height, Lily made for the security and love of her grandmother where they would cook together, laugh together and where Lily was her happiest.
With war taking the young men away, many women were working in men’s positions. But when chef Tom Morelli was called to fight, Lily’s devastation was as great as his mother, Gia’s. Working was their salvation – and Lily’s determination to have a menu unrivalled in war time, with rations biting hard, saw her concocting delicious recipes to feed the hungry, much to the delight of Lily’s boss. But with the war ongoing, more soldiers dying and grief surrounding most people, what would happen to Lily and her family?
A New York Secret is the first in the Daughters of New York series by Aussie author Ella Carey, and I loved it! I’m thrilled I’ve found this author as this is my first by her, and it won’t be my last. The glitter and glamour of New York was easy to see in my mind’s eye as Carey painted verbal pictures. Some of the elite of the city seemed almost oblivious to the war going on at their doorstep. A New York Secret was a thoroughly enjoyable read which I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Nonno was the one to rescue the young man from the sea. He and his grandson Alto nursed him back to health in their small home, his burns and damaged Nonno was the one to rescue the young man from the sea. He and his grandson Alto nursed him back to health in their small home, his burns and damaged head taking the longest to heal. And when he woke, he had no idea where he was, or who he was. He took the name of Roberto, Nonno’s grandson who’d died in the war but who Nonno believed had returned to them. It was kinder that way. And Roberto helped Alto and Nonno as much as he could around the small olive property. It was 1945 in Puglia, Italy and the war had finally ended. The allies were helping in the area, when Roberto was recognized…
In present day England, Susannah was missing her father desperately. Frank had died six months prior, and now, working in her antique shop, Cobwebs, she felt disconnected. When a good friend offered to look after Cobwebs while Susi took a break, she decided to go to Italy where her father had wanted to go before he died. There was a postcard from the area and Susi decided to investigate the mystery surrounding the card and a letter she’d found in her grandmother Elsie’s belongings. Arriving in the small Italian village of Puglia, she was transformed. A beautiful, peaceful place with the ocean so close, Susi could feel her heart settle. But could she find out about the mystery surrounding her family and the past?
A Postcard from Italy by Angela Petch is a beguiling, well-written historical novel set in the latter war years and beyond, plus the current day. I loved the historical aspect of the novel, and once Susi went to Puglia the story melded beautifully. Spectacular countryside, friendly Italians, delicious food – this is my first by this author and I’ll be looking for more. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Nonno was the one to rescue the young man from the sea. He and his grandson Alto nursed him back to health in their small home, his burns and damaged head taking the longest to heal. And when he woke, he had no idea where he was, or who he was. He took the name of Roberto, Nonno’s grandson who’d died in the war but who Nonno believed had returned to them. It was kinder that way. And Roberto helped Alto and Nonno as much as he could around the small olive property. It was 1945 in Puglia, Italy and the war had finally ended. The allies were helping in the area, when Roberto was recognized…
In present day England, Susannah was missing her father desperately. Frank had died six months prior, and now, working in her antique shop, Cobwebs, she felt disconnected. When a good friend offered to look after Cobwebs while Susi took a break, she decided to go to Italy where her father had wanted to go before he died. There was a postcard from the area and Susi decided to investigate the mystery surrounding the card and a letter she’d found in her grandmother Elsie’s belongings. Arriving in the small Italian village of Puglia, she was transformed. A beautiful, peaceful place with the ocean so close, Susi could feel her heart settle. But could she find out about the mystery surrounding her family and the past?
A Postcard from Italy by Angela Petch is a beguiling, well-written historical novel set in the latter war years and beyond, plus the current day. I loved the historical aspect of the novel, and once Susi went to Puglia the story melded beautifully. Spectacular countryside, friendly Italians, delicious food – this is my first by this author and I’ll be looking for more. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Detective Kim Stone was at the scene of a house fire with her partner, Bryant, after they’d been called to the house. The unexpected still had power tDetective Kim Stone was at the scene of a house fire with her partner, Bryant, after they’d been called to the house. The unexpected still had power to shock police officers and finding the family – mother, father, boy and girl – all dead in the upstairs bedrooms was a dreadful shock. But worse was seeing the gun still in the hands of the wife and mother. Had Helen Daynes killed her husband and children? Contacting the older, married twins – Zach and Rachel – and their partners, their distress was awful to see.
With Kim and her team working on that case, the call from Woody was something Kim had never expected. A psychopath whom Kim had put away in prison years before, had escaped. Kim had caught him before he’d killed the two little girls he’d taken, and she knew he wanted his revenge on her. Putting a witness protection officer by Kim’s side was something she didn’t want, but it was worse because she couldn’t find the psychopath – another team was on that. Everyone knew Kim was in danger. As first one, then another child was taken, still Kim was refused access. She worked the Daynes case, determined to find the answers they needed. But what would happen to the little ones who’d been taken? Would he kill them, or save them until he had Kim?
Six Graves is the 16th in the DI Kim Stone series by Angela Marsons and oh my gosh! What an incredible ride! With plenty of action, electric pace and chills galore, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The author continues to write with a fresh pen, giving her readers a new scenario each time – this would almost be the best yet in this series! I certainly hope she doesn’t stop any time soon! Highly recommended (but start at the beginning!)
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
When writer, Jack Carrington, received a phone call from his estranged mother he was shocked. It was seven years since they'd spoken, yet Sybil expectWhen writer, Jack Carrington, received a phone call from his estranged mother he was shocked. It was seven years since they'd spoken, yet Sybil expected Jack to drop everything in Abbeymead and head for Paris. With fellow sleuth and good friend Flora Steele by his side, they arrived in Paris, worn out but happy to be there. Flora had never been to Paris so she was in awe at everything she was seeing. But when Sybil told Jack of the death of her friend, when the car had deliberately driven toward them on the streets of Paris, he wondered if it was an accident and his mother was fantasizing as she was wont to do. Then, as Flora and Jack headed to the small village of Vaison, to meet up with his mother and Italian Count Massimo Falconi, whom Sybil had plans to marry, it soon became apparent that there was definitely something wrong, and that perhaps his mother hadn't imagined it all...
Staying in the chateau was an experience in itself, but both Jack and Flora were uncomfortable in the tensions that were flowing between the residents. Moving into an hotel seemed sensible, but when Flora was attacked and in danger not once, but twice, their move was immediate. Finding out who was the culprit for all the misdeeds was proving difficult, but Flora and Jack had their suspicions. Would they be right? And could they stop the perpetrator before anyone else lost their life?
Murder in a French Village is the 7th in the Flora Steele Mystery series by Merryn Allingham and once again, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Flora and Jack make a good team, and with the setting in a completely different place, it was fresh and new. I'm looking forward to #8 very much. Highly recommended - but my advice: read from #1 to get full benefit of the series.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
When writer, Jack Carrington, received a phone call from his estranged mother he was shocked. It was seven years since they'd spoken, yet Sybil expected Jack to drop everything in Abbeymead and head for Paris. With fellow sleuth and good friend Flora Steele by his side, they arrived in Paris, worn out but happy to be there. Flora had never been to Paris so she was in awe at everything she was seeing. But when Sybil told Jack of the death of her friend, when the car had deliberately driven toward them on the streets of Paris, he wondered if it was an accident and his mother was fantasizing as she was wont to do. Then, as Flora and Jack headed to the small village of Vaison, to meet up with his mother and Italian Count Massimo Falconi, whom Sybil had plans to marry, it soon became apparent that there was definitely something wrong, and that perhaps his mother hadn't imagined it all...
Staying in the chateau was an experience in itself, but both Jack and Flora were uncomfortable in the tensions that were flowing between the residents. Moving into an hotel seemed sensible, but when Flora was attacked and in danger not once, but twice, their move was immediate. Finding out who was the culprit for all the misdeeds was proving difficult, but Flora and Jack had their suspicions. Would they be right? And could they stop the perpetrator before anyone else lost their life?
Murder in a French Village is the 7th in the Flora Steele Mystery series by Merryn Allingham and once again, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Flora and Jack make a good team, and with the setting in a completely different place, it was fresh and new. I'm looking forward to #8 very much. Highly recommended - but my advice: read from #1 to get full benefit of the series.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Rupert Chalfont was the youngest son to his brother Justin by two hours and as such wouldn’t inherit the title once their father died. So, Rupert enjoRupert Chalfont was the youngest son to his brother Justin by two hours and as such wouldn’t inherit the title once their father died. So, Rupert enjoyed travelling, entertaining the ladies and generally having a good time. When he was invited to his friend Lucas Barrineau’s wedding in St Etienne, France, Rupert thought it was an opportune time to leave London for awhile. The home of Lucas’ bride, Clarice St Clair, also housed two other sisters, Helene and Louise, and once Rupert had laid eyes on Helene, his future was sealed…
Annette, an orphan, had been trained by Madame Agathe Sauze at the Clergy House and when their priest passed away, his successor released Agathe from service. But Annette was in danger from Father Thomas and when she escaped into Madame Sauze’s arms, they went to St Etienne and the St Clair family for help. When Helene and Annette saw one another, their friendship from six years prior was rekindled and Annette would be a great help to her charge when things went horribly wrong.
The French Wife by Diney Costeloe is actually the sequel to Children of the Siege, which I had no idea about until I began reading. Although it would have suited me more to have read it first, once I settled into the story everything flowed well. Set in France and London in 1877, I thoroughly enjoyed the historical aspects of this novel; found both Annette and Madame Sauze to be exceptional characters, and also felt intense sympathy for the young and naïve Helene. There were sections where I shed tears, and others where I felt like thumping a certain arrogant person! I had previously only read one of Ms Costeloe’s novels (Miss Mary's Daughter) which I loved and will definitely be reading more. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Rupert Chalfont was the youngest son to his brother Justin by two hours and as such wouldn’t inherit the title once their father died. So, Rupert enjoyed travelling, entertaining the ladies and generally having a good time. When he was invited to his friend Lucas Barrineau’s wedding in St Etienne, France, Rupert thought it was an opportune time to leave London for awhile. The home of Lucas’ bride, Clarice St Clair, also housed two other sisters, Helene and Louise, and once Rupert had laid eyes on Helene, his future was sealed…
Annette, an orphan, had been trained by Madame Agathe Sauze at the Clergy House and when their priest passed away, his successor released Agathe from service. But Annette was in danger from Father Thomas and when she escaped into Madame Sauze’s arms, they went to St Etienne and the St Clair family for help. When Helene and Annette saw one another, their friendship from six years prior was rekindled and Annette would be a great help to her charge when things went horribly wrong.
The French Wife by Diney Costeloe is actually the sequel to Children of the Siege, which I had no idea about until I began reading. Although it would have suited me more to have read it first, once I settled into the story everything flowed well. Set in France and London in 1877, I thoroughly enjoyed the historical aspects of this novel; found both Annette and Madame Sauze to be exceptional characters, and also felt intense sympathy for the young and naïve Helene. There were sections where I shed tears, and others where I felt like thumping a certain arrogant person! I had previously only read one of Ms Costeloe’s novels (Miss Mary's Daughter) which I loved and will definitely be reading more. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
When the two bodies were discovered in the snow and ice, one with arms wrapped around the other, Special Agent Nikki Hunt was shocked and saddened. NiWhen the two bodies were discovered in the snow and ice, one with arms wrapped around the other, Special Agent Nikki Hunt was shocked and saddened. Nikki and other law enforcement had been searching the area surrounding Stillwater, Minnesota for young Kellan Rhodes for some time. Now in the arms of his mother, Dana, Nikki wondered if it was a murder suicide. But evidence would prove the two were murdered. Dana had been getting her life on track to regain custody of her son. Nikki wondered what had gone wrong – but she was determined to find out.
The same day Kellan disappeared, another young boy vanished – did the disappearance of Zach Reeves have anything to do with Kellan? As Nikki’s team and other teams across the county set the logistics in motion, the investigation was anything but simple. The deeper they dug, the more horrors they uncovered. Who killed Kellan and his mother? And was Zach still alive?
One Perfect Grave is the 2nd in the Nikki Hunt series by Stacy Green and it was riveting! Fast paced, clues, tips, twists – my suspicions changed back and forth. Nikki is a strong character whose past has a lot of bearing on who she is today – her determination to find answers no matter the cost stems from that. I’m already looking forward to #3 in the series – bring it on! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
When the two bodies were discovered in the snow and ice, one with arms wrapped around the other, Special Agent Nikki Hunt was shocked and saddened. Nikki and other law enforcement had been searching the area surrounding Stillwater, Minnesota for young Kellan Rhodes for some time. Now in the arms of his mother, Dana, Nikki wondered if it was a murder suicide. But evidence would prove the two were murdered. Dana had been getting her life on track to regain custody of her son. Nikki wondered what had gone wrong – but she was determined to find out.
The same day Kellan disappeared, another young boy vanished – did the disappearance of Zach Reeves have anything to do with Kellan? As Nikki’s team and other teams across the county set the logistics in motion, the investigation was anything but simple. The deeper they dug, the more horrors they uncovered. Who killed Kellan and his mother? And was Zach still alive?
One Perfect Grave is the 2nd in the Nikki Hunt series by Stacy Green and it was riveting! Fast paced, clues, tips, twists – my suspicions changed back and forth. Nikki is a strong character whose past has a lot of bearing on who she is today – her determination to find answers no matter the cost stems from that. I’m already looking forward to #3 in the series – bring it on! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
At the end of the war, Charlie was released from prison after only twelve months, when his sentence had been ten years. Charlie Crane was a Nazi, raisAt the end of the war, Charlie was released from prison after only twelve months, when his sentence had been ten years. Charlie Crane was a Nazi, raised through the Hitler’s Youth school from twelve years of age. But Charlie’s heart wasn’t hard, it wasn’t aimed at killing. And Charlie had vowed to do all he could to save others when war hadn’t long begun. Rescuing Amelia had put him in prison, and when he was released, he declared to anyone who would listen that he’d find Amelia, if it was the last thing he did.
In New York with his best and childhood friend, Claude and Claude's wife Juliette, all three of them worked their way forward and when Claude and Juliette moved to Connecticut, Charlie went through some dark times. But finding a gallery with Amelia’s paintings inside, brought him back, and working in the gallery felt like home. Many years later, when he received a phone call from Emma, Amelia’s granddaughter, Charlie had hope once again. But was he to learn he was too late? The letters he’d written to Amelia over the years – would they remain unread?
The Soldier’s Letters is the 3rd in the Last Words trilogy by Shari J. Ryan and once again it was a poignant, heartbreaking story. There was quite a bit of repetition from the previous books, but hearing Charlie’s side of the story was good. The Soldier’s Letters concludes an excellent trilogy which I thorough enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending. My advice is to read them in order though.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
At the end of the war, Charlie was released from prison after only twelve months, when his sentence had been ten years. Charlie Crane was a Nazi, raised through the Hitler’s Youth school from twelve years of age. But Charlie’s heart wasn’t hard, it wasn’t aimed at killing. And Charlie had vowed to do all he could to save others when war hadn’t long begun. Rescuing Amelia had put him in prison, and when he was released, he declared to anyone who would listen that he’d find Amelia, if it was the last thing he did.
In New York with his best and childhood friend, Claude and Claude's wife Juliette, all three of them worked their way forward and when Claude and Juliette moved to Connecticut, Charlie went through some dark times. But finding a gallery with Amelia’s paintings inside, brought him back, and working in the gallery felt like home. Many years later, when he received a phone call from Emma, Amelia’s granddaughter, Charlie had hope once again. But was he to learn he was too late? The letters he’d written to Amelia over the years – would they remain unread?
The Soldier’s Letters is the 3rd in the Last Words trilogy by Shari J. Ryan and once again it was a poignant, heartbreaking story. There was quite a bit of repetition from the previous books, but hearing Charlie’s side of the story was good. The Soldier’s Letters concludes an excellent trilogy which I thorough enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending. My advice is to read them in order though.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Four-year-old Esther and her eight-year-old sister Dorothy were accompanying their mother on a “special journey” but the destination wasn’t one eitherFour-year-old Esther and her eight-year-old sister Dorothy were accompanying their mother on a “special journey” but the destination wasn’t one either of them had expected. The Blakely Hall orphanage was run by a cruel, bitter woman who was to be the bane of the sisters’ existence. It was 1929 when they started their new lives at the orphanage and Esther strongly believed their mam would return for them. But when first Dorothy left at sixteen, then Esther a matter of weeks before her sixteenth birthday as war was declared, Esther’s anger at their mother abandoning them hadn’t abated.
When Dorothy and Esther – now Etty which she quite liked – moved into a little house together, Etty was overjoyed. The sisters were together again. But it was 1940 and the country was in the grips of war with London continually under attack from air raids. Their lives contained many highs, and too many lows but worse was to come. What would happen to the two sisters? Would Etty and Dorothy know peace after the war? Would they find their mother?
The Orphan Sisters is the debut novel by Shirley Dickson, and is a heartbreaking story of hope, sisterly love and support, and the devastating effects of war. I loved this book from the beginning – I was recommending it at only 20% in! Dorothy is a kind hearted and forgiving girl, while Etty is a feisty young woman, determined to prove herself. Thoroughly enjoyable, I highly recommend The Orphan Sisters to all fans of historical fiction.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Four-year-old Esther and her eight-year-old sister Dorothy were accompanying their mother on a “special journey” but the destination wasn’t one either of them had expected. The Blakely Hall orphanage was run by a cruel, bitter woman who was to be the bane of the sisters’ existence. It was 1929 when they started their new lives at the orphanage and Esther strongly believed their mam would return for them. But when first Dorothy left at sixteen, then Esther a matter of weeks before her sixteenth birthday as war was declared, Esther’s anger at their mother abandoning them hadn’t abated.
When Dorothy and Esther – now Etty which she quite liked – moved into a little house together, Etty was overjoyed. The sisters were together again. But it was 1940 and the country was in the grips of war with London continually under attack from air raids. Their lives contained many highs, and too many lows but worse was to come. What would happen to the two sisters? Would Etty and Dorothy know peace after the war? Would they find their mother?
The Orphan Sisters is the debut novel by Shirley Dickson, and is a heartbreaking story of hope, sisterly love and support, and the devastating effects of war. I loved this book from the beginning – I was recommending it at only 20% in! Dorothy is a kind hearted and forgiving girl, while Etty is a feisty young woman, determined to prove herself. Thoroughly enjoyable, I highly recommend The Orphan Sisters to all fans of historical fiction.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Returning from a run early one morning, Detective Mackenzie Price of the Lakemore Police Department was puzzled to see the boot of her car was slightlReturning from a run early one morning, Detective Mackenzie Price of the Lakemore Police Department was puzzled to see the boot of her car was slightly open. But when she couldn’t close it, her horror at what was inside made her stumble back. Ringing her partner, Detective Nick Blackwood, he was soon at her home, along with members of the force. Sophie Fields had gone missing twelve months prior, and her fiancé was a colleague at the police department. The horror included a personal message for Mack.
When another body was discovered after being missing for a couple of days, it was a person who bullied Mack at school – and included another personal message for Mack. What was going on? Was the killer obsessed with Mack, with keeping her safe? Nick and Mack, along with other team members, combed the areas for clues, finally finding a connection. But when direction led to people in high places of Lakemore, once again Mack and her team were bamboozled. And what was happening in nearby Tombstone?
The Lost Bones is the 5th in the Detective Mackenzie Price series by Ruhi Choudhary and it was breathtakingly brilliant. Her best yet in my opinion! Mackenzie is a great character and she and Nick work well together. The tension was high, the pages turned themselves – I’m keen for #6 already. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Returning from a run early one morning, Detective Mackenzie Price of the Lakemore Police Department was puzzled to see the boot of her car was slightly open. But when she couldn’t close it, her horror at what was inside made her stumble back. Ringing her partner, Detective Nick Blackwood, he was soon at her home, along with members of the force. Sophie Fields had gone missing twelve months prior, and her fiancé was a colleague at the police department. The horror included a personal message for Mack.
When another body was discovered after being missing for a couple of days, it was a person who bullied Mack at school – and included another personal message for Mack. What was going on? Was the killer obsessed with Mack, with keeping her safe? Nick and Mack, along with other team members, combed the areas for clues, finally finding a connection. But when direction led to people in high places of Lakemore, once again Mack and her team were bamboozled. And what was happening in nearby Tombstone?
The Lost Bones is the 5th in the Detective Mackenzie Price series by Ruhi Choudhary and it was breathtakingly brilliant. Her best yet in my opinion! Mackenzie is a great character and she and Nick work well together. The tension was high, the pages turned themselves – I’m keen for #6 already. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
When the family of a brutally murdered man disappeared within hours of being notified of his death, Detective Inspector Kim Stone had a gut feeling thWhen the family of a brutally murdered man disappeared within hours of being notified of his death, Detective Inspector Kim Stone had a gut feeling that something was off. As she and her partner, Bryant followed the clues, Penn and Stacey did the same on their computers. Another body, again brutally murdered, turned up and the connections saw Kim have a light-bulb moment. From then on things became much worse. Who could she trust when the police were also involved in the messy web of horror?
Meantime Tracey Frost, intrepid reporter and Kim’s nemesis, found herself involved in a case where it looked like a murderer would go free. She was determined to show the victim as a person who was loved by her mother and sister; a person who didn’t deserve what she’d received. But could Tracey change what was inevitable?
Wow! Another ripper of a thriller by Angela Marsons, Twisted Lies is the 14th in the DI Kim Stone series, and I had trouble putting it down! Twists and turns, horrors and depravity, the usual repartee between Kim and her team, who complement each other perfectly – Twisted Lies was exactly that! An excellent and chilling thriller, Ms Marsons' 14th is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
When the family of a brutally murdered man disappeared within hours of being notified of his death, Detective Inspector Kim Stone had a gut feeling that something was off. As she and her partner, Bryant followed the clues, Penn and Stacey did the same on their computers. Another body, again brutally murdered, turned up and the connections saw Kim have a light-bulb moment. From then on things became much worse. Who could she trust when the police were also involved in the messy web of horror?
Meantime Tracey Frost, intrepid reporter and Kim’s nemesis, found herself involved in a case where it looked like a murderer would go free. She was determined to show the victim as a person who was loved by her mother and sister; a person who didn’t deserve what she’d received. But could Tracey change what was inevitable?
Wow! Another ripper of a thriller by Angela Marsons, Twisted Lies is the 14th in the DI Kim Stone series, and I had trouble putting it down! Twists and turns, horrors and depravity, the usual repartee between Kim and her team, who complement each other perfectly – Twisted Lies was exactly that! An excellent and chilling thriller, Ms Marsons' 14th is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
It was 1838 and Isobel Moore loved teaching at the small immigrant school in Boston although her dreams of marriage seemed distant after her recently It was 1838 and Isobel Moore loved teaching at the small immigrant school in Boston although her dreams of marriage seemed distant after her recently failed relationship. But at not far off thirty, and still living with her parents, she knew she needed more. When an opportunity arose for Isobel to travel to Burma to marry a missionary, she was both nervous and excited about her future – although her parents thought she had taken leave of her senses.
Meanwhile, fifteen-year-old Maggie, daughter of Allan and Harriet on Prince Edward Island, was spreading her wings, at first denied the chance but then travelling to Boston to stay with her Aunt Margaret while Uncle Henry was away at sea. Her excitement at seeing Boston waned until Maggie started helping her aunt at the school now that Isobel had left. Had Maggie found her calling? She knew she loved the children and teaching them their letters was satisfying…
This Fragile Heart is the 3rd and final episode of the Far Horizons Trilogy by Kate Hewitt and I thoroughly enjoyed the tying up of the families and their lives. Meeting and catching up with ‘old’ friends throughout the books has been great – I’d read “Into the Darkest Day” by Ms Hewitt before this trilogy and am happy I picked these up. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
It was 1838 and Isobel Moore loved teaching at the small immigrant school in Boston although her dreams of marriage seemed distant after her recently failed relationship. But at not far off thirty, and still living with her parents, she knew she needed more. When an opportunity arose for Isobel to travel to Burma to marry a missionary, she was both nervous and excited about her future – although her parents thought she had taken leave of her senses.
Meanwhile, fifteen-year-old Maggie, daughter of Allan and Harriet on Prince Edward Island, was spreading her wings, at first denied the chance but then travelling to Boston to stay with her Aunt Margaret while Uncle Henry was away at sea. Her excitement at seeing Boston waned until Maggie started helping her aunt at the school now that Isobel had left. Had Maggie found her calling? She knew she loved the children and teaching them their letters was satisfying…
This Fragile Heart is the 3rd and final episode of the Far Horizons Trilogy by Kate Hewitt and I thoroughly enjoyed the tying up of the families and their lives. Meeting and catching up with ‘old’ friends throughout the books has been great – I’d read “Into the Darkest Day” by Ms Hewitt before this trilogy and am happy I picked these up. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
The Maybridge Flower Show was in full swing with Abby's first ever entry judged as a gold prize winner. Abby was astounded, but her upcoming appearancThe Maybridge Flower Show was in full swing with Abby's first ever entry judged as a gold prize winner. Abby was astounded, but her upcoming appearance on the stage with TV legend, gardening guru Daisy Dashwood had her nerves jittering. When Daisy collapsed in front of Abby, and was taken to hospital by ambulance, her thoughts were with the sixty year old. But it was the shock of learning Daisy had died in the ambulance that had Abby's sleuthing antennae vibrating.
As Abby and Detective Dee chatted about Daisy's death, Abby knew something was off. And as her investigations into the many suspects grew, so too did her suspicions. When another woman was murdered, they knew the clock was ticking; they knew they had to find the killer/s before someone else died...
Murder in Bloom is the 3rd in the Maybridge Murder Mysteries by Liz Fielding and I thoroughly enjoyed it, as I did the first two. Abby is an exceptional character, as is her partner Jake. Her gardening prowess is phenomenal - I would love to wander around her garden, and the business she owns. Bring on #4! Highly recommended cosy mystery to fans of the genre.
With thanks to NetGalley & Joffe Books for my digital ARC to read....more
Another exciting episode in the Will Trent series sees the stepping in time between current day and eight years earlier when Sara's husband Jeffrey ToAnother exciting episode in the Will Trent series sees the stepping in time between current day and eight years earlier when Sara's husband Jeffrey Toliver was on the scene. As is the author's usual style, this one had brutality and violence - perhaps more than her previous in this series - as well as being emotional, and the rapes were horrendous.
#10 in this popular series by Karin Slaughter, The Silent Wife with a serial killer who was just too horrible for words and which saw both Sara and Will, plus Faith and Amanda - and Lena - make up the cast of the latest. I'm looking forward to #11. Recommended....more
First the kidnapping of a young mother - Michelle Spivey - then two massive explosions a month later, when Will Trent and Sara Linton were having SundFirst the kidnapping of a young mother - Michelle Spivey - then two massive explosions a month later, when Will Trent and Sara Linton were having Sunday lunch with Sara's family. As Will and Sara raced to the site of the explosions, they came across a car accident - and their lives changed dramatically. Sara was kidnapped and Will was injured, while people in the car accident were either injured or dead, plus there was a woman with them - Michelle Spivey. As it turned out, they were part of a radical group that were planning mass murder of the American people, all the while keeping Michelle - and now Sara - prisoner.
As Amanda, Faith and Will tried to discover where Sara had been taken, and who was behind it, the FBI, GBI and local police were throwing everything at both the results of the explosions, and finding the missing women. As they learned more about the radicals, their concerns grew. There would be no trifling with them - they all knew the terror group meant business. Would they be able to stop the carnage before it happened? And would they be able to rescue both Sara and Michelle?
The Last Widow is the 9th in the Will Trent series by Karin Slaughter and it was exceptional. Fast paced, electric, breathtaking - all that and more. I'm enjoying my reread of the Will Trent series very much. Highly recommended....more
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